Foreword
Because those who believed in Jesus were being persecuted, many were scattered and preached the gospel. Philip, one of the Lord’s disciples, went down to the city of Samaria and preached the gospel there. At that time, the crowds listened to Philip’s words and saw the signs he performed, and with one heart, they followed his message. Today, when we listen to the Word of God like the Samaritans did, I believe that we will also become one heart in the same way. “With one heart” is to be of one mind. They listened to his words with one heart, not missing a single word. That is why the sick were healed and miracles occurred. Can one truly listen without a heart of longing? Jesus Himself is the gospel. The gospel is the good news, the message of salvation. What is the gospel of salvation? It is the gospel that takes responsibility for leading to eternal life.
Acts 8:4-8 Therefore, those who had been scattered went about preaching the word. Philip went down to the city of Samaria and began proclaiming Christ to them. The crowds with one accord were giving attention to what was said by Philip, as they heard and saw the signs which he was performing. For in the case of many who had unclean spirits, they were coming out of them shouting with a loud voice; and many who had been paralyzed and lame were healed. So there was much rejoicing in that city.
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “But the righteous man shall live by faith.”
A person without faith can never have faith. He cannot even approach faith. Isn’t it said that faith leads to faith? Hearing the Word is through faith! Receiving grace is through faith! Healing the sick is through faith! That’s why Jesus says in Mark 9:23, “All things are possible to him who believes.” Everything is possible.
Before the words, authority, and power of Jesus Christ, all demons are subjected (Acts 19:19-20). Therefore, when the gospel enters you and your family, there will always be the powerful work of God taking place, whether you are aware of it or not. I believe that great joy will overflow in that city, in our homes, and in our church.
June 15, 2000 | Thursday Service
From Rev. Abraham Park’s sermon, “So There Was Great Joy in that City” (Acts 8:4-8)