King James Version
What Does Acts 11:4 Mean?
“But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,”
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
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning.**—Better, perhaps, the word “rehearse” having grown into a different shade of meaning, *began and set forth the matter.* The translators seem to have paraphrased the participle “having begun” somewhat more fully than its actual meaning admits. The almost verbal repetition of the same narrative as that of Acts 10 seems, at first sight, inconsistent with our common standard of skill in composition. The probable explanation of it is that St. Luke obtained the first narrative from the disciples whom he met at Cæsarea, and the second from those of Jerusalem, and that the close agreement of the two seemed to him, as indeed it was, a confirmation of the truth of each.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge