Written by Mark Driskill:
Wednesday December 29, 2010
Read Acts 4:5-12
“and when they had set them in the midst they inquired, ‘by what power or by what name did you do this?’ “
When the leaders in Jerusalem asked Peter and John this question, they weren’t looking for information, but for a confession. They knew these men were followers of Jesus and wanted to shut them down. So they brought in all the family members of the high priest and asked, “Now tell us again who is responsible for this.”
In any other circumstances the persons being questioned may have caved in under the intimidation and said, “Oh please forgive us, we won’t do this again…” But as the scripture says, “Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said,…by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth…this man stands before you well.” He even goes on to say, “There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” When Peter and John were in the hour of trial the Holy Spirit gave them the power to speak boldly for Jesus. He will do the same for you in your hour of trial.
We live in a generation that is increasingly hostile to the name of Jesus. They don’t mind spirituality or even talk of faith as long as you leave Jesus a safe distance away. There are those who will place you in the center and on trial. We should not be surprised when that happens. Jesus told us we would be put on trial for his name. It may be years before we find ourselves in a courtroom for talking about Jesus, but even now you may find yourself being put on trial in your workplace or school, by those who are threatened by your faith in Jesus.
When the hour of trial is upon you the Holy Spirit will stand with you and give you the words to speak boldly in His name. He stands with you in your time of trial and fills you with power that your opponents cannot resist. In such an hour don’t panic, but pray and God will give you the victory.
Mark Driskill and his wife Mary are homeschooling community ministers in Breathitt County Kentucky. They have four children. They co pastor Emmanuel fellowship Church, serve as Camp Pastors at Bethel Mennonite Camp, and Mark Teaches at Oakdale Christian Academy.
Mark is web minister for Begotten by theWord , a ministry of Helping Hands Christian Resources.
Once a month he preaches on the local radio station through the “Lion of Judah” program. Mark also preaches in youth rallies and revivals upon request at no charge. Their vision is to see true spiritual awakening come to the mountains of Eastern Kentucky and to the nation.
Contact information:
Email: driskill@hilbillymail.com
Facebook: Mark Driskill
Address: PO Box 1159 Jackson KY.
