In Acts 8:1–25, we see God use persecution, scattering, and unexpected people to move the gospel into new places and new hearts. What looked like a setback for the early church became a powerful catalyst for God’s mission.

This message explores how God often uses difficult seasons, disrupted plans, and unlikely messengers to accomplish His purposes — and challenges us to consider whether we’re fully surrendered to Jesus or trying to control the terms of our faith.

From Philip’s ministry in Samaria to the story of Simon the magician, this passage reminds us that the gospel is not about power, control, or convenience — it’s about wholehearted devotion to Jesus and participation in His expanding kingdom.

Key themes:

• God’s purpose in hardship and disruption

• The spread of the gospel beyond Jerusalem

• Authentic faith vs. transactional faith

• Surrendering all of life to Jesus

📍 Passage: Acts 8:1–25

📖 Series: Acts — A New Message to New Places

⛪ Church: Valley Life Church (Winter Park, CO)

What does a gospel-centered life actually look like?

In this message, we explore Jesus’ call to abide, not strive, and unpack the six marks of a disciple—a clear picture of the kind of life the gospel produces. This message is not about earning God’s favor through good works, but about the fruit that grows when our lives are truly rooted in Christ.

Why does our church exist—and why does it matter? In this message, we introduce our mission statement and explore the biblical foundation for living a gospel-centered life in Christ and for the sake of our valley. This sermon clarifies who we are, where God has placed us, and how we are called to live together as the people of God.