Gospel Outreach International

Have you ever wondered how the early church responded to opposition and persecution? This Bible study examines Acts 4, where Peter and John face the Sanhedrin after healing a lame man. Through their bold testimony and the church’s response, we see powerful examples of courage, conviction, and community that still speak to believers today.

for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard. Acts 4:20

• The miracle at the Gate Beautiful (which led from the Court of the Gentiles to the Court of Women) drew attention and upset the Sadducees
• The Sadducees were wealthy aristocrats who cooperated with Romans and feared any disorder that might threaten their status
• The Sanhedrin consisted of 71 members including priests, scribes, lawyers, Pharisees, and respected elders
• Despite being “unlearned” fishermen, Peter and John displayed remarkable courage before the religious authorities
• The religious leaders “took note that they had been with Jesus” - recognizing the source of their boldness
• Peter emphasized the “unanswerable fact” of the healing miracle as evidence of God’s power
• The apostles demonstrated “utter loyalty to God” over human authority
• After their release, the believers prayed together with one accord for courage
• The early church practiced radical sharing - selling possessions to ensure no one was in need

And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them, Acts 4:24

This study provides powerful insights into how Jesus transformed ordinary people into extraordinary witnesses. The apostles’ bold stand before the authorities came not from their education or qualifications, but from their time spent with Jesus. When faced with opposition, they responded with prayer and deeper community. Rather than focusing on self-preservation, they prioritized caring for one another’s needs through radical generosity. Jesus’ influence created a counter-cultural community marked by courage, conviction, and compassion - qualities that remain hallmarks of authentic Christian community today.

Bible References

• Acts 4:1-37
• Acts 4:24-26