Have You Been With Jesus?

Three Ways To Tell

YOU GET IN TROUBLE FOR SPEAKING ABOUT HIM

The Sadducees controlled the temple and did not believe in the resurrection (Ac. 5:17; 23:8). When Peter and John came proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus in the temple courts, the Sadducees had a problem on their hands (3:26-4:7).

Peter turned the tables and put the Council on trial (4:8-12). He said, “this man was made well (sodzo) but the name of Jesus and the only way you can be saved (sodzo) is by the name of Jesus” (cp. 4:9, 12).

The anchoring truth that Jesus is the only Savior is responsible for much opposition and persecution from the early church to the present. Yet, we cannot back down from teaching the exclusivity, superiority, and singularity of Jesus (Mt. 1:21; Jn. 14:6; 1 Tim. 2:5-6).

YOU ASTONISH PEOPLE BY YOUR ALLEGIANCE

The Council was taken back by Peter’s response — he was confident, unashamed, and had no formal education. Then, Eureka! They realized these men had been with Jesus (4:13).

When warned not to speak in Jesus’ name, Peter and John said such a ban would set them at odds against God’s will and it was not something with which they could comply (Ac. 1:8; 4:18-22). Obedience to God was more important than obedience to man.

Jesus must mean more to us than anything in the world (Col. 3:1-4). Our dedication is a matter of priority and commitment. Unless Jesus is first in our lives, we will not astonish anyone (Mt. 6:19-23). [He means more to us than sports, clothing or hairstyles, face masks, partisanship, our conveniences, our cell phones, or even our family.]

YOU UNDERSTAND GOD HAS EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL

After being released with strict orders not to teach or preach in Jesus’ name, Peter and John reported these events to the brethren (4:23). The news led to a spontaneous prayer of thanksgiving (4:24-30).

They acknowledged God’s Sovereignty and foreknowledge (4:24, 28). Therefore, they asked for Him to take note of the situation (4:29a) and enable them to courageously speak about Jesus in the face of opposition (4:29b).

The apostles understood #godsgotthis. The future was just as uncertain then as it is today. What is most important is that we share Jesus with others because He is our only hope (Col. 1:5; Heb. 13:14; 1 Pet. 1:3-4).