What can we learn from Peter's example about speaking truth to authority? The Scene in Jerusalem Acts 4 pictures Peter and John hauled before the Sanhedrin, the highest religious court, after healing the lame man. This is a hostile setting—intimidation is the goal—but verse 8 opens with a decisive statement: “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, ‘Rulers and elders of the people…’” Filled, Not Frightened • “Filled with the Holy Spirit” signals divine empowerment, not mere personality. • Jesus had promised this help: “When they deliver you over… the Spirit of your Father will speak in you” (Matthew 10:19-20). • Peter’s words flow from that promise kept; courage is rooted in God’s presence, not self-confidence. Hallmarks of Peter’s Truth-Telling • Clarity: He states facts plainly—“It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth” (v. 10). • Christ-Centered Focus: The miracle is quickly tied to Jesus’ resurrection and lordship. • Scriptural Foundation: He quotes Psalm 118:22 (v. 11), grounding his case in written revelation. • Respectful Address: “Rulers and elders” acknowledges their office even while challenging their verdict. • Invitation, Not Insult: Verse 12 offers salvation to the very accusers—bold, yet benevolent. What We Learn about Speaking Truth to Authority 1. Depend on the Spirit first; preparation matters, but power is a Person. 2. Lead with the gospel; social or political issues find true resolution only in Christ. 3. Anchor arguments in Scripture; God’s Word carries authority that human officeholders must ultimately heed. 4. Maintain respect; honor the position even when opposing the decision (Romans 13:1, 1 Peter 2:17). 5. Accept consequences; the apostles faced imprisonment yet refused silence (Acts 4:18-20). Echoes throughout Scripture • Moses before Pharaoh—“Thus says the LORD” (Exodus 5:1). • Nathan before David—“You are the man!” (2 Samuel 12:7). • Daniel before Nebuchadnezzar—“My God sent His angel” (Daniel 3:28). • Paul before Festus and Agrippa—“I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said” (Acts 26:22). Putting It into Practice Today • Pray for Spirit-filling daily (Ephesians 5:18). • Know the Word; confidence grows as Scripture dwells richly in us (Colossians 3:16). • Speak with humility and conviction—both are possible together (2 Timothy 2:24-25). • Accept that obedience may provoke backlash; rejoice that you are “counted worthy to suffer shame for the Name” (Acts 5:41). |
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