Steadfast in faith and righteousness / Acts Bible Study Chapter 5 (WebTV #479)

Verses 1-11 highlight the importance of integrity within the Christian community. It emphasises the importance of sincerity, honesty and generosity in our dealings with God and fellow believers.   Jesus taught that those who are faithful with little will be faithful with much. But the reverse is also true, if we are not faithful with what God has given us, we cannot be trusted with more. Faithfulness and trustworthiness are important virtues for the Christian. In verses 12 to 20, we witness the extraordinary power and presence of God working through the apostles. The passage begins with the apostles performing many signs and wonders among the people. Gaining them great favour with the crowds. Despite the growing opposition from the religious leaders, the believers gathered in Solomon's Colonnade. But no one else dared to join them, even though all the people had high regard for them. Yet more and more people believed and were brought to the Lord. Many were healed simply by being in their presence. The impact of these miracles was so significant, that people brought their sick out into the streets hoping that Peter's shadow might fall on them and bring healing. Multitudes of people from neighbouring cities, also gathered in Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those tormented by unclean spirits. Astonishingly, everyone was healed. In verse 31, Peter declares to the assembled council of religious leaders, that God exalted Jesus to His right hand as Prince and Saviour, to grant repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. He emphasises that they are witnesses of these things, as is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him. Peter's message is about the exaltation of Jesus by God, the opportunity for repentance, and forgiveness of sins, and the role of the Holy Spirit in confirming these truths to believers.