In the 12th chapter of Luke's Gospel, Brother Sparks reflects on the profound significance of the cup and the fire, emphasizing their relationship in the context of the church's growth and the gospel's progress. He highlights the historical backdrop of Herod's persecution of the church, noting that Herod's actions were influenced by both political motives and deeper spiritual forces. The chapter serves as a microcosm of the ongoing struggle between good and evil, illustrating how the church's suffering, exemplified by the martyrdom of James, ultimately leads to the spread of the gospel. Brother Sparks points out that God allows suffering to draw out evil forces, leading to their eventual destruction. He emphasizes that the church's trials are not in vain; they contribute to spiritual growth and the advancement of God's kingdom. The cup symbolizes the suffering of Christ and the church, which, while painful, is integral to the divine plan. Ultimately, Brother Sparks encourages believers to recognize the power of the cup and the significance of their suffering in the broader narrative of God's redemptive work.
49 I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? 50 But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!
27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. 28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. 2 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.
54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. 55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, 56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. 57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, 58 And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul. 59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. 60 And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;