The Courage of the Called

Scripture Focus: Acts 4:13–21

 A Fire That Cannot Be Quenched

In a time when speaking the name of Jesus could cost you everything, two fishermen-turned-preachers stood before powerful rulers, unflinching. They had no theological degrees. No political connections. Yet their words carried a weight that silenced even the most elite council of their day. Why? Because they had been with Jesus.

A Scene of Bold Defiance

The Sanhedrin, the religious elite, had a problem. Peter and John had healed a lame man, and the whole city was buzzing. But worse for the council, the miracle had been performed in the name of Jesus—the very man they tried to erase through crucifixion.

Dragged before the council, Peter and John were expected to cower. But instead, Peter spoke boldly, declaring Jesus as the cornerstone rejected by men but chosen by God (Acts 4:11). The council was stunned—not just by what was said, but who was saying it.

“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13)

The Unlikely Vessel

Peter had once denied Jesus in fear. But this was a different man—a man ignited by the Holy Spirit and convinced of a mission. His story reminds us that calling doesn’t come from credentials, but from communion with Christ.

Just like Peter, you may feel underqualified or overlooked. But when God calls, He equips. Your courage isn’t born from perfection but from presence—His presence in your life.

Choosing God's Voice Over Man’s Threats

When the council commanded them to stop speaking in Jesus’ name, Peter and John answered with words that still echo through history:

“Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to Him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:19–20)

This wasn’t rebellion—it was obedience. They knew the risk. But they also knew the cost of silence.

 Kwame’s Stand

Kwame was a university student in Ghana, known for his quiet demeanor. But during a lecture where Jesus was mocked, something stirred in him. He stood up—not to argue, but to testify. He shared how Jesus had saved him from suicidal thoughts. The class fell silent. Afterward, a lecturer warned him to "keep his faith private." But like Peter and John, Kwame knew he couldn’t.

Today, Kwame leads a prayer movement on campus. The courage of the called is not about aggression—it’s about conviction. It’s about standing when silence feels safer.

Conclusion: Your Turn to Stand

The world may pressure you to tone down your faith. But the courage of the called doesn’t come from applause—it comes from abiding in Christ.

You may feel ordinary, unqualified, or small. But if you’ve been with Jesus, you carry the authority of heaven.

What will you choose: safety or obedience? Silence or testimony? Fear or faith?

Prayer

Lord, give me the boldness to speak when I’m tempted to be silent. Let my courage come from You, not from my confidence. Use me, no matter how ordinary I may feel. Help me to stand for truth with love, just like Peter and John. Amen.