How should we respond?

I. A COMPASSIONATE WITNESS

Why the arrest?

Acts 4:2 - Because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

Acts 3:6 - I do not possess silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene — walk!

Acts 3:7 - And seizing him by the right hand, he raised him up; and immediately his feet and his ankles were strengthened.

The disciples' primary focus was on people.

The religious leaders' primary focus was arguing over theology.

Truth: Jesus did not die for the Gospel; Jesus died for people.

Jesus didn't die for the Gospel, but His death for sinners is the Gospel.

Romans 3:23 - All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.

II. A CONVICTED WITNESS

Three Groups were upset:

1. The Priests - Their position was threatened

2. The Captain of the guard - His job was threatened

3. The Sadducees - Their beliefs were threatened

Acts 4:2 They were greatly disturbed because they were proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

How did they Respond? Vs.8-10

Acts 4:8-10 - People. If we are on trial today for a benefit done to a sick man, as to how this man has been made well, let it be known to all of you, and to all of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by this name this man stands before you today in good health!

III. A CONTROLLED WITNESS

Acts 4:19-20 - Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.

Acts 4:21 - When they had threatened them further, they let them go (finding no basis on which to punish them).

Ephesians 4:26 - Be angry and do not sin.

IV. A COURAGEOUS WITNESS (James)

Peter Was Asked A Question – Acts 4:8 - By what power and by what name...

Two Choices of How Peter Could Respond

1. God-Talk

2. Christ-Talk