ACTS 4:1–12
PETER AND JOHN BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN AND THE POWER OF THE NAME OF JESUS
BRIEF INTERPRETATION
Text – Acts 4:1–12
1 While they were still speaking to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees confronted them,
2 disturbed that they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead.
3 They laid hands on Peter and John and put them in custody until the next day, since it was already evening.
4 But many of those who heard the word came to believe, and the number of men grew to about five thousand.
5 On the next day, their rulers, elders, and scribes were assembled in Jerusalem,
6 with Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and all who were of the high-priestly class.
7 They brought them into their presence and asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?”
8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, answered them, “Leaders of the people and elders:
9 If we are being examined today about a good deed done to a crippled man, namely, by what means he was saved,
10 then all of you and all the people of Israel should know that it was in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead; in his name this man stands before you healed.
11 He is ‘the stone rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone.’
12 There is no salvation through anyone else, nor is there any other name under heaven given to the human race by which we are to be saved.”
Historical and Jewish Context
Peter and John are brought before the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish religious authority. The Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, are particularly disturbed by the apostles’ preaching. The question about “power” and “name” reflects Jewish legal inquiry into authority. By invoking Psalm 118, Peter addresses the leaders using Scripture they revered, turning their judgment back upon them. The setting recalls Jesus’ own trial, highlighting continuity between the Master and His disciples.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter boldly proclaims the Resurrection before the same authorities who condemned Jesus. The healing becomes a sign pointing to salvation in Christ. The declaration that there is “no other name” affirms the uniqueness and universality of Christ’s saving mission. This passage reveals the Church’s confidence that salvation is found only in Jesus, not as exclusion but as divine gift offered to all. Apostolic courage flows directly from the Spirit given at Pentecost.
Parallels in Scripture
Psalm 118:22 – The rejected stone becomes the cornerstone
Matthew 21:42 – Jesus applies the psalm to Himself
John 14:6 – Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life
1 Timothy 2:5 – One mediator between God and humanity
Luke 21:12–15 – The Spirit will give wisdom to speak
Key Terms
Sanhedrin – Supreme Jewish council of religious authority
Name of Jesus – Authority and saving power of the risen Lord
Resurrection of the dead – Core proclamation of apostolic preaching
Cornerstone – Christ as foundation of God’s saving plan
No other name – Uniqueness of salvation in Jesus Christ
Filled with the Holy Spirit – Source of apostolic boldness
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Acts 4:1–12 is proclaimed during the Easter Season, strengthening the Church’s faith in Christ as the sole Savior and encouraging courage in witness despite opposition.
Conclusion
Acts 4:1–12 shows that the Gospel cannot be silenced. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, the apostles proclaim Jesus as the risen Lord and the only source of salvation, even before hostile authorities.
Reflection
Do I trust in the saving power of the name of Jesus?
How do I respond when my faith is questioned or challenged?
Am I open to the Holy Spirit’s courage in difficult moments?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, You are the cornerstone and the Savior of the world. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, that I may proclaim Your name with courage and live with confidence in Your saving power. Amen.
DETAILED INTERPRETATION
INTRODUCTION
Following the healing at the Beautiful Gate and Peter’s bold proclamation, opposition quickly arises. The same authorities who once confronted Jesus now arrest Peter and John, disturbed that the Resurrection is being preached publicly in His name. The apostles are brought before the Sanhedrin, the highest religious authority of Israel, marking the Church’s first formal persecution. The setting recalls the trial of Jesus Himself, revealing continuity between the suffering of the Master and the witness of His disciples.
Questioned about the source of their authority, Peter responds not with fear but with Spirit-filled clarity. The interrogation intended to intimidate becomes an occasion for proclamation. Peter makes it unmistakably clear that the healing was accomplished through the name of Jesus Christ, whom the leaders had rejected and crucified, but whom God raised from the dead. The power at work is divine, not human.
Acts 4:1 – “While they were speaking to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees confronted them.”
Interpretation
This verse marks a decisive shift from proclamation to opposition. As the apostles continue to speak publicly, institutional resistance emerges. The Gospel, once heard with amazement, now provokes confrontation from those who hold religious authority.
“While they were speaking to the people” emphasizes interruption. The apostles are in the midst of teaching and witness. Opposition arises not after the message ends, but precisely while it is being proclaimed, showing the immediacy of resistance to truth.
“The priests” represent the religious establishment responsible for temple worship. Their involvement signals that the issue is not merely social disturbance but theological challenge.
“The captain of the temple guard” introduces official enforcement. This figure oversaw order in the temple precincts. His presence indicates that the authorities perceive the apostles’ preaching as a threat to public and religious stability.
“And the Sadducees” identifies the theological source of opposition. The Sadducees denied the resurrection of the dead. The apostles’ proclamation of the risen Jesus directly contradicts their doctrine, making conflict inevitable.
“Confronted them” conveys hostility and urgency. This is not a dialogue but an intervention. The Gospel now meets organized resistance from power structures unwilling to accept its implications.
Theologically, this verse reveals that authentic witness to Christ often leads to opposition. Proclaiming the resurrection challenges entrenched beliefs and vested authority.
Historical and Jewish Context
The Sadducees held significant influence over temple affairs and collaborated closely with Roman authorities. Any teaching about resurrection or messianic fulfillment threatened their theological position and political stability.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that fidelity to Christ can provoke opposition, especially when the Gospel challenges prevailing power or belief systems. Persecution and resistance are part of apostolic witness (cf. CCC 530, 2473).
Key Terms
Priests — temple authority
Temple guard — enforcement of order
Sadducees — denial of resurrection
Confronted — active opposition
Conclusion
Acts 4:1 shows the Gospel crossing from acceptance to resistance. As the apostles speak with authority, opposition gathers, revealing that the proclamation of the risen Christ inevitably confronts structures that resist God’s truth.
Reflection
Am I prepared to remain faithful to Christ’s truth even when it brings misunderstanding or opposition?
Prayer
Lord God, You know that truth often provokes resistance. Strengthen our courage to proclaim Christ faithfully, even in the face of opposition. Grant us wisdom, humility, and perseverance as we bear witness to the risen Lord. Amen.
Acts 4:2 – “They were annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead.”
Interpretation
This verse reveals the precise reason for the growing opposition against the apostles. The conflict is not merely about public disturbance but about doctrine. The heart of the tension lies in the proclamation of resurrection through Jesus.
“They were annoyed” conveys deep irritation and hostility. This reaction goes beyond disagreement; it reflects threatened authority and challenged belief. The apostles’ teaching unsettles those invested in maintaining doctrinal control.
“Because they were teaching the people” highlights the issue of influence. Teaching shapes belief and allegiance. The authorities fear the spread of a message that they neither authorize nor accept.
“And proclaiming in Jesus” identifies the source and center of the message. Resurrection is not presented as an abstract doctrine but as a reality embodied in Jesus. His name remains the focal point of apostolic preaching.
“The resurrection of the dead” strikes at the core of Sadducean theology. Since the Sadducees denied resurrection, the apostles’ message directly contradicts their beliefs and undermines their authority within the temple system.
Theologically, this verse shows that resurrection is not a secondary theme but the cornerstone of Christian proclamation. To proclaim Jesus is to proclaim victory over death.
Historical and Jewish Context
The Sadducees accepted only the written Torah and rejected beliefs such as resurrection and angels. The apostles’ teaching, grounded in Jesus’ resurrection, directly challenged Sadducean doctrine and temple leadership.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that the resurrection of Christ is the foundation of faith and the guarantee of our own resurrection (cf. CCC 638–658, 988–1019). Proclaiming resurrection inevitably confronts worldviews that deny life beyond death.
Key Terms
Annoyed — hostile resistance
Teaching — shaping belief
In Jesus — Christ-centered proclamation
Resurrection — victory over death
Conclusion
Acts 4:2 makes clear that opposition arises when the Gospel touches foundational beliefs. The proclamation of resurrection in Jesus confronts denial, fear, and entrenched authority with the truth of new life.
Reflection
Do I allow the truth of Christ’s resurrection to challenge my assumptions and shape my hope, even when it is uncomfortable?
Prayer
Risen Lord, You are the heart of our hope. Strengthen our faith in Your resurrection and give us courage to proclaim it faithfully. When opposition arises, keep us grounded in truth and filled with hope in the life You give. Amen.
Acts 4:3 – “So they laid hands on them and put them in custody until the next day, since it was already evening.”
Interpretation
This verse marks the first formal act of persecution against the apostles after Pentecost. The movement from irritation to action is swift. When proclamation cannot be silenced by argument, it is restrained by force.
“They laid hands on them” signifies arrest and coercion. The same hands once raised in worship are now used to suppress witness. Authority responds not with dialogue but with detention.
“And put them in custody” indicates official imprisonment. The apostles are treated as offenders, not for wrongdoing, but for proclaiming the truth of the risen Christ. Faithfulness now carries a visible cost.
“Until the next day” shows procedural restraint. The authorities delay judgment, not out of mercy, but due to timing. Opposition often works within structures of legality while resisting truth.
“Since it was already evening” provides practical context. Jewish legal proceedings were not conducted at night. Luke underscores that even as human schedules delay justice, God’s work continues uninterrupted.
Theologically, this verse reveals that obedience to Christ may lead to loss of freedom, yet such restraint cannot bind the Word of God. Arrest becomes part of witness.
Historical and Jewish Context
Temple authorities followed regulations regarding legal proceedings. Custody overnight was common when immediate hearing was not possible. Luke presents the arrest as orderly yet unjust in purpose.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that persecution is a consequence of fidelity to Christ and that suffering for the Gospel participates in the mission of the apostles (cf. CCC 530, 2473). God remains at work even when His servants are confined.
Key Terms
Laid hands on — arrest and coercion
Custody — loss of freedom
Evening — delayed judgment
Conclusion
Acts 4:3 shows the Gospel entering the path of the cross. The apostles are imprisoned not for crime, but for truth. Human authority attempts to restrain them, yet God’s mission advances.
Reflection
Am I willing to accept inconvenience, loss, or opposition for the sake of fidelity to Christ?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You were bound though innocent. Strengthen all who suffer for proclaiming Your truth. Grant us courage to remain faithful when obedience leads to difficulty, trusting that Your Word cannot be imprisoned. Amen.
Acts 4:4 – “But many of those who heard the word came to believe, and the number of men grew to about five thousand.”
Interpretation
This verse reveals the paradox of persecution and growth. Even as the apostles are arrested, the Gospel continues to bear abundant fruit. Human opposition cannot hinder God’s saving work.
“But many of those who heard the word” shifts attention away from the imprisoned apostles to the receptive listeners. The power lies not in the freedom of the messengers but in the efficacy of the Word itself.
“Came to believe” indicates a decisive interior response. Faith is born through hearing. The message proclaimed takes root in hearts, leading to trust in Christ despite rising opposition.
“And the number of men grew” highlights visible expansion. Luke records growth not for statistics alone, but to show the unstoppable advance of the Church. The community continues to increase even under pressure.
“To about five thousand” emphasizes extraordinary fruitfulness. From three thousand at Pentecost, the Church now expands significantly. God multiplies what persecution attempts to suppress.
Theologically, this verse affirms that suffering does not weaken the Gospel; it often strengthens its witness. God brings life precisely where resistance appears strongest.
Historical and Jewish Context
Counting men was common in ancient records, often excluding women and children. The actual number of believers would have been much larger, underscoring even greater growth.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that the Word of God is living and effective, and that persecution often becomes a seedbed for faith (cf. CCC 766, 2473). Growth comes from God, not human strategy.
Key Terms
Heard the word — reception of the Gospel
Believe — act of faith
Five thousand — abundant growth
Conclusion
Acts 4:4 proclaims that God’s Word cannot be chained. Even as the apostles are confined, faith spreads, and the Church grows in strength and number.
Reflection
Do I trust that God can bring growth and good even when circumstances seem to work against His mission?
Prayer
Lord God, Your Word gives life and cannot be silenced. Strengthen our faith when opposition arises. May we trust that You continue to build Your Church, bringing growth and hope even in times of trial. Amen.
Acts 4:5 – “On the next day, their rulers, elders, and scribes were assembled in Jerusalem.”
Interpretation
This verse signals the formal escalation of opposition against the apostles. What began as irritation and arrest now advances into an official inquiry. Authority gathers itself to judge the proclamation of the risen Christ.
“On the next day” indicates deliberate preparation. The authorities move from immediate reaction to organized response. Time is taken to convene those with legal and religious authority.
“Their rulers” refers to those holding governing power within the Jewish community. Political influence now enters the scene, suggesting concern for order, control, and stability.
“Elders” represent respected leaders and custodians of tradition. Their presence underscores the seriousness of the matter and the weight of communal judgment.
“And scribes” points to legal and scriptural expertise. These were interpreters of the Law, responsible for doctrinal accuracy. The apostles’ teaching will be measured against established interpretations.
“Were assembled” conveys formality and unity of opposition. This is not a spontaneous crowd but a convened council, preparing to exercise authority over belief and teaching.
“In Jerusalem” highlights the symbolic center of Jewish faith and authority. The heart of Israel becomes the stage where the Gospel is examined and challenged.
Theologically, this verse shows that the Gospel now stands before institutional power. Truth is being tested, not by its fruits, but by authority resistant to change.
Historical and Jewish Context
Such an assembly reflects the Sanhedrin or its representatives, the highest Jewish council. Matters concerning teaching, blasphemy, or public disturbance were brought before this body.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that fidelity to Christ often brings believers before earthly authorities. Yet no council or power can overturn what God has accomplished in Christ (cf. CCC 2242, 2473).
Key Terms
Rulers — governing authority
Elders — traditional leadership
Scribes — interpreters of the Law
Assembled — formal judgment
Conclusion
Acts 4:5 presents the Gospel standing before human authority. The same city that witnessed Christ’s Passion now prepares to judge His witnesses.
Reflection
Do I remain faithful to Christ when truth is examined or challenged by authority and opinion?
Prayer
Lord God, You know how human power gathers to judge truth. Grant us courage and wisdom to remain faithful to Christ when questioned or opposed. May Your truth stand firm above every earthly authority. Amen.
Acts 4:6 – “With Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and all who were of the high-priestly class.”
Interpretation
This verse identifies the full weight of religious authority now arrayed against the apostles. Luke deliberately names the figures to show that the highest levels of power are involved. The Gospel stands before the same leadership that once judged Jesus.
“With Annas the high priest” recalls enduring influence. Although Annas no longer officially held the office, he retained immense authority. His presence signals continuity of power and resistance to the message about Jesus.
“Caiaphas” brings immediate historical gravity. As the high priest who presided over Jesus’ trial, Caiaphas embodies institutional rejection of Christ. The apostles now face the same authority their Lord faced.
“John, Alexander” represent other prominent members of the priestly elite. Though less known, their inclusion shows that opposition is not isolated but broadly supported within the ruling class.
“And all who were of the high-priestly class” emphasizes collective authority. This is not a marginal inquiry but a unified stance by the temple’s highest leadership against the apostolic proclamation.
Theologically, this verse underscores a recurring pattern in salvation history: God’s saving work is often opposed most strongly by entrenched religious power. Yet human authority cannot nullify divine truth.
Historical and Jewish Context
The high-priestly families formed a powerful aristocracy closely linked to Roman governance. Their control over the temple made them especially sensitive to movements that challenged their theological positions or public order.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that opposition to the Gospel may arise even from religious structures when truth threatens established power. Fidelity to Christ may require standing firm before respected authority (cf. CCC 591–594, 2473).
Key Terms
Annas — enduring religious influence
Caiaphas — official high priest
High-priestly class — concentrated authority
Conclusion
Acts 4:6 reveals the Gospel confronting the highest religious power. The apostles now stand where Jesus once stood, bearing witness before authorities that resist the truth they proclaim.
Reflection
Am I prepared to remain faithful to Christ even when opposition comes from respected or powerful voices?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You stood firm before the highest authorities with truth and humility. Strengthen us with Your Spirit when we face pressure or intimidation. Grant us courage to bear faithful witness, trusting that Your truth prevails over every human power. Amen.
Acts 4:7 – “When they had placed them in the center, they asked, ‘By what power or by what name have you done this?’”
Interpretation
This verse brings the confrontation to its formal and decisive question. The apostles are now placed under scrutiny, and the authorities demand an explanation for the healing and the teaching that has unsettled them. The focus turns explicitly to authority and source.
“When they had placed them in the center” signifies formal judgment and public examination. Peter and John are positioned before the full assembly, exposed and accountable. The setting mirrors judicial procedure and underscores the seriousness of the inquiry.
“They asked” indicates interrogation rather than dialogue. The authorities do not seek understanding but control. The question is designed to assess legitimacy and to determine whether the apostles’ actions threaten established order.
“By what power” addresses the source of efficacy. The leaders acknowledge that something extraordinary has occurred, but they seek to classify its origin—human, demonic, or unauthorized.
“Or by what name” touches the heart of the matter. In biblical understanding, a name represents authority and identity. This question unknowingly invites the very proclamation the authorities fear: the name of Jesus.
“Have you done this?” refers to both the healing and the public proclamation. The sign and the message are inseparable. The miracle demands explanation, and the explanation will reveal allegiance.
Theologically, this verse shows that the Gospel inevitably raises the question of authority. Every act of salvation points back to its source, and that source must be named.
Historical and Jewish Context
Religious authorities often questioned miracle-workers about the source of their power to guard against false prophecy. Luke presents this question as setting the stage for bold apostolic testimony.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that all saving power flows from Christ and is exercised in His name. Confessing His name before others is an essential act of witness, even under pressure (cf. CCC 548–550, 2471–2474).
Key Terms
Power — source of authority
Name — identity and divine authorization
Center — place of judgment
Conclusion
Acts 4:7 frames the decisive issue of the apostolic mission: authority. The question posed by the council becomes the doorway through which the apostles will openly proclaim the name of Jesus.
Reflection
When my faith is questioned, do I speak clearly about the true source of hope and healing in my life?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, all power and authority belong to You. Give us courage and clarity to confess Your holy name when questioned or challenged. May our witness remain faithful, humble, and bold, trusting that Your name brings life and truth. Amen.
Acts 4:8 – “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, ‘Leaders of the people and elders,’”
Interpretation
This verse marks the decisive moment of Spirit-empowered witness. What follows is not a defensive argument but a proclamation inspired and guided by God Himself. Peter does not rely on personal courage or rhetorical skill; he speaks under the direct influence of the Holy Spirit.
“Then Peter” highlights apostolic leadership. The one who once denied Jesus now stands publicly before the highest authorities, ready to testify. His transformation reveals the power of grace.
“Filled with the Holy Spirit” identifies the true source of boldness and wisdom. Peter’s words are not merely human speech; they are Spirit-led proclamation. The Spirit given at Pentecost now acts in a moment of trial, just as Jesus had promised.
“Said to them” indicates readiness to speak truth to power. Peter does not remain silent or evasive. The Spirit impels him to respond clearly and faithfully.
“Leaders of the people and elders” is a respectful yet courageous address. Peter acknowledges their authority while implicitly placing them under God’s judgment. Respect does not silence truth.
Theologically, this verse demonstrates that the Holy Spirit empowers believers precisely when witness is costly. Divine inspiration transforms interrogation into proclamation.
Historical and Jewish Context
Jesus had foretold that His disciples would be brought before rulers and that the Spirit would teach them what to say (cf. Lk 12:11–12). Peter’s response fulfills this promise before Israel’s highest council.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that the Holy Spirit gives courage, wisdom, and the right words when believers bear witness to Christ, especially in moments of persecution (cf. CCC 692, 1832, 2473).
Key Terms
Holy Spirit — divine empowerment
Filled — guided and strengthened
Leaders and elders — recognized authority
Conclusion
Acts 4:8 reveals the source of Christian courage. When believers are filled with the Holy Spirit, fear gives way to faithful and authoritative witness.
Reflection
Do I rely on the Holy Spirit when called to speak for Christ, especially in challenging or intimidating situations?
Prayer
Holy Spirit, fill us with Your wisdom and courage. When we are questioned or challenged for our faith, place Your words on our lips. Help us to speak with truth, humility, and boldness, giving glory to Christ in all things. Amen.
Acts 4:9 – “If we are being examined today about a good deed done to a crippled man, namely, by what means he was healed,”
Interpretation
This verse opens Peter’s Spirit-filled defense with clarity and moral irony. He reframes the interrogation, exposing the contrast between the goodness of the act and the severity of the trial. What stands before the council is not a crime, but mercy.
“If we are being examined today” acknowledges the formal judicial setting. Peter accepts the reality of scrutiny without fear, confident that truth can withstand examination.
“About a good deed” places the moral center plainly before the council. Peter names the act for what it is—good. The healing is not ambiguous or harmful; it is an act of mercy that benefits the vulnerable.
“Done to a crippled man” refocuses attention on the beneficiary. Peter restores the human face to the event, reminding the authorities that the discussion concerns a person who suffered and has now been restored.
“By what means he was healed” returns to the council’s question of authority. Peter signals that he is ready to answer—but only after establishing that the matter under review is a work of goodness.
Theologically, this verse highlights the coherence of God’s action: divine power expresses itself in concrete acts of mercy. The Gospel’s truth is inseparable from its goodness.
Historical and Jewish Context
Jewish law valued acts of mercy, especially toward the disabled and poor. Peter’s framing subtly challenges the council to reconcile their traditions with their opposition to a merciful act.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that works of mercy are signs of God’s kingdom and authentic expressions of faith. Proclaiming Christ is inseparable from doing good in His name (cf. CCC 2447, 548–550).
Key Terms
Examined — formal inquiry
Good deed — act of mercy
Healed — restoration by God’s power
Conclusion
Acts 4:9 exposes the contradiction of condemning compassion. Peter’s words remind all that God’s saving power reveals itself through goodness that restores human dignity.
Reflection
When my faith is questioned, do I allow the goodness of God’s work to speak clearly through my words and actions?
Prayer
God of mercy, You heal and restore through acts of goodness. Grant us wisdom and courage to speak truthfully when our faith is examined. May our lives reflect Your compassion so clearly that Your goodness cannot be denied. Amen.
Acts 4:10 – “Then all of you and all the people of Israel should know that it was in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead; in his name this man stands before you healed.”
Interpretation
This verse is the bold and unmistakable proclamation at the heart of Peter’s defense. What the authorities demanded—source and authority—is now answered openly and publicly. Peter names Jesus without hesitation and interprets the healing as a direct consequence of the Paschal Mystery.
“Then all of you and all the people of Israel should know” gives the statement universal scope. Peter intends no private explanation. The truth is meant for leaders and people alike. The Gospel is public and accountable.
“That it was in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean” identifies the sole source of healing. The name signifies Jesus’ living authority and saving power. By adding the Nazorean, Peter points to the very Jesus known, rejected, and crucified.
“Whom you crucified” confronts responsibility directly. Peter does not soften the historical truth. The healing is inseparable from the reality of the cross.
“Whom God raised from the dead” proclaims divine vindication. Human judgment is overturned by God’s action. Resurrection stands as God’s definitive answer to the crucifixion.
“In his name this man stands before you healed” returns to visible evidence. The healed man becomes living testimony. What the council sees confirms what Peter proclaims.
Theologically, this verse unites cross, resurrection, and present salvation. The risen Christ continues to act powerfully through His name, restoring what was broken.
Historical and Jewish Context
Public proclamation “to all Israel” echoes prophetic announcements. By speaking this way before the council, Peter fulfills Israel’s tradition of covenantal witness—now centered definitively on Jesus.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that the name of Jesus is the source of salvation and healing, given through His death and resurrection. There is no other name by which humanity is saved (cf. CCC 432–435, 638–655).
Key Terms
Name of Jesus — saving authority
Crucified — human rejection
Raised from the dead — divine vindication
Healed — visible sign of salvation
Conclusion
Acts 4:10 stands as fearless apostolic proclamation. Before the highest authorities, Peter declares that the crucified and risen Jesus is alive and acting now, bringing healing and salvation through His name.
Reflection
Do I proclaim Jesus with clarity and courage, trusting in the power of His name even when witness is costly?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, Your holy name brings life and healing. Grant us boldness to confess You openly before others. May our words and lives bear faithful witness to the power of Your resurrection. Amen.
Acts 4:11 – “This Jesus is the stone rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone.”
Interpretation
This verse deepens Peter’s proclamation by interpreting Jesus’ rejection through Scripture. The healing and the resurrection are now placed within a prophetic framework that reveals God’s sovereign reversal of human judgment.
“This Jesus” points unmistakably to the one just named—the crucified and risen Lord. Peter keeps the focus personal and concrete. The issue before the council is not an abstract doctrine but a person.
“Is the stone rejected by you” confronts responsibility with prophetic clarity. The rejection was not accidental or external. Those entrusted with leadership refused the one sent by God. The language echoes deliberate dismissal rather than misunderstanding.
“The builders” identifies the religious authorities themselves. Builders are those responsible for discernment, structure, and guidance. Peter exposes the tragic irony: those tasked with building God’s people rejected the very stone essential for the structure.
“Which has become the cornerstone” proclaims divine reversal and vindication. The cornerstone is the foundational stone that determines alignment and stability. God has taken what was rejected and made it the foundation of His saving work.
Theologically, this verse reveals the pattern of salvation history: human rejection becomes the means through which God establishes His definitive work. Christ crucified is Christ exalted as the foundation of the Church.
Historical and Jewish Context
Psalm 118 was well known and used in temple liturgy. Applying it to Jesus before the council is bold and unmistakable. Peter claims that this psalm finds its true fulfillment in Christ.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that Christ is the cornerstone of the Church, rejected by many yet chosen and established by God as the foundation of salvation (cf. CCC 756, 585–586). Unity and stability are found only in Him.
Key Terms
Stone — chosen instrument of God
Rejected — human refusal
Builders — religious leadership
Cornerstone — foundation of salvation
Conclusion
Acts 4:11 proclaims that God’s purposes cannot be thwarted by human rejection. Jesus, once cast aside, now stands as the cornerstone upon which God builds His people.
Reflection
Do I build my life firmly on Christ the cornerstone, even when His way contradicts human wisdom or expectation?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, cornerstone chosen by God, anchor our lives firmly in You. Remove from us every resistance that rejects Your truth. Build us into a living temple founded on Your saving work, that we may stand secure in faith and obedience. Amen.
Acts 4:12 – “There is no salvation through anyone else, nor is there any other name under heaven given to the human race by which we are to be saved.”
Interpretation
This verse stands as the most definitive and uncompromising declaration of apostolic faith. Peter moves from explanation to proclamation, affirming the absolute uniqueness of Jesus Christ in God’s plan of salvation.
“There is no salvation through anyone else” is an exclusive claim. Peter does not present Jesus as one option among many, but as the sole source of salvation. Human effort, religious system, or moral achievement cannot replace what God has done in Christ.
“Nor is there any other name under heaven” emphasizes universality. Across all creation and among all peoples, no authority or power rivals the saving name of Jesus. The phrase under heaven encompasses all humanity.
“Given to the human race” highlights divine initiative and gift. Salvation is not discovered or invented by humanity; it is given by God. The name of Jesus is God’s gracious provision for the whole world.
“By which we are to be saved” identifies necessity, not preference. Salvation—deliverance from sin and death—comes only through Jesus. Peter includes himself with we, affirming that all stand in equal need of Christ.
Theologically, this verse proclaims the heart of Christian confession: Jesus Christ alone mediates salvation. It is a call to faith, not arrogance—confidence rooted in God’s action, not human superiority.
Historical and Jewish Context
In a world of many mediators and saviors—political, religious, and philosophical—Peter’s claim is radical. Spoken before the Sanhedrin, it confronts every alternative claim to authority or salvation.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church teaches that Jesus Christ is the unique and universal Savior of humanity. While God’s grace may operate in ways known to Him alone, all salvation comes through Christ and His redemptive work (cf. CCC 432, 846–848).
Key Terms
Salvation — deliverance from sin and death
Name — saving authority and presence
Under heaven — all humanity
Saved — restored communion with God
Conclusion
Acts 4:12 is the Church’s foundational confession. In the name of Jesus Christ alone, God has given salvation to the world. No power, past or present, can rival the saving work accomplished in Him.
Reflection
Is my trust for salvation placed fully and exclusively in Jesus Christ, or do I rely on other securities alongside Him?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, You alone are our Savior. Strengthen our faith in Your holy name and free us from every false reliance. May our lives proclaim with conviction that salvation is found in You alone, to the glory of the Father. Amen.
CONCLUSION
Peter’s declaration reaches its climax in a confession that stands at the heart of Christian faith: salvation is found in no one else but Jesus. The rejected stone has become the cornerstone, fulfilling Scripture and revealing God’s sovereign plan. What the authorities dismissed has become the foundation of new life. The Resurrection transforms rejection into victory and condemnation into hope.
For the Church, this passage establishes the courage and content of apostolic witness. Proclamation of Jesus cannot be separated from the Cross and Resurrection, nor can it be silenced by threat or authority. The name of Jesus remains the source of healing, salvation, and unity. Standing before human judgment, the Church confesses a higher allegiance, trusting that God’s power is made perfect through faithful witness.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus Christ, cornerstone rejected by the world yet chosen by God, strengthen our faith in the saving power of Your name. Grant us courage to bear witness to You when faith is questioned or opposed. Fill us with the Holy Spirit, that we may proclaim with clarity and love that salvation is found in You alone. May our lives glorify Your name and lead others to the hope You give. Amen.