For a good number of years now, we have read a daily devotional as we have retired to bed for the evening. We find it helps the mind to rest on a spiritual theme upon laying our heads on our pillows.

For a good number of years now, we have read a daily devotional as we have retired to bed for the evening. We find it helps the mind to rest on a spiritual theme upon laying our heads on our pillows.

As the Holy Spirit found receptive minds, the gospel in those early days really gained a foothold. Thousands were now converted to Christ and the word went with much power, “in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:8

“And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” —Acts 2:46,47. The early church's sense of urgency could not have been stronger.

There is no doubt that the ministry of Paul has a huge impact on the New Testament writings, enduring through to our day, but Paul didn't begin like that. He had a very different beginning, so great that he wasn't even Paul, but Saul.

And he said unto them, “Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.” —John 8:23

Time has slipped past so quickly that we now face the end of this year. Soon and very soon, we will begin the new year of 2025. In Genesis 1, we have the very first 'New'.

We left off in Part I in August newsletter in the progress of the early Christian church and its development.

At the closing of Jesus' earthly ministry, He gave assurance that His presence would be with His followers, from the day He spoke those words, until the end of the world.