Acts 12:13

And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.

And {G1161} as Peter {G4074} knocked at {G2925} the door {G2374} of the gate {G4440}, a damsel {G3814} came {G4334} to hearken {G5219}, named {G3686} Rhoda {G4498}.

He knocked at the outside door, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer.

He knocked at the outer gate, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer it.

And when he knocked at the door of the gate, a maid came to answer, named Rhoda.

Context

Acts 12:13 occurs immediately after a dramatic divine intervention. Peter, who had been imprisoned by King Herod Agrippa I and was scheduled for execution, was miraculously freed by an angel (Acts 12:7-11). Peter then makes his way to the house of Mary, the mother of John Mark, where many believers were gathered, earnestly praying for his release (Acts 12:12). This verse marks the moment Peter arrives at their doorstep, a vivid demonstration of God answering prayer in an unexpected way.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Deliverance: The verse is a crucial point in the narrative of Peter's astonishing release, highlighting God's power to intervene in seemingly impossible situations. It sets the stage for the church's reaction to this miraculous deliverance.
  • The Power of Prayer: While the believers were praying for Peter's freedom, their prayer was answered so quickly and dramatically that they initially struggled to believe it was true. This underscores the power of fervent prayer.
  • Human Response to the Miraculous: Rhoda's reaction, though seemingly mundane, sets the stage for the comedic and faith-testing disbelief of the praying assembly, showing how even those who pray for miracles can be surprised when they occur.
  • Humble Service: Rhoda, a "damsel" or servant girl, is the first to encounter the miraculously freed apostle, highlighting that God often uses ordinary individuals in significant moments.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "damsel" translates the Greek word paidiske (παιδίσκη), which typically refers to a young girl or, more specifically, a female servant or slave. This indicates Rhoda's social status within the household of Mary and the early Christian community. Her role was to "hearken" (Greek: akouō - ἀκούω), meaning to listen or answer the door, which was a common duty for servants in ancient homes. Her quick recognition of Peter's voice, as described in the subsequent verse, is key to the unfolding drama.

Practical Application

Acts 12:13 offers several enduring lessons for believers today:

  • Expect God's Answers: Just as the early church prayed for Peter, we are encouraged to pray earnestly, yet also be prepared for God's answers, even when they seem unbelievable or come in unexpected ways.
  • God Uses Ordinary People: Rhoda's brief but pivotal role reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their social standing or perceived importance, to facilitate His plans. Her simple act of answering the door became part of a significant moment in early church history, much like how God uses the humble to confound the wise.
  • Perseverance in Prayer: The gathering at Mary's house exemplifies persistent prayer. While they were surprised by the answer, their continuous intercession was vital (Luke 18:1).
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 12:16

    But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened [the door], and saw him, they were astonished.

  • Luke 13:25

    When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:

  • John 18:16

    But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter.

  • John 18:17

    Then saith the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also [one] of this man's disciples? He saith, I am not.

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