Trust in the government is at an all-time low. The heavy-handed policies that prevented children from going to school and congregations meeting at church have turned many people off. This has led many to question when Christians are allowed to disobey willfully. Peter and John give us a great example to follow. They cannot stop speaking about Jesus.
ACTS 4:19-20
“But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
Which is More Important?
The transformation of the disciples from clueless to courageous is astounding. While they were with Jesus, they couldn’t figure anything out. Once they were filled with the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, the pieces fell into place. Now they are standing before Israel’s Religious elite and not backing down. The Sanhedrin, the congress of all religious leaders in Israel, is telling them to stop preaching the Gospel. The Apostles’ response? “You judge whether it is more important to obey you or God. While you figure it out, we will keep preaching the Gospel.”
Going to Obey God
I know what you’re thinking. We are supposed to obey our leaders. That’s true till what they tell you to do goes against what God has commissioned. Jesus told the Apostles to preach the Gospel and make disciples. Now the Chief Priest is telling them to stop. No way! They are going to obey God. Today, government leaders try to make laws and policies that prevent Christians from sharing their faith, and our response should be the same. No way!
Cannot Stop Speaking
God is looking for willing disciples wanting to be filled with the boldness of the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Gospel. You probably won’t have to defy authorities, but if it happens, you will be given the words to speak. As a Christian, you cannot stop speaking of Jesus. It needs to be something that wells up from your heart. That comes from the Holy Spirit filling you with the courage needed. If you are missing that, pray that God will equip you.