Two Small Fish
January 16, 2006
Bible Study: Acts Chapter 12
Peter’s Escape
Introduction:
This portion of Scripture is a perfect example of good verses evil, God’s intervention in human affairs, and the importance of intercessory prayer. In studying this chapter, we will discover God’s desire to set the prisoner free, the prisoner’s responsibility, and the human tendency to doubt God’s power and provision.
Core of the Lesson:
Verses 1-4 reveal the devil’s attempt to stifle the progression of Christianity. Through King Herod, the enemy of God had James the brother of John executed by the sword. Drawing from the approval of the Jews, Herod imprisoned Peter with the intent of another execution. Because it was the Feast of Unleavened Bread (the week before Passover), Herod prolonged his plans placing Peter under the guard of sixteen soldiers.
Verse 5 informs us that the church earnestly prayed to God for Peter. God does not need our input. Isaiah 40:13-14 says, "Who has understood the mind of the LORD, or instructed Him as His counselor? Whom did the LORD consult to enlighten Him, and who taught Him the right way? Who was it that taught Him knowledge or showed Him the path of understanding?" Of course, the answer is no one because God is the authority by which everything and everyone else receives definition.
Nevertheless, God has given us the duty and privilege to intercede in prayer for others. It is for our benefit not His. Our relationship with the LORD thrives on communication with Him. When we obediently and earnestly pray for others, God reveals His plans and His person to us. As with human relationships, our relationship with God grows through personal contact. Via prayer, our character changes as we imitate Christ’s love, mercy, and grace.
Prayer produces trust in God as we persevere for others. God permitted Peter to remain in prison for a week. Why didn’t God deliver Peter sooner? Perseverance in prayer strengthens our faith. God’s intentions revolve around His timetable. We may not always know, understand, or agree with it, but we need to accept and trust God’s timing as the best plan.
Peter’s escape from prison is a striking metaphor of the sinners escape from hell.
Peter was asleep when the angel appeared – Sinners are asleep spiritually
The light did not awaken Peter – The Light of the gospel does not awaken the unbeliever
The angel had to strike Peter to waken him – The Law "strikes" the sinner with his need of repentance.
The angel provided a means of escape, but Peter had to follow his directions. Peter had to clothe himself and follow the path set before him by the angel – The gospel provides the means of escape, but the sinner most follow the path of repentance and clothe himself in the righteousness of Christ.
Peter followed the angel out of the dungeon and into the city before he realized he wasn’t dreaming – It is difficult for many sinners to completely comprehend forgiveness.
Although he prayed for an escape, Peter had difficulty accepting the reality of answered prayer. He was not alone. The group of believers, who were praying without ceasing for a week, thought poor Rhoda was crazy when she reported that Peter was at the door (verse 15). After they accepted God’s abounding grace, the church rejoiced and Peter fled to another place.
King Herod went to Caesarea. Receiving glory and praise, Herod arrogantly accepted the people’s claim that he was a god and not a man. The LORD does not share His throne with anyone. Nor, does He take it lightly when someone claims deity. God sent an angel to strike Herod and he was devoured by worms. Even the lowliest of creation obey their Creator.
The word of God continued to spread and will continue. God’s Word will always prevail over human boasting.
Conclusion and Challenge
Although we compared Peter’s escape to the unbeliever, Christians also become entangled and imprisoned in their own set of chains. Satan cannot possess us, but he can and often does oppress us. Imprisoned in bitterness, anger, jealousy, and even sin, Christians lose their effectiveness for the LORD.
As Christians, intercessory prayer is our duty and privilege. We need to remember God has purpose and a specific time for everything. Our perseverance in prayer helps to set the captives free, but their escape is not up to us. It is their choice to follow. This can frustrate us when we earnestly desire to lead a friend out of the prisons that confine the human spirit. But the fact remains, until the prisoners desire freedom, they cannot be set free.
Don’t lose heart. Continue steadfastly in prayer. God is there and He will set the captives free.
Prayer Requests:
Melinda & Barry and family, Jenn, Jordan, Joey, Phyllis and husband, Barb, J.J., Joyce, Donna, Jackie, Nora, Karen and Raph, Ann, Trinity, Ayden, Nick, Darlene, Wyatt, Johanna, Irene, Harriet, Carol, Enos, Chelsea, Helen, Mildred, our Monday Bible Study, special unspoken needs, and remember me, Brenda Hendricks.
Praise Report:
Cassi, a twelve-year-old who recently had surgery with severe complications, is now restored to good health. Aaron, a fifteen-year-old who recently had surgery on his feet, is enjoying the wonder of walking without aide. We are looking forward to more praise reports. Please keep us informed so we can share the wonderful grace of Jesus.
Next Weeks Study:
Read Acts 13. Paul and Barnabus begin their missionary journey.
Invitation:
Although we have not chosen to be, we are all born into sin because of the fall of man. Sounds hopeless and unfair, but God in His infinite wisdom and abundant love has provided a choice for us. We can choose to repent of our sinful nature and believe in Jesus Christ. He is faithful and will cleanse us from sin and give us His Holy Spirit to equip us to live for Him. If you’ve made your choice to repent and believe in Jesus, we’d like to hear about it.If you are free in Christ Jesus, pray for those who remain captive.
If you’d like to participate in our Monday Bible Study, please contact us with your comments, questions, and prayer requests or at twosmallfish@twosmallfish.org.
A special reminder: to find out what other readers have to say check out the comment page.
May God grant you safety, reassurance of His love, and the revelation of Jesus Christ,
Brenda Hendricks
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