How did persecution affect the preaching of the gospel?

Answer

"And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were
all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. . . . Therefore they
that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the Word." Acts 8: 1-4.
NOTE - " Persecution has only had a tendency to extend and establish the faith which it was
designed to destroy. . . . There is no lesson which men have been so slow to learn as that to oppose and
persecute men is the very way to confirm them in their opinions, and to spread their doctrines.' - Dr. Albert
Barnes, on Acts 4 :4.

What is said of the strength and wisdom of God?
14. What did He say of those who should break one of God's commandments, or should teach men to do so?
Why was woe at this same time proclaimed to the world?
To whom, then, should its observance be rendered?
What will God's faithful servants be doing at this time?
Are they interested in the conversion of men?
How perfect will be their knowledge of God?

Questions & Answers are from the book Bible Readings for the Home Circle