But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge."
Acts 4:19
This is a tough verse for those of us who have difficulty with confrontation. It can be difficult to stand in the midst of pressure from those around us. Peter had difficulty with confrontation. He often overreacted. He rebuked Jesus, he promised not to fail even if the others did, he cut off an ear, and he denied Christ when things didn't go the way he thought they should. We can be tempted to cave in on our convictions even when we are in miraculous situations. Peter and John had seen and worked miracles before yet Peter had denied Jesus. Peter and John had just seen a great miracle happen through them. This is the first miracle recorded after Jesus ascended. The disciples had worked miracles while Jesus was physically present with them but this was their first attempt on their own. They were excited--the man was excited--the crowd was excited and then Peter sees them all gathered there and says, "What's the big deal? You don't think this man is healed by our power do you? Why are you surprised that God still does miracles? He did them for our ancestors didn't He? No it is by the power of Jesus Name, the One you killed, that this man is healed as a witness that Jesus is the One God promised. Now I know you didn't understand what you were doing so repent and God will send salvation and refreshing to you. He will send Jesus who I preach like the prophets did." Scripture says that many who heard believed. It was amazing! Peter was on his second sermon and there were around five thousand men in the church!
On the heels of this great event they were arrested and put in jail for the night to wait for court the next day. When court came Peter was not inspired by the miracle he had been part of. Scripture says when he was questioned he was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave and eloquent response. This same man who denied Christ before a servant girl now stands bravely confronting the leaders of his nation. He tells them it is Jesus' Name alone that saves. They warn the disciples not to use Jesus' Name anymore but Peter and John won't even give a safe answer. "What is your advice to us, should we obey you or God?" is the question they asked.
Without God's Spirit filling us even a little servant girl can intimidate us. With His Spirit we can face whatever we have to. Jesus taught His disciples not to plan what they would do in crisis but to look to His Holy Spirit for direction. When things come suddenly we don't have to rely on our planning or our own courage. We can be filled with His Spirit and give the right answer under pressure.
Trusting Him,
Pastor Jason
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