A statement made nearly 2000 years ago...

This morning my Bible reading took me through Acts 5. It details the boldness of the apostles in their message of Jesus Christ. They are confronted, thrown in prison, and forced to give an explanation of their actions. In the midst of a heated interrogation, a man named Gamaliel
reminded the people of some current events, and what they might mean in relationship to the followers of Jesus.

• There was Theudas - "For before these days Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing."
• There was Judas the Galilean - "After him Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and drew away some of the people after him. He too perished, and all who followed him were scattered."

Gamaliel does not commit to saying that the same thing will happen with Jesus and his followers, but suggests a "hands-off" approach. "So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!”

When I read those words, I was reminded as to just how many people have come and gone claiming to be God's chosen one. And yet Jesus has validated his claims. He has been talked about for 2000 years, and trusted in nations around the world. That One is the One who we worship for eternity. Isn't God awesome in the work of the Son, Jesus Christ!

I am not sure Gamaliel even had a clue as to Who he was talking about.

Curtis