By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Acts 5:41-42 "The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah." - NIV
The apostles were persecuted and expressly warned not to preach the name of Jesus. They were beaten and let go. Instead of crying, they rejoiced that they were partaking of the sufferings of their Lord. They never stopped preaching that Jesus was the Messiah, Saviour and Lord. Earlier they had boldly told them that they could not help, but speak of what they had seen and heard (Acts 4:19-21).
What made these unschooled men so bold to defy the experienced priests and teachers of the law? They had been with Jesus. The transformation by the power of the Holy Spirit was so thorough. What they had believed in was so revolutionary that nothing and no one would change it. They were totally convinced about what they believed. Neither could threats of death stop it. To date, the same gospel continues.
Until you are totally convinced of what believe, and it fills and consumes you, it won’t last. This is true for any endeavour of life. A vision and mission in life that has consumed you is powerful. Challenges will come. You will be tempted to give up on what is genuine. It is only if with your whole being you are sure, that you will continue despite the odds. And such a stand should be birthed and backed by God Who defends you all the way. His will stands forever.
Jeremiah 20:9 "But if I say, “I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot."
Shalom children of God.