How can Acts 4:10 inspire us to witness in our daily interactions? Context: A Courageous Confession Acts 4 opens with Peter and John arrested for healing a lame man (Acts 3) and preaching Christ. Standing before the Sanhedrin—the highest Jewish court—they are asked, “By what power or what name did you do this?” Peter responds: “then let this be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed.” (Acts 4:10) Key Truths in the Verse • Jesus’ name holds real, supernatural power here and now. • The crucifixion and resurrection are historical, non-negotiable events. • Bold witness can happen even in hostile settings. • A changed life (the healed man) confirms the message. Why This Fuels Our Everyday Witness • Authority: We speak in “the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.” That name still saves (Acts 4:12). • Certainty: God “raised” Jesus—fact, not opinion (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Confidence replaces timidity. • Evidence: Like the healed man, our transformed lives validate our words (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Urgency: The same leaders who crucified Jesus needed the gospel; so do our co-workers, neighbors, family. Practical Ways to Live Out Acts 4:10 • Name the Name: When sharing, move beyond generic “faith talk” to the specific, living Jesus. • Tie Actions to Christ: When you help someone, credit His power—“Jesus put this on my heart.” • Tell the Whole Story: Include crucifixion and resurrection; they are the core (Romans 10:9). • Stay Respectful but Firm: Like Peter, speak plainly yet graciously (1 Peter 3:15-16). • Lean on the Spirit: Peter was “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 4:8). Pray for that same filling before conversations. • Use Personal Testimony: Share how Jesus has “healed” areas of your life—anger, fear, addiction. • Expect God to Act: Look for modern “healed man” moments—answered prayer, restored relationships—as openings to proclaim Christ. Encouragement for the Witness • The gospel is “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). • Opposition cannot silence truth; it often amplifies it (Acts 4:13-14, 31). • Jesus promised, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20), so you never testify alone. |
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