“Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men” (Ac 5:29).
We all experience peer pressure, regardless of our age. Overcoming this pressure from those we love and are emotionally close to is commendable indeed.
However, sometimes it’s “power pressure” that we face–that is, pressure from some misguided authority figures. Although good Christians are typically compliant, there are times you’ll have to make a stand for God and right and defy illegitimate authority.
In our text, it’s the high priest who orders the apostles not to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ: “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!” (Acts 5:28). The apostles’ boldness in resisting this power pressure is quite instructive. Their clarity of thought and certainty of conviction are quite inspiring. Their unambiguous loyalty and unalloyed faith in Christ are quite exemplary. Let us do likewise in our generation.
Pastor Josh