By Andrew Williams
Acts 4:16-20 (NLT) “‘What should we do with these men?’ they asked each other. ‘We can’t deny that they have performed a miraculous sign, and everybody in Jerusalem knows about it. But to keep them from spreading their propaganda any further, we must warn them not to speak to anyone in Jesus’ name again.’ So they called the apostles back in and commanded them never again to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, ‘Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard.’”
Good morning fellow disciples.
The religious leaders were caught in a dilemma. They couldn’t deny the miracle performed by Peter and John, nor could they explain the power behind it. In their desperation to maintain control, they commanded the apostles to stop speaking about Jesus. However, Peter and John, filled with faith and courage, refused to comply. They boldly declared that obedience to God must come before obeying human authority. Their response shows us that when we have experienced the life-changing power of Jesus, we cannot keep it to ourselves, no matter the cost.
Peter and John’s unwavering commitment to obeying God over man is a powerful example for us today. As disciples, we may face moments where culture, society, or even individuals pressure us to compromise or silence our faith. But like Peter and John, we are empowered to redirect our focus from seeking human approval to honoring God in obedience. Their courage came from their knowledge of what they had “seen and heard”—a personal encounter with Jesus. In the same way, our testimony of Christ’s work in our lives gives us the strength to live boldly for Him.
Take time today to reflect on whether there are areas in your life where you may be choosing human approval over obedience to God. Are you hesitant to share your faith, stand up for truth, or live fully as a disciple of Christ because of fear of what others might think? Redirect your focus to God’s calling and make a commitment to obey Him above all else. This week, find one practical way to boldly share your faith or live out your testimony, trusting that God will give you the courage to honor Him.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the boldness of Peter and John, who chose to obey You despite the opposition they faced. Forgive me for the times I have sought the approval of others over obedience to You. Help me to redirect my focus to Your will and give me the courage to stand firm in my faith, no matter the cost. Fill me with the boldness of the Holy Spirit so that I cannot stop sharing what I have seen and heard of Your goodness and love. I commit to obeying You above all else. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
