Bold Proclamation: The Power of Faith in Persecution

 

Summary

Psalm 118 reminds us of the enduring goodness and steadfast love of the Lord. In times of distress, we can call upon Him, and He will answer, setting us free. This freedom is not just from physical ailments, as seen in the healing of the lame man by Peter and John, but also from spiritual bondage. The story in Acts 4 illustrates the power of Jesus' name, which brings healing and salvation. Peter and John, despite being uneducated and common men, spoke boldly before the Sanhedrin, declaring that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ. This boldness came from the Holy Spirit, who empowered them to proclaim the truth even in the face of persecution.

The early church faced its first recorded opposition, a pivotal moment that tested the resolve of its leaders. The Sadducees, who were more concerned with political power than spiritual truth, were greatly annoyed by the apostles' teaching of the resurrection. Yet, the church continued to grow, attracting many who believed in the message of Jesus. This growth, despite persecution, is a testament to the power of the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Persecution is an inevitable part of genuine Christian faith. It serves as both a test of faithfulness and an opportunity to witness. As believers, we are called to be bold in our proclamation of the gospel, trusting that the Holy Spirit will give us the words and wisdom needed to withstand opposition. Our ultimate hope lies in the resurrection, the central promise of Christianity, which assures us of eternal life with God.

In our modern context, we must remain steadfast in our faith, recognizing that salvation is found only in Jesus. We are called to live in a way that makes Christianity attractive to the lost, demonstrating the love and truth of the gospel in our daily lives. As we face challenges and opposition, let us be encouraged by the example of Peter and John, who, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaimed the name of Jesus, knowing that they were not responsible for the outcomes, only their obedience.

Key Takeaways:

- The steadfast love of the Lord endures forever, offering freedom and salvation to those who call upon Him. This freedom is not just physical but spiritual, as demonstrated by the healing of the lame man and the bold proclamation of the gospel by Peter and John. [04:11]

- The early church's growth amidst persecution highlights the power of the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit. Despite opposition from powerful groups like the Sadducees, the message of Jesus continued to spread, attracting many to the faith. [25:55]

- Persecution is a sign of faithfulness and an opportunity to witness. As believers, we are called to be bold in our proclamation of the gospel, trusting that the Holy Spirit will provide the words and wisdom needed to withstand opposition. [42:52]

- Salvation is found only in Jesus Christ. No other name, tradition, or philosophy can reconcile us to God. Pretending otherwise is unloving, as it enables a lie with eternal consequences. [54:16]

- We are called to live in a way that makes Christianity attractive to the lost, demonstrating the love and truth of the gospel in our daily lives. Our boldness in sharing the gospel should be motivated by love for our neighbors and the truth of the resurrection. [01:11:34]

Youtube Chapters:

[00:00] - Welcome
[04:11] - The Enduring Love of the Lord
[24:37] - Peter and John's Boldness
[25:55] - Healing at the Temple Gate
[27:37] - Proclaiming Jesus' Name
[28:51] - The First Persecution
[30:00] - The Word Stands Forever
[31:15] - Facing Opposition
[35:54] - The Sadducees' Challenge
[36:58] - The Hope of Resurrection
[40:08] - Imprisonment and Growth
[42:05] - Persecution and Faithfulness
[47:33] - Peter's Bold Declaration
[50:54] - Empowered by the Holy Spirit
[54:16] - Salvation in Jesus Alone
[58:06] - God Uses the Unlikely
[01:02:03] - The Gospel Spreads
[01:03:08] - Obeying God Over Man
[01:11:34] - Boldness in the Gospel

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
- Psalm 118:1-7
- Acts 4:1-12
- John 15:18-20

#### Observation Questions
1. What does Psalm 118 say about the Lord's response to those who call upon Him in distress? How does this relate to the story of Peter and John in Acts 4? [04:11]
2. In Acts 4, what was the reaction of the Sadducees to Peter and John's teaching, and why were they so disturbed by it? [27:37]
3. How did Peter and John demonstrate boldness in their proclamation of the gospel, despite being uneducated and common men? [28:51]
4. What was the outcome of Peter and John's encounter with the Sanhedrin, and how did it affect the early church's growth? [42:05]

#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the healing of the lame man in Acts 4 serve as a metaphor for spiritual freedom and salvation? [25:55]
2. Why is the resurrection a central promise of Christianity, and how does it provide hope for believers facing persecution? [36:58]
3. What role does the Holy Spirit play in empowering believers to proclaim the gospel boldly, as seen in the actions of Peter and John? [50:54]
4. How does the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ challenge modern perspectives on tolerance and truth? [54:16]

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced opposition for your faith. How did you respond, and what might you do differently in light of Peter and John's example? [44:42]
2. In what ways can you demonstrate the love and truth of the gospel in your daily life to make Christianity attractive to those around you? [01:11:34]
3. How can you rely on the Holy Spirit to give you the words and wisdom needed to share your faith with others, especially in challenging situations? [50:54]
4. Consider the boldness of Peter and John. What steps can you take to be more courageous in sharing the gospel with those in your community? [58:06]
5. How can you ensure that your actions and words align with the truth of the gospel, avoiding both cowardice and insensitivity? [43:40]
6. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to trust in the Lord's steadfast love and goodness. How can you actively seek His guidance and freedom in this area? [04:11]
7. Think of someone in your life who does not know Jesus. What is one practical way you can share the hope of the resurrection with them this week? [01:11:34]

Devotional

Day 1: The Enduring Love and Freedom in Christ
The steadfast love of the Lord endures forever, offering freedom and salvation to those who call upon Him. This freedom is not just physical but spiritual, as demonstrated by the healing of the lame man and the bold proclamation of the gospel by Peter and John. In Psalm 118, we are reminded of God's enduring goodness and love, which liberates us from both physical and spiritual bondage. The story in Acts 4 illustrates the power of Jesus' name, which brings healing and salvation. Peter and John, despite being uneducated and common men, spoke boldly before the Sanhedrin, declaring that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ. This boldness came from the Holy Spirit, who empowered them to proclaim the truth even in the face of persecution. [04:11]

Psalm 118:5-6 (ESV): "Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to experience the freedom that comes from calling upon the Lord? How can you invite His steadfast love into those areas today?


Day 2: The Gospel's Power Amidst Persecution
The early church's growth amidst persecution highlights the power of the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit. Despite opposition from powerful groups like the Sadducees, the message of Jesus continued to spread, attracting many to the faith. The early church faced its first recorded opposition, a pivotal moment that tested the resolve of its leaders. The Sadducees, who were more concerned with political power than spiritual truth, were greatly annoyed by the apostles' teaching of the resurrection. Yet, the church continued to grow, attracting many who believed in the message of Jesus. This growth, despite persecution, is a testament to the power of the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit. [25:55]

Acts 5:41-42 (ESV): "Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus."

Reflection: How can you remain steadfast in your faith when facing opposition or challenges? What steps can you take to ensure the gospel continues to spread through your life?


Day 3: Persecution as a Test and Opportunity
Persecution is a sign of faithfulness and an opportunity to witness. As believers, we are called to be bold in our proclamation of the gospel, trusting that the Holy Spirit will provide the words and wisdom needed to withstand opposition. Persecution serves as both a test of faithfulness and an opportunity to witness. As believers, we are called to be bold in our proclamation of the gospel, trusting that the Holy Spirit will give us the words and wisdom needed to withstand opposition. Our ultimate hope lies in the resurrection, the central promise of Christianity, which assures us of eternal life with God. [42:52]

2 Timothy 3:12-13 (ESV): "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived."

Reflection: When have you experienced opposition because of your faith? How can you prepare yourself to respond with boldness and love in future situations?


Day 4: Salvation in Jesus Alone
Salvation is found only in Jesus Christ. No other name, tradition, or philosophy can reconcile us to God. Pretending otherwise is unloving, as it enables a lie with eternal consequences. The story in Acts 4 illustrates the power of Jesus' name, which brings healing and salvation. Peter and John, despite being uneducated and common men, spoke boldly before the Sanhedrin, declaring that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ. This boldness came from the Holy Spirit, who empowered them to proclaim the truth even in the face of persecution. [54:16]

Acts 4:12 (ESV): "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."

Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you rely on something other than Jesus for salvation or fulfillment? How can you refocus your trust solely on Him today?


Day 5: Living Attractively for Christ
We are called to live in a way that makes Christianity attractive to the lost, demonstrating the love and truth of the gospel in our daily lives. Our boldness in sharing the gospel should be motivated by love for our neighbors and the truth of the resurrection. In our modern context, we must remain steadfast in our faith, recognizing that salvation is found only in Jesus. We are called to live in a way that makes Christianity attractive to the lost, demonstrating the love and truth of the gospel in our daily lives. As we face challenges and opposition, let us be encouraged by the example of Peter and John, who, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaimed the name of Jesus, knowing that they were not responsible for the outcomes, only their obedience. [01:11:34]

Colossians 4:5-6 (ESV): "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."

Reflection: How can you demonstrate the love and truth of the gospel in your interactions today? What specific actions can you take to make your faith attractive to those around you?

Quotes


Out of my distress I called on the Lord. The Lord answered me and said, set me free. The Lord is on my side. I will not fear. What can man do to me? The Lord is on my side as my helper. I shall look in triumph on those who hate me. [00:03:55]

Peter, even as that man started moving down the line and seeing others who might be coming up to the gate, focused on that man. And Jesus inspired and empowered Peter to heal that lame man's body, legs and ankles and feet that had never borne his weight. They suddenly functioned as though they'd been healthy his whole life. And he started leaping about. [00:25:18]

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by all means, this man has been healed. Or by what means this man has been healed. Let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him this man is standing before you well. [00:27:44]

And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated common men, they were astonished, and they recognized that they had been with Jesus. [00:28:29]

God, thank you that even in the midst of all the things that have happened to us, all the things that are so temporary in our lives, that even as grass withers and flower fades, your word stands forever. God, even as powerful entities or individuals come and go, your word stands forever. As cultural movements come and go, your word stands forever. As nations rise and empires fall, your word stands forever. [00:30:04]

In John 15, Jesus says, if the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own. But because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you. A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. [00:42:47]

It is quite possible for Christians to be persecuted, not for their faith, but for their discourtesy, insensitivity, and lack of warmth and respect in dealing with others created in the image of God. Insensitive, harsh Christians will have persecution, but no praise. Cowardly Christians will have praise, but no persecution. Many Christians whose walk with God is weak actually get neither. But Christians who are closest to Christ will get both, as he did. [00:44:06]

Whom God raised from the dead by him this this man is standing before you well This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you the builders Who has become the cornerstone and there is salvation in no one else For there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved This is the same gathering of people this this group of the Sanhedrin and the elders and the scribes This these are the same people that were brought together to condemn Jesus to send him off to Pilate for execution and Now before this same group convened what must Peter and John have been thinking What had to be going through their minds? [00:48:49]

The Jesus they thought they had gotten rid of was and is alive and well and had just healed a man right under their noses. And then we find verse 12. There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given. There is salvation among men by which we must be saved. Y 'all, salvation is only found in Jesus. Not in traditions, not in intellect, not in power, not in money, not in comfort, not in... [00:54:16]

The church of Jesus Christ has its worst days when it is the most comfortable. But when it is afflicted, it spreads like wildfire. Because it is... people who are hurting and broken who recognize that we can't handle things on our own. As Tertullian said, the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church. [01:02:43]

Peter and John said, you'll have to excuse us between obeying you and obeying almighty God, creator of all that is, savior of our souls, and redeemer of our eternal hope, we're going to go with him. These verses remind me of Peter Cartwright. The boldness, the boldness of a pastor. He was a circuit -riding preacher in the mid -1800s. Pastor Cartwright was famous for being uncompromising with the gospel. A lot like Peter. [01:04:27]

Blaise Pascal, a famous mathematician, philosopher, and theologian, said it this way, make religion attractive, make good men wish that it were true, and then show them that it is. How are we living? Are we living in a way that makes Christianity attractive to the lost? Well, let's think through some of the stereotypes of church people. I'm afraid some of those aren't so complimentary. [01:09:43]

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Transcript
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