In Search Of Truth, Acts 4

Acts, Chapter 4

For the first time we see this rapidly growing "movement" encounter opposition from the religious leaders. The Sadducees were a Jewish sect descended from the priestly bloodline. They had a lot of political power in Israel and controlled both the temple and the priesthood. They also considered only the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament) to be holy and did not believe in any possible resurrection for those who die.


Since their aristocratic positions gave them prominence, comfort and power, they were very motivated to maintain the social status quo and knew that the ideas Peter and John were sharing could eventually hurt the Sadducees.


Soon, Peter and John stood before some of the same religious leaders that condemned Jesus, namely Annas and Caiaphas. The Holy Spirit continues to give Peter a newly forged confidence as he quotes Psalm 118:22, telling these religious leaders that they have rejected Jesus, the foundational figure of God's people. Peter continues with a statement that stings the ears of our post-modern relativism: "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." The Bible continually affirms the controversial idea that although salvation has come FOR anyone, it doesn't come FROM just anyone.


Despite undeniable miraculous evidence, Israel's supreme court, made up of rulers, elders and religious teachers (called "The Sanhedrin"), still made an effort to ignore and even cover up the truth so that they could maintain the comfort they'd grown used to in life.


This presents an opportunity for us to examine ourselves. Take a moment and ask yourself a couple of questions:


1.Where in my life might I be ignoring truth to hold onto a little more comfort?


2. Am I willing to re-examine the Bible with an openness to learning something new or even contrary to what I believe now, or am I only willing to explore those parts of the Bible that will confirm what I already believe?


Ultimately, the Sanhedrin is stuck between a rock and a hard place regarding what to do with Peter and John and so they let both men go free.


At the close of this chapter we're reminded of the importance of being spiritually active with other believers. After meeting and praying together, this group of "Christ-followers" was blessed by God to be even more effective in their ability to serve him and share the truth with others. They also made a habit of caring for each other's needs in very practical ways.


Next week: We'll see both persecution and corruption within the new and growing church and how the Apostles "perform" under pressure.


Coffee House Question:


Have you ever changed your mind about something you thought or believed for most of your life? If so, what did you change your mind about?