This Sunday, we step into one of the most intense chapters in the book of Acts.
James is executed.
Peter is imprisoned.
Herod exalts himself like a god.
And yet — Jesus is not threatened. He is reigning.
Acts 12 smells like the battlefield. But what we discover is this: when you stand against Jesus, you lose — and when you belong to Jesus, you triumph, even through suffering.
This chapter reminds us of two massive truths:
• Nothing can stop Jesus’ kingdom from advancing.
• Gospel advancement doesn’t come without significant cost.
We will see both warning and hope. Judgment and rescue. Execution and deliverance. And above it all — a triumphant King.
If you are exploring Christianity, or know those who are, this text lovingly but clearly presses a question onto your heart: What will you do with King Jesus?
And for those who belong to Christ, this passage steadies us in a world that is increasingly uncomfortable with bold faith.
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💭 Two Things to Think About
1. What would it cost me to follow Jesus? Am I prepared for faith that is costly — or only faith that is convenient?
2. Do I truly believe that nothing can stop Christ’s kingdom? Or do I panic when cultural winds shift and opposition rises?
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🙏 Two Things to Pray About
1. Pray for courage. Ask the Lord to make you steady, bold, and prayerful — not reactive or fearful.
2. Pray for rescue — and readiness. Pray that Jesus would rescue the lost from judgment… and prepare His church to endure hardship with confidence in His triumph.
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Also, this chapter ends with one of the most comforting summaries in Acts:
“But the word of God increased and multiplied.” (Acts 12:24)
Herod falls.
The gospel rises.
Jesus wins.
Let’s gather ready to worship the triumphant King 🙌🏼