Holy Disobedience
Scripture Reading — Acts 4:13-22
"Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God." Acts 4:19
Common sense teaches that to live in peace with others, we have to be tolerant and flexible. Most of the time we have to learn to compromise in order to live in harmony with others. But, for Christians, certain things can never be compromised, and one of those things is obedience to God's Word.
The Jewish leaders couldn't deny that Peter and John had done an amazing miracle in Jesus' name, but the leaders didn't want them to mention Jesus' name in public. But then what good would it do to be silent, scared disciples of Christ?
Peter and John brushed aside the religious leaders' threats. They follow Christ's order to be his witnesses not only in Jerusalem but also in all Judea, Samaria, and the rest of the world (Acts 1:8).
Peter and John were not saying that Jesus' followers had to become religious extremists and start holy wars. But neither were they saying we have to be religious cowards who shy away from spiritual responsibilities.
Today, many Christians do not dare to live out or talk about their faith in public. Under the cover of common sense, many of us minimize our witness for Christ. Are you afraid, or are you a bold Christian who will not flinch under the pressures of secularism and political correctness?
Lord Jesus, give us the strength and wisdom to live out our faith today and defend it if challenged. Help us to spread the message of spiritual freedom in your name. Amen.
About the author — Paul M'pindi
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