On the 17th of 1973, in Richmond, Virginia, Stephen delivered a ministry centered on the book of Acts, specifically chapter 16, which recounts Paul's journey to Macedonia. Paul, guided by the Holy Spirit, was initially forbidden to preach in Asia and Bithynia, leading him to a vision of a Macedonian man asking for help. This marked the first introduction of the Gospel to Europe. In Philippi, a Roman colony, Paul encountered Lydia, a wealthy businesswoman, who became the first convert, followed by a slave girl and a Roman jailer, illustrating the diverse backgrounds of the early church. Stephen emphasized the importance of being a 'heavenly colony' on earth, representing God's kingdom. He highlighted Paul's intimate relationship with the Philippians, showcasing their mutual love and support. Paul’s letter to the Philippians reveals his secret to living a victorious Christian life: 'For me to live is Christ.' This statement encapsulates the essence of Christian living, where reliance on Christ, rather than personal strength, is paramount. Stephen encouraged the congregation to embrace this truth, fostering a deeper understanding of their identity in Christ.
Introduction of Stephen Kong's ministry in Richmond, Virginia.
Reading from Acts 16 about Paul's journey to Macedonia.
Significance of the first European converts: Lydia, the slave girl, and the jailer.
Concept of being a 'heavenly colony' on earth.
Paul's intimate relationship with the Philippians and their mutual support.
Paul's secret to living: 'For me to live is Christ.'
Encouragement to rely on Christ for a victorious Christian life.
21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
6 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, 7 After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. 8 And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. 9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. 10 And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them. 11 Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; 12 And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days. 13 And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither. 14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. 15 And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.