How should we respond when our faith causes confusion among non-believers? Setting the Scene: Acts 5:24 “When the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests heard this account, they were perplexed about what might be happening.” (Acts 5:24) • Luke records an actual jailbreak arranged by God, a literal event that startled the most educated men in Jerusalem. • Their perplexity shows how supernatural faith regularly baffles those who do not yet know Christ. Why Unbelievers Feel Confused • The mind is veiled by the god of this age (2 Corinthians 4:4). • Spiritual things are spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14). • The gospel overturns human expectations of power, success, and righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:18–29). • Miraculous interventions, such as an angel opening prison doors, clash with a strictly natural worldview. Essential Attitudes for Believers • Calm assurance: “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” (1 Corinthians 14:33) • Humble boldness: the apostles re-entered the temple to teach, unashamed (Acts 5:25). • Steadfast joy: “Rejoice in the Lord always.” (Philippians 4:4) Practical Responses When Confusion Arises • Explain the hope you possess – “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope you possess, yet do this with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15) • Live transparently – Visible good works silence false assumptions (Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12). • Keep speaking the whole message – The angel’s command in Acts 5:20 was clear: “Go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people all the words of this life.” • Rest in divine vindication – God opened the doors; He will clarify the truth in His time (Isaiah 55:11). Guarding Clarity in Our Own Minds • Anchor every explanation in written revelation, trusting its literal accuracy (Psalm 119:160). • Avoid needless jargon; use Scripture itself, letting the Word self-authenticate (Hebrews 4:12). • Balance miracle stories with the cross, where God’s greatest power is displayed (1 Corinthians 2:2). Enduring Opposition with Grace • The apostles accepted interrogation without resentment (Acts 5:27–29). • They obeyed God rather than men, yet treated authorities respectfully. • Follow their pattern: respectful demeanor, unwavering obedience. Remembering the Ultimate Purpose • God uses perplexity to open doors for proclamation (Acts 5:25–32). • Some scoff, others believe—both outcomes glorify Christ (Acts 17:32–34). • Persevere, knowing that “your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) |
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