Acts 5:34

KJV

Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} stood there up {G450} one {G5100} in {G1722} the council {G4892}, a Pharisee {G5330}, named {G3686} Gamaliel {G1059}, a doctor of the law {G3547}, had in reputation {G5093} among all {G3956} the people {G2992}, and commanded {G2753} to put {G4160} the apostles {G652} forth {G1854} a {G5100} little space {G1024};

Complete Jewish Bible

But one of the members of the Sanhedrin rose to his feet, a Parush named Gamli’el, a teacher of the Torah highly respected by all the people. He ordered the men put outside for a little while

Berean Standard Bible

But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a short time.

American Standard Version

But there stood up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in honor of all the people, and commanded to put the men forth a little while.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 5:34 presents a pivotal moment in the early church's history, introducing Gamaliel, a highly respected Pharisee and esteemed teacher of the Law, who intervenes in the Sanhedrin's furious deliberation against the apostles. At a point when the council was intent on executing the apostles for their unwavering proclamation of Jesus' resurrection, Gamaliel rises to offer a voice of measured wisdom and strategic caution, urging the Sanhedrin to consider the potential divine origin of the apostles' movement before taking irreversible action.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the Book of Acts, following the apostles' miraculous release from prison and their continued bold preaching in the Temple courts, despite explicit commands from the Sanhedrin to cease. The apostles, having been rearrested and brought before the council (see [Acts 5:27](/acts/5-27 "Acts 5:27 - Apostles Before the Sanhedrin Again")), faced intense hostility. Peter's uncompromising declaration, "[We ought to obey God rather than men](/acts/5-29 "Acts 5:29 - Peter's Bold Declaration")," coupled with his testimony of Jesus' resurrection and exaltation, "[whom God hath exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour](/acts/5-31 "Acts 5:31 - Jesus Exalted as Prince and Savior")," inflamed the council to the point of murderous rage (see [Acts 5:33](/acts/5-33 "Acts 5:33 - Council's Fury")). It is precisely into this volatile and emotionally charged atmosphere that Gamaliel, a figure of significant authority and wisdom, steps forward to provide a calming, albeit strategic, counter-argument, thereby dramatically altering the immediate fate of the apostles.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Gamaliel, known historically as Gamaliel the Elder, was a grandson of the revered Hillel the Elder, one of the most influential Jewish sages. As a "doctor of the law" (nomodidaskalos), he was an expert in the Mosaic Law and oral traditions, holding a prominent position within the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish judicial and legislative body. His reputation was not merely confined to the religious elite but extended "among all the people," indicating widespread public esteem and trust. This high standing afforded him a unique moral authority, enabling him to command attention and respect even from those who vehemently opposed the apostles. The Sanhedrin itself comprised Sadducees (who denied the resurrection) and Pharisees (who believed in it), often at odds, but united in their opposition to the burgeoning Christian movement. Gamaliel's Pharisaic background, with its emphasis on the Law and tradition, would have lent weight to his counsel, appealing to the council's desire for prudence and adherence to established legal principles.
* **Key Themes:** Gamaliel's intervention in [Acts 5](/acts/5 "Acts 5 - Early Church Persecution and Growth") highlights several key themes. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Providence and Protection**, demonstrating how God can use unexpected individuals, even those outside the immediate circle of faith, to protect His nascent church and guide its early steps. Gamaliel's seemingly pragmatic advice ultimately serves God's purpose by preventing the apostles' execution and allowing the gospel to continue spreading. Secondly, the passage exemplifies **Wisdom and Prudence in Counsel**, contrasting Gamaliel's calm, reasoned approach with the council's impulsive fury. His call for careful deliberation and a "wait-and-see" attitude (as elaborated in [Acts 5:38-39](/acts/5-38-39 "Acts 5:38-39 - Gamaliel's Wise Counsel")) emphasizes the importance of discernment, particularly when dealing with matters of life and death or movements claiming divine origin. Lastly, it illustrates the **Power of Moral Authority and Influence**, as Gamaliel's "reputation among all the people" allowed him to sway a hostile council, demonstrating how personal integrity and public esteem can be leveraged for good, even in challenging circumstances.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gamaliel (Greek, _Gamaliḗl'_):** This proper noun refers to a specific individual, Gamaliel the Elder, a highly respected Jewish rabbi and a leading authority of the first century. His name, of Hebrew origin, means "recompense of God" or "God is my reward." His presence in the narrative immediately signals a shift in the tone of the Sanhedrin's proceedings, as his reputation commanded attention and respect, allowing him to offer a voice of reason amidst the council's rage.
* **doctor of the law (Greek, _nomodidáskalos'_):** This compound word, derived from _nomos_ (law) and _didaskalos_ (teacher), precisely defines Gamaliel's profession and expertise. It signifies an authoritative expounder and instructor of the Jewish Law, equivalent to a highly esteemed rabbi. This title underscores his profound knowledge and mastery of the Mosaic Law and its intricate interpretations, making his legal and theological counsel exceptionally weighty within the Sanhedrin. His advice was not merely opinion but carried the weight of scholarly authority.
* **had in reputation (Greek, _tímios'_):** This adjective describes Gamaliel as "valuable," "honored," or "esteemed." It highlights his high social standing and the widespread respect he commanded, not just among his peers in the Sanhedrin but "among all the people." This reputation was crucial, as it was the basis for the council's willingness to listen to his counsel, even when it contradicted their immediate desire for retribution against the apostles. His esteemed status allowed him to effectively mediate and de-escalate a volatile situation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then stood there up one in the council,"**: This phrase marks a dramatic shift in the narrative. The word "Then" (G1161, _dé_) indicates a transition, introducing a new, pivotal action. Amidst the chaos and fury of the Sanhedrin, a single individual, Gamaliel, rises, signaling his intention to speak and command attention. His standing up (G450, _anístēmi_) is an act of authority and a prelude to his intervention, demanding silence and respect from the agitated council members.
* **"a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law,"**: This clause provides crucial identification for the individual who has risen. He is identified first by his sect, a "Pharisee" (G5330, _Pharisaîos_), which immediately informs the reader of his theological leanings and commitment to the Law. His specific "name" (G3686, _ónoma_), Gamaliel (G1059, _Gamaliḗl_), further specifies his identity as a renowned figure. The additional descriptor, "a doctor of the law" (G3547, _nomodidáskalos_), emphasizes his profound expertise and authoritative position as a teacher and interpreter of Jewish legal tradition. These titles collectively establish his immense credibility and influence within the Jewish society and the Sanhedrin.
* **"had in reputation among all the people,"**: This phrase elaborates on Gamaliel's standing, indicating that his esteem was not limited to the elite Sanhedrin but extended broadly "among all the people" (G3956, _pâs_ and G2992, _laós_). The word "reputation" (G5093, _tímios_) signifies that he was highly honored and valued. This widespread respect is key to understanding why the Sanhedrin, despite their intense anger, paused to listen to his counsel. His moral and intellectual authority was so great that even his opponents would give him a hearing.
* **"and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;"**: Gamaliel's first action, immediately after standing, is to issue a command (G2753, _keleúō_). He directs the council to "put the apostles forth" (G4160, _poiéō_ and G1854, _éxō_)—to remove them from the immediate hearing for "a little space" (G1024, _brachýs_). This strategic move serves two purposes: it allows him to speak freely without the apostles' presence, perhaps to avoid further provoking them or to enable a more candid discussion among the council, and it creates a necessary pause, breaking the emotional intensity and allowing for a more rational deliberation. It demonstrates his immediate control over the proceedings.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 5:34 masterfully employs several literary devices to enhance its narrative impact. **Contrast** is immediately evident, as Gamaliel's calm, measured intervention stands in stark opposition to the "fury" and murderous intent of the Sanhedrin described in [Acts 5:33](/acts/5-33 "Acts 5:33 - The Council's Fury"). This juxtaposition highlights the wisdom and prudence that Gamaliel embodies, serving as a foil to the council's rash emotionalism. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing**, particularly for readers aware of later events in the New Testament. Gamaliel's role as a "doctor of the law" and his high reputation subtly foreshadow the later introduction of Saul of Tarsus, who would identify himself as having been "[brought up at the feet of Gamaliel](/acts/22-3 "Acts 22:3 - Paul's Education Under Gamaliel")" (Acts 22:3). This connection imbues Gamaliel's character with even greater significance, linking him to the future apostle to the Gentiles. Furthermore, the narrative employs **Divine Providence** as a thematic motif, though not a literary device in itself, it functions as a guiding force within the story. Gamaliel's intervention, while appearing to be a purely human act of political prudence, is presented as God's providential hand protecting the nascent church, ensuring the apostles' survival and the continued spread of the gospel. This subtle narrative framing underscores the theological conviction that God is sovereignly at work, even through unexpected channels, to accomplish His purposes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Gamaliel's intervention serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereign hand in protecting His people and advancing His kingdom, often through unexpected means and individuals. His counsel, born of worldly wisdom and legal acumen, unwittingly aligns with divine purposes, demonstrating that God can use even those outside the immediate circle of faith to achieve His will. This episode underscores the biblical principle that wisdom, patience, and discernment are crucial, especially when faced with emotionally charged situations or new movements claiming divine origin. It also highlights the importance of respecting authority and the potential for moral influence to sway public opinion and prevent injustice, even in hostile environments. The narrative implicitly teaches that God's work cannot be thwarted by human opposition, and true movements of God will ultimately prevail.

* [Proverbs 15:22](/proverbs/15-22 "Proverbs 15:22 - Wisdom in Counsel")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalm/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - God's Unchanging Counsel")
* [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes His Purpose")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Gamaliel's example provides a profound lesson for believers and leaders today. In a world often characterized by hasty judgments, emotional reactions, and polarized opinions, Gamaliel models the virtue of measured discernment and patient observation. His counsel encourages us to pause, gather all facts, and consider the long-term implications of our decisions, rather than succumbing to immediate anger or popular sentiment. For those in positions of authority, whether in the church, community, or workplace, Gamaliel's actions underscore the responsibility to act with justice, wisdom, and a willingness to challenge prevailing narratives when necessary, even at personal risk to one's reputation or standing. Ultimately, this passage reminds us to trust in God's ultimate sovereignty, recognizing that His purposes will prevail, and that He can orchestrate events and use individuals in surprising ways to protect His people and advance His gospel, even when circumstances seem dire. Our role is to seek wisdom, exercise prudence, and remain faithful, knowing that God is at work behind the scenes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Gamaliel's calm demeanor in a hostile environment challenge my own tendencies to react impulsively to conflict or opposition?**
* **In what situations might I be called to offer a voice of reason or caution, even if it goes against the prevailing sentiment of a group?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater reliance on God's sovereignty and trust that He can use unexpected means to accomplish His purposes, even when I don't fully understand them?**
* **What does Gamaliel's example teach me about the responsible use of influence and reputation for the good of others or the advancement of truth?**

### FAQ

**Was Gamaliel a secret follower of Jesus, or did he become a Christian later?**

Answer: The biblical text does not provide any indication that Gamaliel was a follower of Jesus, either secretly or openly. His advice in [Acts 5:38-39](/acts/5-38-39 "Acts 5:38-39 - Gamaliel's Prudent Advice") is rooted in a pragmatic, wait-and-see approach, suggesting that if the apostles' movement was merely human, it would fail, but if it was from God, it could not be overthrown. This perspective aligns with a cautious, observant Jewish scholar who respected the possibility of divine intervention but did not necessarily endorse the apostles' claims about Jesus. Historical tradition outside the New Testament does not suggest he converted to Christianity. His role appears to be that of a wise and influential Jewish leader who, through divine providence, inadvertently protected the early church.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Gamaliel's intervention, though seemingly a pragmatic act by a respected Jewish leader, ultimately serves as a powerful testament to the ongoing reign and protection of Christ over His nascent church. Just as Jesus promised that "[the gates of hell shall not prevail against it](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church's Foundation")," Gamaliel's counsel prevented the immediate destruction of the apostles, allowing the gospel of Christ to continue its unstoppable advance. This episode highlights how Christ, as the "[Head over all things to the church](/ephesians/1-22 "Ephesians 1:22 - Christ as Head of the Church")," providentially orchestrates circumstances and uses individuals, even those who do not yet recognize Him, to safeguard His body. Gamaliel's wisdom, which saved the apostles from execution, mirrors Christ's own divine wisdom in establishing and preserving His church against all opposition. His actions foreshadow the ultimate triumph of Christ's kingdom, demonstrating that no human council or earthly power can thwart the purposes of the "[Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")" who reigns supreme and continually builds His church, ensuring that "[all things work together for good to them that love God](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")," even through the unexpected counsel of a Pharisee.

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

Acts 22:3

¶ I am verily a man [which am] a Jew, born in Tarsus, [a city] in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, [and] taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.

Luke 2:46

And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.

Luke 5:17

¶ And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was [present] to heal them.

Psalms 76:10

Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.

John 7:50

Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)

John 7:53

And every man went unto his own house.

Acts 23:7

And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.