Answer: The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased
rapidly, (verse 7).
MORE INFORMATION AND/OR OTHER SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:
This is one of several reports given periodically throughout
the book of Acts, stating the growth of the Lord's church,
beginning with a group numbering about 120, and continuing in a
rapid and steady growth of believers (disciples, Christians, the
church, the body, the kingdom), beginning in Jerusalem, then to all
Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts
1:8):
Acts 1:15: "In those days Peter
stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and
twenty)...."
Acts 2:41: "Those who accepted his
message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their
number that day."
Acts 4:4: "But many who heard the
message believed, and the number of men grew to about five
thousand."
Acts 5:14: "Nevertheless, more and
more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their
number."
Acts 6:7: "So the Word of God
spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and
a large number of priests became obedient to the
faith."
Acts 9:31: "Then the church
throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace. It
was strengthened; and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it grew in
numbers, living in the fear of the Lord."
Acts 12:24: "But the Word of God
continued to increase and spread."
Acts 16:5: "So the churches were
strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers."
Acts 19:20: "In this way the Word
of the Lord spread widely and grew in power."
Acts 28:28-31: [Paul said,]
""Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has
been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!' For
two whole years Paul stayed there [in Rome] in his own rented house
and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without
hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord
Jesus Christ."
