Acts 11:4

But Peter rehearsed [the matter] from the beginning, and expounded [it] by order unto them, saying,

But {G1161} Peter {G4074} rehearsed the matter from the beginning {G756}, and expounded {G1620} it by order {G2517} unto them {G846}, saying {G3004},

In reply, Kefa began explaining in detail what had actually happened:

But Peter began and explained to them the whole sequence of events:

But Peter began, and expounded the matter unto them in order, saying,

Commentary

Acts 11:4 (KJV) marks a crucial moment in the early church's development. Following his return to Jerusalem, Peter faces scrutiny from Jewish believers regarding his interaction with Gentiles. This verse highlights Peter's response: "But Peter rehearsed [the matter] from the beginning, and expounded [it] by order unto them, saying,"

Context

Upon hearing that Peter had entered the homes of uncircumcised Gentiles and eaten with them, the Jewish believers in Jerusalem, particularly those of the circumcision party, were critical and questioned him (see Acts 11:2-3). This verse sets the stage for Peter's detailed defense, where he systematically recounts the divine intervention that led him to Cornelius's household. His narrative begins with his transformative vision in Joppa (Acts 10:9-16) and culminates in the undeniable outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Gentiles (Acts 10:44-48).

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Accountability: Peter, despite being a leading apostle, submits to the scrutiny of the Jerusalem church. This demonstrates the importance of transparency and accountability within early Christian leadership, setting a precedent for handling disputes.
  • Divine Mandate: Peter's meticulous explanation underscores that his actions were not arbitrary but were direct responses to God's explicit commands and miraculous signs. He was following God's will, not his own inclination or breaking Jewish law lightly.
  • Inclusion of Gentiles: This narrative is foundational to the expansion of the Gospel beyond its Jewish roots. Peter's testimony here paved the way for the church to understand that salvation in Christ was for all people, regardless of ethnic background or prior religious practice. This theme would later be debated and affirmed at the Jerusalem Council.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses two significant words to describe Peter's action:

  • "Rehearsed" comes from the Greek word anatassomai (ἀνατάσσομαι), which means "to arrange in order," "to draw up," or "to recount systematically." It implies a structured and comprehensive presentation of facts.
  • "Expounded" is from ektithēmi (ἐκτίθημι), meaning "to set out," "to explain," or "to put forth." This term suggests a clear, detailed explanation designed to clarify and persuade. Together, these words highlight Peter's careful and thorough approach to addressing the concerns of the brethren.

Practical Application

Acts 11:4 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  • The Value of Testimony: Peter's personal testimony, grounded in divine encounters, was powerful enough to overcome deep-seated prejudices. Sharing our own experiences of God's leading can be transformative for others.
  • Challenging Preconceptions: The early church had to grapple with deeply ingrained cultural and religious boundaries. This passage encourages us to be open to God's Spirit leading us beyond our comfort zones and traditional understandings, especially regarding who God welcomes into His family.
  • Unity and Understanding: Peter's willingness to explain, and the Jerusalem church's willingness to listen, fostered unity despite initial disagreement. It underscores the importance of patient communication and seeking understanding when differences arise within the body of Christ, echoing principles of endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Luke 1:3

    It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,

  • Proverbs 15:1

    ¶ A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

  • Joshua 22:21

    ¶ Then the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh answered, and said unto the heads of the thousands of Israel,

  • Joshua 22:31

    And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the children of Manasseh, This day we perceive that the LORD [is] among us, because ye have not committed this trespass against the LORD: now ye have delivered the children of Israel out of the hand of the LORD.

  • Acts 14:27

    And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
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