New Testament
Acts 5:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Peter and the other apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than people.
Compare translations
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
What Acts 5:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Peter and the apostles are faced with a tough choice. They have been told by the authorities to stop preaching about Jesus, but they know that their mission is to share God's message. Their response highlights a fundamental principle: when human rules conflict with divine commands, loyalty to God takes precedence. This isn't just about defiance; it's about commitment to a higher purpose. The apostles are willing to face consequences for their beliefs, showing their deep faith and courage. Their example encourages us to reflect on our own priorities. Are we willing to stand up for what we believe in, even when it’s unpopular? This passage challenges us to consider where we place our trust and allegiance. It reminds us that true obedience comes from a place of conviction and love for God, not just compliance with societal expectations. In our lives, we may encounter situations where we must choose between following God’s guidance and adhering to human authority. This choice can define our character and faith journey.
How to apply Acts 5:29 to your life
Consider the areas in your life where you might be pressured to conform to societal expectations. Reflect on your values and beliefs. Are there moments when you need to prioritize your faith over popular opinion? Stand firm in your convictions, and trust that God supports you in your choices. Your faith can inspire others to do the same.
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 Must Obey God” (Acts 5:17–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. 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.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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 5:29
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 5:29
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 5:29 teach about obedience to God?
Acts 5:29 emphasizes the importance of prioritizing obedience to God over human authority. Peter and the apostles faced a dilemma when ordered to stop preaching about Jesus. Their response illustrates that when human laws conflict with divine commands, loyalty to God is paramount. This verse encourages believers to evaluate their own lives and consider how they respond to pressures that challenge their faith.
How can I apply Acts 5:29 in my daily life?
To apply Acts 5:29, reflect on areas where you feel pressured to conform to societal norms that contradict your faith. Identify situations where standing up for your beliefs may be necessary, even if it leads to conflict or discomfort. By prioritizing your commitment to God, you can inspire others and strengthen your own faith. Remember, true obedience stems from a deep conviction and love for God.
Why did Peter and the apostles choose to disobey the authorities?
Peter and the apostles chose to disobey the authorities because they believed their mission to preach the gospel was divinely mandated. They understood that their commitment to God and His message took precedence over human laws. This decision highlights their deep faith and willingness to face persecution for their beliefs, serving as an example for all believers to prioritize their relationship with God above societal pressures.
What can we learn from the courage of Peter and the apostles?
The courage of Peter and the apostles teaches us the importance of standing firm in our convictions, even in the face of opposition. Their willingness to prioritize God's commands over human authority inspires us to reflect on our own faith journeys. It encourages us to be bold in sharing our beliefs and to trust that God will support us in our choices, reinforcing the idea that true faith often requires courage and commitment.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.