Translations
Original
Notes
Herod had Peter guarded by four squads of soldiers, making it impossible for the apostle to escape (compare 12:6). God was in control, even though the circumstances seemed impossible for humans to overcome (compare 4:27–31; Genesis 18:14; Jeremiah 32:17, 27; Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37; 18:27).
Jesus had prophesied that his followers would experience persecution and difficulty (Luke 11:49–51). For the first time since his death, Roman authorities acted violently against the church. James, the brother of John, was among the first disciples Jesus called (Mark 1:16–20; Luke 5:1–11). He was one of the first Christians killed because of his faith.
King Herod Agrippa took action to intentionally harm the church (Acts 12:20–23). It is possible that doing this was meant to strengthen his political alignment with the Jewish people. The letter of James, the brother of Jesus, was probably written after this persecution effort to the Christians who were scattered (see 8:1–4; James Book Introduction, “Date of Writing”).
Herod Agrippa I Simon Peter God Protects His Servant God Works through Prayer Persecution The Cross and Passover
Events
- Herod imprisons Peterc. AD 40
People
Passover: An annual Jewish feast commemorating the Exodus
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Book of the Acts of the Apostles Caligula Chronology of the Bible (New Testament) Claudius First Jewish Revolt Herod, Herodian Family Letter to the Galatians Persecution Peter, the Apostle Quaternion
Topics
Christian Minister: Persecution: Peter Criminals: Confined in Prisons God: Preserver: Peter Herod: Son of Aristobulus (Herod Agrippa I) Imprisonment of Peter Jerusalem: Roman Rulers Who Resided in Herod (Herod Agrippa I) Persecution of the Apostles Peter: Imprisoned and Delivered by an Angel Prison: General Scriptures Concerning Prisoners: Peter Prisons used for Confining: Condemned Persons Till Executed Protection: Peter Quaternion: A Squad of Four Soldiers Rulers: Wicked: Herod Agrippa I, Persecuting the Congregation in Jerusalem Soldiers: Guard Prisoners