Scripture Union Daily Guide 10 October 2021 Sunday Message
Click Here To Read Previous SU Daily Guide Devotional
Topic: The Church Under Fire!
Opening Prayer: May my heart, O Lord, be receptive to your word as I meditate on it.
Scripture: Acts 12:1-11
Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any prayer for me to remember?
• What is God revealing to me in this passage?
Scripture Union Daily Guide 10 October 2021 Outline:Â
Why did Herod persecute the church (v.3)? The church has suffered and is still going through persecution for various reasons. At times, the reason may not even be clear. Like here, sometimes it is for political reasons. But we can be sure that nothing happens to us without God’s knowledge (Matthew 10:28-31). Peter was kept in prison and heavily guarded (a squad is made up of four soldiers; v.4). Notice the emphases on prison, soldiers, chains, sentries guarding, and the door.
His case seemed hopeless. However, the church employed the “Christian’s secret weapon”. See v.5. At the nick of time, deliverance came supernaturally (vs.7-10). All that Herod put in place to keep Peter gave way, and he was delivered from his confinement. Nothing is impossible with our God (Luke 1:37). Are you worried about the situation of the church in your country or about some personal situation that looks hopeless? Be encouraged!
God is aware of the situation and as you prayerfully trust Him; He will send help to you at the right moment. But why did the Lord permit James to be killed but delivered Peter? Yes, the church prayed earnestly (v5), but they probably did the same for James. Our God is sovereign.
His programme is different for each of His children. He has the prerogative to call us home at His appointed time and in whatever manner He chooses.
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Lord, strengthen your church amid current waves of persecution, and send us help from your holy place.
• Thank God for the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, and His resurrection for the remission of the sins of mankind: the only assurance of eternity with God.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with Romans 8:1; Song of Sol. 1-3; John 21
Scripture Union Daily Guide 10 October 2021. Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God