It is a strange thing when worthwhile improvements are opposed and rejected; but it happens, even here in our own country!
Find out which side you would have been on, and see if you are guilty of opposing improvements!
Wonderful things were happening in Jerusalem. “As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by.
“Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed.” (verses 15-20.)
But, “the High Priest and all his companions … became extremely jealous … They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail.” (verses 17-18.)
They were angry because the apostles were teaching that forgiveness of sins and acceptance with God was only to be had by faith in Jesus Christ. (Acts 4:12. 10:42-43. Romans 3:21-26.)
This true faith in Jesus Christ as Priest and Saviour still brings about miracles today! True faith in Jesus Christ turns people from wickedness and sin, and makes them pleasing to God, and loving towards their fellowman. (2ndCorinthians 5:17. Ephesians 4:32.) Anyone can have this “new life” - now, by believing in Jesus as their Saviour. (Acts 3:26. 26:18.)
But that new life will be opposed - opposed by religious people who will want you to believe it is their religion you need instead of a simple faith in Jesus Christ. (Acts 16:16-22. 19:23-28.)
“But”, the apostles who had been put in the public jail had a visitor; “during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. ‘Go, stand in the temple courts,’ he said, ‘and tell the people all about this new life.’” The apostles obeyed. (verses 19-21.)
You see, it was more important for the people to hear the message about the “new Life” from Jesus, than for them to see more miracles!
The apostles were soon re-arrested, and the High Priest questioned them. “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this Name!”
They answered, "We must obey God, rather than men … God raised Jesus from the dead … to His own right hand as Prince and Saviour that He might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. We are witnesses of these things - and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him.” (verses 27-32.)
Which side would you have been on? Which side are you on TODAY? Be careful not to be a religious opponent of the good that God wants to do through His Son Jesus Christ.
To have “new life” - now you must believe that Jesus Christ is the only one who can give it to you. (Ephesians 2:1-10. Acts 13:38-41.) Trust HIM as your Saviour NOW!
Read about the opponents of good and truth in Acts chapter 5, verses 15-32.
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