Gamaliel’s principle
*Acts 5:34–42; Psalm 27; John 6:1–15*
Gamaliel’s principle is a principle in the Book of Acts by Rabban Gamaliel. This principle explains that “whatever is of God will stand, and whatever is not of God will fail” (Acts 5:38-39). Gamaliel cautioned the Jewish Sanhedrin against killing Jesus’ disciples, saying that if their ideas were of human origin, they would “come to naught,” but if they were from God, their ideas would be impossible to overthrow, and if the Jews tried to stop them, they would be fighting against God. Therefore, let God take charge of the situation.
According to Reginald Hoefer, Gamaliel’s Principle is a useful lens for examining things that could trouble us regarding the state of the world, the nation, and the church. It can help increase the sense of tolerance and reduce religious hostilities.
It has also been compared to Jesus’ admonition, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matt. 7:20). Beloved, whatever is of God will stand, and whatever is not of God will fail. Therefore, if our plans are to succeed, they must be in accordance with God’s will. Often times, we struggle without result because we operate outside God’s will.
Gamaliel’s principle also explains why the plans of the wicked fail. Their plans fail because they are not of God; Matt. 15:13 says, “Every plant that My heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted.”.
Similarly, in the gospel, the work of Jesus manifested because it was of God. Therefore, let us commit our actions to the Lord, and our plans will succeed (Proverbs 16:3).
*LET US PRAY*
*Almighty Father, we give You thanks for the many blessings we have received. We thank you for the victory over all the plots and ploys of the enemy. Those who try to shipwreck our faith and make us ineffective warriors of the cross. Keep us steadfast to remain in your victory and grant success to the work of our hands. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
