Acts 5:41

KJV

And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G3767} they departed {G4198}{G3303} from {G575} the presence {G4383} of the council {G4892}, rejoicing {G5463} that {G3754} they were counted worthy {G2661} to suffer shame {G818} for {G5228} his {G846} name {G3686}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The emissaries left the Sanhedrin overjoyed at having been considered worthy of suffering disgrace on account of him.

Berean Standard Bible

The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.

American Standard Version

They therefore departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 5:41 vividly portrays the radical response of the early apostles after being flogged and commanded by the Jewish Sanhedrin to cease preaching Jesus. Far from being dejected or defeated, they departed from the council's presence filled with profound joy, considering it a divine honor and privilege to suffer public shame and physical abuse for the sake of Jesus's name and authority. This counter-cultural reaction underscores their unwavering devotion to Christ and their deep understanding that identification with His suffering was a mark of divine favor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a dramatic and intense confrontation between the apostles and the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin. After a miraculous release from prison by an angel and their subsequent re-arrest for continuing to preach in the temple, Peter and the other apostles boldly declared, "[We ought to obey God rather than men!](/acts/5-29 "Acts 5:29 - Peter's Declaration to the Sanhedrin")" This defiant stance, coupled with the growing influence of the Christian message, enraged the council, who initially considered putting them to death. However, the wise counsel of Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee, persuaded them to instead beat the apostles and release them, hoping this would deter their activities ([Acts 5:34-40](/acts/5-34-40 "Acts 5:34-40 - Gamaliel's Counsel and the Sanhedrin's Decision")). Acts 5:41 records the apostles' astonishing response to this physical and public humiliation, setting the stage for their continued, unhindered proclamation of the Gospel, as affirmed in the very next verse: "[And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ](/acts/5-42 "Acts 5:42 - Apostles Continue Preaching")."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Sanhedrin was the highest Jewish religious and judicial body in Jerusalem, wielding significant authority under Roman oversight. For them to order a public beating (likely with rods, as per Roman custom, or lashes, as per Jewish law, though the text does not specify the method but implies severe physical punishment) was an act of profound public dishonor and humiliation. In ancient Jewish society, public shame was a powerful deterrent, often considered worse than physical pain itself. To be "counted worthy to suffer shame" for a cause was entirely counter-cultural. The apostles, as followers of Jesus, were seen as a burgeoning sect within Judaism, challenging the established religious order and claiming that a crucified man was the Messiah. This message was scandalous to many, and their persecution was a direct consequence of their adherence to and proclamation of this "name" – the authority and person of Jesus Christ.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 5:41 encapsulates several pivotal themes that permeate the book of Acts and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Authority vs. Human Authority**. The apostles' unwavering commitment to "[obey God rather than men](/acts/5-29 "Acts 5:29 - Peter's Declaration to the Sanhedrin")" demonstrates their conviction that God's commands supersede any human decree, even when it leads to suffering. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Paradoxical Nature of Joy in Suffering**. The apostles' rejoicing in the face of persecution is a profound theological statement, aligning with Jesus's own teachings in the Beatitudes, where He declared, "[Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad](/matthew/5-11-12 "Matthew 5:11-12 - Blessed Are the Persecuted")" ([Matthew 5:11-12](/matthew/5-11-12 "Matthew 5:11-12 - Blessed Are the Persecuted")). This joy is not superficial but rooted in their deep identification with Christ and the honor of being chosen to bear reproach for Him. Finally, the verse underscores the **Centrality of "His Name"**. The suffering was "for his name," signifying that their persecution was directly tied to their allegiance to Jesus Christ, His person, His message, and His divine authority, which they continued to boldly proclaim ([Acts 5:42](/acts/5-42 "Acts 5:42 - Apostles Continue Preaching")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **counted worthy (Greek, _kataxióō_):** G2661 - From *κατά* (kata) and *ἀξιόω* (axioō), meaning "to deem entirely deserving." This word signifies a divine assessment, an act of God's grace by which the apostles were considered fit or privileged to endure suffering for Christ. It elevates their experience from a mere misfortune or punishment to an honored status bestowed by God Himself, emphasizing that this worthiness was not earned but graciously given.
* **suffer shame (Greek, _atimázō_):** G818 - From *ἄτιμος* (atimos), meaning "to render infamous," "to contemn," or "to maltreat." This term describes the public dishonor, disgrace, and physical abuse inflicted upon the apostles. It highlights the stark contrast between the world's perception of their suffering as ignominious and their own spiritual perception of it as a badge of honor.
* **name (Greek, _ónoma_):** G3686 - From a presumed derivative of the base of *γινώσκω* (ginōskō), meaning a "name" literally or figuratively, encompassing "authority" and "character." In this context, "his name" refers not merely to the literal word "Jesus" but to the entire person, authority, power, message, and reputation of Jesus Christ. To suffer "for his name" means to suffer for one's allegiance to Him, for proclaiming His message, and for embodying His character.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they departed from the presence of the council":** This clause describes the physical act of the apostles leaving the Sanhedrin's chamber after their interrogation and beating. It marks their release from the immediate legal and physical confrontation, yet it is not a departure in defeat but with a transformed perspective.
* **"rejoicing that they were counted worthy":** This is the heart of the verse, revealing the apostles' astonishing emotional and spiritual state. Their "rejoicing" (Greek: *chaírō*, G5463, meaning to be "cheerful" or "calmly happy") was not a superficial or masochistic pleasure in pain, but a deep, spiritual joy. This joy stemmed from the profound realization that God Himself had "counted them worthy" (Greek: *kataxióō*, G2661) – deemed them deserving or privileged – to participate in a unique way in Christ's experience. This divine validation transformed their suffering into an honor.
* **"to suffer shame for his name":** This final clause specifies the nature and purpose of their suffering. They endured "shame" (Greek: *atimázō*, G818), which encompassed public disgrace, dishonor, and the physical pain of the beating. The crucial phrase "for his name" (Greek: *hypér autou onomatos*, G5228 G846 G3686) clarifies that their suffering was directly on account of Jesus Christ – His person, His authority, His message, and their unwavering allegiance to Him. It was not random suffering, but suffering with a divine purpose and a profound connection to the Lord they served.

#### Literary Devices
The verse powerfully employs **Paradox** and **Irony**. The most striking literary device is the **Paradox** of "rejoicing" in "suffering shame." Humanly speaking, suffering and shame evoke sorrow, anger, or despair. Yet, the apostles' response is diametrically opposed to this expectation, presenting a profound spiritual truth: that identification with Christ can transform even the most ignominious experiences into sources of joy and honor. This paradox underscores the radical nature of the Christian faith. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** in the Sanhedrin's actions. Their intention was to silence and deter the apostles through punishment and public humiliation. However, their efforts inadvertently served to strengthen the apostles' resolve, deepen their joy, and ultimately fuel their continued, even more fervent, proclamation of the Gospel, as evidenced in [Acts 5:42](/acts/5-42 "Acts 5:42 - Apostles Continue Preaching"). The "shame" intended to break them instead became a badge of honor, affirming their divine calling.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 5:41 profoundly connects to the broader biblical theology of suffering for righteousness, portraying it not as a misfortune to be avoided, but as a divinely appointed privilege and a pathway to deeper identification with Christ. The apostles' joy in the face of public humiliation and physical pain exemplifies a counter-cultural spiritual posture rooted in the understanding that their suffering was not in vain but held eternal significance. This perspective transforms the perceived negative of persecution into a positive affirmation of their faith and God's favor, aligning their experience with the prophetic words of Jesus and the later teachings of the apostles themselves. It underscores the truth that true honor comes from God's assessment, not human accolades or avoidance of discomfort.

* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are the Persecuted") - "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven... Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven."
* [Philippians 1:29](/philippians/1-29 "Philippians 1:29 - Privilege to Suffer for Christ") - "For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake."
* [1 Peter 4:16](/1_peter/4-16 "1 Peter 4:16 - Suffering as a Christian") - "Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 5:41 offers a profound challenge and encouragement for believers in every age. In a world that often prioritizes comfort, acceptance, and the avoidance of any form of shame or difficulty, the apostles' response calls us to re-evaluate our perspective on suffering for Christ. This passage invites us to consider that hardships, ridicule, or opposition encountered because of our faith are not signs of God's disfavor, but potentially opportunities for deeper identification with our Savior and a unique experience of divine honor. It compels us to ask if our joy is rooted in worldly circumstances or in our unwavering allegiance to Christ, even when that allegiance comes at a cost. Embracing this perspective can strengthen our resolve to maintain a bold witness for the Gospel, transforming potential fear into courageous faithfulness and allowing our response to adversity to become a powerful testimony to the transforming power of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you typically react to adversity or criticism for your faith, and how might the apostles' response challenge your natural inclinations?**
* **In what ways can suffering for Christ be considered an "honor" or "privilege" in your life, even if it brings discomfort or shame?**
* **How might this passage encourage you to maintain a bold witness for Christ, even in the face of potential shame or opposition in your contemporary context?**

### FAQ

**Why did the apostles rejoice in suffering?**

Answer: The apostles rejoiced in suffering not because they enjoyed pain or humiliation, but because they understood it to be a profound privilege and a sign of divine favor. Their joy was rooted in several key convictions:
1. **Identification with Christ:** They saw their suffering as a direct participation in the experience of their Lord, Jesus, who Himself endured shame and persecution ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus Endured the Cross")).
2. **Divine Worthiness:** They believed they were "counted worthy" by God to suffer for Him, meaning God Himself had deemed them fit for this high honor. This divine validation far outweighed any human disgrace.
3. **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** Jesus had forewarned His disciples that they would be persecuted for His name's sake and encouraged them to "[rejoice, and be exceeding glad](/matthew/5-11-12 "Matthew 5:11-12 - Blessed Are the Persecuted")" when it happened ([Matthew 5:11-12](/matthew/5-11-12 "Matthew 5:11-12 - Blessed Are the Persecuted")). Their experience confirmed His words.
4. **Unwavering Allegiance:** Their suffering was "for his name," signifying their absolute devotion to Jesus Christ and their commitment to proclaiming His message, regardless of the cost ([Acts 4:18-20](/acts/4-18-20 "Acts 4:18-20 - Peter and John Refuse to Stop Preaching")).

**What does "for his name" mean in this context?**

Answer: In biblical usage, especially in the New Testament, "the name" of Jesus (or "his name") often signifies far more than just the literal word. It encompasses His entire person, His authority, His character, His power, His message, and His reputation. To suffer "for his name" means:
1. **For His Authority:** They were persecuted because they continued to teach and preach by Jesus's authority, not the Sanhedrin's ([Acts 4:18](/acts/4-18 "Acts 4:18 - Sanhedrin Forbids Preaching in Jesus' Name")).
2. **For His Message:** They suffered because they proclaimed the Gospel message about Jesus as the resurrected Messiah and Lord.
3. **For His Person:** Their allegiance was to Jesus Himself as Lord and Savior, and this allegiance was the direct cause of their persecution.
4. **For His Glory:** Ultimately, their suffering served to glorify Jesus, demonstrating the power of His Spirit within them and the truth of His claims. It was a testament to the supreme value they placed on Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 5:41 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Himself. The apostles' experience of being "counted worthy to suffer shame for his name" is a direct participation in the pattern established by Christ. Jesus, though fully God, "[made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")). He endured the ultimate shame of the cross, "[despising the shame](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus Endured the Cross")" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus Endured the Cross")), being publicly humiliated and counted unworthy by human authorities. Yet, it was precisely through this suffering and shame that God exalted Him to the highest place, granting Him "[a name which is above every name](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9 - God Exalted Jesus")" ([Philippians 2:9](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9 - God Exalted Jesus")). The apostles' joy in suffering shame for Jesus's name is a reflection of Christ's own victorious endurance and the profound truth that identification with Him, even in suffering, leads to ultimate glory. Their experience foreshadows the believer's union with Christ in both His sufferings and His resurrection power, affirming that "[if we suffer with him, we shall also reign with him](/2_timothy/2-12 "2 Timothy 2:12 - Suffering and Reigning with Christ")" ([2 Timothy 2:12](/2_timothy/2-12 "2 Timothy 2:12 - Suffering and Reigning with Christ")). Their joy was a taste of the eternal joy found in Christ, who triumphed over shame and death, making all who suffer for Him partakers of His victory.

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

James 1:2

¶ My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

1 Peter 4:13

But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

1 Peter 4:16

Yet if [any man suffer] as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

Luke 6:22

Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you [from their company], and shall reproach [you], and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.

Philippians 1:29

For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

John 15:21

But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.

Matthew 5:10

Blessed [are] they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.