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- Read Acts chapter 5 verses 17-33
- The Apostles teaching was a high profile ministry, which attracted
large crowds of people and brought many to faith. This did not escape
the attention of the religious authorities who, as we read, were
"jealous" and placed them under arrest. Perhaps it is too easy to be
critical of the leaders' response as there would be the pressure
that any disturbance would bring the Roman occupation forces down on
them very severely - a human reaction to look after oneself, which
contrasts vividly with the Apostles who were definitely not looking out
for themselves as they followed God's instructions.
- We can pick out some of the characteristics of the apostles from
these verses. They were courageous, they were not stupid, they could
see the dangers but they went immediately to the place where they were
originally arrested and continued to do that for which they had
originally been arrested.
- They were obedient to God. Their principle was to do what God
wanted them to do.
- They were witnesses for Christ; they had first hand experiences,
which they wanted to pass on.
- Questions
- Are my decisions and actions based on what is safe or are they what
God wants me to do? (Are these mutually exclusive?)
- Am I a good witness for Christ? How can I improve?
- Prayer
- Take time to consider what God is asking you to do.
- Father, help me to learn from the Apostles as I face new challenges
and even opposition. Give me the courage to stand firm in my faith and
give me the strength to follow where you are leading.
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