Memory Verse: Acts 12:12 – “And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.”
The evil attack on the church continued through Herod the King over Judea, who was appointed by the Roman Emperor. His plan was to please the Jews by persecuting the church. He killed James the brother of John and because the Jews responded positive to his actions, Herod pursued to take Peter’s life. (Acts 12:1-2)
It was not appropriate to set this killing in action because the Passover was recognized at that time. The king ordered Peter to be apprehended and put in prison under strict watch. Satan takes pleasure to plan to destroy God’s people. (Acts 12:3-4; Exodus 12:15)
The church was aware of the death of James by the hands of Herod and the plan to take the life of Peter. The church prayed earnestly for Peter’s deliverance. The church must always be ready to pray together in unity of the Holy Spirit. Just as Satan planned to take Peter’s life, he does the same to every believer in Jesus Christ. If he can’t kill you, he will attempt to kill your spirit in Christ. (Acts 12:5; Romans 3:36; II Corinthians 12:9)
The night Herod was to bring Peter forth, he was sleep and bounded in chains under strict watch. The angel of the Lord came to Peter and gave him step by step instructions for his deliverance. Now, remember the power of the praying church. While prayer was going forth, the Lord was with Peter. (Acts 12:6-10)
The church of believers can never cease from praying. We must have a devoted prayer life. It is so important that we examine and crucify our flesh from sin. There must not be anything to interfere with reaching heaven. How much more power when the church unites with one accord in strength and power! (Acts 1:12-14; I Corinthians 12:12-27; Romans 12:12)
Peter had come to himself and realized that he was not dreaming, but that the angel of God had delivered him from the hands of the wicked. We have experienced the joy of humanistic relief in our lives, as Peter experienced. Not that we doubt Christ or his power, but an indwelling, unspeakable joy slightly overwhelms us. All the time, we believe. (Acts 12:11; Psalm 43:4)
a. He is. (Matthew 1:21; Romans 10:9; I Timothy 2:5)
b. He is all powerful, knowing, etc. (Psalm 62:11)
c. He will have mercies on whom he will. (Romans 9:16)
d. He promised to always be with us. (Hebrews 13:5)
After Peter was freed, he went to Mary’s house the mother of John. This was where the church was praying for him. The damsel who had heard his voice at the door was so shocked and overwhelmed in belief, that she and her prayer partners could hardly believe it was Peter at the door.
Finally, when they opened the door and saw Peter they just praised God. They broke loose in joy of relief. Peter remained calm to give his testimony of his miraculous deliverance. (Acts 12:12-17; Psalm 30:5)
Satan with all his power cannot stop God’s plan on his people. Those that touch God’s anointed will suffer the consequences through sufferings or death. (Acts 12:20-23; Proverbs 11:8; Matthew 5:21; Psalms 145:20)
Let us who believe in Jesus Christ remember to exercise:
1. The Power of Prayer – “We Must Believe” (Daniel 9:1-23)
2. The Power to Know How To Pray – “Jesus Teaches Us To Pray” (Matthew 6:1-18)
3. “Power in the Inner Circle of Believers” (Luke 8:41-42, 49-56)
4. The Power of One –“Prayer Changes Things” (II Kings 20:1-11)
5. The Power of Children Praying – “A Rainbow Awaits Those Who Pray” (I Corinthians 1:9)
6. The Power of Partnership – “Midnight Prayer Night” (Acts 16:19-40)
7. The Prayer of the Praying Church – “The Church On One Accord” (Acts 12:1-19)
Pastor Tylvia E. Koromah The Path of Righteousness Church in Christ
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