King James Version

What Does Acts 11:4 Mean?

Acts 11:4 in the King James Version says “But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, — study this verse from Acts chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,

Acts 11:4 · KJV


Context

2

And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,

3

Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised , and didst eat with them.

4

But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,

5

I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:

6

Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, Peter's methodical, sequential explanation demonstrates wise apologetic approach—presenting evidence systematically rather than defensively reacting.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Rehearsed from beginning indicates comprehensive account. Expounded by order suggests logical, sequential presentation. Peter didn't defensively justify actions but carefully explained divine orchestration. This approach around 40 CE modeled handling controversial ministry decisions—grounding actions in verifiable divine guidance rather than personal preference. His detailed account (Acts 11:5-17) retells Acts 10 from his perspective.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does systematic explanation differ from defensive reaction?
  2. What role does orderly presentation play in resolving controversial issues?
  3. In what ways should leaders document and explain controversial Spirit-led decisions?
  4. How does beginning with divine initiative strengthen controversial action's justification?
  5. What does Peter's approach teach about accountability in church leadership?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
ἀρξάμενος1 of 8

rehearsed the matter from the beginning

G756

to commence (in order of time)

δὲ2 of 8

But

G1161

but, and, etc

3 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Πέτρος4 of 8

Peter

G4074

a (piece of) rock (larger than g3037); as a name, petrus, an apostle

ἐξετίθετο5 of 8

and expounded

G1620

to expose; figuratively, to declare

αὐτοῖς6 of 8

unto them

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καθεξῆς7 of 8

it by order

G2517

thereafter, i.e., consecutively; as a noun (by ellipsis of noun) a subsequent person or time

λέγων8 of 8

saying

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Acts 11:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Acts 11:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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