Threatened and Discharged
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 14 2025 | Acts 4:18-24
KEY VERSE: After further threats they let them go. They could not decide how to punish them, because all the people were praising God for what had happened. Acts 4:21 (NIV)
MESSAGE: Peter and John stood resolutely before the religious leaders, refusing to comply with their command to cease preaching about Jesus. Despite facing threats, they remained steadfast in their obedience to God rather than man. The leaders sought to silence them, yet they had no basis to punish them since the miraculous healing of the lame man was irrefutable. Even opposition cannot stifle the truth when God's power is evident.
This passage reminds us that standing for Christ often brings resistance, but it also brings testimony. When we remain faithful, God uses our witness to inspire others. The religious leaders feared punishing the apostles because the people were glorifying God. In the same way, when we boldly live out our faith, others will see and be encouraged to trust in God. Opposition may come, but it cannot stop the move of God.
After being discharged, Peter and John did not retreat in fear. Instead, they returned to the fellowship of believers and raised their voices in prayer (Acts 4:23-24). They didn’t ask God to remove opposition; instead, they sought greater boldness to continue preaching. Their response teaches us to turn to prayer when confronted with threats, trusting God to strengthen and empower us.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Do not back down quickly when you proclaim the truth about Christ. When faced with a threat, seek God’s strength and courage to continue sharing His word.
PRAYER:
Lord, grant me the strength to stand firm when I face opposition to my faith. Let my life bear witness to Your power, and may my response always be one of prayer and praise. Fill me with the boldness to proclaim Your truth and glorify You in all circumstances.” In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: THREATS
The word threats in Acts 4:21 comes from the Greek "apeilē" (ἀπειλή), meaning a warning, intimidation, or declaration of harm. It conveys an intent to deter through fear.
Throughout Scripture, threats are often used by those in power to suppress the truth, yet God’s servants remain steadfast. From Pharaoh’s threats against Moses (Exodus 10:28) to the threats against Daniel in Babylon (Daniel 6:7), God’s people have always faced intimidation. Yet, threats cannot override divine purpose. The threats against Peter and John only emboldened them, just as persecution throughout history has strengthened the Church.
Reflection:
When faced with opposition, do you shrink back, or do you trust in the Lord’s power? How does this passage inspire you to respond to threats against your faith?
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