Acts 8:1-8 In today's sermon, Pastor Nathan Francis discusses the unexpected turn of events following Stephen's execution, which led to widespread persecution of the early church and the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria. Despite the chaos, those who fled used the opportunity to evangelize, sharing the message of Christ even among their enemies, which illustrates the dual nature of God's redemptive history—predictable in that the gospel would spread, yet unpredictable in how it was achieved through suffering. Pastor Nathan emphasizes the importance of having a personal faith that endures challenges and encourages believers to fix their eyes on Jesus for strength during hardships. Ultimately, he reassures the congregation that despite life's unpredictability, God's purpose remains steadfast, and in the end, Jesus triumphs. How is Redemptive History both so predictable and yet so unpredictable? 1) Saul's Success Persecuting the Church is Unpredictable 2) The Spread of the Gospel is Predictable
