Opposition to the Gospel

In Ezra 5 and Acts 5 we see great opposition to the work of God. In Ezra we see the enemies of the children of Israel trying to stop the rebuilding of the temple. In Acts we see the Jewish council coming against the furtherance of the Gospel and growth of the church. What was their response to such opposition? 1. Rejoicing, Acts 5:41-42 – 41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. 42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ. 2. Perseverance, Ezr 5:5 - But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they returned answer by letter concerning this matter and Ac 5:29 - Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

Jesus also teaches what the true child of God's response should be concerning our enemies, Mt 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

How do you react to the enemies that God Providentially places in your life?

Bro. Pat

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