Study Acts 4

• Acts 4:1-4 describes the immediate opposition Peter and John face after the healing in Acts 3 and Peter's sermon.

  • How does the response of the religious authorities (Sadducees, priests, temple guard) illustrate the growing tension of Christianity Accepted and Opposed in Jerusalem?

  • Despite the arrest, Luke notes that many believed. What does this tell us about the power of The Great Commission even in the face of persecution?

• When questioned by what power or name they acted (Acts 4:5-12), Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaims Jesus as the "stone which was rejected" but is now the "chief cornerstone."

  • How does Peter's Teaching About Jesus and the Gospel in this context directly challenge the authority of the Sanhedrin?

  • How does The Holy Spirit's Role empower Peter to speak with such boldness in the face of intimidation?

• Peter explicitly states, "there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).

  • What is the significance of this exclusive claim in the context of The Great Commission?

  • How does this statement demonstrate Prophecy Fulfillment through Jesus' identity?

• After the Sanhedrin's threats and orders to stop preaching (Acts 4:13-22), Peter and John declare, "We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard."

  • What does this unwavering resolve teach us about obedience to God versus human authority?

  • This act of defiance is a key moment in Christianity Accepted and Opposed.

• Upon their release, the believers gather and pray for continued boldness, resulting in the place being shaken and a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:23-31).

  • How does this communal prayer and renewed spiritual empowerment demonstrate God's sovereign hand in propelling The Great Commission despite direct opposition?

  • What is the connection between The Holy Spirit's Role, unified prayer, and effective witness in this passage?