Bold Witness: Understanding Acts 4 and the Power of Apostolic Faith

Executive Summary ✨

Acts 4 provides a foundational narrative of the early Church’s unwavering faith in the face of persecution. Following the healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate, Peter and John are arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin, the very council that condemned Jesus. Their fearless proclamation of Christ’s resurrection and the power of His name becomes a pivotal moment, demonstrating the Holy Spirit’s active role in empowering believers. The chapter further illustrates the communal life of the early Christians, characterized by shared possessions and a profound unity of heart and soul. This chapter serves as a powerful reminder of the courage required to stand for truth, the efficacy of prayer, and the transformative impact of Christian community. The bold witness displayed by Peter and John, and the ensuing solidarity of believers, provides a timeless model for the Church in every age.

In Acts 4, we find the nascent Church facing its first real test of authority. What do we learn from their response, and how can we apply these principles to our lives today?

Commentary Sections 📖

Acts 4:1-4: The Arrest of Peter and John

Acts 4:1 (KJV): And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,

Acts 4:1 (NKJV): Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them,

Peter and John’s ministry, centered on the resurrection of Christ, directly challenged the Sadducees. Their doctrine denied resurrection, making the apostles’ message deeply offensive and subversive to their authority. The Temple captain, responsible for maintaining order, also likely saw the growing crowds as a potential threat to the peace. The geographical context here is crucial; the Temple was not only a place of worship but also the center of Jewish political and economic power. Their boldness was a direct affront to this power structure.

Spiritual Application: We must be prepared to face opposition when we speak truth, especially when it challenges entrenched systems of power. Consider using resources like website builder to share your story and build your own message.

Acts 4:2 (KJV): Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

Acts 4:2 (NKJV): Being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

The Sadducees’ grief highlights the fundamental clash between their worldview and the Gospel. The resurrection was not merely a theological point but the cornerstone of Christian hope and the validation of Jesus’ claims. The Greek word used here, “διαπονούμενοι” (diaponoumenoi), implies a deep emotional distress, suggesting that the apostles’ preaching stirred up a significant crisis of faith within the religious leaders. This grief wasn’t simply intellectual disagreement; it threatened their entire understanding of life and death.

Spiritual Application: Truth can often be uncomfortable. Be prepared to challenge your own assumptions and preconceptions in the light of the Gospel.

Acts 4:3 (KJV): And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide.

Acts 4:3 (NKJV): And they laid hands on them, and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening.

The arrest signifies the beginning of persecution. It was “eventide,” meaning the day was ending, and formal trials couldn’t be conducted at night. This allowed the authorities to delay a public confrontation and strategize how to handle the situation. This also mirrors Christ’s arrest and trial, drawing a direct parallel between the apostles’ experience and their Lord’s suffering.

Spiritual Application: Persecution is a reality for believers. Remember the example of Christ and the apostles and trust in God’s protection.

Acts 4:4 (KJV): Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.

Acts 4:4 (NKJV): However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.

Despite the opposition, the Gospel continues to spread. The number of believers reaching 5,000 “men” likely excludes women and children, indicating a potentially much larger Christian community. This rapid growth is a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit and the compelling nature of the Gospel message. This number also indicates that their audience was a diverse crowd within Jerusalem’s urban landscape.

Spiritual Application: Even in the face of adversity, God’s Word will not return void. Continue to share the Gospel and trust in its transformative power.

Acts 4:5-12: Peter’s Bold Testimony Before the Council

Acts 4:5 (KJV): And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,

Acts 4:5 (NKJV): And it came to pass, on the next day, that their rulers, elders, and scribes,

The Sanhedrin, comprised of rulers, elders, and scribes, represented the highest Jewish court. This was the same body that condemned Jesus, thus, it was no small thing that Peter and John were brought before them. Their presence signals a direct confrontation between the early Church and established Jewish authority. The assembly in Jerusalem carried heavy historical weight.

Spiritual Application: Be aware of the powers and principalities that oppose the Gospel in our world. Discern the underlying spiritual forces at play.

Acts 4:6 (KJV): And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.

Acts 4:6 (NKJV): as well as Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.

Annas and Caiaphas, though one was the official High Priest at different times, represent the powerful priestly aristocracy. Their presence underscores the seriousness of the charges against Peter and John. The family of the High Priest exerted significant influence over Temple affairs and Jewish society. “Καὶ ὅσοι ἦσαν ἐκ γένους ἀρχιερατικοῦ” (kai hosoi ēsan ek genous archieratikou) – “and as many as were of the family of the high priest” – highlights the concentration of power within a specific lineage.

Spiritual Application: Be mindful of the corrupting influence of power and privilege. Maintain humility and integrity in all your dealings.

Acts 4:7 (KJV): And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?

Acts 4:7 (NKJV): And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?”

The Sanhedrin’s question is not merely about the miracle itself but a challenge to the apostles’ authority. They were questioning the source of their power, trying to ascertain whether it came from God or some other, potentially demonic, source. Putting them “in the midst” was a deliberate act of intimidation and public shaming.

Spiritual Application: Be prepared to defend your faith. Know the reasons for your hope (1 Peter 3:15).

Acts 4:8 (KJV): Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

Acts 4:8 (NKJV): Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders of Israel:

Peter’s boldness stems directly from being filled with the Holy Spirit. This is a recurring theme in Acts, highlighting the Holy Spirit’s empowering presence in the lives of believers. “πλησθεὶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου” (plēstheis Pneumatos Hagiou) – “filled with the Holy Spirit” – is a key phrase that emphasizes the divine source of Peter’s courage and wisdom.

Spiritual Application: Seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit through prayer and obedience. The Spirit empowers us to witness effectively.

Acts 4:9 (KJV): If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

Acts 4:9 (NKJV): If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well,

Peter cleverly frames the healing as a “good deed,” putting the Sanhedrin in a difficult position. How can they condemn someone for doing good? He also subtly implies that their judgment is misguided. The word “ἀσθενοῦς” (asthenous) – “helpless” – emphasizes the man’s vulnerability and the compassion that motivated the apostles.

Spiritual Application: Always look for opportunities to do good. Even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact.

Acts 4:10 (KJV): Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.

Acts 4:10 (NKJV): let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.

Peter boldly proclaims the source of the healing: Jesus Christ, whom they crucified but God raised from the dead. This is the heart of the Gospel message. He directly accuses them of rejecting the Messiah, turning their accusation into an opportunity for evangelism. The name “Jesus Christ of Nazareth” is not just a label but a declaration of His identity and authority. This verse showcases profound bold witness.

Spiritual Application: Never be ashamed of the name of Jesus. Proclaim Him boldly in every situation.

Acts 4:11 (KJV): This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

Acts 4:11 (NKJV): This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’

Peter quotes Psalm 118:22, applying it directly to Jesus. The “stone” represents Jesus, rejected by the builders (the Jewish leaders) but made the “head of the corner” (the cornerstone), essential for the entire structure. This highlights Jesus’ role as the foundation of the Church. This connects with Old Testament prophecy, showing that Christ fulfilled ancient scriptures.

Origen, commenting on this verse, said: “οὗτος ἐστιν ὁ λίθος ὁ ἐξουθενημένος ὑφ’ ὑμῶν τῶν οἰκοδόμων, γενόμενος εἰς κεφαλὴν γωνίας” (houtos estin ho lithos ho exouthenēmenos hyph’ hymōn tōn oikodomōn, genomenos eis kephalēn gōnias) – “This is the stone which was rejected by you builders, [which] has become the head of the corner.” (Origen, *Commentary on John*, 10.18).

Spiritual Application: Recognize Jesus as the foundation of your life. Build your life on His teachings and example.

Acts 4:12 (KJV): Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Acts 4:12 (NKJV): Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Peter makes a definitive statement about the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ. There is no other way to be saved. This is a clear declaration against religious pluralism. The phrase “no other name under heaven” emphasizes the uniqueness and universality of Christ’s saving power. This statement is a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, distinguishing it from other religions.

Spiritual Application: Hold firmly to the truth that salvation is found only in Jesus Christ. Share this message with love and conviction.

Acts 4:13-22: The Council’s Dilemma and Warning

Acts 4:13 (KJV): Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

Acts 4:13 (NKJV): Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.

The Sanhedrin is astonished by Peter and John’s boldness, recognizing that it couldn’t be attributed to formal education or social standing. Their boldness, evident throughout the chapter, stemmed from their relationship with Jesus. The phrase “unlearned and ignorant men” highlights the contrast between worldly wisdom and spiritual authority. Their association with Jesus (“they had been with Jesus”) was the key to their transformation.

Spiritual Application: True wisdom comes from knowing Jesus. Spend time with Him in prayer and study of the Word.

Acts 4:14 (KJV): And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

Acts 4:14 (NKJV): And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

The presence of the healed man was undeniable evidence of the miracle. It was a living testament to the power of Jesus. The Sanhedrin’s inability to refute the obvious underscores the validity of the apostles’ claims. The healed man stood as a powerful, silent witness.

Spiritual Application: Let your life be a testimony to the power of God. Your transformed life can be a powerful witness to others.

Acts 4:15-17 (KJV): But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.

Acts 4:15-17 (NKJV): But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, saying, “What shall we do to these men? For, indeed, that a notable miracle has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name.”

The Sanhedrin acknowledges the miracle but seeks to suppress the message. Their primary concern is maintaining their own power and authority. They fear the growing influence of the Christian movement. This is a clear example of prioritizing self-preservation over truth. They chose to suppress truth over admitting they were wrong.

Spiritual Application: Be wary of those who seek to suppress the truth. Discern the motives behind their actions.

Acts 4:18-20 (KJV): And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.

Acts 4:18-20 (NKJV): So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”

Peter and John refuse to obey the Sanhedrin’s command, asserting their higher obligation to God. This is a classic example of civil disobedience rooted in religious conviction. They appeal to the Sanhedrin’s own sense of justice, asking them to consider what is right in God’s eyes. “We cannot but speak” emphasizes the irresistible compulsion they feel to share the Gospel.

St. Athanasius comments on this principle, saying, “Δεῖ πειθαρχεῖν Θεῷ μᾶλλον ἢ ἀνθρώποις” (Dei peitharchein Theō mallon ē anthrōpois) – “We must obey God rather than men.” (*Athanasius, Apologia Contra Arianos, 33*)

Spiritual Application: Be prepared to obey God rather than human authority when the two conflict. Stand firm in your convictions.

Acts 4:21-22 (KJV): So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done. For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.

Acts 4:21-22 (NKJV): So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done. For the man was over forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed.

The Sanhedrin is forced to release Peter and John due to public support. They couldn’t find a legitimate reason to punish them. The fact that the healed man was over forty years old underscores the significance of the miracle. It was a long-standing condition that was miraculously healed, making it undeniable. The peoples’ glorification of God demonstrates the powerful impact of the miracle and the apostles’ ministry. This forced restraint highlights the power of public opinion.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s protection. He can use even opposition to further His purposes.

Acts 4:23-31: The Believers Pray for Boldness

Acts 4:23 (KJV): And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.

Acts 4:23 (NKJV): And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them.

Upon release, Peter and John immediately return to the Christian community and share their experience. This highlights the importance of fellowship and mutual support among believers. “Their own company” emphasizes the close-knit nature of the early Church. They shared their trials and rejoiced together. The sense of community was a critical aspect of the early Church. It was a community of trust and love.

Spiritual Application: Prioritize fellowship with other believers. Seek encouragement and support from your Christian community.

Acts 4:24-30 (KJV): When they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is: Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

Acts 4:24-30 (NKJV): So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them, who by the mouth of Your servant David have said: ‘Why did the nations rage, And the people plot vain things? The kings of the earth took their stand, And the rulers were gathered together against the Lord and against His Christ.’ “For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done. Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.”

The believers respond with a powerful prayer, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and recalling His prophetic word. They quote Psalm 2, recognizing that the opposition they face is part of God’s plan. They pray for boldness to continue preaching the Gospel and for God’s continued power to be manifest through signs and wonders. Their prayer is united (“with one accord”), demonstrating their solidarity. They appeal to Gods’s sovereignty, acknowledging that even the crucifixion was part of His divine plan. They are not seeking safety but boldness to continue the mission.

Spiritual Application: Pray fervently and corporately in times of difficulty. Remember God’s sovereignty and trust in His plan.

Acts 4:31 (KJV): And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

Acts 4:31 (NKJV): And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.

God answers their prayer with a tangible sign: the place is shaken. They are all filled with the Holy Spirit and speak the Word with boldness. This is a direct answer to their prayer and a confirmation of God’s presence and power. The shaking of the place (“ἐσαλεύθη ὁ τόπος”) symbolizes the power of God at work. The filling of the Holy Spirit empowers them to overcome their fear and proclaim the Gospel with conviction.

Spiritual Application: Expect God to answer your prayers. Be open to receiving the Holy Spirit and allow Him to empower you.

Acts 4:32-37: The Believers Share All Things in Common

Acts 4:32 (KJV): And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.

Acts 4:32 (NKJV): Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.

The unity of the believers is expressed through their communal sharing of possessions. This is not a forced communism but a voluntary expression of love and generosity. “One heart and one soul” (“καρδία καὶ ψυχὴ μία”) emphasizes their profound spiritual unity. They lived in a spirit of selflessness and mutual care.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a spirit of generosity and selflessness. Share your resources with those in need.

Acts 4:33 (KJV): And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

Acts 4:33 (NKJV): And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.

The apostles continue to witness to the resurrection of Jesus with great power. The “great grace” upon them all is a result of their unity and obedience. Their witness was empowered by the Holy Spirit and accompanied by God’s favor. The resurrection of Christ was central to their message.

Spiritual Application: Rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to witness to the resurrection of Jesus. Trust in God’s grace to sustain you.

Acts 4:34-35 (KJV): Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.

Acts 4:34-35 (NKJV): Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

This describes the practical outworking of their communal life. Those who had possessions sold them and gave the proceeds to the apostles, who then distributed to those in need. This system ensured that no one lacked. It was a temporary measure, reflecting the unique circumstances of the early Church. It demonstrated a radical commitment to caring for one another.

Spiritual Application: Be sensitive to the needs of others in your community. Find practical ways to support those who are struggling.

Acts 4:36-37 (KJV): And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

Acts 4:36-37 (NKJV): And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

Barnabas is introduced as an example of generosity. His name, “Son of Encouragement,” reflects his character. He was a Levite from Cyprus, demonstrating the diverse backgrounds of the early believers. His willingness to sell his land and give the proceeds to the apostles exemplifies the spirit of selflessness and generosity that characterized the early Church. This foreshadows Barnabas’s future role as a key leader and encourager in the Church.

Spiritual Application: Strive to be an encourager to others. Use your gifts and resources to bless and uplift those around you.

Subtopic: The Power of Collective Prayer 🕊️

Acts 4 highlights the incredible power of collective prayer. When the apostles faced persecution, they didn’t retreat in fear. Instead, they gathered together and prayed with one accord. This unity in prayer was essential to receiving the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the boldness they needed to continue their mission.

• Unity Amplifies Power: The Bible consistently emphasizes the strength of unity. When believers come together with a shared purpose and a unified heart, their prayers are amplified.
• Boldness is Birthed in Prayer: The believers didn’t pray for safety; they prayed for boldness. This shows a willingness to face danger for the sake of the Gospel.
• Expect a Response: The shaking of the place where they were assembled demonstrates that God hears and responds to prayer. While not every prayer is answered with a tangible sign, we can trust that God is always at work.
• Prayer Fuels Action: The filling of the Holy Spirit didn’t just result in a spiritual high; it fueled action. They spoke the Word of God with boldness.
• Follow Up with Support The response of the community after prayer demonstrated they would support those who went to spread the message of Jesus

FAQ ❓

• Q: Why was the Sanhedrin so opposed to the apostles’ message?
  A: The Sanhedrin, particularly the Sadducees, denied the resurrection. The apostles’ preaching about Jesus’ resurrection challenged their authority and threatened their worldview. It also undermined their control over the Temple and Jewish society.
• Q: Was the communal sharing of possessions in Acts 4 mandatory for all believers?
  A: The sharing of possessions was voluntary and not a requirement for salvation. It was a demonstration of love and generosity within the early Christian community, reflecting their deep unity and commitment to caring for one another.
• Q: How can we apply the boldness of Peter and John to our lives today?
  A: We can emulate their boldness by seeking to be filled with the Holy Spirit through prayer and obedience. We can also study the Word of God and be prepared to defend our faith with gentleness and respect. Remembering to lean on God is key.
• Q: What does Acts 4 teach us about the importance of Christian community?
  A: Acts 4 demonstrates the vital role of Christian community in providing support, encouragement, and accountability. Sharing our lives with other believers allows us to grow in faith, serve one another, and witness to the world more effectively.

Conclusion ✨

Acts 4 is a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith, prayer, and community. The **bold witness** of Peter and John before the Sanhedrin, fueled by the Holy Spirit, serves as an example for all believers. The communal life of the early Christians, characterized by generosity and unity, illustrates the practical outworking of the Gospel. By learning from their example, we can cultivate a spirit of courage, compassion, and unwavering devotion to Christ. Let us pray for the same boldness that empowered the apostles, trusting that God will equip us to proclaim the Gospel to a world in need. Use all the tools at your disposal including a robust landing page builder.

Tags

Boldness, Persecution, Prayer, Holy Spirit, Community, Resurrection, Salvation, Witness, Apostles, Sanhedrin

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Explore Acts 4: Peter and John’s bold witness before the Sanhedrin, the power of prayer, and the early Church’s communal life. Learn how to apply these lessons today.