What can we learn from the apostles' response to threats in Acts 4:21? Setting the Scene Peter and John have just healed a lame man and proclaimed Jesus in the temple. Dragged before the Sanhedrin, they’re threatened and ordered to keep quiet. Acts 4:21 shows what happened next. Scripture Focus “After further threats they let them go. They could not find a way to punish them, because all the people were glorifying God for what had happened.” (Acts 4:21) Key Observations • Intensified intimidation: “further threats” signals pressure ratcheted up, not down. • Divine overruling: the rulers wanted punishment; God made release inevitable. • Evident innocence: no legal ground existed—truth stood firm. • Public witness: a grateful crowd praised God, shielding the apostles. • Glory directed upward: the miracle’s spotlight never lingered on men, but on God. Lessons for Us Today • Stand firm when pressured—truth does not bend to intimidation (Acts 4:19–20). • Expect God to restrain enemies when it serves His purpose (Proverbs 21:1). • Cultivate visible works of God; they silence critics (Matthew 5:16). • Keep seeking God’s glory, not personal vindication—He handles the outcome. • Measure success by obedience, not comfort; release or hardship is in His hands (Acts 5:29). Supporting Scriptures • “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) • “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 118:6) • “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • “Even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. ‘Do not fear their intimidation; do not be shaken.’” (1 Peter 3:14) Putting It Into Practice • Speak about Christ openly, trusting Him to manage consequences. • Pray for visible demonstrations of God’s power that foster public praise. • Remember that faithfulness may bring threats, but God’s purpose prevails. |
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