January 24, 2008 - Acts 4:7

“They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: ‘By what power or what name did you do this?’” Acts 4:7.
The religious authorities – the Pharisees and the Sadducees – assembled, in a similar fashion as they had done for Jesus’ trial, to get answers from Peter and John for the healing that had just occurred and for the “disturbance” that resulted. This was an intimidating assembly for such “normal” people such as Peter and John. After all, they were just lowly fisherman from the obscure region of Galilee. They would for certain just crumble under the pressure of this gathering.
Remember, Peter and John had already stood in front of large crowds, proclaiming the power and love of God expressed most clearly in His Son, Jesus, so sheer numbers were not going to shake these men. But how would they do standing in front of such a powerful assembly? It would be similar to any one of us standing in front of the fully assembled Congress of the United States, with the members of the Supreme Court in attendance, as well! I must admit that I would be very nervous going before such an assembly! And to defend oneself in front of them! My knees would be very weak! How about you?
Peter and John were asked, “By what power or what name did you do this?” If it were me in front of such a group, I might have immediately realized that they were trying to trap me; catch me to incriminate me, and treat me as they had my Master. I would have been tempted to not be straight forward with my answer, attempting to disguise the truth. Not out right lying, per say; just not being so clear, and thus, saving my own skin! Peter and John did not take that route. They clearly and unequivocally proclaimed that this healing was accomplished and done in the name of Jesus, whom they had crucified but God had raised from the dead. They boldly stood with their Master. (By the way, it is my hope that I would do the same!)
Questions to consider: What intimidates you? How do you feel about “standing up for Jesus” when it counts? Have you ever experienced having to make a stand for the Master in front of a group? What are you tempted to do when confronted with those things that intimidate you?
Prayer: Father, give me vision to see those things that intimidate me and tempt me to shy away from standing firm for You. Please give me the courage to stand firm for You when it counts. Amen.