King James Version
What Does Acts 5:20 Mean?
“Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.”
Context
18
And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.
19
But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,
20
Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.
21
And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning , and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.
22
But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(20) **All the words of this** life.—The use of the demonstrative pronoun is significant. The “life in Christ” which the Apostles preach is that eternal life which consists in knowing God (John 17:1), and in which the angels are sharers.
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 5:20 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 5:20
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge