"Christianity Opposed" captures the resistance and challenges faced by early believers as they shared Jesus’ message. In Acts, this theme reveals the tension between the Gospel’s transformative power and the world’s rejection, whether through misunderstanding, betrayal, or outright hostility. Opposition often tested the disciples’ faith, yet it also highlighted God’s faithfulness, empowering them to persevere and expand the church despite adversity.
A Time of Preparation
Acts 1 begins with a season of preparation, as Jesus teaches His disciples and ascends to heaven (Acts 1:1–9). The disciples obediently return to Jerusalem, uniting in prayer (Acts 1:12–14). During this time, there’s no direct opposition to Christianity. The focus is on their faith and readiness for the Spirit’s arrival, setting a peaceful stage before the challenges that would come with the public spread of the Gospel.
Overcoming Past Betrayal
While Acts 1 lacks active opposition, Peter addresses a past instance of resistance—Judas’ betrayal (Acts 1:16–20). Judas, once a disciple, opposed Jesus by betraying Him, fulfilling Psalm 109:8. This act of disloyalty was a significant challenge to the early Christian movement. Yet, the believers overcame it through faith, prayerfully selecting Matthias to restore the twelve (Acts 1:24–26), showing their resilience in the face of opposition.