We can only begin to imagine the impact of this calling on these “unschooled, ordinary men”…who had “been with Jesus” (4:13). These chosen men were not gifted orators…nor did they hold any remarkable credentials. But they had a powerful Gospel message to share about their resurrected Lord and Savior! Yes, these eye witnesses had a meaningful message to share!
There was a blending of celebration and confusion in that early church experience. The growth of the church was exponential — from 12...to 3000 (2:41) …to 5000 (4:4)….
Yet the challenges faced by those disciples were daunting. This ground-swell movement drew the attention of the opposing religious leaders. Stephen was martyred for his Savior-centered message (7:51-60)…and then the persecution escalated and “all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria” (8:1) (Phase one of Christ‘s expansion plan) (1:8).
There was one zealous Pharisee by the name of Saul “who began to destroy the church&rdqu ...
