Acts 12:1-19

God is the difference between church and state.

vs. 1 - States can seek to hurt us as Christians
Herod, the King, wanted to vex the church
vex = do evil, harm

vs. 2 - States can seek to destroy us
James was killed because of the king’s order

vs. 3 - States can seek the popularity of the wicked
The Jews were happy about James’ death, so he took Peter captive

vs. 4 - States can fail to reach their ends because God is always involved in His plan
Herod put Peter under heavy guards, this was part of God’s plan

vs.5 - We pray constantly for healthy change
The church prayed without ceasing for Peter

vs. 6-8 - We know God can overpower States
God sent the angel to overcome the the 16 guards and chains to free Peter

vs. 9-11 - We need to trust God more than ourselves and our abilities
This miracle took place and Peter had to “wake up” and realize the hand of God on his release
God can overrule the wicked government

vs. 12 - We pray consistently together
Peter went to John Mark’s house where the church was praying

vs. 13-16 - We aren’t surprised in God answering prayer
Rhoda was so surprised to see Peter at the door that she shut it on him, and went and told the others.
Peter just stood there knocking.

vs. 17 - We need to communicate and credit God with the miracles He does
Peter told the church how God released him

vs 18-19 - States can self-destruct
Herod put the soldiers that had been guarding Peter to death