Acts 12

“It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them” (1). Herod had James the brother of John put to death, and then “seized Peter also” to win favor with the people (3). Yet this tragedy did not mean that the church was now in Herod’s hands: God’s power was demonstrated by the angel releasing Peter from prison. Further, King Herod’s injustice and pride were not overlooked; God “struck him down” (23).

“But the word of God continued to spread and flourish” (24). The sufferings and injustices of life aren’t the whole story. God is constantly at work in us and through us, making Jesus known and accomplishing his good purposes.