In Acts 4, Peter and John are brought before the council for proclaiming before the people the resurrection of Jesus and for healing of a lame beggar in Acts 3. When asked by what power they healed the man, Peter answered with the gospel (Acts 4:8-12). What boldness! After some debate among the Jewish leaders, they ordered the apostles not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus (Acts 4:18). Basically, the Jewish leaders were trying to shut down the early Christian movement and the church because it grew through the preaching and teaching of the gospel. However, Peter once again replies with boldness.

19 But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, 20 for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:19-20, ESV).

Where is this boldness today in the church? The government, through unconstitutional mandates, shut down the church and the proclaiming of the name of the risen Lord Jesus Christ. Where are the church leaders that will stand up against this form of totalitarianism? I know John MacArthur and the Grace Community Church has made a bold stance and refused to shut down services and I am sure there are a few others. However, by in large, the church has been compliant with the forsaking the assembly of the Saints. The church needs leaders who will stand up and say with boldness, “We cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard!”