Now when Herod was about to bring him (Peter) out, on that very night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison.
Acts 12:6-19
Herod had seen his killing James pleased the religious leaders and He decided to do more by arresting Peter. Herod felt sure his guards were sufficient to keep Peter in chains until after the Passover when Herod could put Peter on public trial and execute him. Never underestimate the power of God! Under the very noses of Herod and his soldiers, an angel roused Peter from sleep, told Peter to get dressed and escorted Peter out of the prison to freedom. Peter was incredulous thinking he was seeing a vision and not really being freed. But, he came to his senses when the angel left him and Peter saw that he was outside the prison. When Peter realized an angel of the Lord had rescued him, he went to Mary’s house, the mother of James and John, where a number of people were there praying for Peter. As Peter knocked on the door and called out to those inside, Rhoda, a servant, recognized Peter’s voice but did not let Peter in. Instead, she told the people there that Peter was at the door. The people praying thought Rhoda to be crazy or, maybe, an angel of Peter was there. Finally, when they opened the door, they were amazed to see Peter who told them to tell James (Jesus’ brother) and the brothers about these events. Luke tells us that Herod was livid at the events and he had all the guards guarding Peter executed. Then, Herod departed for Caesarea where he would not live much longer. Christians, events like these still occur in our day. We do not hear much of them because the evil ones do not want their failures advertised. But, our Sovereign God is still in control of His universe and He is working ALL things for good for those who love His Son and obey Him (Romans 8:28). Have no fear! For, if God is with us, who can be against us?!
Source: S C Ball June 28, 2023
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