This scripture has always gotten my attention to the point that I stop and think about every time or nearly every time I'm in this chapter of the Bible. This one scripture tells us a lot about the men who served Jesus, and, more to the point, how they were impacted by Him. I believe that it also challenges us who are followers of Jesus today to live up to that standard. For the sake of context, please remember that Peter and John had gone out and healed a lame man which gave Peter the occasion to have the undivided attention of those people who were at the temple (Acts 3:1-11).

     Peter and John were bold in their speech. The word translated boldness (parrhesia) refers to a confidence or unreservedness in speech. The spoke freely without ambiguity or concealment. Other descriptions of this boldness included; free and fearless confidence, cheerful courage, and assurance. Go back and read Acts 3:12-4:12. Didn't Peter preach in a bold fashion? He very plainly and confidently told his audience that they killed the "Prince of life". He told them that salvation could only be found in the name of Jesus, the man that they killed!

     Boldness was not the only thing that was evident as they spoke. Their boldness caused the audience to "size them up" or take notice of just who these men were who had spoken in such a bold manner. It was also noticed that Peter and John had far exceeded their own ability. The KJV says that they were unlearned and ignorant. The NKJV says that they were uneducated and untrained. The NIV says that they were unschooled and ordinary.

     All of the major translations describe the natural abilities of the Apostles in slightly varied ways (with the same meaning) but they all agree exactly on something else, they had been with Jesus. It was evident! They proclaimed Jesus, had a command of the scriptures, confidence, and a Godly resolve that would not be broken even though they were in custody.

What do people say about us after they have spent some time listening to and observing us? Do they know our favorite sports teams? Do they know what our profession or educa tional background is? Can they tell what our political views are? Do they know our favorite meals? Do they know how we feel about our family and jobs etc...Those are all secular/natural things that are not bad or necessarily bad things to know about. What about the spiritual things? Can those who have spent time with us tell that we have been with Jesus? Do we proclaim Jesus? Do we have a command of the scriptures, confidence, and a Godly resolve that won't break under adverse circumstances? We leave an impression on the people that we spend significant time with. What type of impression? I hope that they can tell that we have been with Jesus?

Bro Eli