The apostle were once again arrested outside the Jerusalem Temple for preaching the gospel and sharing the truth about Yeshua, the resurrected Christ. As they awaited their second trial, they were freed by an angel sent from God, then instructed by the angel to return to Solomon’s Portico where they would resume their mission to proclaim Jesus as Lord and Savior, and convert the lost.
“22 But when the officers came and did not find them in the prison, they returned and reported, 23 saying, “Indeed we found the prison shut securely, and the guards standing outside before the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside!” (Acts 5:22-23)
The officers reported to the Sanhedrin that indeed the doors of the prison were shut, and the guards were standing at their post but the apostles were nowhere to be found.
“24 Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these things, they wondered what the outcome would be. 25 So one came and told them, saying, “Look, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people!” (Acts 5:24-25)
When members of the Sanhedrin heard the apostles had once again preaching, they could not imagine an outcome seeing how miraculous the trail of acts of wonder followed the apostles. The fact Peter and John escaped from the guarded prison was proof they would require special consideration as both men were obviously gifted with extraordinary ability.
“26 Then the captain went with the officers and brought them without violence, for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned. 27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them, 28 saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!” (Acts 5:26-28)
Because they grew in favor with the multitude, to avoid an uproar from the crowd, the designated officers were peaceful in their third arrest of the apostles. Once again, the Sanhedrin interrogated Peter and John, reminding them of the warning issued to them by the Jewish counsel during their first trial, that the apostles were forbidden to teach in Jesus’ name or share their testimony about the resurrected Christ, which the apostles witnessed and experienced for themselves.
“29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. 31 Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”(Acts 5:29-32)
The apostles responded to the charges against them by proclaiming their obedience and devotion to God, rather than earthly rulers. They reminded their accusers it was them who judged the Messiah, then hung Him on a cross to die a horrible death.
The apostles also shared their testimony once more, that they witnessed the Christ risen from the dead, alive in the flesh resurrected by the mighty hand of Yahweh, the God of Israel who calls on sinners to repent of their sin and believe so they can be saved from the wages of sin which is death. The apostles’ message was simple and continues to ring true today; Believe and you will be saved. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Luke,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com
