For a full description of the (Y3) reading plan, see the “About” page.
- What attributes of God’s character does this passage reveal?
- How does the passage point to Jesus?
- How should the truth of this passage change me?
- How do the events of today’s reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?
Acts 4
More than once before His death, Jesus told His apostles that they would go before rulers and He would give them words and wisdom that their adversaries could not resist or contradict (see Luke 21). It was not long after His ascension that the apostles found Jesus true to His word. When Peter and John found themselves standing before the Jewish leadership and the whole high priestly family, the Spirit gave them that promised wisdom. Those rulers who sought to silence Peter and John, “had nothing to say in opposition.” (Jn. 4:14b). God’s promises are always sure and trustworthy. And that same wisdom is still available today for those who need and ask for it.
Acts 5
The contrast between those with God and those without really shines in this chapter. Both the members of the Sanhedrin and Jesus’ apostles claimed service to God. When we look at the Sanhedrin, however, with the exception of Gamaliel’s wisdom we see jealousy, rage, and the desire to destroy. Furthermore, we see the lack of justification for these traits in them. At their core was not some great injustice done against them. Rather, it was their own insecurity, unwillingness to drop their pride, and resistance to truth. Not very Godly characteristics.
In the apostles, on the other hand, who actually had a claim of unjust treatment, we see joy. They received wrath in exchange for doing something good. Yet, “They went out from the presence of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to be treated shamefully on behalf of the Name.” (Acts 5:41). In that I see the enactment of Jesus’ words. “If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” (Matt. 16:24). Yes, indeed – it’s more than obvious which group paid lip service to God and which truly served Him. I pray that my life as clearly demonstrates whom I serve.
Acts 6
When Stephen stood before the Sanhedrin, they, “looked intently at him and saw that his face was like the face of an angel.” (Acts 6:15b). Have you ever noticed that what is in people’s hearts often shows on their face? I rather imagine that the faces of those jealous, angry, murderous Sanhedrin members had an ugly, hateful look. I see similar faces on people in power quite frequently. It is impossible to have a heart filled with hate and pride and not have it show on the outside. Likewise, a heart full of the peace and joy that only comes from the Holy Spirit can’t be hidden.