In this episode of the Acts of the Apostles: the apostles
are arrested and put into prison. In the
darkness of night however, angels appear to let them go. Not having learned their lesson, the apostles
return to the temple to continue their preaching ministry. However, once the authorities figure out what
has occurred they are hauled in for an explanation. Peter reminds the religious authorities that they answer
to a higher calling. "We must obey
God, rather than any human authority."
This enrages the authorities and immediately they want to kill the
apostles. However, a wise Pharisee, Gamaliel, persuades his brothers leave the
apostles alone. Essentially, his argument is- if this movement is of man, then
it will fizzle and die on the vine. However, if this movement is of God, there is
no use fighting it. The apostles are
flogged and released.
What has struck you today?
What does it mean, in verse 29, "to obey God rather than human
authorities? How does that play out in our lives as Christians? Does that mean we don't just give lip service
to Jesus teachings, like love your enemies and pray for those who persecute
you?
Happy Reading
No comments:
Post a Comment