Rejoicing that they were counted worth to suffer dishonor for the name.

Acts 5:38-42, “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!” So they took his advice, and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.

Words of wisdom from one of the Pharisees, while not believing in Christ and the testimony of Peter, seems to recognize their responsibility in the death of Christ and that if He is only an ordinary man this will all come to nothing. But if it is of God, then Peter and the others will be unstoppable, and so it has been for nearly two thousand years, the gospel of Christ proclaimed and the Holy Spirit convicting men of sin who then turn from their wicked ways and accept the amazing grace of God in Christ. And even more amazing, the disciples are encouraged by the suffering that comes their way. Will we be able to rejoice as did they should we suffer for proclaiming the name of Jesus?

Give us this same boldness even when we share in Your sufferings Lord!

ESV Lectionary