"Pandemic" - Acts 4:1-22
- Series: "Pandemic" - The Gospel Unleashed
- by: Chris Mayfield 11/08/09
Boldness in Spite of Opposition
Acts 4:1-22
The Christian church has been persecuted from the start. Jesus foretold it would happen and it did swiftly after his ascension. The High Priest and the Sadducees were insecure and afraid of losing their position of power and esteem. Yet, they could not deny the power of the gospel and the presence of the Holy Spirit with the Apostles. However, they did threaten and arrest those proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. The priestly council ordered the Apostles to cease from speaking or teaching anything in the name of Jesus. In spite of their attempts, they could not stifle or contain the spread of the gospel. Thousands and thousands responded to the Apostles’ teachings and trusted in Jesus for the salvation of their soul.
Engage the Text
- What does Acts 4:12 mean?
- What did Peter and John risk by continuing to speak in public about Christ?
- What was it that angered the Sadducees and scribes?
- How could the High Priest and other officials tell that Peter and John had been with Jesus (v. 13-14)?
- Why is it that the rulers and elders couldn’t deny God’s power, yet they didn’t (in vs. 17-18) want it to spread any further?
From Thought to Action
- Peter and John continued to testify about Jesus regardless of the consequences. What excuses do you use to justify not speaking about Jesus? What risks have you taken for the sake of the gospel? What holds you back from testifying about God’s grace in your life?
- What is your reaction when trouble befalls you in spite of your obedience to Christ? Are you prone to be filled with grief, anxiety, hope or trust? Are you prepared for difficult consequences as a result of obedience to the Lord? What does your response to these circumstances communicate about your walk with and faith in Christ?
What does it mean to have “faith in his name”?
