Monday 7 July 2025
"It is obvious to all who live in Jerusalem that a notable sign has been done through them; we cannot deny it." (v. 16)
Background
The religious authorities were angered by the apostles preaching about Jesus’ resurrection. This was particularly true of one group of priests, the Sadducees, who did not believe in life after death, let alone resurrection. Peter and John were arrested and, after a night in prison designed to intimidate them, were brought for questioning before the Sanhedrin (Jewish Council).
Acts 4:5-6 says they were brought before elders, scribes and the high priest. Annas was the high priest who had brought Jesus before Pontius Pilate and Caiaphas was his son-in-law and John (or Jonathan) and Alexander his sons. Some think Jonathan may have been the Captain of the Temple Guard.
When asked by what authority he preaches, Peter shows no fear whatsoever. He says his preaching is authorised by Jesus, the man they had crucified and who was and is the agent of God’s salvation. In ancient times it was believed that power rested in a name and so, by saying he acted in Jesus’ name, Peter is saying he was empowered by Jesus.
Galileans had the kind of accent that the more sophisticated found laughable, not least because they sometimes dropped syllables. And yet Peter, who is just a humble fisherman with no schooling, addresses the religious elite with a confidence and assurance they find disconcerting. Just before today's reading, in verse 11, Peter talks about Jesus being the stone rejected by them. This refers to Psalm 118:22 which says the rejected stone has become the chief cornerstone. The Psalm says we should not be afraid to speak out, even if surrounded by enemies.
The Sanhedrin know it is widely believed in Jerusalem that Peter must have God’s approval because many had seen him heal a lame beggar at the Beautiful Gate, one of the main entrances to the Temple. The Jewish leaders cannot deny the healing took place because the former lame man is present at the trial, but this does not make them reassess their thinking. They decide they dare not condemn Peter to punishment and instead demand his future silence, threatening future action against him and other followers of Jesus if he refuses.
To Ponder:
- Why do you think the religious leaders cannot accept Jesus’ authority when they cannot deny the healing has taken place? What does it take for us to believe something?
- Luke is clear that Peter’s ability to speak powerfully is the work of the Holy Spirit. Do you feel that the Holy Spirit could have an equal impact on you and lead you to say or do things beyond what you can do on your own?
Prayer
Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your Holy Spirit which gave birth to the Church and which has inspired, guided and empowered Christians through all the succeeding centuries. Thank you that the Holy Spirit is still at work today changing lives. Tell me what I should be doing and pour out your Holy Spirit on me so I can fulfil what you want of me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Bible notes author: Gary Best
Gary was headmaster of Kingswood School from 1987 to 2008 and volunteer warden of the New Room in Bristol from 2009 to 2019. He has published over 20 books, including The Christian Alphabet, a study book for home groups.