Thursday, February 18, 2021
Month Theme: Fire
Topic: The Approved Preacher — Passing the Test
Scripture Reading: Acts 7:50-60
Main Text:
Acts 4:19
19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.
Stephen the deacon and preacher was tested in many ways. The religious leaders and people of the day, resisted him and rejected the Gospel of Jesus Christ he preached (Acts 7:54-60). Nevertheless, Stephen proved his character as a deacon and preacher in the things he said and did while he was being stoned to death.
The testimony which qualified him as a deacon was tested:
• Honest report — Honest preachers are cast out of city of corruption. They don’t belong. They are stoned and accused (Acts 7:58).
• Full of the Holy Ghost — Those who are full of the Holy Ghost don’t focus on their pain and shame. They look into Heaven to see the glory of God (Acts 7:55-56).
• Full of wisdom — The greatest act of wisdom is seen in who you call upon when in trouble and who you entrust with your spirit (Acts 7:59). What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul.
• Full of faith — He was full of faith – he knelt down, he prayed, he forgave and believed in the life hereafter (Acts 7:60).
Stephen was an approved preacher. He passed the test.
Prayer: Pray for the grace to pass your test.
Coming Soon:
“Explosion Series” by Eastwood Anaba
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