the church frees
“With that, the chains dropped from Peter’s wrists.”—Acts 12:7
We need to realize more than ever that Jesus is the only One Who sets us free (see Jn 8:36). He frees us by His truth (Jn 8:32). Because the Church is “the pillar and bulwark of truth” (1 Tm 3:15), and has been given the keys of God’s kingdom (Mt 16:19), she is used by Jesus to free us. For example, St. Peter, the leader of the early Church, was on death row and about to be beheaded, as St. James had been (Acts 12:1ff). “The church prayed fervently to God on his behalf” (Acts 12:5). Then Jesus freed Peter through the prayers of the Church.
Peter was guarded by four squads of soldiers (Acts 12:4), “fastened with double chains” (Acts 12:6), and locked behind an “iron gate” (Acts 12:10). Peter needed to overcome numerous formidable obstacles to his freedom. We, like Peter, need a series of multiple miracles to be set free. However, the Church is praying for that. Because of the Church’s prayers, angels are being sent to wake us up (Acts 12:7), clothe us with God’s armor (Acts 12:8; see also Eph 6:14ff), and accompany us as we follow Jesus as His disciples (see Acts 12:8).
Answer the Church’s prayer. Through the intercession of Sts. Peter and Paul, be free and lead the world to new freedom.
Prayer: Father, set the captives free.
Promise: “The Lord will continue to rescue me from all attempts to do me harm and will bring me safe to His heavenly kingdom.” —2 Tm 4:18
Praise: “The Holy Spirit descended upon all who were listening to Peter’s message” (Acts 10:44).
Reference: For a related teaching on The Truth Will Set You Free, view, download or order our booklet on our website.)
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