King James Version
Acts 12:16 in the King James Version says “But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.” — study this verse from Acts chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.”
Acts 12:16 · KJV
And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.
And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel.
But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.
But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.
Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“when they had opened”
G455to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)
“the door and saw”
G1492used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
“him”
G846the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“they were astonished”
G1839to put (stand) out of wits, i.e., astound, or (reflexively) become astounded, insane
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.
Acts 12:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.