4:7 4:7

Acts 4:8

4:9 4:9

Bible Versions

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
Then {G5119} Peter {G4074}, filled {G4130} with the Holy {G40} Ghost {G4151}, said {G2036} unto {G4314} them {G846}, Ye rulers {G758} of the people {G2992}, and {G2532} elders {G4245} of Israel {G2474},
Then Kefa, filled with the Ruach HaKodesh, said to them, “Rulers and elders of the people!
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers and elders of the people!
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders,

Acts 4:8 KJV presents a pivotal moment in the early Christian church, showcasing the Apostle Peter's Spirit-empowered boldness as he stands before the highest Jewish religious court.

Context of Acts 4:8

Following the miraculous healing of a lame man at the Temple gate (Acts 3:6-8), Peter and John were arrested by the Sadducees, priests, and the captain of the temple guard. Their crime was preaching about Jesus' resurrection and proclaiming salvation through His name. Acts 4:8 describes Peter's response when interrogated by the very authorities who had condemned Jesus—the Sanhedrin, comprising the "rulers of the people, and elders of Israel." This setting highlights the immediate confrontation between the burgeoning Christian movement and the established religious order.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Empowerment: The phrase "filled with the Holy Ghost" is central. This was not a general spiritual state but a specific, fresh anointing for the task at hand, enabling Peter to speak with divine authority and courage in the face of intimidation. It echoes the initial outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:4), demonstrating the Spirit's ongoing work in empowering believers for witness.
  • Boldness in Witness: Despite being on trial, Peter addresses his accusers—the powerful "rulers and elders"—with confidence, not fear. This courage is a direct result of the Holy Spirit's presence, allowing him to boldly proclaim the truth about Jesus Christ.
  • Confrontation of Authority: Peter, a humble fisherman, now stands as God's spokesperson before the most influential religious and political leaders of his day. This verse sets the stage for a powerful declaration that challenges their authority and points to the ultimate authority of Jesus.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase for "filled with the Holy Ghost" is plēstheis pneumatos hagiou. This is often used in Acts to denote a fresh, specific infilling or empowering by the Holy Spirit for a particular purpose or proclamation, rather than a permanent state. It signifies a divine enablement that equips the individual to speak God's word with power and conviction, especially in challenging circumstances.

Practical Application

Acts 4:8 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today. When faced with opposition, fear, or the need to speak truth in difficult situations, we can trust in the Holy Spirit's power to equip us. Peter's example demonstrates that divine boldness comes not from personal strength or eloquence, but from being "filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18). This verse encourages Christians to rely on God's empowerment to boldly share their faith and stand for truth, even when it means confronting established norms or powerful figures.

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.

  • Luke 12:11

    And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and [unto] magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say:

  • Luke 12:12

    For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.

  • Matthew 10:19

    But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.

  • Matthew 10:20

    For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.

  • Luke 21:14

    Settle [it] therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:

  • Luke 21:15

    For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.

  • Acts 2:4

    And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
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