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Acts 4:13 - Jesus Makes a Difference.

Acts 4:13 (NIV) When they saw the courage of 
Peter and John and realized that they were 
unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they 
took note that these men had been with Jesus.  

INTRODUCTION

Knowing that Peter and John were untrained, 
the council was amazed at what being with Jesus 
had done for them. A changed life convinces 
people of Christ's power. One of your greatest 
testimonies is the difference others see in your life 
and attitudes since you have believed in Christ. 
[Life Application SB] 

COMMENTARY PEARL

   My husband and I are happily married, but 
the happy part didnt happen 
automatically. Early in our marriage, I blurted out my 
emotions without considering their impact. I was 
quick to judge his actions while making excuses 
for my own behavior. I would spend hours on 
tasks that consumed me, overworking and leaving 
very little time for us as a couple. Even though 
I was overly sensitive to his constructive 
criticism, I knew I needed to change. I wanted a second 
chance.  
   The Peter in Acts is very different from 
the Peter in Matthew. In Acts 4, Peter 
courageously and unapologetically preaches the gospel of 
Jesus, while back in Matthew 26, he denied knowing 
Jesus. So what made the difference? Jesus gave 
Peter a second chance. Peter learned from his 
mistake and reconciled with Jesus (John 
21:15"19). 
   Change isnt easy. We all make 
mistakes. It took practice and prayer, but, 
fortunately, after twenty years of marriage Im a 
different (and, more importantly, a better) wife today 
than I was when I first married. Im open to 
asking for and accepting feedback. I show more 
empathy toward my husbands perspective. I take 
time to think before I speak and try to be fully 
present when were together. Im thankful to my 
husband, and Jesus, for second chances. Ericka Loynes 
 
   Faith Step: Do you need a second chance? 
Stop dwelling on your mistakes. Instead, forgive 
yourself, reflect on what you have learned, and have 
the courage to change. [Mornings With Jesus 2023 
Devotional by Guideposts and Zondervan] 

COMMENTARY 

Unity in the Spirit. No longer were they 
ignorant and uncultured. No longer were they a 
collection of independent units or of discordant and 
conflicting elements. No longer were their hopes set on 
worldly greatness. They were of one accord, of 
one mind and one soul. Christ filled their 
thoughts. The advancement of His kingdom was their 
aim. In mind and character they had become like 
their Master; and men took knowledge of them, 
that they had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13. 
ED95 

   When this is in truth the experience of 
the Christian, there is seen in his life a 
simplicity, a humility, meekness, and lowliness of 
heart, that show to all with whom he associates 
that he has been with Jesus and learned of Him. 
   In those who possess it, the religion of 
Christ will reveal itself as a vitalizing, 
pervading principle, a living, working, spiritual 
energy. There will be manifest the freshness and 
power and joyousness of perpetual youth. The heart 
that receives the word of God is not as a pool 
that evaporates, not like a broken cistern that 
loses its treasure. It is like the mountain stream 
fed by unfailing springs, whose cool, sparkling 
waters leap from rock to rock, refreshing the 
weary, the thirsty, the heavy laden. COL129-130 

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/