Acts 4:15

But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the Council, they conferred among themselues, Acts 4:15 (KJV)

Context: Acts 4:15 is part of the larger narrative in the Book of Acts that records the early days of the Christian Church and the ministry of the apostles. In this passage Peter and John have been brought before the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin, after healing a man who was lame from birth. The council recognized the miracle but were concerned about the growing influence of the apostles.

Recognition of the miracle: The verse begins with the council acknowledging the undeniable reality of the notable miracle performed by Peter and John. The healing of a man who had been unable to walk since birth was well‑known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and the council members could not deny that something extraordinary had taken place.

Internal deliberation: After recognizing the miraculous event, the council members confer among themselves, asking, “What shall we do with these men?” (or “What shall we do to these men?”). They face a dilemma: while they admit the miracle, they are also worried about the impact on their authority and influence.

Implications for believers: Acts 4:15 highlights the power of God’s miracles to capture the attention and conviction of both believers and unbelievers. Even resistant council members could not ignore the supernatural work of God, showing that divine intervention can serve as a powerful testimony to His presence and authority.

Confirmation of the apostles’ mission: The council’s recognition of the miracle further affirms the legitimacy and divine authority behind the apostles’ ministry. It shows that the apostles were acting in alignment with God’s will and that His power was working through them, strengthening the credibility of their message.

Application to believers today: Acts 4:15 encourages believers to proclaim the Gospel boldly and to rely on God’s power to validate their message. When we step out in faith, we may encounter opposition and skepticism, yet we can trust that God’s miraculous works can affirm and support our efforts. Like the early apostles, we should remain faithful to our calling and depend on God’s power, knowing that He can open doors and hearts through signs and wonders.

In summary, Acts 4:15 records the Jewish council’s acknowledgment of the notable miracle performed by Peter and John. The verse emphasizes that God’s miracles validate His message and the apostles’ mission, and it urges believers to rely on divine power, trusting that signs and wonders can affirm and support their work.