Day 101, Acts 4
After the continued impact in Acts 3, we now see the push-back from the religious system. Peter and John are arrested, and threatened, by the Jewish authorities. One of religion’s hallmarks is the use of power to coerce conformity, rather than inviting change as Jesus did.
Notice how little effect this has on the two accused: Peter and John have seen what God can do - they were the first men to witness the resurrection, and John was the first to understand its significance (see Day 96, John 20). Their response is “Judge for yourselves - is it better to listen to you or God?”
After their release, they rejoin the other believers, who rejoice with them that suffering is part of their lifestyle! They are SO overjoyed at God’s turnaround of resurrection, and its implications for all people, that they are happy to be arrested and falsely accused!
This is how the Church began to transform the known world. Everybody who was saved through the demonstration of God’s presence and power was willing to let go of their rights, property, even their lives (as we will see in a few days) for the sake of this new relationship with God. Being part of His family changed everything.
How about for you and I? Are we living in daily experience of transformation? If not, we can take heart from verse 31 - being filled by Holy Spirit is a repeated experience for many - shaking them to the core and empowering them to live this newly resurrected life.
Fill us today Holy Spirit!
Have a great day!
Mark.