By Peter J. Leithart, First Things, 8 . 6 . 21
Peter J. Leithart is President of Theopolis Institute.
As soon as it begins, the apostolic mission in Jerusalem meets opposition. It’s no wonder. The apostles aren’t quietly evangelizing and winning souls. Standing in the tradition of ancient prophets, they publicly rebuke the injustices, corruptions, and abuses of Israel’s leaders. They’re Micaiah before Ahab, Isaiah before Ahaz, Jeremiah before Zedekiah, Daniel before Nebuchadnezzar. At Pentecost, Peter accuses “godless men” of putting Jesus to death. Speaking to a crowd after he and John heal a lame man, Peter ratchets up the charge. The men of Israel rejected the Prince of Life in favor of a murderer; they chose death over life, and they’ll suffer the consequences unless they repent. The Sanhedrin gets wind of Peter’s indictment, arrests the two apostles, and imprisons them overnight. At a hearing the next morning, Peter repeats the allegation before an assembly of elders and priests. Opposition intensifies. The Sanhedrin warns Peter and John; then they add a flogging; finally, a mob falls on Stephen, drags him outside the city, and stones him to death. …
