Luke records the ongoing and what will become an increase in opposition and persecution even from the religious leaders of Israel. They persecuted Jesus, they now continue with his followers.

Several fascinating interactions occur in this passage. The response of the Sadducees, the council to the apostles, but also the apostles response to them. Peter, speaking for the apostles, tells the religious leaders that they must obey God rather than men. He reminds them of their impression of Jesus, based on their willingness to hang him on a tree. He also reminds them of God's impression of Jesus - he raised Jesus from the dead and exalted him. The religious leaders are left with a choice - will they repent and be forgiven by Jesus, this is indeed the reason that he came.

Instead, they are angry and intend to kill the apostles - right then and there. A wise man, providentially speaks on their behalf and the they are ultimately released. As believers in the 21st Century, we too must yield to the plan of God, even if it doesn’t fit our perceptions and even if it involves suffering! God can and will give us grace to follow his plan, but we obey him rather than men.

Acts is a unique book in our New Testament, because it is the only book of history that we are given. As Luke writes, a second edition to his gospel, he continues with two vital themes – first, that Jesus offers salvation to men and second, that this work – the mission is accomplished – in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus had already instructed his disciples about the Holy Spirit and his ongoing ministry to them and all who would come to believe in Jesus. Despite the obvious focus on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Acts, this book is about Jesus. Throughout Acts, Jesus is described as Lord (the most common title for Jesus in Acts), Jesus (67x), Christ (25x), Servant, Holy One, Just One, a Prophet like Moses, Savior, Son of God, Son of Man, Author of Life, Judge, Man and God. There is absolutely no question that Acts is the continuing account of all that Jesus began to do and to teach as presented in the gospel of Luke. The outline of Acts is very straightforward: Witnesses in Jerusalem (1-7), Witnesses in Judaea & Samaria (8-12), and Witnesses to the ends of the earth (13-28). Luke focuses throughout on this truth: You will receive power from the Holy Spirit and be my witnesses to the ends of the earth. May God strengthen us to be effective witnesses for Jesus.

Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers and Engaging our Community. 

Graceway Church is committed to being a God Exalting, Christ Centered, Spirit Motivated, Word Focused local body of Believers!