Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.
Acts 4:29-31 NKJV
What a great story! Peter and John have just been released from prison. They had gotten into trouble for healing a lame man and then preaching Jesus and the resurrection to the crowds that had gathered. They were released with a command not to preach in the name of Jesus anymore. Their first act was “they went to their own companions.” They reported what had happened, and the group began to pray in one accord. Three things stand out:
- They knew where the other believers would be. It might have been a house or some other building, but there was a place where the saints gathered.
- They didn’t pray for deliverance from persecution. This is truly remarkable. For most of us, our own safety and comfort is our number one concern.
- They did pray for two things that were guaranteed to get them in trouble again. They prayed for boldness to speak and power to heal. Not only did they not back down, they redoubled their efforts.
We all know the results: The building shook and they preached with power.
Here’s my thought. Today is Sunday. Most of us say we want to see the Gospel preached with power and miracles performed in the name of Jesus. If these things are not happening, there are things you can do to help. First, show up. Second don’t be critical, be helpful (One accord is a big deal). Third, pray for your preachers that they have boldness to speak the word with accuracy, simplicity and demonstration of the Spirit and power (1 Corinthians 2:1-4).
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