He Calls the Ordinary

Acts 4:13-15—Now when [the rulers and elders] saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognized them as companions of Jesus.  When they saw the man who had been cured standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition. So they ordered them to leave the council while they discussed the matter with one another. 

God calls ordinary men to do extraordinary things.  When others see God working through us, though, it doesn’t always lead to acceptance and belief in Jesus Christ.  Early in their ministry, Peter and John healed a crippled man as they were entering the temple.  The Bible reports that about 5,000 people came to believe in Jesus Christ as a result of witnessing the miracle that descended on this middle-aged man who, for the first time in his life, began to walk.  At the same time, the Sadducees, elders, and scribes became frightened about the power they were witnessing in these ordinary men.  Even with all their training and education, the rulers and elders could not oppose the truth of what Peter and John were professing.  Yet, they refused to believe.  Instead, they looked for ways to undermine their ministry and stop the spread of the Gospel.  In our lives, we, too, might experience rejection for boldly following Christ.  During those times, it’s essential for us to refocus on God’s call—daily prayer and Bible study are great ways to stay tethered to God.  We should also surround and fortify ourselves by building relationships with Christian friends and our church family.

Today as you pray and meditate on this passage, thank God for choosing you and empowering you to do extraordinary things through Him.  Praise His name and repeat your “yes” to His call.  Pray for strength and comfort during times of adversity and for wisdom when you are challenged by the world around you.