In Week 10 of Acts: Life on Mission, we explore the powerful message, “Persecution is Coming”. As we walk through Acts 8, we see how the early church faced fierce opposition after Stephen's death and how God used this persecution to expand the reach of the gospel. Pastor [Name] reminds us that following Jesus means facing challenges, but God calls us to stay committed, letting our light shine in the darkness.

Key Takeaways:

• Expect Persecution – 2 Timothy 3:12: Living a godly life invites opposition, but it strengthens our faith and mission.
• Stay on Mission – Matthew 5:14-16: Jesus calls us to be lights in the world, offering hope and guidance.
• Shine Brightly in a Dark World – Be intentional in prayer and action, spreading God’s love.

Whether facing self-doubt, spiritual opposition, or challenges from others, this message equips us to trust in God and stay committed to His mission. Download the Bless app today to start praying for your neighbors and join us in bringing the love of Christ to our communities.

Scripture References:

• Acts 8:1-4 – Persecution Sparks Growth
• 2 Timothy 3:12 – The Reality of Persecution
• Matthew 5:14-16 – Shine Your Light
• Exodus 20:7 – Honoring God’s Name
• Matthew 6:19-20 – Treasures in Heaven

Join us as we dive deeper into the book of Acts and embrace the mission God has for each of us!

In today’s message, “Why You Mad, Bro?” we dive into Acts 7, where Stephen’s story reveals powerful truths about forgiveness, freedom, and overcoming resentment. How often do we hold onto anger or bitterness that keeps us from experiencing true peace? Stephen’s radical forgiveness—even in the face of death—shows us the healing and freedom that only God’s grace can bring.

Main Points:

Understanding the Weight of Resentment:
We explore how unresolved anger affects our spirit and robs us of joy, blocking our relationship with God and our ability to live on mission.

Stephen’s Example of Radical Forgiveness:
In Acts 7:57-60, Stephen prays for his persecutors as they stone him. His act reminds us that forgiveness isn’t denying our hurt—it’s about releasing others so we can experience peace.

Three Steps Toward Forgiveness:

1. Understand Forgiveness: Learning to release resentment, trusting God with justice.
2. Make a Decision to Forgive: Committing to forgive “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21-22).
3. Create a Forgiveness Prayer: Writing a prayer can be a powerful tool to help let go and move forward in grace.

Key Scriptures:

• Acts 7:57-60 – Stephen’s final act of forgiveness
• Mark 11:25 – "Whenever you stand praying, forgive..."
• Matthew 18:21-22 – Forgiving “seventy times seven”
• Matthew 5:6 – "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness..."

Choose forgiveness today and experience the freedom and peace God has for you. Let's walk in Stephen’s example and live fully on mission, free from the weight of resentment.

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