The second week of our prayer focus, Paul preaches a message to encourage us in our missional calling as we submit to God's truth, commit to love God and others, prepare ourselves to serve, and seek to obey when the call comes.

January is a month of prayer, and the first message of the year focuses us on our need for confession, not only as we come to God for salvation, but every moment of every day to maintain relationship with him in the light of His love.

The encounter between Philip the Evangelist and the Ethiopian eunuch is a remarkable moment in the early Jesus movement, demonstrating that God is not averse to inconveniencing His people to produce gospel opportunities.

The story of Simon Magus is - among other things - a dire warning to the Spirit-filled church not to succumb to the temptation to achieve spiritual ends by worldly means.

Steven makes his defense, reciting God's plan of redemption with an emphasis placed on His faithful presence with His people in sojourning and exile, a presence that is not limited to a geographical location.

The basis for choosing the deacons becomes more important than ever as Stephen faces opposition from prominent members of the community.

As the church continues to expand, the leadership faces practical problems that call for practical solutions, without ever losing sight of their spiritual calling.

When the Spirit-filled church is faithful to its mission, even those outside will be forced to remark on its longevity.