How do we know that God uses persecution for His purposes?

The early church faced significant persecution, particularly after Stephen's martyrdom. This hardship caused believers to scatter and carry the gospel to new regions, including Antioch. As described in Acts 11:19, rather than extinguishing the faith, persecution actually facilitated its spread. God, in His providence, uses such trials to advance His plans, demonstrating that what humans intend for harm, He intends for good (Genesis 50:20). The swift growth of the church in Antioch highlights that God's kingdom advances even in adversity.