Acts 4:7

And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?

Acts 4:7 (KJV)

Context

Acts 4:7 records the interrogation of Peter and John by the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high court in Jerusalem. The healing of a man lame from birth at the temple gate called Beautiful had drawn a crowd, and the religious leaders—including Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, and others from the high priest’s family—had the apostles brought before them. Placed in the midst of the assembly, Peter and John faced a formal inquiry about the source of their authority.

Meaning

The leaders asked two pointed questions: “By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?” The Greek word for “power” (dynamis) denotes inherent ability or miraculous power, while “name” represents the authority and person behind the action. The questioners did not deny the reality of the miracle; they challenged the authority by which it was performed. Their inquiry sought to uncover the specific name invoked and to determine whether the apostles were acting under legitimate religious authority.

Biblical connections

This questioning parallels the challenge Jesus faced in the temple, when the chief priests and elders asked Him, “By what authority doest thou these things?” (Matthew 21:23; Mark 11:28). In both cases, religious authorities confronted divine power operating outside their sanctioned structures. The question also echoes the practice of Jewish exorcists who invoked names in attempts to work wonders (Acts 19:13), showing that the leaders were concerned about the name the apostles were advancing.

Application

Acts 4:7 highlights the conflict between established religious systems and the work of God through His servants. The apostles did not retreat when their authority was questioned; they stood firm, knowing their power came from Jesus. Believers today may face opposition when the Gospel challenges traditions or institutions. The passage encourages standing firm in faith and boldly proclaiming the name of Jesus, even under pressure, trusting that the power to heal and to save comes through Him alone.

Reflection

The religious leaders sought to control the source of spiritual power, but the apostles pointed beyond themselves to Jesus. Their question, “By what name?” finds its answer in Peter’s Spirit-filled response: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). This verse calls each believer to examine the source of their confidence and to ensure that every work is done in the name that carries all authority.