Acts 4:11

Acts 4:11 (KJV) presents a powerful declaration by the Apostle Peter, directly identifying Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of ancient prophecy.

Context

This verse is part of Peter's bold address to the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish religious court, after he and John were arrested for healing a lame man at the Temple gate (Acts 3:6-8). The Jewish leaders, including Annas and Caiaphas, questioned Peter and John by what power or name they had performed this miracle. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:8), uses this opportunity not only to explain the healing but also to preach the gospel, directly challenging their rejection of Jesus.

Key Themes

• Jesus as the Rejected Cornerstone: Peter unequivocally identifies Jesus as "the stone which was set at nought of you builders." The "builders" refer to the Jewish religious authorities who, despite their role in constructing the spiritual house of Israel, rejected Jesus, the Messiah. This imagery comes directly from Psalm 118:22, a prophecy well-known to the Jewish leaders. Despite their rejection, Jesus has "become the head of the corner," signifying His supreme importance and foundational role in God's plan of salvation. He is the essential stone that unites and secures the entire spiritual edifice, whether it is the church or God's redemptive work.
• Divine Sovereignty and Human Rejection: The verse highlights the paradox of human rejection against divine purpose. Even though human agents "set at nought" (rejected, despised) Jesus, God's sovereign plan ensured His exaltation. This demonstrates that God's purposes cannot be thwarted by human opposition, but rather, human actions, even rejection, often serve to fulfill prophecy and magnify God's glory.
• Bold Proclamation of Truth: Peter's sermon here, delivered under duress, is a testament to the apostles' courage and conviction in proclaiming the truth about Jesus, even to those who held immense power and authority over them. This fearless witness is a hallmark of the early church empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "set at nought" translates the Greek word apodokimazō (ἀποδοκιμάζω), which means "to reject after examination," "to disapprove," or "to deem unfit." It implies a deliberate and considered rejection. The "head of the corner" (Greek: kephalē gōnias - κεφαλὴ γωνίας) refers to the cornerstone, the chief stone laid at the foundation of a building, crucial for its stability and alignment. It symbolizes ultimate authority, preeminence, and indispensability.

Practical Application

Acts 4:11 offers profound lessons for believers today:

• Christ as Our Foundation: For individuals and the church, Jesus Christ must be the absolute foundation. Any life or institution built on other principles will ultimately fail. Believers are called to build their lives upon Him, the only true foundation.
• Courage in Proclaiming Truth: Like Peter, Christians are called to boldly proclaim the truth of Jesus, even when faced with opposition or skepticism. The message of Christ's saving power remains relevant and essential for all people.
• Understanding Rejection: The verse reminds us that Jesus Himself was rejected by those who should have recognized Him. This helps believers understand that rejection of the gospel message is not a reflection of its truth but often a consequence of human pride or spiritual blindness, just as Jesus warned in John 15:18.