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 did Christ indicate as essential to eternal life?
What was the special mission of John the Baptist?
Because some thought He had come to destroy the law, what did Christ say?
25. When Christ has finished His priestly mediatorial work in the heavenly sanctuary, what decree will go forth?
How are those described who heed this warning?
How was the faithfulness of this church commended?
What will be the first plague, and upon whom will it fall?

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