The Church of God Marches On
Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | February 28 2025 | Acts 5:17-25
KEY VERSE: ²² But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, ²³ "We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them, we found no one inside." Acts 5:22-23 (ESV)
MESSAGE: Acts 5:23 illustrates the futility of human opposition to God’s work. The high priest and his associates had taken every precaution—locking up the apostles and stationing guards—yet their efforts proved powerless against God’s intervention. A single angel effortlessly rendered their so-called security meaningless. Their reaction in verse 24—perplexity and confusion—highlights the folly of resisting God’s purpose. As Job 42:2 reminds us, "I know that you can do all things and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted." No human force can stand against the unstoppable mission of the Church.
But why were the apostles imprisoned in the first place? Acts 5:12-16 reveals that the Church was thriving—miracles were happening, lives were being transformed, and needs were met. Yet, in verse 17, we see the stark contrast: the high priest and the Sadducees, filled with jealousy, had the apostles arrested. Their opposition wasn’t about doctrine or truth but envy and fear of losing influence. This pattern repeats in Acts 16:1-7, where another evangelistic breakthrough met resistance, again fueled by jealousy.
The condition of our hearts matters. When filled with the Holy Spirit, we walk in truth, faithfulness, and obedience to God. But when jealousy, resentment, or bitterness take root, they drive us away from His will. In contrast, though imprisoned, the apostles were miraculously freed for a reason. In verse 20, the angel instructed them, “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” This commission underscores the urgency of proclaiming the full message of salvation—eternal life, forgiveness, peace, and restoration. The temple was not just any location; it was a strategic place for reaching the people. Their unwavering obedience serves as a powerful example for us today.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
What fills your heart? It may not be Satan himself, but emotions like jealousy, bitterness, and resentment can be just as destructive. God moves heaven and earth to ensure His Word reaches the world. Will you obey His call? PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, strengthen those facing challenges as they proclaim Your Word. May we stand firm and walk in obedience, trusting in Your unstoppable power. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 59: Leviticus 1-3 — Laws for offerings
DAILY word study: LOCKED The Greek word for "locked" in Acts 5:23 is katekleistai (κατεκλείσται), meaning to be enclosed, shut, or restrained. It implies total confinement, a situation meant to be inescapable.
The religious leaders believed they had contained the apostles by imprisoning them. However, human barriers cannot hinder God’s work. Just as in Acts 16:26 when Paul and Silas were freed, divine intervention proves that no earthly authority can restrain God’s mission. Reflection:
What areas in your life feel “locked” by circumstances? Have you placed your faith in human barriers or in God’s power? Trust that when God calls, no prison can hold you back.
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