New Testament
Acts 5:40
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The council was persuaded. They called the apostles back in, had them beaten, ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and released them.
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And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
What Acts 5:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the council, after much debate, decided to take action against the apostles. They called the apostles back in, showing their authority. The apostles were beaten, a painful reminder of the risks they faced for their beliefs. Despite the punishment, the council ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, trying to silence their message. However, the apostles were determined to continue sharing their faith. This event highlights the struggle between authority and conviction. It shows how powerful the desire to spread a message can be, even in the face of adversity. The apostles' experience serves as a reminder that standing up for what you believe in can come with challenges, but it is often worth the fight. Their resilience inspires us to remain steadfast in our own beliefs, no matter the obstacles we encounter in life. This story encourages us to reflect on our own commitments and the lengths we are willing to go to uphold them, even when faced with opposition.
How to apply Acts 5:40 to your life
When faced with challenges for your beliefs, remember the apostles' courage. Stand firm in your convictions, even when it’s difficult. Reflect on what you truly value and be willing to speak up for it, regardless of the consequences. Your voice matters, and it can inspire others to do the same. Embrace your journey with confidence and strength, knowing you are not alone in your struggles. You can make a difference in the world.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: “We Must Obey God” (Acts 5:17–42)
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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.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Acts 5:40
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 5:40 mean?
Acts 5:40 describes a moment when the council decided to punish the apostles for preaching about Jesus. They were beaten and ordered not to speak in His name, highlighting the conflict between their faith and the authority of the council.
What is the significance of the apostles being beaten in Acts 5:40?
The beating of the apostles in Acts 5:40 signifies the serious risks they faced for their beliefs. It illustrates the lengths to which authorities would go to suppress their message, yet it also emphasizes the apostles' determination to continue sharing their faith despite the punishment.
What does the phrase 'not to speak in the name of Jesus' mean in Acts 5:40?
In Acts 5:40, 'not to speak in the name of Jesus' refers to the council's attempt to silence the apostles' message about Christ. This command reflects the tension between the apostles' mission and the authority's desire to control religious expression.
What is the main message of Acts 5:40?
The main message of Acts 5:40 is about the struggle between faith and authority. It shows that even in the face of persecution, the apostles remained committed to their beliefs, encouraging others to stand firm in their convictions.
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