Faith without religion.
Acts 5:26-32: Context, Commitment, and the Holy Spirit
In a recent teaching session, we explored the process of preparing scripture teachings, focusing on Acts 5:26-32. The approach involves a verse-by-verse study, ensuring that the context is maintained and difficult passages are not avoided. This method allows for a comprehensive understanding of the Bible, using stories from both the Old and New Testaments to support the verses being discussed.
The preparation process includes reading the Bible without external aids, allowing personal insights to emerge over time. Commentaries from older scholars are consulted to provide a broad examination of the verses, though personal interpretations are also developed through studying the original Greek text.
The teaching emphasized the importance of obeying God over human authorities, as demonstrated by the apostles who continued to preach despite being commanded not to. This narrative highlights the apostles’ commitment to their faith and their willingness to face consequences for their actions.
The session concluded with a discussion on the role of the Holy Spirit as a witness to the apostles’ testimony, marking a transition from the material to the spiritual economy in the New Testament. The Holy Spirit is given to those who obey God by believing in Jesus, underscoring the central message of faith and obedience in the Christian journey.
