Acts 6:7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly… I. THE WORD OF GOD INCREASED. 1. The number of its preachers increased. Stephen and Philip certainly, and the other deacons probably, were added to the company of preachers. Times of revival are always times for recruiting the ranks of the ministry. 2. The preachers declared it with augmented industry and power, encouraged by signs of Divine approval, and by the favour of the people. 3. The people received it in constantly increasing numbers, and passed it on. II. THE DISCIPLES MULTIPLIED. 1. Converts were made. There is no surer sign of spiritual adversity than few or no conversions. For this architecture, music, wealth, etc., are no compensation. But a Church worshipping in some upper room where money is scarce, and ecclesiastical aesthetics non-existent, but where disciples are multiplied, is in a prosperous state. 2. They were made in the least likely place. In Jerusalem, the stronghold of Jewish bigotry, where that spirit was in the ascendant which had crucified the Master. Had this been in Galilee, where the prejudice was not so intense, it would not have called for so much remark. So it is a blessed thing when those predisposed in favour of the gospel — the children of pious parents, etc., are brought to Christ; but it is still more glorious when the Word of God is received by heathen, either abroad or at home. 3. They were made in great numbers. Not in ones and twos, but in multitudes. It is sad when a Church has to congratulate itself that it holds its own, and that the additions fill the gaps made by removals or deaths. No Church is prosperous which does not keep pace with the growth of the population. The same power which converted multitudes in Jerusalem can do the same in London. III. A GREAT COMPANY OF PRIESTS WERE OBEDIENT TO THE FAITH. 1. They had everything to lose and nothing to gain, and so their conversion and adhesion to the Church was a great argument in favour of the truth of the gospel. And so it is in any age when notorious opponents are converted. 2. All their learning and prestige were now consecrated to the cause of Christ. Frequently the conversion of one man or woman in an influential position or of great ability is of more value than the conversion of scores of others, because of the higher vantage ground they occupy. 3. These, too, were converted in great numbers. There is nothing unreasonable in this. The power that can convert one can convert multitudes. 4. Their conversion was thorough, "obedient unto the faith." (J. W. Burn.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. |
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