A couple of definitions for the word “associate” are: to connect or bring into relation, as thought, feeling, memory, etc.: and to join as a companion, partner, or ally. That’s exactly what Peter and John had done. For three and a half years, they had “associated” themselves with Jesus and it showed. In fact, it showed in such a way that the leading priest and council were “amazed!”
They had associated with Jesus to the point that His Spirit was a part of them. He sent the Holy Spirit, they received the Spirit’s empowerment, and all those around them could tell. They could tell from Peter and John’s boldness and the fact that they were just “ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures.” Yet the Word came out of them with great revelation. The council also recognized them “as men who had been with Jesus.”
Everyone wants to be associated with something; the local charitable organization that does great work in the community, an exercise and fitness group, an organization that stands up for constitutional rights, and the list goes on. As terrific as so many of these groups may be, there’s nothing more outstanding than being associated with Jesus and His Spirit.
It’s the kind of association that will really rub off on you, and you won’t have to go around telling people that you’re a part of this group. No, when we spend time with and associate with Him, it’s just simply something that others can see for themselves. He has a way of turning “ordinary people” into extraordinary people.
Let me encourage you today to continue associating with Him and others will see Him in you!