The Book of Acts: Lesson 13, "Faith in Times of Crisis"

Last week in Acts chapter 11, we saw the mighty hand of God being poured out on the Gentiles as the church experienced God’s blessing through the faithfulness of His people. Their faithful witness led to the formation of a vibrant church in Antioch, where an offering was collected to help the church in Jerusalem. As chapter 11 ended, Saul and Barnabas arrived in Jerusalem to deliver that offering to the elders of the church in that city. But now as we begin to read chapter 12, their circumstances change rapidly. If you have been a believer for any period of time you are aware of how this happens. You experience a period of closeness with the Lord, your prayers are being answered, and you see His hand everywhere. But then suddenly, everything seems to just fall apart.