Acts 5:27-42 - We Must Speak His Name
Pastor Daniel Hendrickson
September 1, 2024
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Main Topics Discussed
Introduction
Scripture Reference: Acts Chapter 5, starting at verse 27.
Context:
Previous events involving Ananias and Sapphira, who were struck dead for lying.
The apostles continued to perform signs and wonders, preaching Jesus Christ.
The apostles were arrested by religious leaders due to jealousy.
Arrest and Trial of the Apostles
Setting: Apostles arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin council.
Key Figures:
High Priest and 70 Jewish officials.
The apostles, including Peter and John.
Background:
The apostles were previously arrested for preaching Jesus.
An angel released them from prison, instructing them to continue preaching.
The High Priest's Accusation
Accusation:
The apostles were charged with filling Jerusalem with their teaching and attempting to bring Jesus' blood upon the religious leaders.
High Priest's Reluctance:
Refusal to use Jesus' name directly, referring to Him as "this man."
Apostles' Defense and Gospel Message
Response:
Peter and the apostles assert the necessity to obey God rather than men.
Gospel Presentation:
Jesus was raised by God, whom the council killed by hanging on a tree.
Jesus is exalted as leader and savior, offering repentance and forgiveness.
The apostles and the Holy Spirit are witnesses to these truths.
Reaction of the Council
Council's Anger:
The council was enraged and wanted to kill the apostles.
Gamaliel's Intervention:
A respected Pharisee, Gamaliel, advised caution, suggesting that if the apostles' work was of human origin, it would fail, but if from God, it could not be stopped.
Outcome and Apostles' Response
Council's Decision:
The apostles were beaten and ordered not to speak in Jesus' name.
Apostles' Reaction:
They rejoiced for being counted worthy to suffer for Jesus' name.
Continued preaching daily in the temple and from house to house.
Comprehensive Summary
The sermon emphasized the apostles' unwavering commitment to preaching Jesus despite persecution.
Highlighted the contrast between religious leaders' jealousy and the apostles' boldness.
Discussed the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection as central to the apostles' message.
Gamaliel's advice served as a pivotal moment, showcasing the potential divine origin of the apostles' mission.
The apostles' joy in suffering for Jesus was presented as a testament to their faith and dedication.
Action Items
Personal Reflection:
Examine personal commitment to Jesus as leader and savior.
Consider the cost of discipleship and willingness to suffer for Jesus' name.
Community Engagement:
Continue to share the gospel message boldly, regardless of opposition.
Follow-up Points
Encouragement to investigate the claims of the resurrection for those uncertain about their faith.
Invitation for non-believers to come to Jesus through repentance and receive forgiveness.
Conclusion
The sermon concluded with a prayer for strength and commitment to obey God rather than men, and for those not yet believers to come to faith in Jesus.
Biblical References
Acts 5:29 – “We must obey God rather than men.”
Lesson: Obedience to God takes priority over human authority.
Acts 5:30-31 – Peter preaches Jesus' death, resurrection, and role as Savior offering repentance and forgiveness.
Acts 4:19-20 – Peter and John had previously declared the same message of obeying God over man.
Deuteronomy 21:23 – Jesus bore the curse of being hung on a tree for our sins.
Hebrews 4:14– Jesus is the true High Priest offering salvation, unlike earthly religious leaders.
2 Corinthians 2:15-16– The gospel is a "fragrance" of life or death depending on the hearer's response.
These verses emphasize the apostles' unwavering commitment to preaching Christ despite opposition.
