Currently, while writing this post today we’re in the middle of a global pandemic, the Corona virus. It has spread throughout the world and caused hundreds of thousands to be sick and the deaths of over 50,000 souls.
So with that as a backdrop, imagine my surprise when as I was reading today, I came across this quote:
“But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them…”
It stopped me in my tracks and made me think. So, who said it and in what context?
The quote actually has nothing to do with a virus or plague, but in our current time and circumstance it certainly jumped out to me.
The phrase was spoken by members of the Sanhedrin. It was spoken regarding the need to stop Peter and John from spreading, not a virus, but the name of Jesus.
What is in a name? Why did they have to keep the name from spreading?
For some background, Peter had recently healed a lame man. He was over 40 years old, so apparently that made it even more miraculous. The people were astonished, and Peter said it is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him, that had completely healed the man.
Obviously, the Sanhedrin were unsuccessful in stopping the spread. The teachings and actions of this man named Jesus has inspired millions around the world. Many serve others because of the name of Jesus.
Let it spread if it can heal others.