“But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them to speak no longer to anyone in this [Jesus’] name.” – Acts 4:17
Wherever the Gospel of Christ is proclaimed, you can rest assured that Satan is on the offensive. The apostles Peter and John had just performed a miracle in Jesus’ name, healing a man who had been crippled since birth. The people were amazed and many believed in Jesus as a result. The religious leaders, however, were not pleased. They saw the power of the Gospel and immediately tried to stop it.
The religious leaders’ response highlights a crucial truth: Satan is always at work trying to disrupt the message of Christ. When God is at work, the enemy is never far behind, seeking to sow doubt, fear, and confusion. Every time the Gospel begins to gain ground, the opposition arises! This is a pattern we see all throughout history, and we can easily see it today too.
As believers, it’s important for us to recognize that the opposition we face isn’t just a human issue – it’s spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
But take heart! The opposition is not a sign of defeat, but a sign that the Gospel is advancing. If Satan is busily fighting against it, it means the message is powerful and threatening to his kingdom! Instead of being discouraged by the resistance, we should be encouraged that God is using us to spread His truth!
Friend, it isn’t a matter of if we face opposition… it’s a matter of when. And when the opposition comes, our response should be just as the apostles – with boldness and prayer. “Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness” (Acts 4:29). Peter and John didn’t retreat in fear; they pressed on with courage, knowing that God was with them.
Let us follow their lead and boldly proclaim the Gospel message, to all who will listen, praying for God’s strength, guidance, and protection. Amen.
Former Blackout Artist 