Call: Psalm 23 Scripture: Acts 14:19-28 NASB The passage from Acts 14 reveals that the spread of the gospel, though met with violent opposition and persecution, is not hindered but advanced by God's sovereign power and faithfulness. Paul and Barnabas, despite being stoned and left for dead, rise to continue preaching, demonstrating that Christ's kingdom grows through suffering, not in spite of it. Their mission is not to glorify themselves but to strengthen believers, appoint elders, and nurture the church through mutual encouragement, showing that God uses ordinary people to build His church. The central truth is that suffering is not a sign of failure but a means by which God reveals His strength, deepens faith, and opens doors of faith among the Gentiles. Ultimately, the church's perseverance and unity in Christ reflect the very work of God, who uses believers to care for one another, affirm one another, and glorify Him through the enduring power of the gospel.