We all know the American church is facing challenging times. A well-presented sermon series on the Book of Acts reminds all of us how a few people, with the Holy Spirit, turned the world upside down.
Seeds of the faith that grew into the worldwide church were planted by God in a turbulent time.
- Rome is still in the new imperial and authoritarian rule.
- The Pax Romana, a time of relative peace in the Mediterranean world, began.
- Roads and improved sailing conditions allowed for unprecedented travel.
And the early church was in turmoil, experiencing persecution, and found itself under intense pressure as they proclaimed Jesus as King — rather than Caesar.
One world government… persecution… authority of the state over religion… a promise of peace — but with strings attached… Does any of this sound familiar?
Welcome to the world of the Book of Acts.