June 30, 2024 - Acts 4:8-21
June 30, 2024
Acts 4:8-21
Lessons Learned
by Wayne Gaeddert
1. When Rome took control of Israel, they sold to the highest bidder the position of high priest. No longer did they follow the Old Testament rule that the high priest was to be a descendant of Aaron.
2. The Sadducees were the group that had the most political power in Jerusalem.
3. The Sadducees were the rich political leaders of the Sanhedrin.
4. The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection of the dead.
5. The ruling counsel (Sanhedrin), according to verses 5-6, were made up of rulers, elders, and scribes along with the high priest.
6. The Sadducees held the majority of the seats in the Sanhedrin.
7. The Sadducees were basically a political party that was interested in keeping the peace with Rome.
8. Sometimes the Sadducees would agree with the Pharisees because the Pharisees were more popular with the people.
9. Acts chapter 4 presents two responses to the preaching of Peter and John.
10. The first sermon of Peter caught the council by surprise and they were not ready to respond to the apostles talking about Jesus and his resurrection.
11. Peter’s sermons:
First Sermon: On Pentecost, noise like a mighty wind attracted the people, when they gathered everyone heard the gospel in their native language. Peter answered the question, “What’s going on here?”
Second Sermon: The 40-year-old lame man was leaping and praising God. As a curious crowd gathered, Peter preached to them.
Third Sermon: In his defense before the council the day after Peter and John were arrested for teaching and healing in Jesus’ name, Peter presented to gospel.
12. Salvation means to be delivered or rescued from the penalty of sin.
13. Application:
Expect opposition to the gospel.
“And you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour.” Matthew 10:18-19
“But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3:15
Your resolve to be obedient to God should outweigh your desire to be obedient to man. (Thus, you must be ready to accept the judgment of man when you choose to obey God.)