The Book of Acts

Peter & John go before the Council

Acts 4:1-22 _NLT

“While Peter and John were speaking to the people, they were confronted by the priests, the captain of the Temple guard, and some of the Sadducees. These leaders were very disturbed that Peter and John were teaching the people that through Jesus there is a resurrection of the dead.”- Acts 4:1-2

            The men who confronted Peter and John were priests of special influence, being relatives of the High Priest. The captain of the Temple Guard was stationed at the Temple to maintain order. The Sadducees were a Jewish religious sect who didn’t believe in the resurrection of the dead. They were a smaller group than the Pharisees but wielded much power due to their cooperation with the Roman government. Some of these same men had been responsible for planning and carrying out the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus.

            The councilmen were in a predicament, since the apostle performed this miracle in front of a large crowd. Everyone seemed to know who this lame man was and that he had been unable to walk for over 40 years. They threw Peter and John in jail for the night since it was nearly dark. Peter and John were brought before these men the next morning, where the council point blank asked them by what power and by whose authority did they heal the lame beggar. Peter spoke to them with boldness, as he was filled with the Holy Spirit. He gave sole credit for the miracle to Jesus of Nazareth and when the council threatened them to never speak his name again, Peter went on to ask the men if God would want both he and John to obey these councilmen or obey God? The men could only threaten them again but had to be very careful so as not to cause a riot among the people. 

Because of the miraculous healing of the lame beggar, the crowd was praising God. The council definitely took notice of this and let Peter and John go, but would no doubt be watching them closely. When you serve God, you need Holy Spirit boldness to stand up for what is godly and just in this sin sick world. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In his name & for his glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.