[:en]SCRIPTURE: ACTS 4
“It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed (Acts 4:10)
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12)
“Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:19-20)
PETER AND JOHN BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN (vs. 1-22)
Peter and John were teaching people and proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus. The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection. So, they wanted to put a stop to the ministry of the apostles. Together, they met with the captain of the temple guard, the rulers, elders and teachers of the law at Jerusalem. They seized Peter and John and put them in jail. The next morning, they brought them out before Annas, Caiaphas, John, Alexander and other men of the high priest’s family. They began to question them by what power and in whose name did they use. Peter answered: “It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead that this man stands before you healed” (v. 10)
Peter and John were filled with the Holy Spirit. They boldly proclaimed His Word with the testimony of the healed beggar. The religious leaders could not explain the healing of the beggar and they saw people praising God. So, they have no alternative but to release them.
THE BELIEVERS’ PRAYER (vs. 23-31)
After being released, Peter and John went back to the people. Together, they prayed and were filled with the Holy Spirit. They spoke the Word of God boldly.
THE BELIEVERS SHARE THEIR POSSESSIONS (vs. 32-37)
All believers were united in one heart and mind. They shared everything they had sop that here were no needy people among them. Some sold their lands and houses and put it in the apostle’s feet to be distributed to those in need. Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus also called Barnabas sold his field and brought the money to the apostles.
LESSON:
- Peter and John were bold to preach the resurrection of Jesus in the presence of the Sadducees. Do you have the courage to proclaim the gospel to the unbelievers?
- Peter chose to obey God rather than man. How about you? Would you obey God rather than men?
- Peter acknowledged that the healing is made possible by the name of Jesus Christ. Do you give glory to God when you are able to accomplish something by the power of God?
- The believers were united and shared their possessions to the needy. Are you generous to those in need?
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