Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognized them as companions of Jesus.   (Acts 4:13)

On the Day of Pentecost 3,000 people were baptized.  The crowds became very curious about the disciples speaking in their own languages. They wondered: Who are these people? What has set them on fire? Can I get what they have?

Not only did the people take notice, but so did those who killed Jesus.  As the authorities listen to Peter, and as they watch thousands being baptized, they become worried and angry.

After Peter had healed a crippled beggar, the authorities arrested Peter and John.  As the prisoners stood before them, the authorities asked, “By what power or by what name did you do this?” (Acts 4:7). Peter told them that their actions were done “by the name of Jesus Christ.”

When the authorities saw the boldness of Peter and John they were astounded by these “uneducated and ordinary men” and they recognized them as the “companions of Jesus.”

That expression— “companions of Jesus”—haunts me.  What caused the authorities to recognize their connection to Jesus?

This phrase haunts me because I wonder if people recognize us as the companions of Jesus. What would a companion of Jesus look like?  Like Peter and John, companions of Jesus may be marked by boldness, courage, and audacity.  What other qualities mark the companions of Jesus?  Kindness, peace, joy, generosity, patience.

The life of Jesus had so permeated the disciples’ lives that He was present in their actions and words.  In order for others to see Jesus in us, I encourage us to spend time with Jesus—in prayer, in scripture, in worship, in serving others.  Just like they became His companions through spending time with Him, so we will become the same by doing the same.

As we think about how we would like to be known to others, could there be any more important words than these: “Jane…Joe…Frieda…Henry…why she…why he…is a companion of Jesus?”

Reflection Questions:

1. Why do you think that the religious authorities recognized Peter and John as the “companions of Jesus?”

2. Have you ever met someone for the first time and just knew that they were a companion of Jesus? If so, what about them helped you to see or feel who they followed and belonged to?

3. How’s your own companionship with Jesus? Are you walking with Him, or have you been drifting away?  When others are with you, do they see and feel that you are one of Jesus’ companions?