1
That set off a terrific persecution of the church in Jerusalem. The believers were all scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. All, that is, but the apostles.
2
Good and brave men buried Stephen, giving him a solemn funeral - not many dry eyes that day!
3
And Saul just went wild, devastating the church, entering house after house after house, dragging men and women off to jail.
4
Forced to leave home base, the Christians all became missionaries. Wherever they were scattered, they preached the Message about Jesus.
5
Going down to a Samaritan city, Philip proclaimed the Message of the Messiah.
6
When the people heard what he had to say and saw the miracles, the clear signs of God's action, they hung on his every word.
7
Many who could neither stand nor walk were healed that day. The evil spirits protested loudly as they were sent on their way.
8
And what joy in the city!
9
Previous to Philip's arrival, a certain Simon had practiced magic in the city, posing as a famous man and dazzling all the Samaritans with his wizardry.