This Bible study will take approximately 30 minutes to complete. Each reference is a link to the passage. To access simply click to follow
Acts 5:12-42 (ESV) 12 Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon’s Portico. 13 None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem. 14 And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, 15 so that they even carried out the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. 16 The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed. 17 But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and filled with jealousy 18 they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison. 19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, 20 “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” 21 And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach. Now when the high priest came, and those who were with him, they called together the council, all the senate of the people of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. 22 But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, 23 “We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them we found no one inside.” 24 Now when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were greatly perplexed about them, wondering what this would come to. 25 And someone came and told them, “Look! The men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people.” 26 Then the captain with the officers went and brought them, but not by force, for they were afraid of being stoned by the people. 27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, 28 saying, “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.” 29 But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. 31 God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” 33 When they heard this, they were enraged and wanted to kill them. 34 But a Pharisee in the council named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in honor by all the people, stood up and gave orders to put the men outside for a little while. 35 And he said to them, “Men of Israel, take care what you are about to do with these men. 36 For before these days Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing. 37 After him Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and drew away some of the people after him. He too perished, and all who followed him were scattered. 38 So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; 39 but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” So they took his advice, 40 and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. 42 And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.
Today as we continue our study through Acts, we come to chapter 5:12-42. In these verses, we witness miraculous signs, confrontations with religious authorities, and unwavering faith in the face of persecution. Our study aims to explore these elements and draw valuable insights for applying courageous faith in our lives today.
I. Miraculous Signs and Unity (Acts 5:12-16)
The passage begins with a remarkable display of divine power through the apostles, leaving an indelible impact on the community. Acts 5:12-16 describes the unity among believers as they gather in Solomon’s Porch. Unity continues to be a dominant theme throughout the book. Great power is accessed when the Church operates together.
John MacArthur notes, “Unity among believers is a powerful testimony to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.”
Questions to Consider:
- How did the signs and wonders performed by the apostles contribute to the growth of the early Christian community?
- In what ways does unity among believers enhance the effectiveness of their witness?
Further Exploration:
Reflect on 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 and Romans 12:4-5 to deepen your understanding of the unity of the body of Christ.
II. Conflict with Authorities (Acts 5:17-33)
As the community experiences growth, conflict emerges with the religious authorities, particularly the Sadducees. You may recall that the Sadducees did not believe in resurrection (that’s why they are Sad U See?)The apostles were preaching Jesus resurrected from the grave and was seated at the right hand of the Father. Opposition was inevitable and they responded with unwavering obedience to God.
Matthew Henry observes, “It is often the lot of good men to be looked on as madmen.”
John MacArthur emphasizes, “Bold obedience to God may bring opposition from those who oppose His truth.”
Questions to Consider:
- How did the religious authorities react to the apostles’ actions and teachings?
- What principles can we glean from the apostles’ response to opposition?
Further Exploration:
Delve into Matthew 10:16-20 and 1 Peter 3:13-17 for further insights on facing opposition and persecution.
III. Bold Obedience and Persecution (Acts 5:34-42)
Gamaliel’s advice urges caution, emphasizing trust in God’s sovereignty. Despite flogging and commands to be silent, the apostles rejoice in their suffering, exemplifying joy in the midst of challenges.
John MacArthur stated, “Suffering for Christ’s sake is a mark of genuine discipleship.”
Matthew Henry remarks, “God’s promises are more powerful supports to the Christian than the visible displays of His power.”
Questions to Consider:
- How does Gamaliel’s advice reflect a principle of trust in God’s sovereignty?
- What does the apostles’ response to persecution reveal about their perspective on suffering for Christ?
Further Exploration:
Consider passages like Romans 8:18 and 2 Timothy 3:12 for additional insights on suffering and persecution.
Application:
Before concluding, let’s consider how to practically apply the lessons from Acts 5:
- What’s at Stake?
- Our witness and the growth of the Christian community are at stake if we neglect unity and obedience.
- What’s the Promise to Claim?
- The promise of God’s presence and power is assured when we stand boldly for Him, even in the face of opposition.
- What’s the Principle to Obey?
- Trusting in God’s sovereignty and responding with joy in suffering are principles to obey in our faith journey.
- What’s the Result to Expect?
- Expect transformative growth, a powerful testimony, and a deepened faith as a result of living out courageous obedience.
As we conclude today’s study, let’s be inspired by the examples of the early believers. May we, like them, embrace miraculous signs, navigate conflicts with courage, and exhibit bold obedience in the face of persecution. May our faith be a living testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel. Amen