And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? Acts 4:7
Try to picture the scene in a large room in or near the temple in Jerusalem. The Sanhedrin, some 70 men comprising the ruling council of Jewry, is seated in a semicircle, with the high priest in the centre. Guards usher in two prisoners to stand before this august body of scholars, priests, and scribes. And the interrogation begins. What the Jewish leaders intended as intimidation, the two disciples seized as opportunity.
Remember that the book of Acts provides all Christians with patterns and examples. Today’s text is the first real opposition and challenge to the preaching of the Gospel in the life of Christianity. The next few verses are Peter’s brief but powerful response to the Sanhedrin’s question, including one of the greatest Gospel texts in our entire Bible. What Peter did serves as an example to us: when challenged as to our faith and our Gospel efforts, the best approach may well be a clear presentation of the Gospel.
Paraphrasing the Sanhedrin’s question, they wanted to know who had authorized the healing of the gate Beautiful beggar. It was by no power less than the Holy Spirit of God. It was in the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth (Acts 3:6). It is the same Holy Spirit Who provides the power for the Gospel to be preached today. It is the same Jesus Christ of Nazareth Who sinners must come to today for God’s salvation.
Today, we can have have no greater power to support our testimony, and no greater name to proclaim for salvation than the apostles did. -Jim MacIntosh
Here is the link to the video of this message: https://youtu.be/Uxp1qct0Gs0