Definition: Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 4:2. It's a really important part of how the early Christian movement started! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it means that the people who were teaching and preaching about Jesus – specifically his resurrection – were worried. Let’s unpack it a little further: “Being grieved…” This is key. It suggests they weren't happy or pleased with what they were doing. It implies there was some discomfort, perhaps even a sense of being challenged or misunderstood. “…that they taught the people…” They were continuing to share their beliefs and teachings about Jesus. “…and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.” This is the core of it. They were speaking about Jesus’s life, death, and victory over death! Specifically, they were sharing that he had risen from the dead – a very significant and powerful message. So, what's the takeaway? The verse suggests that early Christians weren't just passively sharing their faith; they were actively communicating the incredible news of Jesus’ resurrection. It highlights the importance of their message and how it resonated with people. In short, it says that those who were preaching about Jesus' resurrection were worried because they were sharing a truly transformative message. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in a specific context (like the early church)?

Definition: For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Acts 4:20. It's a really significant statement about how God works with people! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Peter is telling us that he and the other believers have experienced something extraordinary – they’ve seen and heard things that they personally witnessed. Let’s unpack it step-by-step: “We cannot but…” This means that while we can't fully explain what happened, we are still able to share the truth with others. It’s not like we’re completely hiding our experience. “…speak the things which we have seen and heard.” This is the core of it. “Speak” refers to sharing what God has shown us – that's the message, the truth, the reality. "Seen" means we’ve directly witnessed something with our own eyes. "Heard" means we’ve listened to a story or message from God. What does this mean practically? It means that believers are invited to share their experiences of faith and witnessing God’s work. It's a call for them to be open about the things they've seen and heard, allowing others to understand and believe in the power of God. Why is this important? This verse is incredibly powerful because it shows that God doesn’t just tell us what to do; He actively involves us in our experiences. It suggests a dynamic relationship between God and his people – a partnership where we can learn, grow, and share the truth of His work. In essence, it's a statement about transparency and sharing the gift of God’s revealed word. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail?

Definition: So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all [men] glorified God for that which was done.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 4:21. It’s a really important part of understanding how early Christians dealt with a group of people who were being disruptive and challenging them. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: They were threatening the believers: A group of people, likely some Jewish followers of Jesus, were actively trying to stop or disrupt the church’s activities. They were causing problems and potentially even being disruptive. They let them go: Instead of punishing them, the leaders of the church – specifically Peter and John – decided not to take action. Finding nothing how they might punish them: This is key! They realized that there was absolutely no way for these people to be punished by the authorities or any other means. They understood they weren’t a threat worth confronting. Because of the people: This highlights that it wasn't just about them . The entire community of believers was involved – all those who were following and trusting in God. All [men] glorified God for that which was done: This is the surprising part! The fact that they weren’t punishing them meant that God Himself was praising them for their actions. It shows that God recognized the good they were doing – their willingness to stand up for what's right and trust in him, even when facing opposition. In a nutshell: The believers chose to ignore the disruptive group and instead focused on worshipping God through their actions of being kind and compassionate to each other. It was a powerful demonstration of faith and trust in God’s plan. What it's about: This verse speaks to the importance of: Trusting God: It emphasizes that God works in mysterious ways, even when we don’t understand them. Community: It shows that believers are called to support each other and stand up for what is right – even when facing challenges. God's Glory: It highlights that God appreciates those who act with kindness, compassion, and faith. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse within the broader story of early Christianity? Discuss the significance of "all men" being glorified? Or perhaps delve into a specific aspect of what it means to “stand up for what’s right”?

Definition: For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 4:22. It’s a really interesting and important part of the story of Peter and Paul! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: Peter is telling us that someone was healed – specifically, a man who was over 40 years old – because he was shown a miraculous healing. Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “For the man…” : This immediately tells us we're talking about a specific individual. “…was above forty years old…” : This gives us a number – he was 40 years old or older. “…on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.” : This is the key part. “Shewed” means revealed or shown. So, Peter is saying that this man was healed by God in a specific way. What does it mean? This verse highlights several things: God’s Intervention: It shows that God isn't just doing good things; He actively intervenes and works miracles. A Test of Faith: Peter is essentially saying, "I want to share this amazing thing with you, but I need to know if you believe me." It’s a way of testing the people present – they are being asked to consider whether they'll trust in God’s power. In short, it means that someone was healed by God through a visible demonstration of His miracle. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this verse might be hinting at about the nature of miracles or faith?

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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 4:23. It’s a really important part of how the early church started to grow and spread its message. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: After a meeting where some people were questioning or challenging Jesus, these believers – mostly women – left that meeting and went back to their own homes to tell everyone else what they’d heard. Let’s unpack the details: “And being let go…” : This is a bit tricky. It doesn't mean they left willingly. They were released from the situation, possibly because of pressure or concerns. It suggests they felt uncomfortable or needed to escape the discussion. “…they went to their own company…” : They moved away from the group where the conversation was happening. “And reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.” : This is the key part. "Chief priests and elders" refers to high-ranking officials in the Jewish religious leaders at the time. They were speaking about something – likely a controversial or challenging idea, maybe related to Jesus’s teachings or actions. They said something. So, what does it mean? It means that these believers were sharing what they'd heard from the discussion with their own friends and community. It was a way for them to: Share the message: They weren’t just talking about it; they were explaining it to others. Keep the truth alive: They were trying to ensure that everyone who had heard the conversation understood what Jesus said and believed. Why is this important? This story shows that even when people are scared or uncomfortable, they can still share their beliefs with others. It highlights the importance of speaking out for what’s right – even in difficult situations. It also shows the early church's commitment to spreading God's word and keeping it true. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give a little more context about the situation described? Discuss the significance of this passage within the larger story of the Bible?

Definition: And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou [art] God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 4:24. It's a really important and profound statement about God’s relationship to creation. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “When they heard that – meaning when the apostle Peter spoke to them – they realized that God wasn’t just present in the world, but that He was the creator of everything.” Let's unpack that a little further: “Lord, thou [art] God…” - This isn't a question. It’s an acknowledgment and praise. It’s saying, “You are God!” It's a humble recognition of His power and existence. “…which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:” – This part describes what God created. It lists everything: The heavens: The sky - the vast expanse above us. The earth: The ground we stand on – everything below us. The sea: All the water – oceans, lakes, rivers, etc. And all that in them is: This means everything within those things – plants, animals, people, and even space itself. So, the whole verse is a statement of awe and wonder at God's boundless power and creativity. It emphasizes that God isn’t just involved with the world; He created it all. Why was this important? It shows that God doesn’t just create things for us, but He created everything for Himself . This is a key concept in many Christian traditions – a focus on God's sovereignty and His absolute authority over creation. In short, the verse means: “God is the ultimate creator of all existence.” --- Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail, or perhaps delve into its significance within a specific context (like the early church)?

Definition: Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 4:25. It's a really important part of understanding how Jesus’ ministry started in Jerusalem. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: After delivering a series of powerful speeches – essentially, Jesus was speaking to the crowd – he said, “Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?” This was happening after some people had been preaching about Jesus that he was a threat. They were saying things like, "He's a magician!" or "He’s going to bring ruin!" Putting it Together: "Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said…" : This tells us that Jesus was speaking through David. David was a very important king in Jewish history and was known for his wisdom and ability to speak powerfully. “…Why did the heathen rage…” : This means the people were angry. They were reacting negatively to Jesus’ words. "...and the people imagine vain things?" : This is the key part. The people were making up wild, fantastical stories about Jesus – stories that weren't based on truth or reality. They were imagining things that didn’t exist. The Overall Meaning: Jesus was setting the stage for his ministry by showing them he was a wise and powerful speaker who could challenge their beliefs. He was subtly telling them to stop jumping to conclusions and to focus on what is true – that Jesus is the Messiah, the one prophesied in the Old Testament. Why it’s important: This verse highlights Jesus' importance as a teacher and communicator. It shows he wasn't just delivering sermons; he was actively engaging with people and helping them to understand his message. It also demonstrates that even when powerful words are spoken, they can be misinterpreted if people aren't careful about how they interpret them. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give a more detailed explanation of the context?

Definition: The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 4:26. It’s a really powerful statement about early Christianity and its relationship with power and authority. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse says that people who were initially opposed to Jesus and his followers – those who weren't believers – started to actively fight against him. Let’s unpack that a bit: “The kings of the earth stood up…” : This refers to powerful rulers and leaders from all over the world. They weren’t just ordinary people; they were influential figures with significant power. “…and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord…” : This highlights that these leaders were actively rejecting Jesus. They were focusing their energy on him in a way that was disruptive and challenging. It suggests they were trying to undermine his message or even silence him. "...and against his Christ." : This is the core of the verse. It means they were actively working to prevent people from accepting Jesus as the Messiah – the promised savior. They were creating obstacles and resistance to bring about the spread of the Gospel (the good news of Jesus). What's the significance? This passage shows that early Christians faced a significant challenge. They weren’t alone in their belief; powerful figures were actively trying to stop them. This suggests: Early Christian Faith Was Challenged: It was a time when many people were skeptical of Jesus and his teachings. Faith Needed Protection: The verse implies that the early Christians needed to be careful because they were being targeted by those who didn’t believe. In short, it's a reminder that the message of Jesus wasn’t always easy to receive, and that believers faced opposition from those who didn't share their faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about what was happening at the time?

Definition: For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 4:27. It's a really important and slightly complex passage about God’s plan for the early church. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where people were gathered together because of Jesus, specifically because He was chosen to be the leader and protector of the Church (the community of believers). It's saying that there was a group of people who were opposed to Jesus’s work and ministry. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "Acts 4:27" : This is where we start – it’s a specific section of the book of Acts. “For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus…” : This is key. "Holy child Jesus" refers to Jesus himself. The verse means there was a disagreement or opposition towards him, possibly because he was being treated unfairly or not fully understood by some people. Think of it like someone challenging his authority or beliefs. “…whom thou hast anointed…” : This is the most important part – “anointed” means God has chosen and appointed someone. The verse says that God officially chose Jesus to be the leader and protector of the Church. "...with Herod, and Pontius Pilate..." : This names a few prominent figures who were actively working against Jesus: Herod: A powerful Roman governor who was trying to kill Jesus. Pontius Pilate: The Roman Governor who ordered Jesus’s crucifixion. So, what does this all mean? It's essentially saying that there was a group of people – perhaps those who were politically or religiously opposed to Jesus – who were together and actively working against him. This opposition was orchestrated by powerful figures like Herod and Pilate. Why is this important? This verse highlights the importance of God’s plan and protection for His chosen one. It shows that even when people try to thwart Jesus, God remains in control and provides support for his followers. It also speaks to the challenge that Christians faced early on – being opposed by those who didn't agree with their beliefs or actions. In short: The verse describes a situation where some people were gathered together because of opposition to Jesus, highlighting his leadership and protection within the Church. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Expand on the significance of "holy child"? Discuss the context of this verse in the larger story of the early church?

Definition: For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 4:28. It's a really important one about faith and action! Here’s the explanation in simple terms: Basically, it means: “Do what you’ve decided to do.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “To do whatever your hand and counsel determined” : This is saying that you have made a decision – a plan or goal – and now you're committing yourself to follow through on it. Your “hand” represents your will, your intention, and your ability to act. "Counsel" refers to the thinking and deciding you’ve already done. “Before you determined” : This is crucial! It means that before you made this decision, you were sure about it. You weren't just going through the motions. The Context – Why is this important? This verse comes after a period where the early Christians were facing a challenge. They had been meeting together and preaching the gospel (the good news of Jesus). But some people in the crowd, particularly Jewish believers, started to question their faith and even tried to turn it away. They were arguing that Jesus wasn’t really God. Jesus' Response: The apostle Peter, speaking to them, said, "Let no man make him (Jesus) repent of his good deed!" So, the point of this verse is that faith in Jesus is a commitment. It means you’re choosing to follow Him and believe in His teachings, even when it's difficult. In short: It’s a reminder to be firm in your decisions and to commit yourself to what you've decided to do, because that’s the foundation of faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you a specific example of how this verse applies to real-life situations?