#247 - When the Church Prays: Boldness, Power, and the Holy Spirit - Acts 4.23-31
n this episode of Al Pastor, Pastor Brian continues the series on the Book of Acts, focusing on Acts 4:23-31. He is joined by Noah in the studio for discussion.
Pastor Brian begins by acknowledging that he is behind in the community reading plan due to taking extra time to study the passage deeply. He provides a recap of Peter and John’s release from prison after being threatened by the Sanhedrin and emphasizes that their release was by God’s sovereignty, not human decision. He then unpacks the believers’ response to persecution, highlighting how they prayed together in unity, acknowledged God’s sovereignty, and prayed for boldness rather than safety.
Key points from the discussion:
- Community & Fellowship: Peter and John immediately returned to their companions, showing the importance of running to the people of God in times of trouble.
- Prayer and Worship: The believers started their prayer by exalting God, declaring His sovereignty over creation.
- Spirit-Filled Prayer: They quoted Psalm 2, recognizing that opposition to Christ was foreseen in Scripture.
- God’s Sovereignty Over Opposition: The rulers thought they were acting against Jesus, but God had predestined their actions for His purpose.
- Prayer for Boldness: Instead of asking for protection, the believers prayed for boldness to speak God’s Wordamid persecution.
- God’s Answer: The place where they prayed was shaken, they were filled with the Holy Spirit, and they boldly proclaimed the gospel.
- Being Continuously Filled with the Spirit: Pastor Brian explains the biblical command to "be filled and keep on being filled" with the Holy Spirit, drawing from Ephesians 5:18.
- Not by Might, Nor by Power: He closes with Zechariah 4:6, emphasizing that ministry and courage come by God's Spirit, not human effort.
The episode ends with encouragement to seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit, trust in God's sovereignty, and boldly proclaim His Word despite challenges.