What role does faith play in the disciples' decision in Acts 9:25? Setting the Scene - Acts 9:23-24 records that “the Jews conspired to kill him,” and they kept watch at the city gates day and night. - Verse 25: “But his disciples took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.” - The “disciples” here are the new believers in Damascus who had just embraced the once-feared persecutor, Saul. Faith Behind Their Choice - Trust in God’s Plan • They believed Saul’s conversion was genuine and that God had a purpose for him (cf. Acts 9:15). • Rescuing Saul protected that divine purpose in faith that the Lord would use him mightily. - Confidence in God over Human Threats • Hebrews 11:1—“faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see.” • Though the plotters seemed powerful, they acted on unseen certainty that God’s protection outweighed visible danger. - Obedience Expressed through Action • James 2:17—“faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” • Lowering Saul in a basket was tangible obedience, placing their security and reputation at risk. Why Their Faith Was Reasonable - Previous Examples of Divine Deliverance • Acts 5:19—angel opens the prison doors for apostles. • Psalm 34:7—“The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them.” - Assurance of Saul’s Calling • Acts 9:17—Ananias’ prophetic word confirmed Saul as a “chosen instrument.” • 2 Corinthians 11:32-33 shows God indeed preserved Saul through this very escape. What Faith Looked Like in Practice 1. Spiritual Discernment • Recognized the urgency of the threat without panicking. 2. Courageous Initiative • Nighttime risk; possible arrest for aiding Saul. 3. Creative Problem-Solving • Basket and city-wall opening—demonstrated resourceful trust that God would bless practical means. 4. Unity in Mission • Collective effort signaled shared conviction that God’s work in Saul mattered to all believers. Lessons for Today - Faith may call for bold, unconventional steps to preserve God’s work. - True belief readily shoulders personal risk for the welfare of fellow believers (Galatians 6:2). - God often pairs supernatural purpose with very ordinary tools—a rope, a basket, and willing hands. Key Takeaways - The disciples’ decision was not mere friendship; it was faith in God’s revealed will. - Their actions align with the biblical pattern: faith produces works that advance the gospel (Philippians 1:12-14). - We honor God when we act decisively on His promises, trusting outcomes to Him (Proverbs 3:5-6; Romans 8:28). |
    |