Acts 12
Miracles, Messengers, and the Mission of God
Reflecting on Acts 12 Together
As we read through Acts chapter 12, we can’t help but be captivated by Peter’s miraculous escape from prison. It’s the kind of story that lights up our imagination—like something out of a Hardy Boys book or a James Bond film. But instead of clever tricks or gadgets, this escape is driven by divine intervention, earnest prayer, and the unstoppable mission of God. There’s so much here for us to take in—not just the drama of the moment, but the deep truths about faith, prayer, suffering, and glory.
The Power of Prayer and the Shock of a Miracle
Verse 5 stands out like a beacon: “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.” This image of the church gathered in prayer while one of their own is in chains—it’s so relatable. We’ve been there too. Recently, we found ourselves in a hospital room, unsure of what was happening with little Cruze. And just like the early church, our community stepped in and covered us in prayer. That kind of intercession carried us, literally sustained us.
And when God answered those prayers? We were astonished—just like the believers in Acts 12. Rhoda hears Peter’s voice and is so overjoyed she forgets to open the door! And the others? They don’t believe her. “You’re out of your mind,” they say. But isn’t that us too? We pray earnestly and yet stand shocked when God moves. Let’s be people who pray in faith and then stand ready to rejoice when the miraculous happens. God hears. God moves.
Angels and the Kingdom at Work
This chapter doesn’t just show us a miracle—it gives us a glimpse into the unseen world. Peter’s escape is orchestrated by an angel of the Lord. Later, that same chapter shows another angel striking down Herod, the prideful king who failed to give glory to God. We’re reminded that spiritual beings are at work, aligned with God's purposes, just like we are. As God’s people, we’re part of a much bigger mission—one where heaven and earth collide in the everyday and the extraordinary.
We often think, “If God did it before, He’ll do it again.” But Peter’s story doesn’t always end in escape. Later in life, he is arrested again—and that time, he dies for his faith. And yet, whether in life or in death, Peter’s peace came from knowing he was in God’s hands. That’s where we want to be too—fully surrendered, fully available, come what may.
For His Glory, Not Ours
One of the most sobering moments comes at the end of the chapter when Herod is struck down. Why? Because he takes the glory for himself. The people cry out, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man!” and instead of deflecting the praise, Herod soaks it in. Contrast that with Paul and Barnabas in Acts 14, who are horrified when people try to worship them. “Don’t do that!” they cry. “We’re just humans like you!” One response leads to death; the other, to a fruitful ministry.
That hits home for us. It’s not about us—not about our names, our church, or our success. It’s about the glory of God and the spread of His Word. And that’s exactly how this chapter ends: “But the word of God continued to spread and flourish.” That’s the goal. That’s the victory. That’s what we want for our lives.
As we walk through whatever comes next—miracles or trials, highs or lows—may we stay centered in this truth: God is sovereign, God is present, and His mission is unstoppable. Let’s be faithful, let’s be prayerful, and let’s keep pointing to Jesus.
