“Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith” (vs7).
Doing things God's way leads to victory. God established the church by His Spirit, and she prospers, by faith, until the end. In tough times, the disciples rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. They had joy amidst sorrow because of obedience, “But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: We ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). In Acts 6, the apostles, in a way that glorifies God and His truth, set up deacons to take care of the people, to make sure that all are cared for lovingly, and the word of God prospers because of it. It says, “Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, It is not desirable that we should leave the world of God and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:2-4). Let us therefore preach God's gospel His way, living that others know Christ by the Spirit, and we shall succeed, even if persecuted or dealing with the problems of being sinners still.
Many a missionary or church has been rejected and hated, but if he is of God, then he's prospered and been rewarded in his obedience. Many a church has internal problems and woes, even among saints, but when it is properly handled, when God's truth is given PREEMINENCE, then it will be well with that group. God will remain in your midst, and He will prospers your work spiritually as well as numerically.
Don't be ashamed of gospel obedience: it is the way of prosperity. If we're hated by men, but loved of God and obedient, then we will have joy. It says, “So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that there were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name” (Acts 5:41). They had joy amidst their tears because God gave them joy in salvation with humility. He gave a peace the world can't give - in the church, in spite of indwelling sin and differences - because they honored the word of God. He also added to their midst and kept them prospering. We only need to do God's will in each situation, and we'll see God's reward in this present life... and we'll see it in full in the world to come.
What do you think about God's word in Christ? Honor it, and He'll honor you. Obey, and you'll be rewarded. We read, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Heb 11:6). Live by it, and you REALLY live! There is no reason to disobey when obedience is rewarded. He makes us able, and then He rewards what we've done, which is put the word of God above everything, even ourselves!
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