Scripture Reading: Acts 8:1–8

Introduction

A. The death of Stephen sparked a period of heavy persecution of Christians in Jerusalem, whereupon many fled the city and took the gospel with them to distant places.

B. Luke tells us that the region of Samaria was first evangelized by Philip, presumably one of “the seven” (Acts 21:8; cf. 6:5).

Discussion

I. Everywhere the gospel went, peace accompanied it.

A. As Jesus had decreed (Acts 1:8), the gospel went into the region of Samaria (Acts 8:4–8).

B. The gospel also crossed racial lines when Philip preached to the man of Ethiopia (Acts 8:26–40).

C. The gospel even had the power to reconcile Jew and Gentile (Ephesians 2:14–18).

II. The gospel brought more than liberty from old prejudices.

A. It brought victory over ignorance and deceit (Acts 8:9–13, 30–35; cf. John 8:31–32).

B. It brought liberty from physical and spiritual suffering (Acts 8:7, 12, 14–24, 35–38).

C. It brought an indescribable joy (Acts 8:8, 39).

Conclusion

A. What you are looking for in your life can be found in the gospel, which is still “the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).

B. If you are seeking victory over your fears, liberty from your sin, and joy with real substance, then you need the gospel of Christ.