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5 The next day the rulers, the elders and the teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. 6 Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and others of the high priest’s family. 7 They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?” 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! 9 If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, 10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 11 Jesus is “ ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’ 12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:5-12 NIV Bible)
Happy Wednesday, Friend! I trust all is well with you on this day. May God's favor shine upon you and make you glad! As we pray this morning, please pray for Mr. Bill Meadows, who is undergoing surgery in Gonzales. Bill is a dear man, the pianist at our church, and a gifted singer and friend to all. May Bill's surgery bring him healing and joy. Prayers for his lovely wife, Cheryl and family, and for all who are praying for him. Pray for one another; pray for the Lord to watch over the world. Also, prayers for Mr. Paul Trejo, a 35 yo church musician, who suffered a heart attack recently. He survived, so please hold him in prayer that the Lord watch over him.
The ancient world knew the power of a name, for there are names that can open doors; names that can close doors, even prison doors. And they also knew about power. But what they didn't know was the power of the name of Jesus and what He could do! The Jewish leaders angered that awesome things were being done in Jesus' name and that even unexplained miracles like a lame being able to walk, and leap, and praise God! (The Jews had not had any similar incident). "By what power or name did you do this?"
The religious leaders were perplexed and demanded an explanation for this miraculous act. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaimed the source of their power: the name of Jesus Christ.
Despite facing intimidation and threats, Peter didn't hesitate to attribute the healing to Jesus. He recognized that salvation comes through no other name but Jesus Christ. This passage reminds us of the authority and power that is vested in the name of Jesus.
Today, we live in a world where many voices compete for our attention and allegiance. We encounter various challenges and obstacles that seem insurmountable. In times of trouble, we might seek solutions in our own strength or in the wisdom of others. However, the message of Acts 4:5-12 calls us to remember the supremacy of Jesus' name.
Like Peter and John, we are called to boldly declare the name of Jesus in every situation. Whether we are facing sickness, financial struggles, relationship difficulties, or spiritual battles, we can find strength and victory in the name of Jesus. His name is not just a word; it carries the authority to transform lives, heal the sick, and break chains of bondage.
As believers, let us cultivate a deep reverence for the name of Jesus. Let us pray with confidence, knowing that when we invoke His name, we tap into the power of the Almighty. May we never underestimate the significance of proclaiming Jesus as our Lord and Savior, for it is through Him alone that we find true salvation and redemption.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, whose name is above every other name. Help us, Lord, to always recognize the authority and power vested in His name. Strengthen us to boldly proclaim Jesus in every circumstance of our lives. May Your Holy Spirit empower us to walk in faith and obedience, trusting in the saving grace of Jesus. In His mighty name, we pray. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Are there areas where you have been relying on your own strength rather than trusting in His power? Commit to praying fervently, invoking the name of Jesus in every situation you face.
I love you and thank God for you,
Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.
