New Testament
Acts 12:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After seizing him, he put him in prison and handed him over to four squads of four soldiers each to guard him, intending to bring him out before the people after the Passover.
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And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.
What Acts 12:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a tense moment where a leader has captured a key figure, intending to make a public spectacle of him after a significant religious festival. The leader places him in a secure prison, guarded by a large number of soldiers to prevent any escape. This shows the seriousness of the situation and the lengths to which authorities will go to maintain control. The mention of the Passover highlights the cultural and religious context, emphasizing the importance of timing in this event. The leader's plan to bring the captured individual before the people suggests a desire to demonstrate power and authority. This moment is filled with tension, as the fate of the captured person hangs in the balance. It serves as a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change and how people can find themselves in dire situations. The story unfolds with a sense of anticipation, leaving us wondering what will happen next and how faith can play a role in such trials. It invites us to reflect on our own challenges and the hope that can emerge from them.
How to apply Acts 12:4 to your life
When facing difficult situations, remember that timing and patience can be crucial. Just as the captured individual faced uncertainty, we too may encounter challenges that test our faith. Trust that there is a greater plan at work, even when circumstances seem dire. Stay hopeful and resilient in the face of adversity, knowing that change is possible at any moment. This can inspire us to remain steadfast in our beliefs and actions.
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
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Related Bible verses
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 12:4 mean by 'four squads of four soldiers'?
In Acts 12:4, the phrase 'four squads of four soldiers' refers to a total of sixteen soldiers assigned to guard Peter in prison. This level of security indicates the seriousness of the situation, as Peter was a prominent leader in the early church. The Roman authorities wanted to ensure that he could not escape before his scheduled public trial.
Why was Peter imprisoned during Passover?
Peter was imprisoned during Passover because King Herod intended to bring him out for a public trial after the festival. This timing was significant, as Passover was a major Jewish celebration, and Herod likely wanted to capitalize on the large crowds present in Jerusalem to demonstrate his authority and suppress the growing influence of the Christian movement.
What can we learn about faith from Acts 12:4?
Acts 12:4 illustrates the theme of faith in the face of adversity. Despite being imprisoned and facing potential execution, Peter's story encourages believers to trust in God's plan. The passage invites reflection on how faith can provide strength during challenging times, reminding us that even in dire situations, hope and divine intervention are possible.
How does Acts 12:4 relate to the theme of authority?
Acts 12:4 highlights the theme of authority through the actions of King Herod, who uses his power to imprison Peter. This demonstrates how political leaders can exert control over individuals, especially in religious contexts. The passage serves as a reminder of the tension between earthly authority and spiritual conviction, as well as the ultimate sovereignty of God over human affairs.
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