1. The Mission of God

2. …the light of Christ has been exploding in the darkness

3. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.  Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him.  But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.

4. Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went
Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.  Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there.  

5. When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said.  For with shrieks, impure spirits came out of many, and many who were paralysed or lame were healed.  So there was great joy in that city Acts 8:1-8

7. …the light of Christ has been exploding in the darkness
The Mission of God:
Making the Word of God Our Priority
…the light of Christ has been exploding in the darkness

8. …the light of Christ has been exploding in the darkness
The Mission of God:
Working for the Transformation of People
…all people
… its not always straightforward
…the light of Christ has been exploding in the darkness

9. …the light of Christ has been exploding in the darkness
The Mission of God:
Seeking the Active Presence
of the Holy Spirit
…the light of Christ has been exploding in the darkness

11. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven Matthew 5:14-16