The apostle found themselves on trial once again for preaching in the name of Yeshua, the resurrected Christ against the command of the Jewish Sanhedrin, the ruling body in Jerusalem.
“33 When they heard this, they were furious and plotted to kill them.” (Acts 5:33)
For the second time, Peter and John confronted the Sanhedrin informing them their loyalty was with God, not men. The apostles accused the Jewish counsel of killing Jesus, whom Peter and John proclaimed Lord and Savior. Because of this, they now faced execution.
“34 Then one in the council stood up, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in respect by all the people, and commanded them to put the apostles outside for a little while. 35 And he said to them: “Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what you intend to do regarding these men. 36 For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody. A number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was slain, and all who obeyed him were scattered and came to nothing.” (Acts 5:34-36)
Gamaliel was a well respected Jewish rabbi, who suggested the Sanhedrin leave capital judgment to God, mentioning two other men who previously raised concern among the counsel.
“37 After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census, and drew away many people after him. He also perished, and all who obeyed him were dispersed.” (Acts 5:37)
Gamaliel called on the Sanhedrin to let the apostles go free, thereby relying on God’s wrath to silence the men rather than have their blood on the hands of the Jewish counsel.
“38 And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; 39 but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God.” (Acts 5:38-39)
The Jewish rabbi continues his advice by mentioning the will of God, that His will would be done in spite of the Sanhedrin’s course of action.
“40 And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.” (Acts 5:40)
The Sanhedrin’s ruling was influenced by Gamaliel’s advice, which resulted in the apostles being released after severe punishment in the form of a physical beating, typically bloody, cruel scourging on bare back.
“41 So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. 42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.” (Acts 5:41-42)
Their faith, having been strengthened after the angelic visit and command to continue preaching the gospel, the apostles, though physically beaten now rejoiced in the fulfillment of their mission to serve the risen Christ. They would keep preaching the gospel and advancing the truth about the life, death and resurrection of Yeshua, the Messiah and Savior of mankind.
In spite of persecution and abuse, Peter and John continued their walk that eventually led to their martyr death. Similarly, the price we are asked to pay for discipleship will never be greater than the sacrifice made by Jesus on the cross. 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
