Coping with Social Collapse (7) - Gospel

In many situations, audacious proclamation of the gospel may be the best form of defence. When Peter and John were released from prison, they gathered together with some disciples to pray. They did not pray that God would hide them, but that he would equip them to proclaim the truth boldly.

Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus." After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly (Acts 4:27-31).

Attack is often the best defence (in a spiritual sense). The disciples responded to persecution by proclaiming the gospel and healing the sick. If God’s people are healing the sick and releasing the captives, hostility will often disappear.