King James Version
What Does Acts 5:29 Mean?
“Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.”
Context
27
And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,
28
Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.
29
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
30
The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.
31
Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(29) **Then Peter and the other apostles.**—The whole company of the Twelve, it must be remembered, were now the objects of attack, and they all accept Peter as their spokesman.
**We ought to obey God rather than men.**—The words are an assertion of the same general law of duty as that of Acts 4:19-20, but the command of the angel in Acts 5:20 had given them a new significance.
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 5:29 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 5:29
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge