The Arena

The apostles were performing signs and wonders, boldly proclaiming Jesus, and seeing lives transformed. But with spiritual power came opposition. Arrested, threatened, beaten, and commanded to stop preaching, they responded with one of the most astonishing verses in Scripture:

“They left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.” (Acts 5:41)

Big Idea:

When you believe the promise, you can endure the cost.

The apostles understood something profound:
Following Jesus does not remove suffering—it redefines it.