Definition: Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.
Explanation: Okay, letβs break down this passage from Acts 5:26. Itβs a really important part of understanding how early Christians started to help each other. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: A Problem Arises: There was a meeting of the believers in Jerusalem. They were experiencing some trouble β likely because someone was being angered or threatened. The Captain Takes Charge: A man named Peter was chosen to lead this meeting and make decisions. He took charge of the group. Theyβre Careful & Respectful: He didn't act aggressively or forcefully. Instead, he made sure everyone felt safe and respected. Fear of Trouble: The key part is that they were worried about what might happen to them if things escalated. They weren't trying to cause trouble; they were afraid someone might get hurt! What it Means β Itβs About Protection & Care: This verse tells us that the believers were being incredibly careful and thoughtful about how they handled the situation. They understood that any confrontation could be dangerous, so they prioritized protecting themselves and others from harm. It's a Reminder of Early Christian Values: This passage is often seen as an early example of Christian values β a focus on: Care for Others: They werenβt just focused on their own needs; they were concerned about the well-being of everyone involved. Peaceful Resolution: They chose a way to deal with the problem that didn't involve violence or anger. In short, it shows that early Christians were deeply committed to protecting themselves and others from harm β a fundamental principle that shaped their community. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage?