The martyrdom of Saint Stephen spurs an escalation of violent persecution against the followers of Jesus in Jerusalem. As a result, Christians scatter to other areas of Palestine and beyond. Divine Providence makes use of the situation in ways that the faith is spread to places where Christ Jesus was unknown. What looks like a catastrophic ending to the early Church in actuality leads to its strengthening and expansion. Those seeking to silence and eliminate the Church become the indirect reason for the faith becoming known and accepted by people near and far. Throughout the time of fiercest persecution, the disciples never cease announcing the Gospel of Christ.
Despite their violent opponents who seek to extinguish their hope, the first Christians are fervent, firm, together in their faith, full of goodness, friendly and helpful, smiling with those around them. How compelling these features are to those who met them as so many are led to Christ by the fruits of their own faith in Christ.
