Context: Peter and the other apostles have been charged by the Sanhedrin (religious leaders who had the power to press criminal charges) to stop preaching in the name of Jesus.  The apostles reply, “We must obey God rather than men!”  A Pharisee named Gamaliel convinces the Sanhedrin to flog and release them, “for if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail.  But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”

Acts 5:41 – “The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.”

Observations:

• Rejoicing BECAUSE they had been counted worthy of suffering
• Suffering disgrace for the Name
• The story continues: “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 Christ.”

Application:  I must be ready to stand up for the Name of Jesus at all times.  When I present the gospel in the midst of adversity – I want to see it as a joy.

Prayer: Lord, give me the mindset of the apostles as I seek to boldly make Your name known in the face of suffering.