The Book of Acts documents the founding and rapid growth of the early Christian Church. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, the disciples boldly proclaimed Christ, performing miracles in the temple. Despite attempts by Israel’s leaders to end the movement by crucifying its leader, Christianity flourished. Thousands gathered at the temple to hear the teachings of the disciples, demonstrating that faith in the risen Christ was unstoppable. This widespread belief became a direct threat to Judaism, prompting decisive action from the Jewish leaders.
We see the beginning of the waves of persecution crashing against the Church of Christ in Acts 4. Peter and John were surely not surprised for Jesus had taught them “Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.” (Jn 15:20). Later, in his epistle Peter has passed this message to all believers as well; “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you” (1 Peter 4:12).
This ongoing conflict highlights the enduring struggle between followers of Christ and opposition from the world. Suffering for being a Christian is inevitable—those who pursue righteousness and live godly lives in Christ Jesus can expect persecution (2 Tim 3:12).
Responding to persecution: 10 principles learnt from Acts 4
- Be submissive to it (v5-12)
When Peter and John were summoned to the Sanhedrin to question, they went before them without any hesitation. There was no resistance. There was no attempt to flee or hide. They knew this was God’s plan and God was on their side. They saw this as an opportunity to preach the Gospel, and they actually did (v12). - Be filled with the Spirit (v8)
They were beyond their own strength. They didn’t have anyone to get them out of their situation. They were baptised and filled with the Holy Spirit. They completely yielded to the control of the Holy Spirit. - Be bold in your evangelism (v8-12)
Peter spoke boldly to the Sanhedrin during his defence. He declared unequivocally, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). He didn’t water down the message or try to be inclusive. He preached the exclusivity of salvation in Jesus Christ and in no one else. - Be obedient to God no matter the cost (v18-21)
Though they were threatened not to speak about Christ, they boldly opposed their threat to the leaders’ faces. They watched Jesus willingly suffer and die on the cross at the hands of this same council. And they were ready to stand up for their faith. - Be united with other believers (v23)
When they were released, they went back to their congregation. The whole congregation came together. The persecution and trials produced unity in the body. It compels believers to cling to one another. - Be thankful to God in prayer and worship (v24-28)
The entire congregation lifted their voices to God in unison. They seek God’s face before they seek His hand. They contemplate God’s character and offer worship to Him before presenting their request. - Be specific in your request to God (v29-30)
They were very specific and straight to the point, and made two requests: to speak the word boldly and to confirm their message through signs and wonders. They asked for confidence, not comfort. - Be assured of God’s Presence (v31)
Scripture assures us of God’s presence with His people. After the believers prayed, “the place where they were assembled was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit”. This tangible sign of God’s presence reminds us that He is always with us, empowering us to live boldly for Him. - Be sensitive to others’ needs (v32, v34)
All the believers were one in heart and mind. They look after each other’s needs. The shared resources reflected a deep unity among believers. The absence of poverty among them showed a commitment to ensuring every member’s needs were met. - Be generous in your giving (v34)
Believers were willing to sacrifice their own material possessions in order to ensure that everyone had enough. This selfless attitude echoes the teachings of Jesus, who emphasised the importance of caring for those in need and sharing with others.
In the early church, beginning with Stephen’s death, martyrdom became the norm for Christian persecution. Satan is the one who directs persecution against the church of Jesus Christ. As time progressed, his tactics have become more subtle. The Christian persecution is not always physical. Not always political. It is sometimes religious. It sometimes comes from illegitimate Christianity. The very first persecution didn’t come from pagans; it was directed by the Jewish leaders. In recent times, Satan has slaughtered more Christians not physically, but spiritually by leading them into sensual living (1 Tim 5:6). As a believer, you can be sure that you will be persecuted in some way for the Name of Christ. We are chosen to be sent out to be persecuted (Matthew 10:16-18).
Jesus said the reason the world persecutes us is that they hate Christians. And they hate Christians because they hate Jesus Christ. The unbelieving world hates us because Christians are different. If we are like one of them, they won’t hate us. As long as you play nice, you are everyone’s friend, but the moment you speak up, then you are on the wrong side. The world will react negatively, and you may have to undergo the toughest conflicts and suffer. This begs the question: if we never experience any kind of persecution, are we really ever representing Jesus, or are we trying to be loved by the world and trying to fit in and not make any waves with those around us?
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