April 27, 2026 | Be Connected
Persecuted and Scattered Beyond Jerusalem
Scripture: Acts 8:1-3(NIV)
1 And Saul approved of their killing him.
On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2 Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3 But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.
Devotional
I read of Saul’s severe persecution of Christ followers and understand that nothing like that is happening here in our community.
What I have seen, however, is changes that scatter worshipers. I have seen how God can make great things happen with changes that scatter us.
In 2002 my family left Fishers UMC to help start The Promise Church just 2 miles down the road. We felt called to stay and help them grow both spiritually and with programs and studies that we learned to facilitate at Fishers UMC. From Fishers UMC we brought Disciple studies, Men’s and Women’s groups, Intergenerational groups and lots of programs to this new church.
Their target audience was unchurched and de-churched in Fishers. We watched God grow the church but we also saw that church come to a close in 2021. Many of that congregation left the United Methodist Church, but many also came to Fishers UMC.
What we did see, however, was that the congregation did scatter. We saw them take their spiritual growth studies, programs and experiences with them. God used that scattering to help spiritual growth in other congregations and communities. We also saw God use their assets for many other churches.
Most recently our church has gone from three worship services to two. The timing has caused, or allowed, members to explore many other small study groups. I see our congregation alive and excited with new and different opportunities. By the way, my family is so thankful and grateful to be welcomed back into Fishers UMC to worship, study and grow with each of you.
My prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for helping us thrive and discover new insights, new ideas, and new friends. Guide us Lord, that these changes will guide our Spiritual Growth and in turn, glorify your Name. Amen
