New Testament
Acts 12:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She recognized Peter's voice, and she was so overjoyed that instead of opening the gate, she ran back inside and announced that Peter was standing at the gate.
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And when she knew Peter’s voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.
What Acts 12:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, a servant girl named Rhoda hears Peter's voice outside the gate. She instantly recognizes him and is overwhelmed with joy. Instead of opening the gate to let him in, she rushes back to tell everyone inside that Peter is there. Her excitement is so great that she forgets the task at hand. This reaction shows how powerful joy can be, sometimes making us act in unexpected ways. Rhoda's response highlights the importance of recognizing moments of hope and celebration, even in difficult times. It also illustrates how our emotions can sometimes lead us to forget practical actions. This story reminds us that joy can be contagious and can inspire us to share good news with others, even if we are caught up in our own excitement. Rhoda's experience encourages us to be attentive to the voices of hope in our lives and to share those moments with others, creating a ripple effect of joy and encouragement in our communities. Her story is a beautiful reminder of the joy that comes from recognizing and celebrating the presence of hope.
How to apply Acts 12:14 to your life
When you experience moments of joy or hope, take a moment to share that with others. Don't let excitement keep you from acting on good news. Recognize the voices of hope around you and spread that joy. Your enthusiasm can inspire others to celebrate too. Remember, sharing joy can strengthen your community and relationships, creating a positive atmosphere for everyone involved. It’s important to be aware of how joy can transform our interactions.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Rescued by an Angel (Acts 12:1–19)
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Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Acts 12:14
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 12:14 mean?
Acts 12:14 describes Rhoda, a servant girl, recognizing Peter's voice and being so joyful that she forgets to open the gate for him. This moment illustrates the overwhelming nature of joy and how it can lead us to act unexpectedly.
What is the significance of Rhoda's reaction in Acts 12:14?
Rhoda's reaction highlights the theme of joy and recognition in moments of hope. Her excitement leads her to rush inside to share the good news instead of letting Peter in, showing how joy can sometimes distract us from immediate tasks.
What does the phrase 'recognized Peter's voice' mean in Acts 12:14?
The phrase 'recognized Peter's voice' indicates that Rhoda was familiar with Peter and his voice, signifying a personal connection. This recognition sparks her overwhelming joy and prompts her to share the news with others.
How does Acts 12:14 relate to themes of community and celebration?
Acts 12:14 illustrates how personal joy can lead to communal celebration. Rhoda's excitement about Peter's presence encourages her to share the good news, fostering a sense of community and collective joy.
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