Youths Search Lesson 180 PETER AND JOHN BEFORE THE JEWISH RULERS

MEMORY VERSE:

“But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye” (Acts 4:19).

TEXT: Acts 4:1–37

In the previous chapter, we witnessed the miraculous healing of a man who was lame from birth through the ministry of Peter and John as they went to the temple at the hour of prayer (Acts 3:1–9). This great miracle brought joy to many hearts as the early Church continued to grow in spreading the gospel (Mark 16:15–20). Yet, this same act of kindness stirred hatred and opposition among the Jewish leaders and elders. They were “grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.” Consequently, they arrested Peter and John and kept them in custody overnight (Acts 4:2–3).

Persecution against the early Church began when Satan realized that sinners were being converted and his captives were being set free. Even today, Satan and his agents still persecute believers, including youths, who dedicate themselves to the cause of Christ. “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12).

When Peter and John were brought before the council, they were strictly warned “not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus” (Acts 4:18). But their courageous response was:

“Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:19–20).

Despite the threats, they returned to their company of believers and together they prayed. Through their united prayer, revival, courage, and renewed boldness filled the Church once again.

Question 1: Cite examples of other believers in the Bible who suffered for remaining godly.

Many faithful believers in Scripture endured persecution for their godly stand. They include Joseph (Genesis 39:7–20), Mordecai (Esther 3:1–6), the three Hebrew youths (Daniel 3:1–23), and Paul the Apostle (2 Corinthians 11:23–27). Christian youths must know that trials of faith are inevitable, but the Lord is able to keep His own through every fiery trial (2 Timothy 3:12).

PERSECUTION AND THREATS BY THE PRIESTS AND COUNCIL

(Acts 4:1–17; John 15:18–21; Acts 5:40–42; 1 Peter 2:20–23; 4:12–16; 2 Timothy 3:10–15; Matthew 5:11–12; Hebrews 3:14)

The Church was still in its early stage of growth, and many were turning to Christ in repentance and baptism. Satan, seeing this progress, stirred up the priests, captains, and Sadducees to oppose the gospel. They were “grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead” (Acts 4:1–2).

Question 2: Who were the Sadducees?

The Sadducees were a religious sect that denied the resurrection of the dead (Acts 23:8). Because the apostles preached the resurrection of Jesus, they were deeply offended. These same Sadducees had earlier opposed and tried to trap Jesus with their questions (Matthew 22:23–32). Today, some unsaved youths react similarly — resisting the truth of God’s word and opposing those who live or preach it. Even family members or friends may oppose believing youths because of their faith in Christ.

Question 3: What was the aim of the persecutors of the early Church?

Their goal was clear: “But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name” (Acts 4:17).

Satan’s plan, through these leaders, was to silence the gospel and stop the spread of salvation through Christ.

Question 4:

(a) Were the apostles surprised at this threat?

(b) Did they stop preaching because of it?

(c) What should Christian youths learn from their example?

No, the apostles were not surprised. Jesus had already warned them:

“If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you…” (John 15:20–21).

After being beaten and warned again, they rejoiced “that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name” (Acts 5:41). They never stopped preaching. Christian youths today must follow their example — never retreating or regretting their faith because of opposition. Persecution should strengthen our resolve, not weaken it. The presence and power of Christ remain with His people despite trials.

PERSISTENCE OF TRULY PERSUADED CHRISTIANS

(Acts 4:18–22; 5:26–29,40–42; 8:1–4; 6:4; 14:1–3,21–22; Romans 8:33–39; Revelation 2:10–11)

Persistence means continuing in faith and duty despite difficulties. The apostles’ reply — “We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard” — shows their firm conviction.

Question 5: What should you do when faced with a choice between obeying God or man?

As children of God, we must obey His word above all else (1 Peter 1:14). Even when pressured or persecuted, we should say like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us… but if not, be it known unto thee… we will not serve thy gods” (Daniel 3:16–18). God’s grace will sustain every faithful believer.

Question 6: What rewards await Christian youths who overcome persecution?

Christ promised great heavenly rewards for those who endure persecution. “Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded” (2 Chronicles 15:7). Those who persevere will receive the crown of life.

THE PRAYER OF A FAITHFUL, SUFFERING CHURCH

(Acts 4:23–37; 2:42–47; 2 Kings 6:11–18; 19:10–19)

When Peter and John were released, they “went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them” (Acts 4:23). Despite great trials, the early believers maintained unity and fellowship. They encouraged one another, shared the word, and prayed together for strength and boldness to continue God’s work.

Question 7: Why is Christian fellowship necessary?

Christian fellowship strengthens believers through encouragement, prayer, worship, and shared love. It helps us admonish one another (Romans 15:14), comfort one another (1 Thessalonians 4:18), bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), and remain steadfast (Hebrews 10:25). True fellowship keeps the Church united and strong against persecution.

Question 8: What should believing youths do when persecuted?

The early Church responded to persecution with united prayer, not retaliation. They prayed for boldness, healing, and the continued spread of the gospel (Acts 4:29–30). From their example, we learn to:

1. Identify our challenges before God.

2. Pray through Jesus Christ.

3. Pray in unity.

4. Praise before petition.

5. Pray with the Word and in God’s will.

6. Pray with faith and expectation.

God answered their prayer — “the place was shaken… and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and spake the word of God with boldness” (Acts 4:31). Unity, revival, and love followed.

Christian youths today must remain steadfast, immovable, and committed to the work of the Lord, knowing that “your labour is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).