What is the significance of the persecution that came on the early Church?

The significance of the persecution that came on the early Church was for the same reason it happens, today. It was, and still is, for the spread of Christianity throughout the world. Acts 8:1 speaks of this clearly. It states, On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. It first started with the first Christians being spread throughout Judea, and Samaria, but soon spread all the way to Rome. This continues throughout many centuries when Christians were persecuted in Rome, and even when Christians were persecuted while going east into Russia, India, and even China. There is still no difference today, in both the eastern and western countries. Even America itself, is starting to persecute the Church. This subject, as well as many more, makes you think of why God allows Christians to suffer.

Is God involved in the suffering of a Christian, both regular suffering and persecution? God is, indeed, involved in a Christians persecution, and suffering, but not in a way that is evil. Our vastly intelligent God uses Satan to do His work for Him. This is shown in the book of Job, when God allows Satan to make Job miserable, to show his obedience to Him. Also, Romans 11:36 says, For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things., and Colossians 1:16-17 says, For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. This clearly proves that nothing can happen, unless God allows it to happen. I thank God that I am on His side during persecution, and sufferings.

Sources: Soniclight Commentary: http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/acts.pdf NIV Bible