New Testament
Acts 4:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, answered them, "Rulers of the people and elders of Israel,
Compare translations
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
What Acts 4:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Peter, empowered by the Holy Spirit, stands before the leaders of Israel. He is not just speaking from his own thoughts; he is inspired by a divine presence. This shows us that when we face challenges or opposition, we can rely on a higher strength. Peter addresses the rulers directly, acknowledging their authority but also asserting his own purpose. His courage is a reminder that we can speak truthfully and boldly, even in difficult situations. The Holy Spirit gives us the confidence to share our beliefs and stand firm in our convictions. This passage encourages us to seek that same empowerment in our lives, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. When we feel overwhelmed, we can invite the Holy Spirit to guide us, just as Peter did. His example teaches us the importance of being filled with purpose and conviction, especially when we are called to speak out for what is right and just. We can draw strength from this story to face our own challenges.
How to apply Acts 4:8 to your life
When you encounter difficult conversations or situations, remember Peter's example. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to give you strength and clarity. Stand firm in your beliefs and speak with confidence, knowing you are supported by a greater power. Trust that you can make a difference in your community by sharing your truth boldly and lovingly. Be inspired to act with courage in your daily life, just as Peter did in this moment.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: “We Cannot Stop Speaking” (Acts 4:1–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 4:8
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 4:8
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 4:8 mean?
Acts 4:8 describes Peter speaking to the leaders of Israel, empowered by the Holy Spirit. This highlights the importance of divine inspiration when facing authority and challenges.
What is the significance of being 'filled with the Holy Spirit' in Acts 4:8?
Being 'filled with the Holy Spirit' signifies that Peter is guided and strengthened by a divine presence, enabling him to speak boldly and truthfully in a challenging situation.
How does Acts 4:8 relate to courage in difficult situations?
Acts 4:8 serves as a reminder that, like Peter, we can find courage through the Holy Spirit when facing difficult conversations or opposition.
What can we learn from Peter's response in Acts 4:8?
Peter's response teaches us the value of relying on the Holy Spirit for strength and clarity, encouraging us to speak out with confidence in our beliefs.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.