Definition: But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 4:19. It's a really important and thoughtful part of how Jesus and his early followers dealt with a group of people who were being led astray by a charismatic leader. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, Peter and John are saying: “We understand you’re trying to persuade us to do something that isn't really God’s will. We believe God speaks clearly and directly, and we don't want to be swayed by anyone else's ideas.” Let's unpack it a little further: “But Peter and John answered…” – This refers to two of Jesus’ closest disciples, Peter and John. They were key figures in the early church. “…and said unto them…” – They were speaking directly to a group of people who had been following this charismatic leader. “Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God…” – This is the core of the verse. It’s asking a crucial question: “Is it okay for us to follow someone else's ideas, even if they seem appealing or powerful, more than what God wants us to do?” The implication is that God is the ultimate authority. Jesus and his followers were emphasizing that God’s word – His will – is always the most important thing. They weren’t trying to undermine this, but rather to protect themselves from being misled by someone else. Why was this important? It shows early believers valued God's guidance above all else. It’s a reminder of the importance of trusting God’s voice and staying true to His teachings. In short, it's a statement about respecting God's authority and prioritizing his will over others. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about what was happening at the time? Discuss the significance of this verse in the broader story of Christianity?