Rojoice in Suffering

Scripture:

Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. (Acts 5:41)

Observation:

Peter and the Apostles were arrested for proclaiming Jesus as the Christ. They were opposed by the high priest, who didn't believe Jesus was the Messiah. The Bible says: But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him, and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison(Acts 5:17-18). You would think that they would stop preaching about Jesus after being arrested. But after being freed from prison by an angel, they were commanded to continue teaching.

Application:

To truly proclaim the name of Jesus will get you into trouble! To evangelize the lost comes with a high price! Most people are not going to like you. Especially in our day, when it is close-minded to even suggest that there is only one way to Heaven. But the apostles give us a good example that we should rejoice when we suffer for the name of Jesus! There is no greater an honor than to suffer for the name of Christ! Right now at Christmas time, people get all crazy if you don't say things like "X-mas", or "Holiday Tree". They want you to be politically correct, and not offend anybody! Jesus is being pushed out of Christmas, just like everything else!

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for sending your Son Jesus Christ! Thank you for my salvation! Thank you for your grace and mercy! Help me to be bold to proclaim the name of Jesus Christ! In Jesus name, Amen!