A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria. 

Saul was going everywhere to destroy the church. He went from house to house, dragging out both men and women to throw them into prison.

Philip ran over and heard the man reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?”31The man replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” And he urged Philip to come up into the carriage and sit with him.

“But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers9:13 Greek God’s holy people; also in 9:32, 41. in Jerusalem! 14And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.”

Lord God my Father,

Protect your people, bring us back to you, soften our hearts to your authority, make us obedient to your desire.