Devine Scripture

Acts 11:4

What does Acts 11:4 mean?

A plain-English look at Acts 11:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Acts 11:4 means

In response to the accusations, Peter did not immediately defend himself with arguments but rather recounted the entirety of the events in an orderly fashion. He understood the need to explain the divine leading that guided his actions, starting from his vision to his encounter with Cornelius. This deliberate and methodical explanation was crucial for the Jerusalem believers, allowing them to grasp the supernatural intervention that validated his actions and challenged their preconceived notions about Gentile inclusion.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But Peter began, and expounded the matter unto them in order, saying,

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But Peter began, and expounded the matter unto them in order, saying,

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But Peter gave them an account of it all in order, saying to them,

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Peter having begun, did expound to them in order saying,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But Peter began and declared to them the matter in order, saying:

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But Peter began and set forth [the matter] to them in order, saying,

Context

This verse marks a turning point from accusation to explanation. Peter's decision to "expound the matter unto them in order" sets the stage for the detailed recounting of his experience, which occupies the next several verses. This methodical approach is vital for the Jerusalem church to properly understand and accept the radical shift in God's redemptive plan concerning Gentiles, moving the narrative from conflict to divine revelation.

v.3saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.

v.4This passage

v.5I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, a certain vessel descending, as it were a great sheet let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even unto me:

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 1:3

    it seemed good to me also, having traced the course of all things accurately from the first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus;

  • Proverbs 15:1

    A soft answer turneth away wrath; But a grievous word stirreth up anger.

  • Joshua 22:21

    Then the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh answered, and spake unto the heads of the thousands of Israel,

  • Acts 14:27

    And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all things that God had done with them, and that he had opened a door of faith unto the Gentiles.

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