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Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 19 2025 | Acts 4:23-31 KEY VERSE: After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Acts 4:31 (NIV)   MESSAGE: When the believers prayed for boldness, God responded with a visible and tangible sign of His presence: the ground shook, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit. This moment was not about spectacle; it served as a confirmation of God’s power and His approval of their mission.   Sometimes, we long for dramatic signs of God’s presence, but His Spirit often works quietly in our hearts. Still, there are moments when He moves in unmistakable ways, reminding us of His power and call to action. These encounters with God refresh our faith and embolden us to carry out His work.   God is very near to us, and He demonstrates this through His presence in various visible ways. All we need to do is invite Him in through fellowship with other believers and engaging in prayer, for He is present where two or three come together in His name. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on times when you’ve profoundly experienced God’s presence. Know that He is ever so near; all you have to do is invite him in.   PRAYER: Lord, let my heart be shaken by Your Spirit. Fill me with boldness and empower me to live out Your mission faithfully. And help me to know you are near. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 50:   Exodus 25-26 — Instructions for the Tabernacle DAILY word study : FILLED The Greek word for "filled" in Acts 4:31 is "plēthō" (πλήθω) , meaning to be fully supplied, saturated, or overflowing with something. In the New Testament, "plēthō" often refers to being filled with the Holy Spirit, denoting divine empowerment, courage, and a deep sense of mission (Acts 2:4, Luke 1:67). Being filled with the Holy Spirit is not a one-time event but a continuous experience of divine enablement. Although the disciples had already received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:4), yet here they were filled again, showing that God continually renews and strengthens His people. This filling brings boldness, wisdom, and power to proclaim God’s truth. Reflection. Ask yourself: Are you filled with the Spirit, or are you running on empty? God desires to empower His people continually. Seek His presence through prayer, and He will fill you afresh.

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 18 2025 | Acts 4:23-31 KEY VERSE: After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Acts 4:31 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Prayer was central to the early church’s response to persecution. When they prayed, God responded powerfully by filling them with the Holy Spirit and giving them the boldness to preach His Word. This kind of prayer is not a passive ritual; it’s an active invitation for God to work mightily in and through us.   Prayer can be seen as humanity partnering with divinity to achieve heaven's mandate on earth. It is also a means by which believers can tap into the resources made available by God through His Spirit to aid His work on earth. When our prayer is aligned with heaven's agenda, the response will come speedily, and answers will be released from our prayers.   How often do we pray boldly? It’s easy to limit our prayers to comfort and protection, but God invites us to pray for courage, wisdom, and boldness to accomplish His will. As we align our prayers with His purposes, we allow His Spirit to empower us in ways we could never achieve. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you not receiving answers to your prayers?  Check the content of your prayer and align it to the purpose of God. Make God topics your prayer topics. Spend time today asking God to fill you with His Spirit and empower you to speak boldly for Him.   PRAYER: Lord, shake the foundations of my life with Your power. Fill me with Your Spirit to align my will with yours and proclaim Your truth with boldness and love. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 49:   Exodus 23-24 — The Covenant Confirmed DAILY word study: SHAKEN The word shaken  in Acts 4:31 comes from the Greek "saleuō" (σαλεύω) , meaning to agitate, cause to tremble, or set in motion. It conveys a sense of divine intervention—God actively moving in response to prayer. The shaking of the meeting place was a visible manifestation of God’s power, much like His presence at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:18). It affirmed the disciples' unity in prayer and the Spirit’s empowerment. This event symbolized God’s approval, His presence, and the spiritual awakening of the Church. Reflection: When God shakes things, He moves obstacles, ignites revival, and strengthens His people. Has your faith been stirred by the Holy Spirit? Seek Him in prayer and expect divine movement in your life.

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 17 2025 | Acts 4:23-31 KEY VERSE: Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Acts 4:29 (NIV)   MESSAGE: After facing threats from the authorities, the early believers didn’t pray for safety or an escape from danger; they prayed for boldness to continue their mission. Their unshakable faith was rooted in the sovereignty of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. They knew that their obedience to God outweighed any fear of man.   We can feel tempted to shrink back or stay silent when we face opposition—criticism, rejection, or even hostility. But like the early church, we must remember that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness. Opposition is not a signal to retreat; it’s an opportunity to lean into God’s strength and let His light shine through us. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Be inspired by the verse to pray for boldness when you feel overwhelmed. PRAYER: Lord, in the face of challenges, strengthen my faith. Help me rely on Your power to fulfil Your purpose, no matter the cost.” In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 48:   Exodus 21-22 — Laws About Justice and Mercy DAILY word study : BOLDNESS The word "boldness" in Acts 4:29 comes from the Greek "παρρησία" (parrēsia) , meaning "freedom in speaking, confidence, or fearless assurance." It is often used in the New Testament to describe the courage given by the Holy Spirit to proclaim God’s truth without hesitation. In Acts 4:29, the disciples did not pray for their enemies to be removed but for boldness to speak despite opposition. The use of parrēsia signifies Spirit-empowered confidence rather than human bravery. It represents a God-given freedom to declare the gospel, undeterred by fear or threats. This same boldness was evident in Peter and John, who, despite being ordinary men, amazed the religious leaders with their fearless proclamation of Christ (Acts 4:13). Reflection: Spiritual boldness is not about being loud or confrontational but about having unshakable confidence in God’s truth. Do you pray for boldness to share your faith? True boldness comes when we rely on the Holy Spirit rather than our own strength.

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 16 2025 | Acts 4:23-31 KEY VERSE: When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. Sovereign Lord,’ they said, you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. Acts 4:24 (NIV)   MESSAGE: The unity of the early believers was evident in their collective prayer. They did not isolate themselves in fear or seek personal solutions; instead, they came together to call upon God’s sovereignty. Their prayer acknowledged God as Creator and Sustainer, reflecting their trust in His intervention. Corporate prayer serves as a powerful reminder of our shared faith and mission. When we come together in prayer, we align our hearts with God’s will and strengthen our bond as a spiritual family. In times of crisis, unity in prayer provides comfort, courage, and the assurance that we are not alone on our journey. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Take time to pray with fellow believers in your church, small group, or family. Be intentional about joining in corporate prayers.   PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the gift of unity in Your church. Help us to seek You together and rely on Your power in every situation. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 47:   Exodus 19-20 — The Ten Commandments DAILY word study : VOICES TOGETHER The phrase "voices together" in Acts 4:24 comes from the Greek words "homothymadon" (ὁμοθυμαδόν) and "phōnē" (φωνή). Homothymadon means "with one mind" or "of one accord," denoting deep unity and agreement, while phōnē refers to an audible voice or sound. This phrase highlights the unity of the early believers in their faith and prayers. Their voices were not just raised in noise but in harmony, demonstrating their shared trust in God’s sovereignty. Throughout Acts, this unity in prayer precedes divine action, reinforcing that corporate prayer is a channel through which God's power is revealed (Acts 2:1, Acts 12:5). Reflection: Praying together fosters spiritual strength. When believers stand in agreement before God, they acknowledge their dependence on Him and create space for His intervention. Are you actively participating in corporate prayer? How does your prayer life contribute to the unity of the body of Christ?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 15 2025 | Acts 4:18-24 KEY VERSE: For the man who was miraculously healed was over forty years old. Acts 4:22 (NIV)   MESSAGE: The man healed at the temple gate had been lame for over forty years. He had spent a lifetime in that condition, likely wondering if his situation would ever change. Yet, in God’s perfect timing, his miracle came through Peter and John. His long season of waiting was not in vain—when his healing finally came, it was a testimony to everyone around him. Sometimes, God’s miracles take time, but His delays are never denials.   Waiting for a breakthrough can be challenging. We often desire immediate answers, but God acts according to His divine plan. The lame man likely prayed for healing for years, yet God intervened only at that moment. The miracle transformed his life and resulted in a powerful testimony, demonstrating that God's timing always serves a greater purpose than we can perceive. During this waiting period, particularly when you have waited so long, you encounter numerous suggestions for quick solutions to your problem. Pressure from all sides will urge you to make hasty decisions to find a resolution, but resist the temptation to rush.   If you are awaiting your miracle, do not lose heart. God sees your need, and He is working behind the scenes. Just as the healing of the lame man became a testimony to many, your breakthrough will glorify God in ways beyond your imagination. Keep trusting, keep believing, and know that God’s plan is unfolding in His perfect timing. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What miracle are you believing God for? Have you waited a long time to see it happen? Don’t lose heart. Just find His will and trust His word to come through for you. You are closer to your miracle than you know.   PRAYER: Lord, help me to trust Your timing, even when my miracle seems delayed. Strengthen my faith as I wait, and let my testimony bring glory to You. I believe what You have planned for me will pass at the right moment. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 46:   Exodus 18 — Jethro’s Advice to Moses DAILY word study: HEALED The Greek word for healed in Acts 4:22 is "iaomi" (ἰάομαι), which means "to cure, restore, or make whole." It conveys a sense of complete physical and spiritual healing. The healing of the lame man was more than just a physical restoration; it was a divine act that demonstrated Jesus’ authority and the power of faith in His name. This miracle affirmed God’s timing, proving that healing is not always instant but arrives in God’s perfect moment for His glory. True healing in Scripture often leads to transformation—both for the individual and for those who witness it. Reflection: Are you seeking healing or a breakthrough? God’s power to heal is not constrained by time or circumstance. Trust in His perfect plan and believe that your testimony is in the making.

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 Day 45:   Exodus 16-17 — God Provides Manna and Water 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?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 13 2025 | Acts 4:13-17 KEY VERSE : But since they could see the man who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing they could say. Acts 4:14 (NIV)   MESSAGE: When Peter and John were arrested for preaching about Jesus, the religious leaders sought to silence them. However, there was a problem—the undeniable evidence of God’s power. A man who had been lame from birth was now standing before them, fully healed. The rulers and elders wanted to oppose the gospel, yet they could not argue against what their eyes had witnessed. This miraculous transformation was proof of Jesus’ authority and power, leaving their accusers speechless.   Similarly, the most compelling testimony of Christ’s work is a transformed life. People may contest theology or debate Scripture, but they cannot refute the evidence of God’s transformation in a believer. When God restores broken lives, heals wounds, and brings sinners to salvation, His power is manifested for all to witness. Our testimonies—how Jesus has transformed us—serve as irrefutable evidence of His reality, silencing those who doubt.   This passage reminds us that we don’t have to rely solely on words to defend our faith. Our lives should serve as living testimonies of Christ’s love and power. When we obey Him, bearing the fruit of the Spirit, we present evidence that no critic can refute. Even when opposition arises, the undeniable work of God in us speaks louder than any accusation. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Take heart when you face resistance to your faith. Instead of engaging in endless arguments, let your transformed life serve as proof of God’s power. He died for you, so live for Him. PRAYER: Lord, may my life be undeniable evidence of Your grace and truth. Let my actions and character silence opposition and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 44: Exodus 15 — The Song of Moses and Miriam DAILY word study: NOTHING The word "nothing" in the Greek text is "ouden"(οὐδέν), signifying absolutely nothing, null, and without effect. It serves as a strong negation that emphasises the complete absence of an argument or response. In Acts 4:14, the religious leaders had no response because the healed man stood before them as irrefutable proof of Jesus' power. The word “ouden” highlights the total inability of the opposition to refute a genuine work of God. Faith backed by real transformation speaks louder than mere words. Reflection: When God moves in your life, the evidence speaks for itself. Are you allowing your testimony to be the undeniable proof of His power?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 12 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: In these verses, Peter and John boldly proclaim Jesus' name before the Sanhedrin, the very council responsible for Jesus’ crucifixion. Their courage was rooted not in their abilities but in their relationship with Jesus and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. This passage reminds us that God doesn’t require extraordinary skills to use us; He seeks hearts devoted to Him. The boldness of these "unschooled" men left even their adversaries astonished.   Today, we face different challenges: discrimination, societal pressures, or fear of rejection—that can make us hesitant to share our faith. Like Peter and John, our courage stems not from our eloquence or education but from time spent in God’s presence. When we pray and meditate on His Word, the Holy Spirit equips us to speak truth in love, even in intimidating circumstances.   Remember, the word says that when we are brought before the councils and Sanhedrin, we should not worry about what to say or answer; he (the Holy Spirit) will give us what to say (Matt 10:19 and Mark 13:11). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Be encouraged by this passage to trust God with your witness. Remember that the Spirit empowers you to stand firm even if you feel unqualified.   PRAYER: Lord, help me speak boldly for You. Fill me with the Holy Spirit, that I may represent Your love and truth, no matter the opposition. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 43:   Exodus 13-14 — Crossing the Red Sea DAILY word study: COURAGE The word "courage" comes from the Greek "παρρησία" (parrēsia), meaning boldness, freedom of speech, or fearless confidence. It denotes an outspoken assurance given by the Holy Spirit, allowing believers to proclaim Christ despite threats or opposition. In Acts 4:13, courage is not about human bravery but the confidence that comes from being with Jesus and being filled with the Holy Spirit. Peter and John, though perceived as "ordinary men," spoke with undeniable authority. This same courage is available to all believers through a deep relationship with Christ. Reflection: True courage comes not from qualifications or personal strength but from surrendering to God’s Spirit. How often do you rely on the Holy Spirit for boldness in sharing your faith?

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?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 10 2025 | Acts 4:5-12 KEY VERSE: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 (NIV)   MESSAGE: In Acts 4, Peter boldly declares that salvation comes through Jesus Christ alone. This was a radical statement in a world filled with competing gods, philosophies, and traditions. Yet, Peter did not waver, knowing that Jesus is the only way to true redemption and eternal life. This truth remains unchanging today, even as society becomes more pluralistic and resistant to exclusive claims of faith.   Sharing the message of salvation through JESUS Christ can feel daunting in a culture that values relativism. But as believers, we are called to proclaim His name with love and humility. The message is not ours to change; it’s ours to deliver. When we share Jesus, we offer the hope of eternal life, the joy of forgiveness, and the peace that only God can provide. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Today, reflect on how you can boldly and lovingly share the name of Jesus and be determined to reach out to someone today.   PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the gift of salvation. Give me the courage to proclaim Your name and the wisdom to share Your truth with love and grace. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 41: Exodus 9-10 — The Plagues Continue DAILY word study: SALVATION The Greek word for salvation used in Acts 4:12 is sōtēria  (σωτηρία), meaning "deliverance, rescue, or safety." It originates from sōtēr  (σωτήρ), which means "Savior" or "Deliverer." Peter’s declaration in Acts 4:12 was a direct assertion of Jesus’ unique role as the only Savior. This was in stark contrast to Roman emperor worship, Jewish legalism, and Greek philosophical pluralism. Theologically, sōtēria  extends beyond physical rescue; it signifies spiritual redemption, justification, and eternal life through Jesus Christ. Reflection: Salvation is more than just escaping judgment—it is an invitation to a transformed life. Are you embracing the fullness of sōtēria , or are you treating it as mere safety from condemnation?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 9 2025 | Acts 4:5-12 KEY VERSE: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 (NIV)   MESSAGE: The bold declaration of Peter and John highlights the exclusivity of Jesus as the way to salvation. This message is as unconventional now as it was then. In a world seeking multiple paths to God, this truth can be uncomfortable, yet it is the foundation of our faith. Jesus alone bridges the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God.   The world today is working hard to debunk this fact and belief by resorting to science and many other means, including self-worship. But history and evidence of near-death encounters by some persons in religions that believe otherwise themselves have pointed to Jesus as the only way.   For believers, this truth encourages confidence in sharing the gospel. The historical Jesus, who walked the earth over two thousand years ago, is the Christ—the anointed one, the promised Messiah. His life, death, and resurrection are well-documented events that transformed the course of history. As it is written in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (NIV): "For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures."   While others may advocate for moral living or alternative spiritual paths, we understand that true peace and eternal life can only come through JESUS Christ. This understanding is not intended to foster pride but to inspire compassion for those who have yet to encounter Him. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Hold on to what you believe as a Christian, and don’t exchange it for anything else. Meditate on the significance of Jesus as your Saviour and let that be what you carry in your spirit as you live for him.   PRAYER: Lord Jesus, thank You for being the only way to salvation. Help me live with gratitude for Your sacrifice and share this truth boldly and lovingly with others. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!  The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 40:   Exodus 7-8 — The First Plagues

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 8 2025 | Acts 4:1-4 KEY VERSE: They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. Acts 4:2 (NIV)   MESSAGE: The gospel of Jesus Christ is powerful but not always welcome. When Peter and John boldly proclaimed the resurrection of Jesus, the religious leaders were deeply disturbed. Their message challenged the established beliefs and authority of those in power. The truth of Christ’s resurrection was not just a theological issue but a direct confrontation with those who wanted to maintain control over the people. In the same way, whenever the gospel is preached boldly, it will disturb those unwilling to accept God’s truth.   As believers, we must recognise that opposition to the gospel is not a sign of failure but a confirmation that the message is making an impact. Jesus warned that His followers would face persecution for His name (John 15:18-20). The world is often resistant to the truth because it exposes sin, calls for repentance, and demands a change of heart. Yet, we are called to remain faithful in sharing the gospel, no matter the resistance we face. True disciples of Christ do not compromise His message to avoid discomfort; instead, they proclaim the truth with courage and love.   The results of not relenting to preach and teach the truth about the finished work of Christ is as evidenced in Acts 4:4: “However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand" – souls will be saved. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: If you have ever faced opposition for your faith, take heart—you are in good company. The apostles, the early church, and even Jesus Himself faced rejection for proclaiming God’s truth. But the power of the gospel cannot be silenced.   PRAYER: Pray for boldness today: “Lord, give me the courage to speak Your truth even when it disturbs others. Help me stand firm in faith, knowing that Your word brings life, even when opposed.” In Jesus name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 39:   Exodus 5-6 — Moses Confronts Pharaoh DAILY word study : PROCLAIMING The Greek word for “proclaiming” in Acts 4:2 is "katangellō" (καταγγέλλω), which means "to announce, declare openly, or publicly herald." It emphasizes a bold and authoritative declaration, often used in Scripture to describe the proclamation of the gospel. Peter and John were not merely sharing personal beliefs; they were publicly declaring the resurrection of Jesus with authority. The opposition from religious leaders revealed that the gospel challenges worldly systems and power structures. Theologically, "katangellō" highlights the urgency and courage required in sharing Christ. Preaching the gospel is not about passive conversation—it is an intentional and bold declaration of divine truth. Reflection: How boldly do you proclaim your faith? Are you willing to share the gospel even when it challenges societal norms? Consider how you can be a witness for Christ in both word and action.