New Testament
Acts 4:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this scene, we see a gathering of influential religious leaders in Jerusalem.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Annas the high priest was there, along with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and everyone else from the high priest's family.
And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this scene, we see a gathering of influential religious leaders in Jerusalem. Annas, the high priest, is a key figure, along with Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, who are all part of the high priest's family. This group represents the established religious authority of the time. Their presence indicates the seriousness of the situation surrounding the early followers of Jesus. They are likely concerned about the growing influence of these followers and the potential challenge to their authority. The mention of family ties highlights the close-knit nature of religious leadership, where power and influence often run in families. This gathering sets the stage for important discussions and decisions that will impact the future of the early church. It reminds us that those in power often feel threatened by new ideas and movements that challenge the status quo. Understanding this context helps us appreciate the struggles faced by early believers as they sought to share their message amidst opposition.
How to apply Acts 4:6 to your life
When facing opposition or challenges in our lives, we can remember that even the early followers of Jesus encountered resistance. It's important to stay true to our beliefs and values, even when others may not understand or support us. Surrounding ourselves with supportive communities can help us navigate these challenges effectively. We can draw strength from their experiences and courage to persevere in our own journeys of faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 4:6 mean?
Acts 4:6 describes a gathering of key religious leaders in Jerusalem, including Annas and Caiaphas, who were concerned about the early followers of Jesus. Their presence highlights the established religious authority and the potential threat they felt from the growing influence of these new believers.
Who are the key figures mentioned in Acts 4:6?
The key figures in Acts 4:6 are Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, along with others from the high priest's family. They represent the religious leadership of the time and are gathered to address the situation regarding the early church.
What is the significance of family ties in Acts 4:6?
The mention of family ties in Acts 4:6 emphasizes how power and influence within the religious leadership were often concentrated within certain families. This close-knit structure shows how authority was maintained and how challenges to that authority were perceived as threats.
What does Acts 4:6 reveal about opposition to early Christians?
Acts 4:6 reveals that early Christians faced significant opposition from established religious leaders who felt threatened by their growing influence. This context helps us understand the struggles early believers encountered as they shared their message.
The Book of Acts
Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias
Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.
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