In Acts 5 the apostles were dragged before the big wigs and told to shut up about Jesus, or else… This wasn’t the first time either! Back in Acts 4:20 after they were warned to shut up about Jesus they said: “we can’t help but speak of what we’ve seen and heard in Christ Jesus.”
On this occasion, they end up getting released again – not before they are flogged. Check out their reaction:
The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
I learnt about a fella last week in church history that responded in a similar way to his own martyrdom. Ignatious of Antioch was mates with John and Peter and the Bishop of Antioch. The Romans wanted to make an example of him so fed him to the lions in AD110. Rather than being cranky pants – he made the most of his trip to Rome teaching people about Jesus – and looked forward to his martyrdom!
How do you respond in suffering?
I think sometimes Christians suffer because they are arrogant jerks – I pray that I wouldn’t be an arrogant jerk – but that I would rejoice if I’m considered “worthy to suffer disgrace for His name” and that I won’t stop proclaiming Christ crucified.
that’s all 1 Peter 2’s on about isn’t it – the whole thing about if you’re going to cop it as a Christian, make sure it’s for being a Christian, not for being a dill.
too often Christians get bad press for being dills.
“get done for being a disciple, not as a dill”
that’s my word of wisdom for the week.
good word of wisdom doug.
i remember that standing out when reading 1 peter2 as a younger guy.