Church: Politically Incorrect
The political structure was threatened by the disciples. Why else would Herod go out of his way to have James, one of the Apostles, killed? This is a testament to the growing church in Jerusalem. And, of course, Herod (like any other politician) would feel threatened by a man who has that many followers. Also, the church was reviled by the Jewish establishment (largely because of its size), so pressure could have been exerted by them on Herod. Nonetheless, we must remember that the things of this world belong to the evil one (1 John 5:19), including earthly governments (note that Jesus didn't debate the devil on this issue in Matthew 4:9). Make no mistake, the church of Jesus Christ is a HUGE threat to this world. Additionally, why would four squads of soldiers be stationed to guard one person if this person or the people he associated with were not a threat? (Of course, we know that the church would never have violently protested or revolted in order to free Peter. Actually, they simply prayed in response to his arrest. But the church was large and politicians fear large constituencies that are seemingly opposed to them.) This certainly hints of the church's momentum, which was a threat to the establishment. Remember 2 Timothy 3:12. If we desire to live godly, we WILL be persecuted. Read it.
Created over 3 years ago
