The angels told Peter and John to give the “message of life” to the people. Moments before, this angel had freed them from their jail cell so they could do just that. The jealousy of the religious leaders had landed the apostles in jail again. The message was too important, so God sent his rescue angel.
Can you imagine how surprised the officials were to find an empty jail cell? I’m sure the temple guard feared discipline for having “lost” the prisoners. Even more perplexed were the leaders to hear and wonder how the men made it back to teaching at the Temple. Shouldn’t they have run away to safety or hiding if they had broken out?
Once again, the apostles were brought before the authorities. Once again, the leaders were told this message: “We must obey God rather than any human authority.” The message the apostles had was burning in their hearts. The jail cell couldn’t even contain them. They were witnesses to the Messiah’s time on earth, including his brutal death ordered by these same religious leaders. That was a fact they never kept quiet. Can you imagine the emotions coursing through their veins?
What did you think of the brave leader, Gamaliel? Such a bold move. Thankfully, one of the Pharisees tried to rein in the rage of these jealous leaders. Even so, it seems that even Gamaliel thought that Peter and the other apostles would just fade away eventually, just like the others before them.
Gamaliel was at least open to another possibility, the truth. He said about the apostle’s ministry, “But if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God!” You and I are living proof that the message was from God, and it has yet to be overthrown. God used Gamaliel in a very tangible way.
The message of Christ has always ruffled feathers, even still today. The number of persecuted Christians today continues to rise. Think of all the uninformed or misinformed people who are fighting a losing battle with God! Those who reject Jesus don’t know what they are missing. Those who kill faithful Christians who stand on Biblical truth should have the ultimate fear. God will be very angry about those who harm his precious children.
For those of us who have felt persecution for our faith, it is an honor. Looking back and seeing how God is using my life has been a joy and a privilege, despite the costs. I can resonate with verse 41: “The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus.” Does that reasoning or response seem odd or foreign to you? Are you hungering for a deeper relationship with Jesus?
Spending time in God’s word, learning about how the faithful lived their lives, is so helpful for our own walk of faith. Read the passage again, especially if you find yourself with opposing viewpoints with another person, whether they’re a believer or not. Shouldn’t we be ready to call on the Holy Spirit’s power for our direction and protection like Peter?
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, you continue to reach through time and space and speak to my heart. Having great men of faith in my life extends to the heroes on the pages of Scripture. I thank you for each lesson you teach me and desire more and more of you, Lord. Cleanse me from any evil thoughts that might try to crowd into my head. I rely on your power to energize me. Shine through me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
