The explosive growth of the church in Jerusalem led to the first threat of division between two groups, as recorded in Acts 6:1-7. Wisely the apostles recommended that the church choose a few good men to handle the urgent need that had arisen. These seven men freed up the apostles to preach and pray, and the church grew even more. The threat to unity and the way the church handled it can teach us how we also can maintain unity and promote continued growth in our church.
The proclamation of the King’s word provokes two opposite responses.
John’s birth and Zechariah’s prophecy pointed to the greatest manifestation of God’s mercy ever.
The Parable of the Banquet illustrates the various responses to the generous invitation of the King.
