Summary of Acts 4:7

This verse occurs in the context of the early apostles being brought before the Sanhedrin after the healing of a lame man. The Jewish leaders are questioning Peter and John, confronting them about the miraculous act and the authority by which they performed it. This inquiry highlights the tension between the new Christian movement and the established religious leadership of the time.

Thematic Connections

Acts 4:7 can be explored through various themes, including:

• Authority in Christianity: The episode underscores the question of divine versus human authority.
• Miracles and their significance: Understand the role of miracles in affirming the apostles' message.
• Conflict between the Church and religious leaders: The verse illustrates the ongoing struggles faced by the early Church.

Bible Cross-References

This verse relates to several other scriptures that enhance its understanding:

• Acts 3:6: "Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." - This verse shows the power of Jesus' name in actions.
• Matthew 28:18: "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." - This emphasizes the authority given to Jesus that the apostles draw upon.
• Luke 10:19: "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." - Power bestowed upon the disciples points to their mission.
• John 14:13-14: "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son." - A connection between prayer and authority in Jesus’ name.
• Acts 4:10: "Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole." - The victorious proclamation of Jesus’ power linked to the healing.
• 1 Peter 2:9: "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." - Highlights the identity and authority of believers.
• Acts 5:28: "Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? And, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us." - Illustrates the continued conflict with authority.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes the boldness and spiritual authority of the apostles in confronting the very leaders who had condemned Jesus. It serves as a reminder of the importance of speaking truth in the face of opposition.
• Albert Barnes: He discusses the significance of invoking Jesus' name in miracles and teachings, noting that it symbolizes the divine authority and connection to the heavenly kingdom.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke focuses on the implications of the inquiry made by the Jewish council, highlighting their inability to deny the miracles while also trying to discredit the apostles’ claim to authority.

Inter-Biblical Dialogue

Acts 4:7 engages in a broader conversation within Scripture regarding power and authority. It connects to:

• Moses and Pharaoh: Similar questions of authority arose during Moses’ confrontation with Pharaoh, where God's power was displayed over Egyptian gods.
• The Prophets: Prophets like Elijah and Elisha performed miracles to authenticate their ministry, connecting to the pattern laid out in Acts.
• The Final Commission: Jesus instructs the disciples to go forth in His name, linking back to Acts as a continuation of that mandate.

Conclusion

Acts 4:7 serves as a vital verse in understanding the early Christian community’s challenges and affirmations. By analyzing this scripture through various commentaries and cross-references, one can gain a deeper insight into the roles of authority, faith, and the power of the name of Jesus.