20/06/2026
The apostles had just been beaten, threatened, and ordered to stop preaching about Jesus. Honestly, they had every reason to be discouraged, fearful, or silent given the kinds of cruelty that could be unleashed on them. Yet for reason of their faith in Christ, they left rejoicing.
They were not rejoicing because suffering itself was pleasant (for they felt the pain), but because they had been counted worthy to suffer for the name of Jesus. They understood that following Christ was not merely about receiving blessings; it was also about sharing in His sufferings.
The threats and opposition did not stop their mission. Verse 42 says that "day after day" they continued teaching and proclaiming the gospel. Their commitment to Christ was not occasional but consistent. They preached publicly in the temple courts and privately from house to house. The enemies threats could not silence them because they were convinced that Jesus Christ was worth proclaiming.
Most of us around the world may not face the same form of persecution today, but we often encounter criticism, rejection, or pressure to remain silent about our faith. I hope this reminds us that our calling to be disciples of Christ is not to seek comfort above all else but to remain faithful to Christ, even through the deadliest storms of life. When difficulties arise because of our commitment to Him, there is the temptation to waver or temporarily yield to the devils demands, but it helps to know Satan and his agents have nothing good in store for us. Let's remember the sacrifices and life of Christ, and focus on the formidable promises of Christ and our God almighty; the promise of eternal life and the assurance of never forsaking us!!!
