Acts 4:20

“But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.”

Context: Acts 4:20 is part of the narrative of the early Christian Church and follows the healing of a man who was lame from birth by Peter and John. The religious leaders of the time arrested Peter and John and questioned them about the miracle and the authority by which they performed it.

Boldness in the face of opposition: In this verse, Peter and John respond fearlessly to the religious authorities, declaring that they cannot obey their command to stop preaching about Jesus. They prioritise obedience to God rather than human authority. This demonstrates their boldness and courage in the face of opposition, which was a recurring theme in the early Church.

Faithfulness to God: Peter and John’s response reveals their unwavering commitment to God’s calling and their faithfulness to His mission. They acknowledge that the ultimate judge of what is right is God Himself. By choosing to obey God rather than men, they demonstrate their trust in God’s sovereignty and their willingness to follow His commands, even in the face of potential persecution.

Conflicting authorities: The verse highlights the tension that can arise between obeying human authorities and remaining faithful to God’s commandments. In certain circumstances, there may be conflicts where human laws or authorities may demand actions that are contrary to God’s will. In such situations, believers are called to discern and choose obedience to God, as exemplified by Peter and John.

Application: Acts 4:20 challenges believers to examine their own lives and consider if they are willing to prioritise God’s will over societal expectations or pressures. It encourages us to be bold in our faith, even when facing opposition or challenging circumstances. This verse reminds us of the importance of being grounded in God’s Word, seeking His guidance, and being prepared to stand firm in our convictions, regardless of the opinions or demands of others.