The Holy Spirit Gives Power to Declare Jesus Even Amidst Opposition
“Let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.”
Acts 4:11(NKJV)
Reading: Acts 4:1-37
Peter and John were in Jerusalem. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, they healed the lame man who sat at the temple gate for a long time (Acts 3:1-10). Many people had witnessed the miracle and were greatly amazed (Acts 3:11). Peter with the power of the Holy Spirit encouraged the people to repent and believe in Jesus (Acts 3:19). The people listened to Peter as he shared the Word of God and many believed, about 5000 (Acts 4:4).
However, the religious leaders were not happy that they were talking to the people about Jesus. So, the religious leaders ordered the disciples to be arrested and beaten. The next day, the disciples were brought before the council of elders and priests. The disciples were asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?” Acts 4:7 (NKJV)
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, replied to them with courage and said:
“..Let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole…Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” Acts 4:10-12 (NKJV).
The council of elders and religious leaders did not agree with the disciples about Jesus. However, they could not deny nor argue that the man who was lame from birth was miraculously healed! So, the council ordered the disciples to be beaten and severely threatened them not to preach in Jesus’ name.
Peter spoke with courage the truth as the Holy Spirit revealed it to him that Jesus is the only name under heaven given for people to be saved. The Holy Spirit gave Peter and the disciples power to declare Jesus to the people of Israel amid threats and violence against them.
Nowadays, Christians in some parts of the world also suffer persecution just like the first disciples of Jesus. Some of them experience severe threats and violence. Others are ridiculed by their own families and friends. Many risk their jobs, reputations, and even their own lives for the sake of following Jesus Christ. However, through the power of the Holy Spirit they continue to be steadfast in their faith, declaring that Jesus is the only way to God for salvation.
Thoughts & Reflection:
Jesus promised, “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” Revelation 3:21 (NKJV)
Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can declare Jesus is Lord even amidst persecution and opposition.
Prayer: I praise You Lord Jesus that You are the only way to God. Holy Spirit fill us with your power to share and declare that Jesus is the only way to God for salvation even when we face opposition and persecution.
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