Persistent Witness
The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. They would come together regularly at Solomon’s Porch. No one from outside the church dared to join them, even though the people spoke highly of them. Everyone was healed. – Acts 5:12-13, 16b (CEB)
Sick? Healed! Unclean spirits? Cast out! Evil doers? Smote! These apostles did it all, and the common folk loved it even though they wouldn’t join them—at least not yet. Shortly after, jealous leaders seized and imprisoned the apostles in a public spectacle, a reminder to the adoring public of what happens when you defy authorities: you get silenced; you disappear.
But it didn’t stop the apostles from teaching, healing, and demanding accountability from power holders. Divinely protected and publicly respected, the apostles’ mission and message were from God. They would not be silenced by mere humans. Even if they stood alone, they stood firmly.
Scripture is filled with testimonies of persistent witness in the “lone voice” motif. Crying out for justice, proclaiming good news to a crowd that dares not join in. They sympathize, but sympathy does not equal solidarity. Holding the establishment accountable and forging a better way for all requires many active participants.
The apostles defied the authorities and carried on, inspiring large numbers of people to seek them out and eventually join them. They came from all over, longing for relief and hope. And for all who joined, everyone was healed.
Oppressors rely on silence and siloed self-preservation. Moving from empathetic bystanders to courageous witnesses disrupts and defeats unjust systems. Yes, the threats and consequences are real. So is the power of persistent witness.
Prayer
Move me from the adoring crowd to Solomon’s Porch. Compel me to loudly proclaim instead of silently nod.
About the AuthorChris Mereschuk (He/Him) is an Unsettled Pastor based in Northampton, MA. He is the Founder of RevCJM, LLC Consulting & Coaching, specializing in vitality, transformation, and Legacy.