Scripture
By Minister Charlene Brown
In the previous chapters of the book of Acts we see the numbers of Christians in Jerusalem begin to increase by way of the indwelling of The Holy Spirit and the preaching of the gospel by the disciples. Because of the message preached and the attention it attracted, the Jewish religious leaders became very angry. The people were responding to the message on belief in the resurrection of Jesus. As we dive into today’s lesson we read of Peter and John’s boldness while preaching, which wasn’t done in their own power but under the power of the Holy Spirit.
In the related scriptures in Acts 3:1 -4:5 we read of the account of the first healing miracle. It tells of the story of the man who was lame from his mother’s womb. Although Peter and John had neither silver or gold to give, but what they did have was of much greater value, the healing power through Jesus Christ. The power that was given to the disciples by the Holy Spirit was used to spread the gospel, heal the sick, and draw men to Christ.
In Luke 12: 8-12, the scriptures makes it very clear that speaking against Jesus could be forgiven, but speaking against the Holy Spirit would not be forgiven. It is the Holy Spirit who would teach what to say and how to say it in the company of rulers and those in authority, just as we see in the boldness of Peter and John. In 1 Corinthians the Apostle Paul speaks of how we as believers have an advantage of possessing the wisdom of God and the obligation as those chosen by God, to preach the glory of Christ Jesus.
Synopsis
By Brother Doug Smith
Peter and John face the Sanhedrin. The rulers, elders, scribes, and priests made up the Sanhedrin court. This was the same council that had condemned Jesus to death.
Annas had been disposed as high priest by the Romans, who then appointed Caiaphas, Annas’ son-in law, in his place. But since the Jews considered the office of high priest a lifetime position, they still called Annas by that title and gave him respect and authority within the council.
The council asked Peter and John by whose power had they healed the man and by what authority they preached. The actions and words of Peter and John threatened these religious leaders who, for the most part, were more interested in their reputations and positions than in God. Through the help of the Holy Spirit, Peter spoke boldly before the council, actually putting the council on trial by showing them that the One that they had crucified had risen. Instead of being defensive the apostles were on the offensive, boldly speaking out for God and presenting the gospel to these leaders.
The ” head of the corner” is the Cornerstone, the stone that unites two walls at the corner of a building and holds the building together. Peter said the Jews rejected Jesus, but now He had become the Cornerstone of the church. The council knew Peter and John were uneducated and they were amazed at how being with Jesus affected them. Although the evidence was overwhelming and irrefutable the religious leaders refused to believe in Christ and continue to try to suppress the truth. But Peter and John’s zeal for the Lord was so strong that they could not keep quiet, even when threatened.
Practical Application
By Elder Janice Hall
In today’s lesson, we see boldness on display in a world of unbelief. There is trouble that shows itself in resistance and persecution. We are reminded in the scriptures that Jesus already had warned His followers they would experience persecution and hatred.
John 15:20,21 (ESV) states, “ Remember the word that I said to you: ‘ A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me.”
We have an excellent lesson that exhorts and encourages us in our Christian walk. So, when opposition and trials arise, how do we respond? This passage clearly shows the apostles in action and their response. They continued to be steadfast in their faith and stand on the word of the Lord. Undoubtedly, they had boldness from the Indwelling Spirit, and they ‘ had been with Jesus’.
Despite the opposition, the increase of followers continued to be evident. Lord, give us the desire with every opportunity to rely on the Holy Spirit to speak boldly in your name. God produces outward courage that helps us to focus on His will and the needs of others more than ourselves. Our hope in Christ’ authority overcomes any fear of man’s authority. “When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say”. (Luke 12:11,12 NIV)
