Monday, 6th October, 2023
By Pastor Chris Oyakhilome
“...unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more” (Luke 12:48 KJV).
When you study the Book of Acts, and also Church history, you’d observe that the early Church, even though they suffered intense persecution and opposition both from the devil and human adversaries, waxed greater and stronger.
The early Church suffered intense persecution under Roman emperors; they were subjected to cruel tortures. Some were burnt alive and used as human torches. Some were stabbed to death; others were plunged into boiling oil, stoned and clubbed to death. Yet, the apostles and saints of the early Church endured all these and the Church outlived its enemies and detractors.
Remember that the early Church was still in its infancy during the great persecution. But through their prayers and faith, using the Name of Jesus, they eventually subdued Rome. Rome is gone but the Church lives on. They subdued every adversity. The impact of that seemingly “baby” Church was undeniable.
Now think about the fact that the early Church didn’t have the kind of knowledge and revelation of God and the Scriptures as we do today. They didn’t have the expositions of Paul or the beautiful compilations from Peter, John, and the other apostles. Yet, they did great exploits. So we have no excuse. We must do more.
Those who came before us, without the resources that we have today, lived faithfully and triumphantly. If they used the Name of Jesus to raze kings and kingdoms, establish God’s righteousness in the earth, what then is expected of us?
Do you see why you can’t and must not be quiet or complacent about your Christianity? Preach the Gospel boldly, and proclaim the Name of Jesus everywhere. This is your time. Impact your world with the glorious Gospel of the blessed God, which has been committed to your trust. Remember, to whom much is given, much is also required (Luke 12:48).
PRAYER/CONFESSION
"Dear Father, I’m empowered by your Spirit to do more with the great grace and resources you’ve given me to preach the Gospel. By the power in the Name of Jesus, we, the Church, make a lasting impact and establish your righteousness in the earth. We’re strengthened, ever-victorious, ever-courageous, transforming our world with the glorious Gospel of Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen."
FURTHER STUDY
Acts 4:29-31 KJV; Acts 5:29-32 KJV
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Hebrews 5:11-6:1-20 & Jeremiah 48-49
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
John 10:11-21 & 1 Chronicles 6