Annoyances

Has anyone been annoyed lately? Or has anyone been a bit annoyed with you? Did you speak the truth boldly and get lambasted for it? Or did you go quietly to your room and hide?

Welcome to Acts 4! Sometimes, the truth is a bitter pill to swallow. Other times, it just cannot be received as truth. Either scenario raises great challenges to overcome. Peter and John caused the Temple leaders (Sadducees and Pharisees)a great annoyance in Acts 4:2. In fact, the Apostles left an example for the rest of us to follow when faced with trials and persecutions. Remember that the Sadducees did not believe in the dead's resurrection (Matt 22:23-34; Acts 23:8). Does the contemporary disciple have the fortitude to stand in the face of persecution such as "cancel-culture?" Does he or she even recognize the precarious nature of the culture?

Those early disciples walked with the historical Jesus. Today, disciples have the same opportunity to bear witness of the Lord, especially in times of great trial and conflict. So, what did Peter and John do or say when arrested for preaching the Gospel? It would behoove the Church to take notice of them! Can anyone think of any arrest accounts from the past year or so...for preaching the Gospel? For holding fast to their faith and convictions? Surely one can!

Peter and John, filled with the Holy Spirit, made bold declarations of truth to the council leaders of their day concerning the healing done in Acts 3. They did not cower in fear but rather stood in faith for what they believed. Jesus told the disciples not to worry about what they would say before their accusers as the Holy Spirit would help them respond (Luke 13:12). 2021 represents an opportunity to stand in faith just like Peter and John. Lifestyle choices make a difference. Through prayer, the Church will see victory as she demonstrates faith in this season. In so doing, the blessed Holy Spirit will guide her.

Jesus heals today. Disciples can still declare the wonderful acts of God to others. When Jesus returns, will He find fear or faith? One should pray daily. Those in close communion with Him through prayer will have unique opportunities, just like those early disciples. The Holy Spirit brings boldness. Let the circumcised heart of the Church boldly declare the goodness of God to all. Without Him, one will not experience the signs, wonders, and miracles of the early Church.

Does it require a college degree to perform miracles? Absolutely not! In fact, Acts 4:13 said it best, "Now when they perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus." Wow! Can the nation see the Church's good works and glorify God today? This is critical! Where are the bold and courageous people of God? Take your rightful places, for the Lord needs you!