33 When they heard this, they were furious and plotted to kill them. 34 Then one in the council stood up, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in respect by all the people, and commanded them to put the apostles outside for a little while. 35 And he said to them: "Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what you intend to do regarding these men. 36 For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody. A number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was slain, and all who obeyed him were scattered and came to nothing. 37 After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census, and drew away many people after him. He also perished, and all who obeyed him were dispersed. 38 And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; 39 but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God."—Acts 5:33-39
God’s sovereignty has always been a comfort to me. Today, as I read Gamaliel’s words was no exception. Proverbs 16:1 came to mind.
The preparations of the heart belong to man,
But the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.
Gamaliel’s sympathy as far as I can tell was not with the church. He did, however, understand history. He also understood God’s sovereign workings on the earth. Proverbs 16:1 reminds us that God guides the answer of the tongue. (What comes out of a man’s heart). Here it seems He sovereignly directs Gamaliel’s words to perhaps protect His people from further persecution.
Walvoord says that Gamiel’s speech in verses 38-39 reads like an apologetic for the church given by an enemy….I liked that. The result of the movement would tell them if it were of human origin or from God. If it truly was of God (and we know it was), it would be like fighting against God Himself!
Beloved…The Lord rules and overrules in the kingdom of men. If we truly believe this, it will be a constant source of comfort no matter what may be going on in our personal lives or in the world around us. Return to your rest, o my soul, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.
