Opposition is Expected
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | March 17 2025 | Acts 6:8-15
KEY VERSE: “⁹ But some men from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including both Cyrenians and Alexandrians, and some from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and argued with Stephen. ¹⁰ Yet they were unable to cope with his wisdom and the Spirit by whom he was speaking.” Acts 6:9-10 (NASB)
MESSAGE: Every believer who stands for the Gospel will face opposition. Throughout history, God's servants have been criticised and persecuted for their faith. In Acts 6:9-10, Stephen, full of faith and the Holy Spirit, encountered resistance from religious leaders who could not refute his wisdom. This passage reminds us that opposition is inevitable for those who proclaim the truth. Key lessons include: opposition as a sign of effective ministry, its varied sources, the power of God’s wisdom to overcome it, and the Holy Spirit as our strength in times of opposition.
First, opposition can be a sign of effective ministry. Stephen’s impact drew resistance, not because he was wrong but because he was doing God's work. Jesus warned that His followers would face hatred (John 15:18). Second, Satan opposes those making a difference for Christ through various means—criticism, persecution, or even church conflicts. Sometimes, opposition comes from well-meaning individuals who struggle with the truth. Yet, we can take hope, knowing that standing for Christ will always provoke resistance.
Thirdly, God’s wisdom always prevails over opposition. Stephen’s opponents could not resist the wisdom and Spirit by which he spoke. When we rely on God, He equips us with the words and strength to stand firm, as Jesus promised in Luke 21:15. Finally, the Holy Spirit empowers believers with boldness, clarity, and endurance to face opposition with grace.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Opposition is expected for those who stand for Christ, but we are not left defenseless. When we rely on God's wisdom and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can stand firm against any opposition. Instead of being discouraged by resistance, let us see it as confirmation that we are walking in obedience to God’s will.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the assurance that opposition is part of my journey of faith. Help me not to be discouraged when I face resistance but to rely on Your wisdom and the power of the Holy Spirit. Strengthen me to stand firm, speak boldly, and respond with grace. Let my life be a testimony of Your truth and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 76: Numbers 15-16 — Korah’s Rebellion and God’s Judgment
DAILY word study: COPE The Greek word ἀνθίστημι (anthistēmi) means to resist, withstand, or oppose. It conveys the idea of standing against an argument or force but being unable to prevail.
In Acts 6:10, Stephen’s opponents could not cope with his wisdom and the Spirit. Their resistance was ineffective because divine wisdom cannot be overcome. Throughout Scripture, this word describes futile resistance against God’s power:
James 4:7—Resisting the devil causes him to flee.
2 Timothy 3:8—Opponents of truth cannot ultimately succeed.
Opposition is inevitable, but when our wisdom comes from God and not ourselves, no argument or force can stand against it.
Reflection: Are you relying on your own strength to cope with opposition, or are you depending on God’s wisdom and Spirit to sustain you?
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