“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13)

Do you have to face an opposition? Despite doing the right thing, healing a lame man (Acts 3), Peter and John were brought before a daunting opposition, “the rulers, the elders and the teachers of the law” who met in Jerusalem. These were powerful, educated and experienced men. Some names were mentioned to give us an image of those before them: “Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and others of the high priest’s family” (Acts 4:5-6). This scenario can present itself in any sphere of activity. Yet, three things are observable. Firstly, they “saw the courage” of Peter who spoke, being filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:8). Jesus promised: “When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say. For at that time the Holy Spirit will teach you what you should say” (Luke 12:11-12). It’s a call to depend on His wisdom.

Secondly, they realised they were unschooled for they hadn’t gone through a religious training school. Thirdly, they were ordinary men. They concluded they must HAVE BEEN WITH JESUS. Mark 3:14 told us that Jesus “chose twelve of them to be His apostles, so that they could be with Him….” This is a secret place! They had been with Jesus and these traits astonished the rulers and teachers. As we draw closer to Jesus, we become more and more fearless in life, for He draws nearer to us (James 4:8). Amen.

#goodmorning

BeEncouraged❤ Freely Received. Freely Give