Unstoppable Faith
The apostles were brought in and made to appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.”
Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings! The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead—whom you killed by hanging him on a cross. God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins. We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” Acts 5:27-32
Insight
Unstoppable faith doesn't back down in the face of opposition, but instead stands firm, rooted in the truth of who God is and what He promises.
In Acts 5:12-42, we find a story of unwavering faith in action. The apostles were preaching the gospel fearlessly, despite facing intense opposition from the religious leaders of their time. They were healing the sick and performing miracles, drawing crowds of people to witness the power of God at work.
But as the religious leaders became increasingly threatened by the apostles' boldness and the growing number of believers, they arrested them and put them on trial. They were ordered to stop preaching in the name of Jesus, but Peter and the other apostles refused to obey.
Instead of cowering in fear or giving in to pressure, they boldly declared, "We must obey God rather than men!" (Acts 5:29, ESV). Their faith was unshakeable because it was grounded in obedience to God rather than the approval of men.
Even when faced with the threat of death, they remained steadfast in their commitment to follow Jesus. They understood that the power of God was greater than any earthly authority, and they were willing to endure suffering for the sake of the gospel.
Their example challenges us to examine our own faith. Are we willing to stand firm in the face of opposition, even when it's uncomfortable or risky? Are we more concerned with pleasing God or seeking the approval of others?
Unstoppable faith requires courage – the courage to trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem bleak. It means surrendering our desires and ambitions to follow wherever He leads, regardless of the cost - embracing the joy that comes from knowing we are walking in obedience. It means experiencing the freedom that comes from living a life surrendered to His will, no matter what challenges or trials may come our way.
So let's take a cue from the apostles and cultivate a faith that is bold, courageous, and unwavering. Let's be willing to stand up for what we believe in, even when it's hard. And let's trust that God's power is always at work in and through us, empowering us to live lives that bring glory to God.
May we be known not for our fear or timidity, but for our fearless commitment to following Jesus, no matter where He leads us. And may our lives be a testament to the unstoppable faith that is found in knowing and serving our Savior.
Reflection
How can you cultivate a deeper sense of courage and trust in God's promises in your own life? What practical steps can you take to strengthen your faith and live with boldness and conviction, even amid challenges and trials?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the inspiring example of the apostles, who demonstrated unwavering faith and courage in the face of opposition. Help me to follow their lead, standing firm in my commitment to obey You above all else, even when it's difficult or risky. Grant me the strength and conviction to live boldly for Your kingdom, trusting in Your power to sustain me and guide me every step of the way. In Jesus' name, amen.