But the word of God grew

But the word of God grew and multiplied. And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had fulfilled their ministry, and they also took with them John whose surname was Mark. – Acts 12.24-25

The persecution under Herod was pretty intense. But Herod made a big mistake. He let the power to to his head and opposition grew. Not only that, God was taking care of His church.

Just before what we read here Herod went too far. Tyre and Sidon had been enemies, but they had sued for peace and Herod was elated. He came out to address the people at the peak of his popularity. As we dressed himself in His kingly robes and started to speak the crowd started shouting 'this is the voice of a god, and not of a man!'

Herod liked it and did not even to give glory to God. Instead he accepted the adulation.

When he did tragedy struck. He died an ugly death.

So Herod was dead, that threat was gone. But the word of God grew and multiplied.

Jesus told us that the word of God would endure forever. He told us that the gates of hell could not prevail over His church.

Two thousand years hence the enemies of God have come and gone.  Two thousand years hence the word of God still grows and multiplies.