What challenges might we face when proclaiming the gospel as instructed in Acts 5:20? Setting the Scene “Go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of this new life.” (Acts 5:20) The command was clear, direct, and uncompromising. The apostles obeyed immediately, yet their obedience exposed them to very real opposition. We should expect the same when we proclaim the same message. Mandate and Model in Acts 5 • The angels’ command was public, not private. • It centered on “the full message,” not a selective or watered-down version. • It required physical presence—“stand in the temple courts”—placing the apostles where hostility was certain. • Their obedience triggered arrest (Acts 5:18), interrogation (5:27), and flogging (5:40). Historical Challenges Then 1. Religious hostility — The Sanhedrin viewed the gospel as a threat to established authority (Acts 5:28). 2. Civil penalties — Imprisonment and beating were legal means to silence the message (Acts 5:18, 40). 3. Social shame — Public disgrace accompanied arrest; yet the apostles rejoiced they were “counted worthy to suffer” (Acts 5:41). 4. Misrepresentation — Leaders accused them of “bringing this man’s blood upon us” (Acts 5:28), twisting their intent. Modern Parallels and Practical Challenges • Institutional opposition – Government regulations that restrict evangelism in schools, workplaces, or public venues. – Professional boards or ethics committees that label biblical morality as “intolerant.” • Cultural resistance – Secular worldviews that dismiss absolute truth (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:18). – Relativism that brands the exclusivity of Christ as hate speech (John 14:6). • Social pressure – Fear of losing relationships, clients, or social media platforms. – Ostracism within academic or corporate environments (John 15:19). • Personal fears – Anxiety over ridicule or being labeled fanatical (2 Timothy 1:7). – Doubts about adequacy in answering objections (1 Peter 3:15). Spiritual Opposition • Invisible warfare—“Our struggle is not against flesh and blood” (Ephesians 6:12). • Deception—The enemy blinds minds to the gospel (2 Corinthians 4:4). • Discouragement—Accusations aimed at silencing boldness (Revelation 12:10). Cost of Obedience 1. Physical harm — In many regions today, believers still face violence (Hebrews 10:34). 2. Legal action — Fines, lawsuits, or imprisonment for “hate crimes.” 3. Economic loss — Termination of employment or business boycotts (Hebrews 13:13-14). 4. Reputation — Being maligned in media or community (Matthew 5:11). Resources for Perseverance • The indwelling Spirit empowers witness (Acts 1:8). • Christ’s promise of presence—“I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • The fellowship of believers for support (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Eternal perspective—“Our light and momentary troubles” produce “an eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Encouragement Though challenges are inevitable—“Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12)—the gospel remains “the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16). Like the apostles, may we leave every court, classroom, and conversation “rejoicing that we were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name” (Acts 5:41) and keep declaring the full message of this new life. |
    |