Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread). And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me...
Lessons learned from this passage:
- God is sovereign in ALL circumstances
- God's peace should rule in a servant's life
- God has a specific role (Peter's chain fell off after the angel smote him on the side)
- Servants of God also have a role (Peter got up, put his clothes/shoes on, and followed the angel
- God's answers prayers, though the answer may seem surreal, or dream-like. Thank Him!
- that God might use His Holy Spirit to minister His Word in times of need
- for God's protection in their battles against principalities, powers, rulers of darkness, and spiritual wickedness in high places
- for deliverance from persecution, if it's the Lord's will
- that they may be set free or re-united with with their loved ones
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