What can you expect when a miracle happens? One thing seems certain … skepticism accompanied by resistance. Interesting that “blessing to all peoples” would produce such a response! It happens today when lives are transformed miraculously as a result of “faith in His name.” 5000 men believed … too many to ignore! (v. 3)
Resistance comes in many different forms in this passage. First we have the priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees. (vv 1-2) Primary resistance to true faith first appears among the religious it seems, for “religion” is the Devil’s way of entrapping people in unbelief. What a paradox that is!
The second wave of resistance comes from “the rulers, elders, and teachers of the law.” Now the High Priest and his family get involved, along with his official clergy. “Why his family,” you may ask? This mass faith movement likely appeared as a threat to family honor and authority in the community. Religious conversion is usually challenged at this level, even before examining the reality of the miracle of transformed lives! As for the Sanhedrin, anything suggesting “resurrection” really excited hostility. That was the foundation of their corrupted faith and put them at odds with the Pharisees. They were pawns in the hands of the Romans and always had more interest in “this world politics” rather than “other world deliverance.” They were previously engaged in opposition to Jesus at the resurrection of Lazarus (cf Jn 11:45-53; 12:9-11) Political expediency was their motto to keep the Romans from interfering in their level of influence with the people.
By what power, or in what name have you done this? (v. 7) they asked. Family, Religious, Political opposition became the issues of the day and in vss 5 – 12. the drama continues. “Do you dishonor our name by invoking another?” “Do you challenge our authority by appealing to a greater power?” Every attempt is made to keep the issues hidden of Jesus, His resurrection and the miracles He performs when He touches lives. But the apostles faithfully held forth the truth and the reality of their message;
No other name! (v. 10) No one else! (v. 12a) other salvation! (v. 12b) No other way … “we must be saved!” (v. 12c)
What application can we make from this passage that will help us? I suggest the following:
1. Truth was authenticated by the resurrection of Jesus. There is no room for variance on His uniqueness.
2. Salvation is uniquely “in His name.” There is no alternative.
3. Opposition can be expected in spite of the miracle of transformation in our lives. This includes the potential for stress in family, traditional religion, and in the political systems of this world. There can be no turning back.
In conclusion, we cannot ignore nor apologize for a miracle that is a blessing for all peoples! Here we stand!
