Who You Become Shows Who You have been With
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 11 2025 | Acts 4:13-17
KEY VERSE: When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realised that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and took note that these men had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13 (NIV)
MESSAGE: We do not see with our naked eyes the vitamins and minerals that enter our bodies when we eat healthy food, but we believe we are absorbing them. The word of God contains God's DNA, and by fellowshipping with Him through His word, we also absorb His DNA without even seeing it.
Peter and John were not religious scholars or trained speakers, yet they stood boldly before the Jewish leaders, proclaiming the name of Jesus with great authority. The leaders were amazed—not by their education or status but by their confidence and wisdom. What made the difference? They had been with Jesus, and time spent in His presence had transformed them from fearful fishermen into fearless witnesses. Their lives reflected the One they followed.
The same is true for us today. Who we spend time with shapes who we become. When we consistently seek Jesus—through prayer, Scripture, and obedience—His character shines through us. His wisdom replaces our confusion, His strength overcomes our fear, and His love softens our hearts. A life rooted in Christ becomes evident to those around us, even without us saying a word. The more we abide in Him, the more we reflect Him. We become like the ONE we behold not because of who we are but because of who He is in us.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
People should be able to look at your life and recognise that you have been with Jesus. Your actions, words, and decisions should testify to His transforming power. Determine to walk closely with Christ. Your life will reflect His glory soon enough.
PRAYER:
Lord, I want to be shaped by Your presence. Help me to walk so closely with You that my life reflects Your love, wisdom, and power. May others see You in me and be drawn to Your truth. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 42: Exodus 11-12 — The Final Plague and the Passover
DAILY word study: ORDINARY MEN
The phrase "ordinary men" in Acts 4:13 is translated from the Greek ἰδιώτης (idiṓtēs), meaning an unskilled person, a layperson, or someone without formal education. It was often used in contrast to trained scholars or public figures.
The religious leaders were shocked that Peter and John, without formal rabbinic training, spoke with boldness and wisdom. This moment highlights a key biblical truth: God does not require human credentials to use someone powerfully. Their courage and insight did not come from earthly qualifications but from their time with Jesus. The Holy Spirit transformed these ordinary men into extraordinary witnesses of Christ’s resurrection.
Reflection:
Our effectiveness in God's kingdom is not based on titles or achievements but on our relationship with Him. The more time we spend in His presence, the more His power is revealed in our lives. Are you allowing your time with Jesus to shape your confidence and influence?
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