The Lighthouse Devotional
Author: Estherline O’Neal
SCRIPTURE PASSAGE
“But Peter and John replied, ‘Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard’” (Acts 4:19–20 NIV).
PERSONAL REFLECTION
Amidst verbal threats and the possibility of further imprisonment, Peter and John demonstrate boldness and courage. They had a personal encounter with Jesus as eyewitnesses of his earthly ministry, death, and resurrection. As a result, they unapologetically declare their intention to speak truthfully about what they had seen and heard. Indeed, a personal encounter with Jesus is necessary if we, too, are to navigate life’s challenges successfully.
SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
Acts 3 records Peter and John’s healing of a lame beggar in the precincts of the Jewish temple (3:1–10; cf. 4:22). Peter informs the amazed onlookers that they did not heal the man by their power but that his healing came through faith in the name of resurrected Jesus (3:11–16).
The religious authorities, who had previously arrested and crucified Jesus, are disturbed by Peter and John’s teaching about Jesus’s resurrection, and they have the two disciples put in jail (4:1–3). Subsequently, they ask Peter and John to explain by what power they healed the beggar (4:7), and the two eagerly clarify that the sick man was restored to health by the power and authority of Jesus Christ, whom they, the religious leaders, had rejected (4:8–12).
After conferring among themselves, the Council of leaders commands the disciples not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus (4:17–18). However, Peter and John affirm that they cannot help speaking about what they have seen or heard (4:20). Their declaration reminds us that the Holy Spirit is available to us also to be effective witnesses of Christ.
EXHORTATION
The Holy Spirit enables us to face severe opposition. Jesus promises his disciples, “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you” (1:8; cf. John 14:16–17; 16:5–15). Therefore, let us not hide from those who oppose Christ (cf. Matt 26:31, 56). Instead, let us allow God’s Spirit to control our lives in the face of adversity.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank You for sending us Your Spirit, who empowers us with boldness, confidence, assurance, and courage to face life’s challenges. As Peter and the disciples prayed in the face of human threats (Acts 4:24–30), we also ask You for boldness to speak Your word. Let Your will be done in our lives today, Amen.