What does Acts 12:4 mean?

Explanation

The referenced verse from Acts 12:4 (King James Version) tells of the apostle Peter's imprisonment by Herod Agrippa I.

King Herod had arrested Peter during the time of Passover, intending to present him to the Jewish people after the observance, which the King James Version refers to as "Easter." However, the term "Easter" here originated from a mistranslation of the Greek word "Pascha," which actually means Passover.

The verse emphasizes both the severity of Peter's captivity, including being guarded by sixteen soldiers, and Herod's intention to make a public spectacle of Peter's trial or execution after the religious festival.

Historical Context

The Book of Acts is authored by Luke and narrates the history of the early Christian Church.

Acts 12 is set against the backdrop of the reign of Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod the Great, who ruled Judea from 41 to 44 A.D.

King Herod Agrippa I was known to be favored by the Romans and had a complex relationship with the Jewish population he ruled.

He was observant of Jewish laws and customs, perhaps explaining his decision to wait until after Passover to present Peter to the people to avoid defiling the holy time.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, the verse demonstrates the ongoing conflict between the early Christian church and the governing authorities that viewed it with hostility.

It also illustrates the providence and sovereignty of God in protecting His apostles for the greater purpose, as Peter's eventual miraculous escape from prison is recounted later in the same chapter.

Practical Applications

The imprisonment of Peter can serve as an example of steadfast faith in times of trials and persecution. Modern believers can draw strength and inspiration from Peter's example, trusting in divine oversight and deliverance even when human circumstances appear dire.

Cross-References

• Acts 12:6-7: "And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly.

And his chains fell off from his hands."

• Acts 12:11: "And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the LORD hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews."

Language Study

The key terms in this verse are:

• "Apprehended" (Greek: "πιάζω, piazō") meaning to seize or arrest.
• "Prison" (Greek: "φυλακή, phylakē") referring to a place of confinement or jail.
• "Quaternions" (Greek: "τετράδιον, tetradion") indicating groups of four soldiers.
• "Easter" (Greek: "Pascha") which is a mistranslation in the KJV and in the original Greek refers to the Jewish Passover.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

During that era, it was common for rulers to demonstrate their power by making public examples of those who were perceived as threats.

Similarly, various ancient cultures such as Roman and Persian societies were known for their public displays of punishment or execution as a form of control and deterrence.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific discussion related to this verse.

However, modern methods of historical research and archaeology can provide additional insights into the inscription practices, justice systems, and societal norms of the first-century Roman world.

Commentaries

Commentators widely note the historical inaccuracy of the term "Easter" in the KJV, pointing out that the event referred to is actually the Jewish Passover.

They also often focus on the supernatural aspect of Peter's coming escape, seeing it as a testament to God's power to protect and free His people.

The extensive security measures taken by Herod (four quaternions of soldiers) further underscore the miraculous nature of Peter's impending release, as recounted by Luke.