But the high
priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the
Sadducees), and they were filled with jealousy, and laid hands on the apostles,
and put them in public custody. But an angel of the Lord opened the prison
doors by night, and brought them out, and said, ‘Go stand and speak in the
temple to the people all the words of this life.’ (Acts 5:17-20)
After Pentecost, many
signs and wonders were done by the apostles among the people and many thousands
were added to the early Church. People carried out the sick into the streets,
and laid them on cots and mattresses, so that as Peter came by, at least his
shadow might overshadow some of them. Great multitudes also came together from
the cities around Jerusalem, bringing sick people, and those who were tormented
by unclean spirits: and they were all healed. The rulers were unable to control
the works of the Apostles, so they put them in prison. But an angel of the Lord
opened the prison doors by night, and brought them out, and said, "Go,
stand and speak in the temple to the people........"
Despite oppositions,
the work of the kingdom of God has progressed miraculously from Pentecost until
today. Many have become martyrs for the Lord; others have labored and entered
in to glory after their work and time on earth were over.
The baton has been
passed on to our generation by them who have preceded us. Despite sufferings,
persecutions and hindrances, the Word of God has gone to many corners of the
world. The Holy Spirit of God is guiding believers to the work that still needs
to be done. God is using his chosen vessels and large numbers are being added
to God's family each day.
A pertinent question
that we should ask ourselves is this.....Are we fulfilling our calling?
At the end of our
earthly journey, will we be able to hear the sweet voice of our Lord Jesus
Christ say..... 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over
a few things; I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of your
lord.' (Matthew 25:23)
Blessed are they who
know even now, that they will surely hear this from their wonderful Savior.http://www.johnsoncherian.com
