Gamaliel

He could have chosen to keep quite, or agree with the Sanhedrin. After all were they not causing so much havoc in the streets already? Were they not making them look bad in front of all the people? Were they not gaining more and more popularity by the day?

The people were beginning to trust them more than the teachers of the law and even the high priest. Surely they needed to be stopped! After all, he was a teacher of law; he had more to gain than lose if they were put to death.

I can imagine how the place was, so much tension, angry voices throwing words back and forth, the apostles looking harassed and worn out from the constant pushing of the guards. Physically shaken but spiritually at peace. Silent prayers made from the heart, not for a second losing faith that God would rescue them. Hoping for the best prepared for the worst, they watch with anticipation. Anything could happen to them, but now was not the time to be weak. As helpless as they were, they waited their judgment thanking God because it was just earthly judgment.

Then this man, this man Gamaliel spoke, and as they were led out of the room to allow private consultation, they knew for sure they were safe. Probably they heard a bit of murmuring, they saw the shaking of heads either in agreement or disapproval, relaxation of muscles of the muscles as their anger gradually faded.

 Gamaliel reasons with them: surely this is not the first case, but it is peculiar. Theudaus, a man who tried to claim to be someone he was not, tried but they outwitted him, next come Judas the Galilean who lead a revolt. He too come to nothing.

But these ones, their leader is gone but they still going on, stronger than before and even more zealous.

If surely they are from God you cant stop them, instead you will end up fighting God himself. You don’t want that in your conscience, do you?

So the apostles received only a serious beating, with joy because they were counted worthy to suffer in Jesus name.

Gamaliel was a man who had a lot to lose from speaking the way he did. But he still did, and it saved lives; hence the apostles continued spreading the word of God.

What would have happened if all Jesus’witnesses died?  What would have happened if Gamaliel never spoke? Would the word ever reach us?

Point is God can use anyone, anyone to save a situation, question is, if God wants to use you will be ready or your selfishness would get the better of you?

Choose to be different, just like Gamaliel, you never know a whole generation can be saved by you simply speaking out and standing out.

                   (Adapted from Acts 5:33)