The Power of Prayer (Acts 12)

St. Louis, May 2017

Highlight:

In Acts chapter 12, James is martyred and Peter is jailed. Peter was later rescued by an angel and Herod is struck down by God.

Explain:

King Herod attacked some of the church and ended up killing James. This made James the first of the orginal 12 to be martyred. This also pleased the Jews so he also arrested Peter. King Herod did what the Jews wanted him to do to gain favor among them. He assigned four squads of soldiers to guard Peter.

When Herod was about to put Peter on trial, that very night, an angel of the Lord appeared to Peter and told him to get up. Right then, Peter’s chains fell off of him and he followed the angel past all of the guards and out of the prison. As soon as he realized what had happened, he went to the house of Mary where all of the believers where in prayer for him. The people were all amazed to see Peter at the door. He told them what had happened and asked them to pass this along to James and the others. He then left.

Herod, upon hearing that Peter had escaped, had all of the guards executed.

Herod was angry at the countries of Tyre and Sidon. They presented themselves before him because their countries depended on his for food. King Herod gave a speech to them and they ended up declaring him as a God. Because he did not reprove this and took the praise, he was struck down by God.

Apply:

Although James had just been killed and Peter was imprisoned, the Church never ceased praying. The version I read (CSB) states that the church was praying “fervently”, which means that they were enthusiastic and passionate in their prayer. We, as the Church, need to be in constant and serious prayer for our brothers and sisters facing persecution. God answers earnest prayers from His people.

Respond:

God, thank you for answering our prayers and knowing what’s on our hearts. I pray right now for our brothers and sisters facing persecution. Lord, give them the strength and courage to make it through this. Help us all to face our upcoming trials without fear, for we know you are with us.