About this episode

Yelena Pakhomova discusses the courage to speak truth and remain hopeful amidst fear and persecution, drawing from the early church's experiences in Acts 4 and 5.

What gives ordinary people the courage to speak truth, resist fear, and remain hopeful in a fractured world? In Acts 4 and 5, the early church faces its first wave of persecution after Peter and John heal a man at the temple gates and boldly proclaim the resurrection of Jesus. Confronted by powerful religious leaders, threatened, imprisoned, and punished, the apostles discover that true power is not found in coercion or control, but in resurrection, community, and the Spirit of God. In this sermon, Yelena explores: • Why the message of Jesus provoked opposition • What Acts teaches us about power and courage • How community helps us face fear • Why joy can still exist in suffering • What it means to live nonviolently and faithfully today Whether you’re wrestling with fear, longing for deeper community, or trying to live with integrity in a divided world, this conversation invites us to become people of courageous witness together. Scripture: Acts 4–5 Commons Church Love God. Love People. Tell the Story. ★ Support this podcast ★

People in this episode

Guest: Yelena Pakhomova

Topics covered

• courage
• faith
• community
• persecution
• resurrection
• hope

Keywords

• courageous witness
• Acts 4
• Acts 5
• persecution
• community
• joy in suffering
• nonviolence
• faith
• integrity

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Commons Church, early church

Books & works: Acts

More episodes of Commons Church Podcast

• A Surprising Way Forward - Scott Wall · June 1, 2026 · 32 min
• Peter’s First Sermon Changed Everything - Jeremy Duncan · May 18, 2026 · 31 min
• Moving Forward When God Feels Silent - Bobbi Salkeld · May 10, 2026 · 29 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Commons Church Podcast podcast page.