In last weeks Facts we discussed two principles: (1) Germane to effectively proclaiming the gospel is a willingness to openly speak of Jesus, and present the fact of the resurrection, even in a hostile environment, and (2)Only by the empowerment of the Holy Spirit can we do Gods work, especially in adverse circumstances. To continue:
3. Peter and John possessed a holy boldness when challenged by their opponents: Then [the authorities] called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:18b-20). (See Act. 4:10, 13; Pro. 25:19)
Question: Are you dependent on the Holy Spirit for the courage to proclaim the truth?
4. Peter knew the word of God and was able to skillfully and effectively use it: …Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone (Act. 4:11 NLT). (See 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16, 17)
Question: Are you taking deliberate measures to master the word of God in order to effectively minister the Scriptures to others?
5. Peter boldly proclaimed that Jesus was the only way to salvation: There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Act. 4:12). (See Jn. 14:6; 1 Tim. 2:5)
Question: Given our pluralistic and postmodern world where all roads supposedly lead to God, and where there supposedly are no absolutes, are you willing to courageously proclaim Jesus as the only way?
6. Peter and John reflected Jesus in their lives: When the authorities realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus (Act. 4:13). (See 2 Cor. 2:15, 16)
Question: When people look at you, do they naturally conclude that you have been with Jesus?
We will conclude our discussion in next weeks Facts.
This week, may you experience His grace, peace, and protection.
R. Dwight Hill