Overcoming Fear of Others' Opinions
Acts 4:13-20
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. 14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it. 15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. 17 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. 18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Peter and John’s unwavering faith in Christ, even in the face of opposition, is a powerful reminder of Mary’s unshakable devotion to Jesus, despite the criticism of others. Take a moment to reflect on times when you’ve hesitated to share your faith out of fear of judgment.
Prayer:
Pray for the courage to worship and serve God authentically, even when it might invite disapproval from others. Remember, our audience is an audience of One.
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. 14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it. 15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. 17 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. 18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Peter and John’s unwavering faith in Christ, even in the face of opposition, is a powerful reminder of Mary’s unshakable devotion to Jesus, despite the criticism of others. Take a moment to reflect on times when you’ve hesitated to share your faith out of fear of judgment.
Prayer:
Pray for the courage to worship and serve God authentically, even when it might invite disapproval from others. Remember, our audience is an audience of One.
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