After a very unedifying narrative in chapter 12 of blood, persecution, and partisan conflict, verse 24 pierces through the ugliness with refreshing words: the word of the Lord continued to grow and to be multiplied. This verse provides a message of consolation for the church as it testifies to the fact that neither tyrannical kings nor bloody persecution can defeat the word or crush the church. Beyond providing consolation this verse provides motivation for mission as it declares that the word of Christ as it goes forth will bear much fruit for the kingdom of God.

Date preached: 11/11/2018
Bible text: Acts 12:18-25