Now turn to Acts 5.17 to see the fifth obstacle: The council had now fulfilled their threats, and put the apostles in prison. God does not always use supernatural means to protect us, but He did in this case. “The angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life” (verse 19).
Now in the next chapter, we shall consider the sixth obstacle of murmuring. Whenever a work of God increases there are bound to be murmurers in every congregation. But the apostles recognized that their first commitment was to the ministry of the Word and prayer; and under no circumstances must they leave that, in order to serve tables. Let us proceed to the seventh obstacle and consider the barrier of being falsely accused (Acts 7.54,55).
This man of God, Stephen, was full of the Holy Ghost. He allowed them to do what they wanted. He ignored their falls charges. He gave no word of retaliation. He forgave praying: “Lord lay not this sin to their charge.” Shall we go further into chapter 8, verse 14 for the eighth obstacle? There is a definitely the barrier of nationality arising here. In a very subtle way the devil would create a big barrier of a communal nature. Be careful of distinction. Don’t yield to the pride of nationality. We have worked on the principle of giving God’s message in English with as many interpreters as are necessary, with the view to maintaining this oneness of living together and serving together.
Today’s calendar’s Bible verse:
“If ye seek him, he will be found of you.” 2 Chron. 15:2.
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