Acts 4:23

KJV

¶ And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} being let go {G630}, they went {G2064} to {G4314} their own company {G2398}, and {G2532} reported {G518} all {G3745} that the chief priests {G749} and {G2532} elders {G4245} had said {G2036} unto {G4314} them {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Upon being released, they went back to their friends and reported what the head cohanim and elders had said to them.

Berean Standard Bible

On their release, Peter and John returned to their own people and reported everything that the chief priests and elders had said to them.

American Standard Version

And being let go, they came to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said unto them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 4:23 details the immediate actions of Peter and John following their release from the Sanhedrin's custody. Having endured threats and stern warnings for their bold proclamation of Jesus' resurrection, they promptly returned to their community of fellow believers, demonstrating the early church's deep communal bonds and commitment to transparency by reporting every detail of their encounter with the Jewish authorities.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a crucial transition point in the unfolding narrative of the early church in Jerusalem. It directly follows Peter and John's arrest and interrogation by the Sanhedrin, which was provoked by their miraculous healing of a lame man at the Temple gate and Peter's subsequent powerful sermon proclaiming Jesus' resurrection ([Acts 3:1-26](/acts/3-1-26 "Acts 3:1-26 - Healing and Proclamation")). The Sanhedrin, particularly the Sadducees, were "greatly annoyed" by the apostles' teaching of resurrection through Jesus ([Acts 4:1-2](/acts/4-1-2 "Acts 4:1-2 - Arrest of Peter and John")). Despite the council's threats and commands to cease speaking in Jesus' name, Peter and John defiantly declared their inability to stop proclaiming what they had seen and heard ([Acts 4:18-20](/acts/4-18-20 "Acts 4:18-20 - Peter and John's Defiance")). Acts 4:23 marks their return to the Christian community, setting the stage for the collective prayer of the believers, their renewed boldness, and the subsequent outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which further empowered their witness ([Acts 4:24-31](/acts/4-24-31 "Acts 4:24-31 - The Believers' Prayer and Empowerment")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Acts 4:23 occur within the volatile socio-religious landscape of first-century Jerusalem. The "chief priests and elders" mentioned represent the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish judicial and legislative body under Roman rule. This council comprised Sadducees (who denied the resurrection and were largely aristocratic) and Pharisees (who believed in the resurrection but often opposed Jesus). The Sadducees' particular animosity stemmed from the apostles' teaching of resurrection, which challenged their theological tenets. While the Sanhedrin possessed significant religious authority, their political power was limited by Rome, preventing them from executing Peter and John without Roman approval. Their decision to release the apostles, despite their anger, was influenced by their fear of the people, who glorified God for the healing miracle ([Acts 4:21](/acts/4-21 "Acts 4:21 - The Sanhedrin's Fear")). The concept of "their own company" (Gk. _idios_) highlights the nascent Christian community's identity as a distinct, close-knit group, forming a spiritual family within the broader Jewish society, often meeting in private homes or specific gathering places.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 4:23 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Bold Witness and Spirit Empowerment**. Peter and John, filled with the Holy Spirit, displayed remarkable courage before the highest Jewish court, refusing to compromise their testimony about Jesus ([Acts 4:8-12](/acts/4-8-12 "Acts 4:8-12 - Peter's Spirit-filled Defense")). Secondly, the verse highlights the reality of **Persecution and Opposition** that the early church faced from religious authorities, foreshadowing the increasing hostility they would encounter as they proclaimed the gospel. Thirdly, and perhaps most prominently in this specific verse, is the theme of **Community and Fellowship**. The apostles' immediate return to "their own company" emphasizes the vital role of mutual support, shared experience, and collective strength within the early Christian community. This communal bond was essential for navigating external pressures and fostering spiritual resilience, as demonstrated by their unified prayer in the subsequent verses ([Acts 4:24-31](/acts/4-24-31 "The Early Church's Prayer")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **let go (Greek, _apolýō'_):** This word (G630) means "to free fully," implying release, dismissal, or setting at liberty. In this context, it signifies Peter and John's official release from the custody of the Sanhedrin. It indicates that the authorities, despite their desire to punish the apostles, were compelled to dismiss them, primarily due to the public's positive reaction to the miracle and their fear of popular unrest. This "letting go" was not an act of grace but a strategic decision by the council.
* **own company (Greek, _ídios'_):** This term (G2398) refers to "pertaining to self," or "one's own," implying something private, separate, or belonging to oneself. Here, "their own company" (πρὸς τοὺς ἰδίους, _pros tous idious_) denotes a specific, intimate group of people to whom Peter and John belonged and with whom they shared a deep bond of faith and purpose. It signifies the close-knit, familial nature of the early Christian community, distinguishing them from the broader populace or the authorities. This was not merely an acquaintance but their spiritual family.
* **reported (Greek, _apangéllō'_):** This word (G518) means "to announce," "declare," or "bring word." It implies a formal and comprehensive recounting of events. Peter and John did not merely mention their experience but "reported all" (πάντα ὅσα, _panta hosa_), indicating a full and transparent disclosure of the threats, warnings, and the entire interaction with the chief priests and elders. This act of reporting was crucial for informing the community, enabling shared understanding, and fostering a collective response.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And being let go":** This clause highlights the immediate consequence of the Sanhedrin's decision. Despite their desire to silence the apostles, the authorities were forced to release Peter and John, primarily due to the widespread public recognition of the miracle and their fear of popular backlash. This release underscores the divine protection and the inability of human authorities to ultimately thwart God's purposes.
* **"they went to their own company":** Upon release, Peter and John did not disperse or retreat into isolation. Their immediate action was to seek out their fellow believers, their "own company." This phrase emphasizes the profound sense of belonging, unity, and shared identity within the early Christian community. It demonstrates that fellowship was not merely an option but a vital, instinctive refuge and source of strength for believers facing external pressure.
* **"and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them":** This final clause reveals the transparency and communal accountability within the early church. Peter and John fully disclosed every detail of their interrogation, including the threats and warnings they received. This open communication was crucial for informing the community, allowing them to understand the nature of the opposition, and enabling them to collectively process the experience and formulate a unified, Spirit-led response, as seen in their subsequent prayer.

#### Literary Devices
Luke employs several literary devices in this concise verse. The use of **Narrative Progression** is evident as the verse smoothly transitions from the apostles' release to their immediate action of rejoining their community, setting the stage for the subsequent communal prayer. There is a strong sense of **Emphasis** on the communal aspect, highlighted by the phrase "their own company," which underscores the solidarity and intrinsic belonging within the early church. The phrase "reported all" signifies **Completeness** and **Transparency**, emphasizing the full disclosure of information within the community, fostering trust and collective understanding. Furthermore, the verse subtly employs **Foreshadowing**, as the report of the authorities' threats hints at the escalating persecution the church would face, preparing the reader for the challenges to come.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 4:23 powerfully illustrates the early church's understanding of itself as a distinct, unified body, bound together by a common faith and purpose. The apostles' immediate return to "their own company" underscores the theological conviction that Christian life is inherently communal, not individualistic. This community served as a vital support system, a place for shared burdens, and a crucible for collective spiritual discernment and action. The transparency with which Peter and John reported their experience highlights the importance of open communication and mutual accountability within the body of Christ. Theologically, this communal response to persecution reflects a deep trust in God's sovereignty, believing that even in the face of opposition, God's plan for the spread of the gospel would prevail. It models how believers are to respond to external pressures: not by retreating in fear, but by gathering for prayer, encouragement, and renewed commitment to their mission.

* [Hebrews 10:24-25](/hebrews/10-24-25 "Hebrews 10:24-25 - Exhortation to Fellowship")
* [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ")
* [Matthew 18:20](/matthew/18-20 "Matthew 18:20 - Where Two or Three Are Gathered")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 4:23 offers profound lessons for believers today, emphasizing the enduring importance of Christian community and transparent communication, especially in times of challenge. Just as Peter and John instinctively sought out their "own company" for solace, strength, and shared processing, we are reminded of the indispensable value of active participation in a local body of believers. This verse calls us to cultivate genuine fellowship, where we can openly share our struggles and triumphs, receive encouragement, and pray for one another. It challenges us to be transparent within our spiritual families, fostering an environment of trust where burdens are shared and collective wisdom is sought. When faced with opposition or difficult experiences for our faith, our first impulse should be to gather with those who share our convictions, not to isolate ourselves. This communal support strengthens our resolve, equips us to persevere, and empowers us to continue bearing witness to Christ in a hostile world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How vital is Christian fellowship in your life, especially when facing challenges or persecution?**
* **In what ways can you foster greater transparency and open communication within your church community?**
* **How does the early church's response to persecution, as seen in this verse, inspire your own approach to difficulties for your faith?**
* **What "report" do you need to bring to your "own company" for prayer and support today?**

### FAQ
**What does "their own company" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "their own company" (Greek: _pros tous idious_) refers to the immediate community of believers, the fellow disciples and followers of Jesus with whom Peter and John shared a common faith and purpose. It signifies a close-knit, intimate group, akin to a spiritual family. Upon their release from the Sanhedrin, the apostles instinctively returned to this community, highlighting the strong bonds of fellowship and mutual support that characterized the early church. This was their spiritual home, where they could find understanding, encouragement, and a safe space to share their experiences.

**Why was it important for Peter and John to report "all that the chief priests and elders had said"?**

Answer: Reporting "all" was crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrated transparency and accountability within the early Christian community. The apostles weren't acting independently but as part of a larger body. Secondly, it informed the entire community about the nature and extent of the opposition they were facing from the Jewish authorities. This shared knowledge allowed the believers to understand the threats and the challenges ahead. Thirdly, it enabled a collective, unified response. As seen in the subsequent verses, the community responded to this report with a powerful, unified prayer for boldness and continued witness ([Acts 4:24-31](/acts/4-24-31 "Acts 4:24-31 - The Believers' Prayer")). This open communication fostered trust, strengthened solidarity, and prepared the church for future persecution.

**How does this verse relate to the theme of persecution in Acts?**

Answer: Acts 4:23 is a pivotal verse in the theme of persecution in Acts. It marks the first significant instance of direct opposition from the Jewish religious establishment against the nascent Christian movement. The arrest, interrogation, and threats faced by Peter and John demonstrate that proclaiming Jesus' resurrection would not be met with universal acceptance but with hostility from those whose power or beliefs were challenged. The apostles' immediate reporting of these events to their community sets the pattern for how the early church would collectively respond to persecution—not by retreating, but by gathering, praying, and reaffirming their commitment to Christ's mission, often leading to renewed boldness and further spread of the gospel, even under duress ([Acts 5:40-42](/acts/5-40-42 "Acts 5:40-42 - Apostles Rejoice in Suffering")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 4:23, while detailing the actions of Peter and John, profoundly echoes and foreshadows the Christ-centered reality of the church. The apostles' boldness before the Sanhedrin directly reflects the unwavering courage and truth-telling of Jesus Himself, who faced and defied the same religious authorities ([Matthew 26:57-68](/matthew/26-57-68 "Matthew 26:57-68 - Jesus Before the Sanhedrin")). Their suffering for the sake of His name is a direct participation in Christ's own suffering and rejection ([Colossians 1:24](/colossians/1-24 "Colossians 1:24 - Suffering for Christ")). Furthermore, their immediate return to "their own company" underscores the very nature of the church as the body of Christ, a unified organism where members share in each other's experiences and draw strength from their Head. This communal solidarity is a fulfillment of Jesus' prayer for unity among His followers ([John 17:20-23](/john/17-20-23 "John 17:20-23 - Jesus' Prayer for Unity")). The power and authority with which Peter and John spoke, leading to their release despite the Sanhedrin's opposition, ultimately derived from the resurrected Christ, who promised His disciples power when the Holy Spirit came upon them ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, the events of Acts 4:23 are not merely a historical account but a living testament to the ongoing work of Christ through His unified and Spirit-empowered church, continuing His mission in the world.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 6:14

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

2 Corinthians 6:17

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you,

Acts 12:11

And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and [from] all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

Acts 12:12

And when he had considered [the thing], he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.

Psalms 119:63

¶ I [am] a companion of all [them] that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.

Proverbs 13:20

¶ He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

Malachi 3:16

Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.