Imagine healing a man who had been crippled for over forty years, only to find yourself in hot water with the authorities. This is exactly where Peter and John found themselves in Acts 4, facing questions about their miraculous ministry and unwavering faith.
The Reading: Acts 4
World English Bible1 As they spoke to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came to them,
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2 being upset because they taught the people and proclaimed in Jesus the resurrection from the dead.
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3 They laid hands on them, and put them in custody until the next day, for it was now evening.
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4 But many of those who heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.
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5 In the morning, their rulers, elders, and scribes were gathered together in Jerusalem.
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6 Annas the high priest was there, with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and as many as were relatives of the high priest.
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7 When they had stood Peter and John in the middle of them, they inquired, “By what power, or in what name, have you done this?”
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8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “You rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
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9 if we are examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed,
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10 be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, in him does this man stand here before you whole.
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11 He is ‘the stone which was regarded as worthless by you, the builders, which has become the head of the corner.’
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12 There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved!”
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13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and had perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled. They recognized that they had been with Jesus.
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14 Seeing the man who was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.
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15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,
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16 saying, “What shall we do to these men? Because indeed a notable miracle has been done through them, as can be plainly seen by all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we can’t deny it.
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17 But so that this spreads no further among the people, let’s threaten them, that from now on they don’t speak to anyone in this name.”
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18 They called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.
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19 But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, judge for yourselves,
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20 for we can’t help telling the things which we saw and heard.”
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21 When they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people; for everyone glorified God for that which was done.
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22 For the man on whom this miracle of healing was performed was more than forty years old.
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23 Being let go, they came to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them.
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24 When they heard it, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, “O Lord, you are God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all that is in them;
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25 who by the mouth of your servant, David, said, ‘Why do the nations rage, and the peoples plot a vain thing?
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26 The kings of the earth take a stand, and the rulers take council together, against the Lord, and against his Christ.’
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27 “For truly, in this city against your holy servant, Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together
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28 to do whatever your hand and your council foreordained to happen.
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29 Now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness,
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30 while you stretch out your hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of your holy Servant Jesus.”
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31 When they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were gathered together. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.
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32 The multitude of those who believed were of one heart and soul. Not one of them claimed that anything of the things which he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.
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33 With great power, the apostles gave their testimony of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Great grace was on them all.
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34 For neither was there among them any who lacked, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,
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35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet, and distribution was made to each, according as anyone had need.
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36 Joses, who by the apostles was also called Barnabas (which is, being interpreted, Son of Encouragement), a Levite, a man of Cyprus by race,
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37 having a field, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
The Arrest and Accusation
In the bustling city of Jerusalem, Peter and John were passionately sharing the message of Jesus, particularly focusing on His resurrection. However, their teachings caught the ire of the temple priests and the Sadducees. Upset by the growing number of believers, they arrested Peter and John, locking them up overnight.
Despite the threat, their message resonated deeply, leading about five thousand people to believe in Jesus. The next morning, a council of rulers and elders confronted the two apostles, demanding to know by what authority they performed such miracles.
The Bold Declaration
Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter boldly declared that the healing of a crippled man happened through the name of Jesus Christ, who had been crucified and raised from the dead. He referred to Jesus as the essential cornerstone that many had rejected. Peter emphasized that salvation is found only through Jesus, asserting a powerful claim in front of the very leaders who condemned Jesus.
The Council's Dilemma
The council was baffled by Peter and John's confidence, especially considering their lack of formal education. They recognized that these men had been with Jesus, and the healed man stood as undeniable proof of their authority. With no way to punish them publicly, the leaders resorted to threats, ordering Peter and John not to speak about Jesus anymore.
The Response and Community Spirit
Peter and John responded defiantly, stating that they couldn't help but share what they had seen and heard. Released from custody, they returned to their fellow believers, who united in prayer, imploring God for boldness in spreading His word. Their prayer was answered dramatically, as the place shook, and they continued to proclaim the gospel with renewed courage.
This chapter also highlights the early Christian community's spirit of togetherness, where possessions were shared, ensuring no one was in need. Notably, a man named Barnabas was commended for selling his land to support the community. Acts 4 is a vivid narrative of faith, courage, and the power of community.
Why It Matters
Courage in Faith
Acts 4 serves as a powerful reminder that faith can embolden us to stand firm even in the face of opposition. Just like Peter and John, we can find strength in our beliefs and inspire others through our actions.
Importance of Community
The early believers displayed a remarkable level of unity and generosity. Their willingness to share everything illustrates how important it is to support one another. In today's world, we can strive to create similar communities that care for each other, ensuring that everyone has what they need.
Speaking Up
Peter and John's determination to share their experiences is a challenge for us. How often do we hold back our beliefs because we fear judgment or rejection? Being part of a supportive community, like the one Sancta can help you find, empowers us to share our faith openly. Find a church near you and join a group that encourages you to express your beliefs boldly.
Coming Up Next: Acts 5
As we move into Acts 5, we encounter a shocking turn of events that tests the integrity of the early church. Get ready for a tale of deceit, consequences, and the unwavering spirit of the apostles as they continue their mission.