Second Sunday of Easter Acts 5:27-32

Context

Once Jesus ascends in Acts 1, the disciples are not immediately out on the street continuing his work. Many assumed Jesus’ mission would bring earthly power, but now they find themselves fearing the earthly authorities.

But with the coming of his Spirit in Acts 2, the disciples grow into their calling. Even though the causes for fear continued, the boldness of the church pushed them out their doors to proclaim Jesus. They continued his work, even in the face of persecution. 

What made this all the more incredible is that this persecution did not remain a mere hypothetical possibility, it was real. Starting in Acts 4, the persecution started coming, and in Acts 5, the high priest calls them in. The apostles had been performing signs…

1. Were there times growing up that fear kept you from doing what you had wanted to do or from doing what you thought was right? Were there people that seemed to be “fearless”? What do you think makes the difference? 

2. Is embarrassment something that keeps you from acting certain ways? Are you afraid of someone laughing at you? Are there parts of your Christian walk that you think may cause people to laugh at you or think less of you?

3. How can we better orient ourselves to care more of what God thinks and less of what others think about us?