Reflection on Acts 5:27-32

Scripture
“We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit, who is given by God to those who obey Him.”

Observation
The captain of the Temple Guards goes and arrests the apostles. They are brought to the Sanhedrin, and the High Priest demands why they are teaching in the name of Jesus after being ordered not to.

Peter replies that they must speak of Jesus who was killed by the authorities but raised to life and then placed in a position of honour at God's right hand.

Application
Forgiveness and salvation are available to everyone who will put their trust in the name of Jesus. This is the awesome message of Easter- we killed God's Son but the Father raised Him to life and forgave all of our assaults on Him.

The Holy Spirit is given to all who obey God. We must never fear speaking up or acting at God's direction. When we trust and obey God, the Holy Spirit enables us and reassures us in the task.

Prayer
Father, you are an amazing God. Not only do you raise the dead to life, you equip your servants to do your will and to be your witnesses, far beyond what we are capable of alone. Help me to trust you when you call me to stand up for you. Amen.