Following Jesus is not easy and often leads to suffering; after the earlier arrest of Peter and John, all the apostles are arrested and interrogated, as the Jewish leaders in the Sanhedrin contemplate their execution. At the same time, following Jesus entails joyful faithfulness, bold proclamation, and divine protection in the midst of suffering. God wants to instill in all His children the same stubborn, joyful obedience as that displayed in the lives of His apostles. These men are described as:
- Men of courage (vv. 12-26)
- Men who knew their duty (vv. 27-33)
- Men who had God on their side (vv. 34-39)
- Men who rejoiced in persecution (vv. 40-41)
- Men who persevered in proclaiming (v. 42)