Peter and John had caused upset by preaching about Jesus’ resurrection, and are being interrogated by the Council of Jerusalem. Asked by what power they are acting, Peter speaks about Jesus’ death and resurrection. After discussing the situation, and knowing full well who Peter and John were, they order them to cease speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John said they had to speak about what they had seen and heard. Not really knowing what to do, and wary of making things worse, the Council let them go.

We live in an age of marketing and brands where power is often measured by the amount of influence we wield to affect people’s choices. But Jesus’ model of power is quite different, focusing on service, sacrifice and humility. How do we use our power and influence?