Peter Freed From Chains

We discuss the significance of James’s martyrdom and Peter’s being freed from his chains. Having been unsatisfied merely with the crucifixion of Christ, Herod Antipas--like the rest of the Jewish leadership--moved to also bury Jesus’ message. Herod chains Peter physically with the hope of restraining the message that Peter is spreading. Peter is guarded by four squads of soldiers, indicating Herod’s desire to encompass and eradicate the Gospel. Related to Peter’s freedom from chains, we are all implored to remember that through Christ, we have been set free from the Mosaic Law. Yet this does not mean we are free to do whatever we please. We were set free so that we might live according to the law of grace. We conclude by discussing opportunities to provide this grace given to us by God to others.