The Courage of the Disciples

One of the big facts from history that makes us have to really think about the reality of the resurrection of Jesus Christ is the disciples, immediate change in life. When Jesus was arrested, they scattered in fear of being arrested themselves. They immediately forgot the times that Jesus had told them that he must go to Jerusalem, be betrayed, and arrested. He told them that he would be mistreated by the elders, the leading priest, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed but on the third day, he would rise from the dead. (They just didn’t hear that part.) They ran, except Peter and John followed Jesus to his trials, but then on the day of the crucifixion it was only John who remained to see what was happening to Jesus. These men who ran in fear, suddenly because so bold that Peter even began to accuse those same religious leaders of crucifying Jesus. What could have taken them from running for their lives to standing boldly, facing persecution and death to preach Jesus? It wasn’t just hopeful thinking. It was the reality of seeing Jesus alive, eating with him, touching, and hearing him now teach them all that they needed to know to spread the Good News of the Kingdom of God. I am praying today that we the church, the believers/disciples now in 2022 will be anointed with that same boldness. The boldness that the disciples prayed for in Acts 4:24-31. Vs. 29 says: “And now, O Lord hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” O Lord, I ask you to do it again. Please anoint us to witness, proclaim and live out the love and grace of Jesus. Bring us revival!