In Acts 5, the apostles faced significant opposition yet continued to preach boldly. Despite a hostile environment, people were drawn to the gospel’s transformative power. The text states, “None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem. And more than ever, believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women.”
This passage presents a paradox: while fear of persecution existed, there was also a deep respect for the early church. When we present the gospel authentically and live out its truth, it becomes credible and attractive—even in a place that seems indifferent or hostile.
As we engage in this mission to plant churches worldwide in hostile cultural environments, there’s a constant temptation to soften our message and tell people what they want to hear. The apostles in Acts 5, however, took the opposite approach. When imprisoned for preaching, they received a divine mandate to “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life” (Acts 5:20). Their conviction to speak the truth amid adversity serves as a powerful reminder for us today.
Today, we also face societal pressures that can stifle our voices. Just as the authorities in Acts tried to silence the apostles, modern culture often attempts to limit the proclamation of the gospel through social pressures, laws, and the threat of ostracism. Yet, like Peter, we must respond with conviction: “We must obey God rather than men.”
If our mission is truly of God, we cannot fail. Our role is to remain faithful to our mission and convicted of its necessity, trusting God with the results.
