This past week, we looked at two people who HELD BACK (nosphizomai). This week we will look at people who HOLD NOTHING BACK.
READ THIS:
ACTS 5:17-29
ENGAGE WITH THESE QUESTIONS:
Pay special attention in verses 17–21 (arrest, angelic release)
- What do these verses tell you about the religious leaders’ motives and fears?
- How does the angelic intervention shape your understanding of God’s sovereignty in the mission?
- Why do the apostles return to the temple courts to teach after being freed? What does that say about courage, obedience, and purpose?
- In what ways does the “they entered and stood” detail show intentional testimony rather than reckless bravado?
Continuing in verses 22–29 (confrontation with the council)
- What arguments do the council and the captain make when they bring the apostles before the council?
- How do the apostles characterize their obedience in verse 29? What is the theological and ethical claim behind “We must obey God rather than men”?
- Where do you see tension between civic/religious authority and divine command in these verses? How should believers discern obedience in similar tensions today?
We will continue in this week’s message in verses 30-42.
PRAY THIS:
Lord, help me to be as bold as Peter and the Apostles.
While I might not face the same scrutiny for my faith now as they did then, may my confidence in You be as firm as they held. May we all rejoice as those who are counted worthy to suffer dishonor for your name.
By Dan Bender