Act 5:34 Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;
Act 5:38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:
Act 5:39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.
Act 5:40 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
Act 5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
Act 5:42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
I like this story. The apostles had been commanded to not witness of the power of Jesus to give eternal life to those who receive him. They continued to share the good news, and they were beaten, cast into prison and an angel of God released them. Yes, angels are real. They are spiritual beings usually not seen, but when they appear to us they look like men. They are sent to help God's people. The apostles continued to speak that Jesus forgives sin and gives his life to us, a new Spirit filled life. they were not ashamed to teach that Jesus is the Savior and when they suffered because of this, they rejoiced to have suffered for the name of Jesus. They continued to witness for Jesus.
It is a time of decision. No longer can people sit on the fence. If you love Jesus , share his good news to the lost. Are you empty? Let him fill you. Lord, fill me with your spirit so that I may serve you boldly, I ask this in Jesus' name. On the other side of the fence the devil is seeking to kill and to destroy. Come and be as the apostles, sharing the good news. Receive Jesus, be filled with His Spirit and come be his witness. I pray for you to choose this way of life in the name of Jesus, amen.
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