Persecution and the Mission
The honeymoon is over. The period of harmony, where the church enjoyed the favour of all the people (2:47) comes screeching to a halt as Peter and John are hauled before the Sanhedrin (Jewish religious council). They are questioned and threatened, commanded not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. What do we do if this kind of pressure or persecution comes on us? If it becomes illegal to meet, if we lose religious freedom? Acts 4 shows us that for the church on mission, when persecution comes it is ‘business as usual.’ The Apostles remain committed to witnessing to Jesus. Persecution is no surprise, for Jesus warned them it was coming (Lk 21:12-19). And as ever, the church is equipped and empowered to carry out God’s mission. They trust the Lord of the Last Days, Jesus, and his given Holy Spirit. When persecution comes our way, we ask that God will powerfully enable us to follow the Apostles’ footsteps.
