We find here a conclusion to the first wave of persecution experienceby the Early Church. Luke describes it as "a time of peace." It is alsotime when the church grows stronger and larger in both numbers andspiritual power. - P74
In this chapter of the Early Church‘s history, we findtheme that is repeated throughout the New Testament and continuesin the church today. As followers of Jesus, we are destined for trialand tribulations in the world. - P74
But our Lord has promised that He willovercome the world and its dark powers set against His kingdom. Trialswill come and go in our churches and lives, but one thing is certain; wewill be victorious! - P74
Lord, my heart recoils when I think of suffering and persecution. My fleshruns from it. But I know that by the power of Your Holy Spirit, I can weatherthe storms, and grow strong in my witness and faith. In Jesus‘ name, amen. - P75
34 "Aeneas," Peter said to him, "Jesus Christ heals you.
Get up and roll up your mat." Immediately Aeneas gotup. - P76
36 In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (inGreek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing goodand helping the poor. - P76
40 Peter sent them all out of the room; then he gotdown on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the deadwoman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes,
and seeing Peter she sat up. - P77
42 This became known all over Joppa, and many peoplbelieved in the Lord. - P77
Peter travels about the country and heals a man named Aeneas in Lydda whohad been paralyzed for eight years. Everyone in that area turns to the Lord asa result. - P77
In Joppa, a faithful disciple named Tabitha dies, so Peter is urged togo to her. Peter prays over Tabitha, and she opens her eyes. Many people inJoppa believe in the Lord when they hear about this. - P77
Peter visits the town of Lydda where he finds a man named Aeneas whohas been paralyzed for eight years. Peter assures him that Jesus will healhim and then commands him to get up. - P78
The God who miraculouslyhealed Aeneas is still at work today. - P78
He works through believers likeyou and me to share His love and grace to those who need it. - P78
His heal-ing power extends to more than just physical illness to anything thathinders His people from being what He intended them to be. - P78
Let usnever hesitate to prayfor someone who is in need. - P78
And as was the casewith Aeneas, may all who witness the power of Christ through us turnto Him and find salvation. - P78
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