Stephen, one of the early preachers, was arrested by the Jewish leaders for preaching about Jesus. When he did not recant his message but pressed it further, the Jews stoned him to death on the spot, making Stephen the first Christian martyr. This incident kicked off a round of persecution against new Christians that was so severe, many of them fled Jerusalem for their very lives. As they did, they took the message of the Gospel with them to the surrounding provinces of Judea and Samaria.
Tomorrow in Explore we come face to face with persecution that Christians face in many countries, and how God redeems it. 11.15am, Ottery St Mary Parish Church.
