Theory question 107
Persecution of the Early Church(a) Describe the circumstances under which Peter was rescued from prison. (b) What three lessons can be learnt from the incident above?
Show the model answer
(a) Herod killed James and, seeing it pleased the Jews, arrested Peter during the Unleavened Bread (Acts 12:1-3).
Peter was guarded by four squads of soldiers; Herod planned to bring him out after Passover (Acts 12:4).
The church prayed earnestly for him (Acts 12:5).
The night before, Peter slept between two soldiers, bound with two chains, with sentries at the door (Acts 12:6).
An angel appeared, light shone; the angel woke him and the chains fell off (Acts 12:7).
He told him to dress, put on sandals and follow (Acts 12:8).
They passed two guards and the iron gate opened by itself (Acts 12:9-10).
Peter realised the Lord had rescued him and went to the house of Mary, where many were praying (Acts 12:11-12).
(b) Any three: God answers the church's prayers; God protects His servants; no prison can hold God's plan; persevere in prayer; God can do the impossible; believers should support one another in trouble.
Narrate Acts 12:1-17, then three lessons.