Scripture:
Acts 5:29-32 – But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and for the forgiveness of sins. And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Observation:
Peter and the apostles are being persecuted by the council for proclaiming the name of Jesus. Peter, speaking with boldness from the power of the Spirit lays out an apologetic defense for Jesus. Our first response is to be in line with God not man. God raised Jesus from the dead to be our savior and have forgiveness over sin. Peter and the apostles were witnesses to the crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus as is the Holy Spirit to those who believe in Jesus name.
Application:
Jesus was persecuted, the apostles were persecuted in Jerusalem and believers are persecuted in many parts of the world every day for their faith in Jesus. Step one is for me to be obedient to God not man. God is sovereign and he raised Jesus from the dead to be our Savior and offer the only way to have a relationship with the Father. Jesus last words before he ascends into heaven are that, “He has all authority in heaven and on earth and we are to go and make disciples baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit teaching them to obey the commands I have taught you. And know that I will be with you to the end of the age.” As Peter is given power through the Holy Spirit, we too as believers are called to be witnesses for Jesus by the power of the Spirit.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and mercy. Let me obey you not men. May the power of the Holy Spirit guide me to be a witness for Jesus.