When we are confronted with some painful truth, we’ve basically got two ways to respond. Accept, own, and move forward to resolution or dismiss, deny and spiral downward. One reflects a repentant and honest heart which leads to joyful living, the other reflects a selfish heart as we make excuses (lies) to ourselves and others. As we avoid the truth, tell lies, etc. and seem to get away with it, we tell more and more lies, thus building up inward and outward conflict, anger, and depression.
In January 2016 I shared thoughts on Acts 2:22-24 where Peter succinctly and eloquently shares The Gospel of Jesus Christ (in what I call a pocket sermon). My key point was the reaction from the crowd as they were “Cut to the Heart“. Their hearts were convicted, and rather than deny and deflect the truth, they owned it by asking “What then shall we do?” (Acts 2:37b).
In today’s reading (Acts 5) we find another pocket sermon from Peter and the apostles after they were again confronted for preaching and teaching in the name of Jesus after they were warned not to.
“We must obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. 31 God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” (Acts 5 29b-32)
After this sermon we find a significantly contrasting response. Instead of repentance, there was rage to the point of murderous intent.
When they heard this, they were enraged and wanted to kill them. (Acts 5:33)
Just like Jennifer pointed out yesterday, these guys couldn’t stop talking about what they believed in. Jennifer talks about Crossfit, Aldi and Aquaphor because they have been put to the test; they are as trustworthy as Earthly things can be, which of course all of them will someday fade away… Sorry Jennifer!
I love what happens next with the Pharisees and the council after they were enraged. Gamaliel (a Pharisee) wisely recommends to basically put the preaching and teaching to the test. If it isn’t from God, it will fade away, but if it is, you can’t stop it. While that crew missed the message, I at least give them credit for knowing GOD IS GOD and he cannot be moved, he’s undefeated and will be for eternity!
38 So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; 39 but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” So they took his advice, (Acts 5:38-39)
The message of Jesus has been spreading for over 2,000 years and it isn’t going to stop. It is trustworthy, and whatever you or I are in denial of today, there is one thing to be sure: Our days on this Earth are numbered, there is no denying that. What happens next is up to us. In physical death it will be similar to the impacts of our decisions here on Earth: We either accept, own, and live a joyful life (eternal) or dismiss, deny and reap the ultimate eternal consequences of death and separation.
If you’re in denial today (or even if you’re not), I challenge you to take one small step and ask God to reveal himself to you. If you do this with pure intent, start thinking now about how you will respond WHEN he revels himself. Will it be acceptance or denial? There are no small miracles because he’s a big God. He’s calling you today, how will you answer?