What led these Christians in Acts 4 to press on through hostility and not take a step backwards and cool it? The content of their prayer provides the answer. They had a proper biblical expectation in that if the world took a raging disposition against the Messiah, it would not be a surprise if they did the same thing towards the Messiah’s followers. They also had a proper biblical foundation in that God is the one who has ordained all things, therefore he has the highest authority and therefore he must be served above all. So when Christ’s followers are busy going about God’s will, any hostility towards that path of life is ultimately hostility towards God himself. That means being bold when God grants open doors is the safest existence we can have, for to operate based upon fear or retaliation is to also become opposed to God. This is why Peter writes in 1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. 14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you…19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.
Powerful Principles for Boldness
