King James Version
Acts 23:4 in the King James Version says “And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest?” — study this verse from Acts chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest?”
Acts 23:4 · King James Version
And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.
Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?
And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest?
Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.
But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“they that stood by”
G3936to stand beside, i.e., (transitively) to exhibit, proffer, (specially), recommend, (figuratively) substantiate; or (intransitively) to be at hand (or
“high priest”
G749the high-priest (literally, of the jews; typically, christ); by extension a chief priest
“God's”
G2316a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
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 23:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.