Transformed to speak

Transformed to speak

Acts 5:29-32 NKJV

But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: "We ought to obey God rather than men. [30] The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. [31] Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Saviour, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. [32] And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him."

Is this the same Peter who, a few weeks ago, had denied that he even knew Jesus 3 times?

Now he's standing before the same court that Jesus faced before His Crucifixion, boldly accusing the Sanhedrin of murdering their Messiah!

Somehow, wonderfully, Peter had been transformed - he had received the power Jesus had promised - the power of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 1:8 NKJV

"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

Not only had Peter received power but his words were God words, simplifying the message of Salvation through Jesus into a few verses.

No wonder the leaders were furious, because their consciences were pricked. Yes, these leaders were rightly accused.

Those who bravely stand up to evil leaders are justified in defying their authority.

Yes, as Peter stated: "We ought to obey God rather than men."

Many of our current laws fly in the face of Biblical Commandments - it is a believer's duty, therefore, to stand up for God's Word even if it means punishment and imprisonment.

Pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to raise up men and women of God to stand boldy and bravely against malign leaders and unfair laws.

May a banner for God's Truth be raised again in the land.

May the Gospel of Jesus be preached simply and in great power to set the people free.

Amen