Today’s Community Scripture – 5/30/2025

Peter and the apostles answered, “It’s necessary to obey God rather than men. The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, the One you killed by hanging him on a cross. God set him on high at his side, Prince and Savior, to give Israel the gift of a changed life and sins forgiven. And we are witnesses to these things. The Holy Spirit, whom God gives to those who obey him, corroborates every detail.” When they heard that, they were furious and wanted to kill them on the spot. But one of the council members stood up, a Pharisee by the name of Gamaliel, a teacher of God’s Law who was honored by everyone. He ordered the men taken out of the room for a short time, then said, “Fellow Israelites, be careful what you do to these men. Not long ago Theudas made something of a splash, claiming to be somebody, and got about four hundred men to join him. He was killed, his followers dispersed, and nothing came of it. A little later, at the time of the census, Judas the Galilean appeared and acquired a following. He also fizzled out and the people following him were scattered to the four winds.

                              Acts 5:29–37 (MSG)

– Reflection:

I need to step back a few chapters in Acts to discuss obeying God and what He has placed in our hearts. When we pursue things here on earth instead of what we know He has for us to do, we become absorbed in the world’s ways. I aspire to be more like the apostles by focusing on what has been instilled in me and the path I have been set on. Peter and the apostles boldly declare that obeying God takes precedence over obeying human authorities. They affirm that God raised Jesus—whom the people had crucified—and exalted Him as Prince and Savior to offer Israel forgiveness and transformation. The apostles testify to these truths and emphasize that the Holy Spirit, given to those who obey God, confirms their message.

– Where do we go from here?

In light of Peter’s bold declaration, we are reminded that true obedience begins with a heart aligned with God’s will. As believers, we are called to stand firm in our faith, even when it challenges societal norms or human expectations. Moving forward, we must seek to listen for God’s voice, trust in His purpose, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide our actions. This means living lives that reflect the transformation Jesus offers—lives characterized by courage, grace, and an unwavering commitment to truth. Let us be witnesses, like the apostles, boldly proclaiming what we know to be true and allowing our obedience to serve as a testimony of God’s power and love.

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, we ask that You continue to shape our hearts according to Your will. Instill in us a deep desire to follow You faithfully, to listen for Your voice, and to act in obedience. May the Holy Spirit guide our steps, affirm Your truth in our lives, and empower us to be witnesses of Your grace and mercy.