When the Fire Spreads Freely

Baptist Daily Devotional
1 day ago
2 min read

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 25 2025 | Acts 11:19-21

KEY VERSE: “Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord." Acts 11:20-21 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

God had always intended the gospel to reach all nations. While some early believers limited their witness to Jews only (v.19), others dared to cross the cultural line. These unnamed believers from Cyprus and Cyrene extended their outreach activities to Gentiles, and the fire of the gospel spread powerfully. We can learn from this devotion that bold witness leads to breakthroughs; true evangelism is presenting Jesus Christ to others, and, whenever we take bold steps, the hand of the Lord will be with us.

These were simple believers, not titled leaders, and they intentionally broke down the barrier by preaching the gospel to Gentiles. God often uses unnamed, everyday believers to make history when they walk by faith, not fear. They preached the right message, “the Lord Jesus”, not Judaism or cultural tradition. The power is in the person of Jesus Christ, not in culture, church custom, or personality. Their courage was matched by divine endorsement. God’s hand was with them and brought results: “A great number believed and turned to the Lord” (v. 21). When we step out in obedience, God steps in with us with power.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Are you waiting for a perfect title or position to share Jesus Christ? Let the fire of the gospel burn freely through your words and witness. Be like those believers from Cyprus and Cyrene. Cross the lines. Speak up. Trust the Lord’s hand to work through your obedience.

PRAYER:

Dear Lord, thank You for the courage of those early believers who crossed lines to share Your gospel. Please fill me with the same boldness and freedom. Let the fire of Your Word spread through me - past boundaries, past fears, and past expectations. Use me to ignite faith wherever I go, because Your hand is with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 176: 2 Samuel 10 — War with the Ammonites

DAILY word study: HAND The Greek word for "hand" in Acts 11:21 is χείρ (cheir), which means the physical hand, but also symbolises power, authority, and divine action.

When Scripture says "the Lord’s hand was with them," it points to God’s active involvement and favour. It wasn’t just approval—it was empowerment. God's hand signifies both presence and power backing their bold actions.

Reflection:

When you obey, you don’t go alone. His hand is with you, strengthening your step and touching hearts through your faithfulness.