Acts 12:1-25
Peter finds himself in a bad situation in Acts 12. Herod has killed James. He's arrested Peter and is planning on making a spectacle of killing him as well. But, God had a different plan for Peter which included a miraculous (and I do mean miraculous) escape from prison. Now I found myself wondering why God would allow this situation in the first place and why this elaborate escape. I don't know the answer to that, but it got me thinking about what Peter and the group that was praying for him learned from this, and how were they impacted going forward? And, really, those are questions for us as well.
So what did you learn from Acts 12:1-25 about God's power and control and His way of working? What does this situation show us about relying on and trusting God? Any other thoughts about this passage? Tami W.
I think that Peter had already came to the conclusion that this might be the end for him because of the death of the others but I also think that he was ok with that. When he was led to freedom by the angel I understand why he would think he was dreaming because there was no humanly way possible that he was going to escape and he was right !!!!! No human way ..... but with God "All Things Are Possible". I think God allowed this to happen to help strengthen Peter's and the ones praying him faith, to were they used their testimony of what happened to help spread the "Good News" of Jesus Christ !
It was harsh to have Peter chained to 2 soldiers on either side of him, and more guards at the door. But yet, with all that, God sent an angel to rescue Peter. It was a dramatic rescue... not a little thing... handcuffs came off Peter without use of a key; the angel and Peter went by the soldiers and guards without them noticing; a big iron gate swung open by itself.
There is no human explanation for this, so maybe God had this planned to show how great He is, and to show man that if He could do something this great, then He can be trusted with even smaller things in life. As Dave says above... with God "All Things Are Possible!"
If God had of worked in a smaller way, perhaps it would be hard to trust He could ever work in a much bigger way. But seeing God working with something man could never accomplish alone, it helps to know and believe God can help with the bigger issues in life... all things!
This passage comes to me at such a time in my life when my faith and trust needed a boost. Just as God worked in the lives of people of the bible, He still works today in our lives. "All things ARE possible through HIM". Because of His mighty supernatural power, my faithfullness is fire proof.
As we go through the fire, He is with us. He wants us to realize His Glory and spread His message. Sometimes we go through pain and unjustice just so HE can be seen more clearly to those who believe and those who do not.
Oh how I love my Mighty Savior. Thank You for Your Lve, Your Mercy, and Your Grace.
This passage reminds us that nothing is too hard for God. This was indeed a miraculous situation and God is still in the business of miracles. Before I retired from what was at times a hostile work place (although I don't think the unbelievers realized how hostile they were to God), I can remember times of persecution and ridicule in meetings. As I was literally "bullied" by management and co-workers, I watched God on several occassions turn their ranting and ravings inward into their own circle and they would begin fighting with each other and forget about the embarrassment they were trying to bring on me. I saw God miraculously rescue me many times from plots that were waged against me due to hatred and prejudice, even as He constantly elevated me and anointed my head many times in presence of these who chose to be my enemies. Sometimes we need to remember and rehearse all the great things that God has done for us. I am sure Peter rehearsed that miraculous event anytime discouragement or fear tried to creep in on him. I too love My Mighty Savior and thank Him for His love, mercy and grace.