Peter and John before the Sanhedrin 1While Peter and John were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to them, 2greatly disturbed that they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. 3They seized Peter and John, and because it was evening, they put them in custody until the next day. 4But many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand. 5The next day the rulers, elders, and scribes assembled in Jerusalem, 6along with Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and many others from the high priest’s family. 7They had Peter and John brought in and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?” 8Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers and elders of the people! 9If we are being examined today about a kind service to a man who was lame, to determine how he was healed, 10then let this be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 11This Jesus is ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’a 12Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” The Name Forbidden 13When they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they marveled and took note that these men had been with Jesus. 14And seeing the man who had been healed standing there with them, they had nothing to say in response. 15So they ordered them to leave the Sanhedrinb and then conferred together. 16“What shall we do with these men?” they asked. “It is clear to everyone living in Jerusalem that a remarkable miracle has occurred through them, and we cannot deny it. 17But to keep this message from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them not to speak to anyone in this name.” 18Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God. 20For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” 21After further threats they let them go. They could not find a way to punish them, because all the people were glorifying God for what had happened. 22For the man who was miraculously healed was over forty years old. The Believers’ Prayer 23On their release, Peter and John returned to their own people and reported everything that the chief priests and elders had said to them. 24When the believers heard this, they lifted up their voices to God with one accord. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “You made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them. 25You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of Your servant,c our father David: ‘Why do the nations rage 26The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against His Anointed One.’d 27In fact, this is the very city where Herod and Pontius Pilate conspired with the Gentiles and the people of Israel against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed. 28They carried out what Your hand and will had decided beforehand would happen. 29And now, Lord, consider their threats, and enable Your servants to speak Your word with complete boldness, 30as You stretch out Your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of Your holy servant Jesus.” 31After they had prayed, their meeting place was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Sharing among Believers 32The multitude of believers was one in heart and soul. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they owned. 33With great power the apostles continued to give their testimony about the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And abundant grace was upon them all. 34There were no needy ones among them, because those who owned lands or houses would sell their property, bring the proceeds from the sales, 35and lay them at the apostles’ feet for distribution to anyone as he had need. 36Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (meaning Son of Encouragement), 37sold a field he owned, brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet. Footnotes: 11 a Psalm 118:22 15 b Or the Council 25 c Or child; also in verses 27 and 30 26 d Or His Christ or His Messiah; Psalm 2:1–2 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Acts 4 Summary Sharing among BelieversVerses 1–4 – Arrest and Growing Numbers Verses 5–12 – Peter Speaks before the Council Verses 13–22 – Threats and Unstoppable Testimony Verses 23–31 – Prayer and Power Verses 32–37 – One Heart, One Purse In Acts 4, we encounter a transformative moment in the early Christian community. Peter and John, unswayed by the threat of persecution, boldly proclaim the Gospel before the Jewish authorities. Their courage and the power of their message lead to a rapid increase in believers, who respond by forming a supportive, generous community characterized by unity and shared resources. Historical Setting: Why the Sadducees Reacted so Sharply • The Sadducees, a priestly party, denied bodily resurrection (Acts 23:8). By proclaiming Jesus' resurrection in the temple, Peter and John directly threatened their core doctrine and their influence with Rome. • The “captain of the temple guard” was second only to the high priest in authority over the temple precinct; his involvement underscores how seriously the leadership viewed this disturbance. • Annas had been deposed as high priest but still pulled the strings; Caiaphas, his son-in-law, officially held the office (John 18:13). This family dynasty dominated Jewish politics for decades. Key Theme: The Power of the Name Acts 3 closed with a healing “in the name of Jesus.” Acts 4 repeats the phrase eight times, driving home that Jesus’ authority continues even after His ascension. Compare: – John 14:13–14 “Whatever you ask in My name…” – Philippians 2:9–11 “God exalted Him … that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow.” The apostles lean on that name, not on status, education, or resources. Old Testament Connection: The Rejected Stone Becomes the Cornerstone Peter cites Psalm 118:22. Jesus had applied the same verse to Himself (Luke 20:17). Isaiah 28:16 adds that the cornerstone is precious and secure. The image is simple: builders discard a stone, only to find it is the key piece. Likewise, Israel’s leaders rejected Jesus, but God made Him foundational to His people. Archaeological Insights: Temple Courts and Council Chamber • Solomon’s Colonnade ran along the eastern edge of the outer court, providing shelter for teaching. Stone columns from that era have been found south-east of the present-day Temple Mount. • First-century ossuaries inscribed with “Joseph son of Caiaphas” and other priestly names have surfaced, confirming the historical reality of this priestly circle. • Excavations near the southwestern corner reveal steps where pilgrims entered—a plausible route for Peter and John to pass en route to prayer at the ninth hour (Acts 3:1). • The Sanhedrin met in the “Hall of Hewn Stone,” half inside, half outside the sanctuary—symbolic of judging earthly matters before God. The Holy Spirit in Action Acts 4 shows three works of the Spirit: 1. Filling Peter for fearless speech (v. 8). 2. Uniting the church in prayer (vv. 24–30). 3. Shaking the meeting place and refilling the whole assembly (v. 31). The pattern echoes Acts 2 yet is fresh, proving that Spirit-empowered witness is continual, not a one-time event (cf. Ephesians 5:18). Civil Orders vs. God’s Call The council’s gag order collides with the Great Commission. Peter’s answer is straightforward: “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God.” (v. 19) Compare: – Daniel 3 & 6 — refusal to bow or to cease prayer. – Acts 5:29 — “We must obey God rather than men.” Scripture affirms respect for government (Romans 13:1-7) yet places obedience to God first when commands conflict. Community Life: Generosity without Coercion Believers give voluntarily; no apostle demands they sell property. The Spirit produces unity of heart that overflows in sharing. Deuteronomy 15:4 envisioned a society with “no poor among you” if Israel obeyed God. In Acts 4 the ideal sparks to life as the new covenant community. Contrast Ananias and Sapphira in the next chapter, where hypocrisy mars the picture. Profiles in Faith • Peter — Once fearful (Luke 22:57-62), now speaks openly. His transformation validates Jesus’ promise in Acts 1:8. • John — Silent in the narrative yet steadfast, the “son of thunder” (Mark 3:17) becomes a pillar of the church (Galatians 2:9). • Barnabas — Introduced as generous, later introduces Saul to the apostles (Acts 9:27) and champions the mission to the Gentiles (Acts 11:22-26; 13:1-3). Echoes Across Scripture • Witness before rulers — Luke 21:12-15 foretold that disciples would stand before kings; the Spirit would give words. Acts 4 fulfills that prophecy. • Prayer and shaking — At Sinai the mountain quaked (Exodus 19:18). Here the church is God’s new meeting place, and He shakes it to affirm His presence. • Unity and sharing — Psalm 133 celebrates brothers dwelling in unity. Acts 4 visualizes it. • Boldness — Proverbs 28:1 “The righteous are as bold as a lion.” Spirit-filled believers embody that proverb. Practical Lessons for Today • Opposition often validates effective witness; don’t equate hardship with failure. • Know and use Scripture. Peter’s brief defense weaves Psalms and direct proclamation of Jesus. • Rely on the Spirit rather than credentials. The council marveled that laymen could speak so powerfully. • Pray first, strategize second. The church’s instinct was to seek God together; boldness followed. • Hold possessions loosely. Generosity builds credibility for the gospel and meets real needs. • Remember the healed man standing beside the apostles—a living proof that silenced critics. God may place tangible evidence of His work beside your witness. In a Sentence Acts 4 shows how resurrection faith overcomes intimidation, unites believers in daring prayer, and produces a generous community, all through the unstoppable name of Jesus Christ. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 5:10-12Jesus speaks about the blessing of being persecuted for righteousness' sake. Ephesians 6:18-20 Paul encourages believers to pray for boldness in proclaiming the Gospel. Philippians 1:27-30 Paul urges the church to stand firm in one spirit, striving together for the faith of the Gospel. Hebrews 10:24-25 The importance of encouraging one another and meeting together as believers. Teaching Points The Power of the Holy SpiritActs 4:8 highlights Peter being filled with the Holy Spirit as he addresses the Sanhedrin. This emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit for boldness and wisdom in witnessing. The Centrality of Jesus Christ In Acts 4:12, Peter declares, Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. This underscores the exclusivity and necessity of Jesus for salvation. Boldness in the Face of Persecution Despite being threatened, Peter and John refuse to stop speaking about Jesus (Acts 4:19-20). Their courage serves as a model for believers facing opposition today. The Power of Prayer and Unity The early church responds to persecution with prayer, asking for boldness to continue speaking God's word (Acts 4:29-31). Their unity and reliance on God result in a powerful move of the Holy Spirit. Generosity and Community Acts 4:32-35 describes the believers as being of one heart and soul, sharing everything they had. This reflects the transformative power of the Gospel in creating a selfless and caring community. Practical Applications Seek the Holy Spirit's GuidanceRegularly pray for the Holy Spirit to fill you with boldness and wisdom to share the Gospel effectively. Proclaim Jesus as the Only Way Be prepared to share the truth of Jesus as the sole source of salvation, even when it is counter-cultural. Stand Firm in Faith When facing opposition, remember the example of Peter and John, and stand firm in your convictions. Prioritize Prayer and Unity Engage in corporate prayer and strive for unity within your church community, especially in times of trial. Practice Generosity Look for ways to support and share with fellow believers, reflecting the early church's spirit of generosity. People 1. PeterOne of the apostles and a central figure in the early Christian church. In Acts 4, Peter is filled with the Holy Spirit and boldly addresses the Sanhedrin, proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Greek root for his name is Πέτρος (Petros), meaning "rock." 2. John Another apostle and close companion of Peter. He is present with Peter when they are brought before the Sanhedrin. His name in Greek is Ἰωάννης (Ioannes), derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious." 3. The Priests Religious leaders of the Jewish community who are part of the group that arrests Peter and John. They are responsible for maintaining the temple and its rituals. 4. The Captain of the Temple Guard A key figure in maintaining order in the temple precincts. He is involved in the arrest of Peter and John. 5. The Sadducees A sect of Judaism known for their denial of the resurrection, which puts them at odds with the apostles' teachings about Jesus' resurrection. 6. Annas the High Priest A former high priest who still holds significant influence. His name in Greek is Ἄννας (Hannas), which is derived from the Hebrew name Chanan, meaning "gracious." 7. Caiaphas The acting high priest during this time and son-in-law of Annas. He played a role in the trial of Jesus. His name in Greek is Καϊάφας (Kaiaphas). 8. John (another) Likely a member of the high priestly family, distinct from the apostle John. His specific role is not detailed in this chapter. 9. Alexander Another member of the high priestly family or a prominent figure in the Sanhedrin. His exact role is not specified. 10. The Sanhedrin The ruling council of Jewish leaders, including elders and scribes, who question Peter and John about their teachings and the healing of a man. 11. The Believers The early Christian community who pray for boldness and are filled with the Holy Spirit after Peter and John report back to them. 12. Barnabas Introduced at the end of the chapter as a Levite from Cyprus who sells a field and donates the proceeds to the apostles. His name means "son of encouragement" in Aramaic. Places 1. JerusalemJerusalem is the central location where the events of Acts 4 take place. It is the city where the early Christian community is based and where Peter and John are brought before the Sanhedrin. The significance of Jerusalem in this context is its role as the religious and cultural center for the Jewish people, and it is where the apostles are spreading the message of Jesus Christ. 2. The Temple While not explicitly named in Acts 4, the Temple is implied as the setting for the initial events leading to Peter and John's arrest. In Acts 3, they were at the Temple when they healed the lame man, which led to their arrest and subsequent trial in Acts 4. The Temple, as the heart of Jewish worship and religious life, is a significant backdrop for the apostles' ministry and the challenges they face from the religious authorities. Events 1. Peter and John ArrestedPeter and John are speaking to the people when the priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees come upon them, greatly disturbed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. They seize Peter and John and put them in custody until the next day (Acts 4:1-3). 2. Many Believe Despite the arrest, many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand (Acts 4:4). The Greek word for "believed" is "ἐπίστευσαν" (episteusan), indicating a trust or faith in the message. 3. Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin The next day, the rulers, elders, and scribes gather in Jerusalem, including Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and others of the high priest's family. They question Peter and John about the power or name by which they performed the healing (Acts 4:5-7). 4. Peter Filled with the Holy Spirit Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, addresses the Sanhedrin, explaining that the healing was done by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom they crucified and whom God raised from the dead (Acts 4:8-10). The Greek term "πλησθεὶς" (plēstheis) indicates being filled or completed by the Holy Spirit. 5. Salvation in No Other Name Peter declares that salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). The Greek word "σωτηρία" (sōtēria) refers to deliverance or salvation. 6. The Sanhedrin's Astonishment Observing the boldness of Peter and John and realizing they were unschooled, ordinary men, the Sanhedrin is astonished and recognizes that they had been with Jesus (Acts 4:13). 7. The Sanhedrin's Dilemma Unable to deny the miracle, the Sanhedrin confers among themselves, deciding to warn Peter and John not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus (Acts 4:14-18). 8. Peter and John's Response Peter and John reply that they must obey God rather than men, stating they cannot help speaking about what they have seen and heard (Acts 4:19-20). 9. Release and Further Threats After further threats, the Sanhedrin releases them, finding no way to punish them because all the people were praising God for what had happened (Acts 4:21-22). 10. Prayer for Boldness Upon their release, Peter and John return to their own people and report what the chief priests and elders had said. The believers raise their voices together in prayer, asking for boldness to speak God's word (Acts 4:23-30). 11. The Place Shaken and Filled with the Holy Spirit After they pray, the place where they are meeting is shaken, and they are all filled with the Holy Spirit, speaking the word of God boldly (Acts 4:31). 12. The Believers Share Everything The believers are of one heart and soul, and no one claims any of their possessions as their own, but they share everything they have. With great power, the apostles continue to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's grace is powerfully at work in them all (Acts 4:32-33). 13. Distribution to Anyone in Need There are no needy persons among them, for from time to time those who own land or houses sell them, bring the money from the sales, and lay it at the apostles' feet for distribution to anyone who has need (Acts 4:34-35). 14. Introduction of Barnabas Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles call Barnabas (meaning "Son of Encouragement"), sells a field he owns and brings the money to lay at the apostles' feet (Acts 4:36-37). The Greek name "Βαρνάβας" (Barnabas) reflects his role as an encourager within the early church. Topics 1. Peter and John Arrested (Acts 4:1-4)Peter and John are arrested by the priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees because they were teaching the people and proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus. The Greek term "ἀνάστασιν" (anastasin) refers to the resurrection, a central theme in early Christian preaching. 2. Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:5-12) The next day, Peter and John are brought before the Sanhedrin. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaims that the healing of a man was done in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. The Greek word "πλησθεὶς" (plēstheis) indicates being filled with the Holy Spirit, emphasizing divine empowerment for witness. 3. The Boldness of Peter and John (Acts 4:13-22) The Sanhedrin is astonished by the boldness of Peter and John, recognizing them as uneducated men who had been with Jesus. Despite threats, Peter and John refuse to stop speaking about what they have seen and heard. The Greek word "παρρησίαν" (parrēsian) means boldness or confidence, highlighting their fearless testimony. 4. The Believers Pray for Boldness (Acts 4:23-31) After being released, Peter and John return to their fellow believers and report what happened. The community prays for boldness to continue speaking God's word. The place where they were meeting is shaken, and they are all filled with the Holy Spirit. The Greek "σεισθῆναι" (seisthēnai) means to shake, symbolizing divine presence and power. 5. The Believers Share Their Possessions (Acts 4:32-37) The early Christian community is described as being of one heart and soul, sharing everything they had. Joseph, called Barnabas, sells a field and brings the money to the apostles. The Greek "κοινωνία" (koinōnia) refers to fellowship or sharing, reflecting the communal life of the early church. Themes 1. Persecution and Boldness in Proclaiming the GospelActs 4 begins with Peter and John being confronted by the religious leaders for teaching about Jesus and the resurrection. Despite the opposition, they boldly proclaim the truth. This theme highlights the early church's courage in the face of persecution. The Greek word "παρρησία" (parrēsia), meaning boldness or confidence, is significant here as it underscores the apostles' fearless proclamation of the Gospel. 2. The Power of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit's role is evident as Peter, filled with the Spirit, speaks with authority before the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:8). This theme emphasizes the empowerment believers receive from the Holy Spirit to witness and stand firm in their faith. 3. Salvation through Jesus Christ Alone In Acts 4:12, Peter declares, "Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." This theme underscores the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus, a foundational belief in conservative Christian theology. 4. Unity and Generosity among Believers The early church is described as being of "one heart and soul" (Acts 4:32), sharing everything they had. This theme reflects the communal life and mutual support among believers, rooted in the Greek concept of "κοινωνία" (koinonia), meaning fellowship or partnership. 5. Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility In their prayer, the believers acknowledge God's sovereignty over the events that have transpired, quoting Psalm 2 (Acts 4:24-28). This theme highlights the balance between God's control over history and the responsibility of believers to act in faith and obedience. 6. Prayer as a Source of Strength and Guidance The believers' response to persecution is to pray for boldness (Acts 4:29-31). This theme emphasizes the importance of prayer in seeking God's guidance and strength, reflecting the Greek word "δέησις" (deēsis), meaning supplication or earnest prayer. 7. The Witness of Miracles The healing of the lame man and the apostles' subsequent boldness serve as a testament to the power of God at work through them (Acts 4:14-16). This theme highlights how miracles serve as a witness to the truth of the Gospel and the authority of Jesus' name. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Acts 4:4) How historically credible is the claim that about five thousand people converted on the spot? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Peter and John's boldness in proclaiming the Gospel teach us about sharing our faith? 2. How does the Sanhedrin's response to Peter and John's healing of the lame man reflect their understanding of God's power? 3. How does Peter's defense before the Sanhedrin model the kind of faith and courage we need in the face of opposition? 4. What is the role of the Holy Spirit in Peter's defense and the believers' prayer? 5. Why do you think the early believers prayed for boldness rather than protection? 6. What practical steps can we take to cultivate unity and generosity in our own faith communities? 7. How does this chapter confront our fears or hesitations about sharing the Gospel? 8. How might the generosity and unity of the early believers challenge our modern individualistic cultures? 9. How can we apply the believers' prayer for boldness to our own lives and contexts? 10. How does this chapter inspire you to respond when faced with opposition or persecution? 11. In what ways do you feel challenged to share your possessions with others? 12. How does the believers' response to Peter and John's arrest inspire you to support fellow Christians who face persecution? 13. How does the growth of the early church despite persecution impact your view of the power of the Gospel? 14. What lessons can you draw from Peter and John's fearless response to the Sanhedrin's commands? 15. How does the unity of the early believers challenge the divisions we see in today's church? 16. How might you respond if you were commanded to stop speaking about Jesus? 17. What does this chapter teach us about the relationship between prayer and action? 18. How can we practically live out the generosity shown by the early believers in our daily lives? 19. How does this chapter challenge you to be bold in your faith? 20. In what ways do you see God's grace powerfully at work in your life and community? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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