John Calvin Commentary Acts 12:24

"But the word of God grew and multiplied." — Acts 12:24 (ASV)

And the word of God. Once the tyrant was taken out of the way, the Church was suddenly delivered, as it were, out of the jaws of the wolf. Therefore, though the faithful are accounted as sheep appointed to be slain (Psalms 44:23), yet the Church always outlives her enemies. And though the word of God often seems to be oppressed by the wicked tyranny of men, yet it lifts its head again before long (Romans 8:37). For Luke recorded not only what had happened after Herod died, but also, by this example, sought to encourage us and to assure us that God will do in all ages what he then did, so that the gospel may eventually break through all impediments of the enemies, and that the more the Church is diminished, the more it may increase through the heavenly blessing.