(a) How did God use Gamaliel to further the cause of Christianity in the early church ?
(b) Mention any four types of opposition that are confronting the Christian church today.
Explanation
(a) The apostles were re-arrested and imprisoned. Ever before this time, the Sadduces had been opposed to the teachings of Jesus Christ. They did not believe in resurrection after death which Jesus Christ preached. As his apostles continued after Jesus' death, the Sadducees and others who opposed Jesus' teaching and his wonders were not happy. In the night, an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and set them free.
The Sanhedrin were surprised when they learnt that they were no longer in the prison. Instead, they were found in the temple, teaching the people. Without any violence, they were brought back before the council for their trial. The high priest said: " We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us". The apostles replied; "We must obey God rather than men..." The apostles accused the Jews of killing Jesus whom God raised. When the Sanhedrin heard this, they were enraged and wanted to kill them. But Gamaliel, a pharisee and a popular teacher of the law intervened on behalf of the apostles. He cautioned the council members and prevailed on them not to kill the apostles, saying that if this plan is of men, it would fail; but if it is of God, they would not be able to overthrow the apostles. Gamaliel's advice was taken. The apostles were released after some flogging and warning that they should stop preaching in the name of Jesus.
(b) Different types of oppositions confronting the church today include:
(i) In some parts of the country and even in some schools, Christians are not allowed to preach publicly.
(ii) Also, church buildings are not allowed in some parts of the country.
(iii) Christians suffer open persecution, thereby leading to wanton destruction of lives and property.
(iv) There is discrimination against Christians in employment opportunities and promotions in public service.
(v) Christians are discriminated against in marriages and funeral ceremonies.
(vi) Christians are denied the freedom of worship and religious holidays
