Acts 4:6

And Annas the high Priest, and Caiphas, and Iohn, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kinred of the high Priest, were gathered together at Hierusalem. Acts 4:6 (KJV)

Acts, the fifth book of the New Testament, records the early history of the Christian Church. In chapter 4 Peter and John performed a miraculous healing in the name of Jesus, which led to their arrest and subsequent questioning by the religious authorities in Jerusalem.

Annas and Caiaphas were central figures in this gathering. Annas had served as high priest from AD 6 to AD 15 and, although no longer in office during Jesus’ ministry, remained a powerful influence as a former high priest and as the father‑in‑law of Caiaphas. Caiaphas was the official high priest during the ministry of Jesus (approximately AD 30‑33) and, together with Annas, wielded considerable religious and political authority. According to Jewish law the high priest was the highest religious authority and also held significant political power, a reality that continued after the crucifixion.

The identities of John and Alexander are less certain; the text provides no further information about them. It is plausible that they were members of the high priest’s family or held some notable position among the Jerusalem religious leaders.

The gathering in Jerusalem, which included Annas, Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and others of the high priest’s kindred, was likely convened to address the issue of Peter and John’s actions and the rapid spread of the early Christian movement. This verse therefore highlights the strong opposition the apostles faced from the Jewish religious establishment. It underscores the power and authority of the high priest and his associates, who were hostile to the message of Jesus and the growing faith.

Despite such formidable opposition, the disciples remained steadfast in their mission, continuing to proclaim the gospel with courage. Readers are encouraged to study the surrounding verses and consult trusted commentaries for a fuller understanding of this pivotal moment in the early Church.