Fighting Against God
Acts 5:33–39 (NASB95)
33 But when they heard this, they were cut to the quick and intended to kill them.
34 But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the Law, respected by all the people, stood up in the Council and gave orders to put the men outside for a short time. 35 And he said to them, “Men of Israel, take care what you propose to do with these men. 36 “For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a group of about four hundred men joined up with him. But he was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing. 37 “After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census and drew away some people after him; he too perished, and all those who followed him were scattered. 38 “So in the present case, I say to you, stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men, it will be overthrown; 39 but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God.”
Acts 5:33-39 describes that after Peter’s bold declaration, the council members were enraged and sought to kill the apostles. This reaction starkly contrasts the response of the crowds at Pentecost, who were "cut to the heart" (Acts 2:37) and repented upon hearing Peter preach. This difference demonstrates the hardness of heart among the religious elite, who felt their authority threatened by the apostles' message and the accompanying signs and wonders. This is a good lesson for us – not everyone, even with all the necessary evidence, will choose to believe. Some will go the other way.
In this tense moment, Gamaliel, a Pharisee and respected teacher of the law, intervenes. He advises the council to proceed cautiously regarding the apostles and reminds them of previous uprisings led by Theudas and Judas the Galilean, which ultimately failed. These figures are not fictional characters invented for rhetorical effect. Their existence and the events surrounding their rebellions are corroborated by extra-biblical historical sources, particularly the writings of Josephus. This external confirmation should strengthen our faith in the authenticity and historical reliability of Scripture.
Gamaliel argues that if the apostles' movement is of human origin, it will inevitably fail, just like the rebellions of Theudas and Judas. However, if it is from God, no human effort can stop it, and opposing it would mean fighting against God Himself. Note the subtle brilliance of Gamaliel's rhetoric. He cleverly uses examples of failed rebellions to indirectly suggest the possibility that the apostles' movement might also fail. Simultaneously, he uses the Sanhedrin’s fear of displeasing God to convince them of his point of view.
Gamaliel's wisdom offers valuable lessons for the church today. We will face opposition and persecution for our faith, but we can learn from Gamaliel's approach of reasoned argument and patient observation. We should not be afraid to engage with those who oppose us, seeking to persuade them with gentleness and respect. We must also remember that the ultimate success of the Gospel depends not on our efforts but on the power of God.
Here is another point that I would like to make. Many Christians believe that each of us is individually unstoppable. I hear familiar scriptures quoted, such as “I can do all things through Christ,” to support this point of view. I would offer a point of view that aligns more with scripture. The Church will not fail. God’s purpose for the Church will not fail. God’s plan for salvation will not fail. Those who fight against the Church are fighting against God Himself. This does not mean that everyone we try to share the Gospel with as individuals will listen to us. This does not mean we as individuals will not experience failure. But in the end, God’s will WILL be done on earth just as in heaven.
Remember this, “So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth.” (1 Cor. 3:7, NASB) When we encounter failure, stay positive. God is in control.
Blessings,
Ryan Goodnight