Life of Peter: Confronting the Jewish Leadership L09

David Williams
07/02/25 - Wed Bible Study

Review of the Life of Peter: Acts Chapters 3-5

• Background and Context
  The group is in lesson nine of a study on Peter, focusing on Acts chapters 3-5. Peter continues to play a leading role among the apostles, particularly in public preaching and miracles.
• Miracle at the Temple Gate (Acts 3)
  Peter and John heal a man lame from birth at the temple gate, a well-known figure to the community. The miracle is performed publicly for maximum impact, drawing a large crowd. Peter uses the opportunity to preach, emphasizing Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and highlighting the people’s responsibility in Jesus’ crucifixion. The message is similar to Peter’s earlier sermon but places more emphasis on repentance and fulfillment of prophecy.
• First Persecution and Response (Acts 4)
  The healing and subsequent preaching attract the attention of the Sadducees and temple authorities, who are disturbed by the apostles’ proclamation of the resurrection. Peter and John are arrested and questioned about their authority. Peter responds boldly, attributing the miracle to Jesus and challenging the council with their role in Jesus’ death. The council is unable to refute the miracle and, fearing public backlash, releases the apostles with a warning not to preach further. The apostles pray for boldness and continue their ministry undeterred.
• Intensification of Opposition (Acts 5)
  As the church grows, the Sadducees become increasingly jealous and arrest the apostles again, this time placing them in a public jail. An angel frees them, and they return to preaching. The council, now more openly hostile, accuses them of disobedience. Peter insists on obeying God rather than men, and the council is enraged, considering execution. Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee, advises caution, suggesting that if the movement is not from God, it will fail on its own. The apostles are beaten and released, rejoicing in their suffering and continuing to preach.