Therefore, the apostles leave the Council rejoicing after being flogged and threatened?? This is certainly shocking. We would think the text would read: They left dejected or discouraged or they left fearful; or they left doubting their calling and questioning the plan and commissioning of Christ. Instead, they left in a joyful state. What would possibly lead them to this disposition? Maybe they are just some weird people who like pain? No, thankfully Luke tells us—They considered themselves honored to be dishonored and respected to be disrespected by being shamed for the Name.
Again, we would think the text would read entirely different—They considered themselves cursed because they suffered or considered themselves abandoned and forsaken to suffer shame or considered themselves gipped or ripped off that they suffered for doing what Christ had said. None of us would naturally label one as worthy or honored due to one’s suffering! Think about who we normally deem worthy of respect or honor—we’ve already seen one example in v.34 in that Gamaliel was respected among the people. Why? Because he had a lofty position and had many pupils, whom he passed his great wisdom to. Also, kings and rulers are worthy because of their power or wealth; someone who excels in their field, whether it’s academics or sports or the arts is esteemed or honored. Lastly, someone who protects his or her honor by getting revenge is honored in our culture. Why would these men, after suffering harsh treatment, consider themselves honored? Simply because it clearly demonstrated their association with Christ because they were suffering for the Name.