A. Learning from providence. Gamaliel urged restraint on the basis of two examples of popular uprising followed by dispersal (Acts 5.5).
B. Restraining evil. On the basis of what was known of Theudas and Judas, Gamaliel gave his advice. (5.38-39). His argument is both natural and theological.
C. 'Natural enough' but not far enough. (1) Gamaliel failed to insist that what was taking place was unjust. (2) Gamaliel failed to make a stand for the truth as it is in Jesus. (Acts 5.29-32).
II. The concurrence of the council
A. They were still full of unjust hatred. We say, 'actions speak louder than words' and so it was. They did not altogether heed Gamaliel's advice to 'let them alone' but were so filled with hatred that they beat the disciples without mercy.
B. They were still against the Christ of the Gospel. 'They commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus'. This name is so precious to believers.
III. The courage of the apostles
A. They continued rejoicing. We are to rejoice in the Lord always even in sufferings. (5.41). They were not grovelling, grudging, or groaning but, trusting all to God, they rejoiced to suffer for Christ.
B. They continued witnessing. Luke reports (5.42). Every day they pursued their calling.
Conclusion: Take this page from an apostle's book (Acts 5b) and maintain a faithful witness to Christ everywhere and every day.
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Pastor Roy Mohon MA, Dip. Theol. is the minister of the Presbyterian Reformed Church at Stockton-on-Tees. The subordinate standard of the Church is the Westminster Confession of Faith. He has served as Treasurer and committee member for the Trinitarian Bible Society and has...
