Was Gamaliel Good?: Unstoppable

Act 5:33-42 NIV

33) When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. 34) But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. 35) Then he addressed the Sanhedrin: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. 36) Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. 37) After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38) Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. 39) But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” 40) His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41) The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42) Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.

TAKEAWAYS

1. The good of Gamaliel

– Gamaliel calmed hot heads down

– Gamaliel talked of the progress of God

– Gamaliel was 50% correct- maybe the church would be OK

2. The Sin of Gamaliel

– He did not believe and commit to the message preached

– He allowed the apostles to be punished

– He participated in the decision to ban the apostles’ preaching

3. The Good of the apostles

– They never stopped.