Today we read Acts 6. In this chapter, we read how the enemies of Jesus attack one of Jesus’ workers, a devout man named Stephen. The enemies spread lies about Stephen and have him arrested. So it is today as well, that sometimes the enemies of Christianity spread lies about us believers in order to harm us. May the Lord give us strength in these difficult situations so that we remain faithful to Jesus Christ!
Today we read Acts 5. Verse 29 is very important: “We must obey God rather than men.” This means that we must obey the authorities, even the evil ones (for example, even in such a country, a red stoplight still means “stop” and so we must stop). However, if the authorities were to command us to break one of the Ten Commandments (see Exodus 20:1-17), then we must disobey, even if they threaten to punish us. Lord Jesus, please give us the courage to do this!
Today we read Acts 4. Look how boldly the believers in Jesus Christ confess their faith–even in the face of hostility. May the Holy Spirit grant us that same kind of boldness!
Today we read Acts 3. Here, Peter castigates the people of Jerusalem (especially the Pharisees), of whom most had rejected Jesus as the coming Messiah and had Him crucified. That many of the Jews would do this had been prophesied in the Old Testament (see verse 22). Sadly, they chose to ignore the fact that the risen Lord brings to light our hidden guilt and lifts the burden that crushes every sinner. That is why the apostles would later move beyond the Jews–and spread the Gospel among the Gentiles (to whom you, dear friends in Muslim countries, belong). *** Praise God, though Jesus’ Word points out your shame, His grace will wipe away your sin.
