The message of Jesus spread throughout Jerusalem, angering the religious leaders. The apostles were arrested and placed in prison.

That night, an angel opened the prison doors and led them out, telling them to return to the temple and continue preaching. At daybreak, they obeyed and began teaching again.

When the council gathered and sent for them, the prison was found empty. Soon they learned the apostles were already in the temple teaching the people. The guards brought them in, but without force, since the people supported them.

The high priest said, “We ordered you not to teach in Jesus’ name.” Peter replied, “We must obey God rather than men. You crucified Jesus, but God raised Him from the dead and made Him Lord.”

The leaders were furious and wanted to kill them, but one council member warned them to be careful: if this work is from God, they cannot stop it. The council agreed, but after beating the apostles, they warned them not to speak in Jesus’ name again.

The apostles left rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer for Jesus. They continued preaching, and the number of believers kept growing.