The word “therefore” is a key word to recognize and understand in Bible study. It is an adverb that means “for that reason; in consequence of that; as a result.” The word draws a conclusion and presents the result of the stated reasoning or events. Its use in Acts 8:4 seems interesting.
Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was stoned to death in the city of Jerusalem in Acts 7. Under the direction of Saul of Tarsus, “a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem” (8:1). Saul “made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison” (8:3). Can you imagine! Can you imagine being a Christian and enduring such hostility? But, that was not the extent of it.
Luke tells us that the Christians “were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles” (8:1). Children of God were dragged from their homes, even expelled from their homes and then cast out of their city. Again, can you imagine suffering that? Can you imagine your entire livelihood being uprooted and pulled apart because you believed in Jesus Christ and proclaimed His good news? How would you respond if you lost your home, your job, your income, your school, your friends, your neighbors, your very hometown—all because you’re a Christian?
What would one naturally conclude would be the result of this persecution? Would it make sense for the Bible to say, “Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere”? Yes. They were persecuted. They were scattered. They went everywhere. That would make sense.
But, the Bible tells us that this was more than just a forced relocation. With the word “therefore,” the Bible helps us to see that their actions and their purpose were not thwarted. “Therefore…[they] went everywhere preaching the word.” What an interesting way to say it! They were persecuted for their faith, therefore, they went everywhere preaching that faith! Oh, how deep was their faith!
If a statement of results was made about you suffering persecution, what would be your “therefore”? “David was dragged from his home, committed to prison and then driven from town for proclaiming the name of Christ. Therefore, David went out and …” Would your “therefore” lead to more of the same (i.e., standing for Christ) or less? How deep is your faith?
Troublesome times for Christians are upon us and will presumably be on the rise. God is looking for our “therefore” to be followed by, “They went everywhere preaching the word!” It alone will save the world! It alone will save us!