Acts 4:9

What does Acts 4:9 mean?

A plain-English look at Acts 4:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Acts 4:9 means

Peter framed the current examination as an inquiry into a good deed: the healing of a lame man. He pointed out the absurdity of being questioned by religious leaders for an act of benevolence. His statement subtly challenged their perspective, forcing them to consider why they were scrutinizing a clear miracle that had brought healing and joy, rather than celebrating it. He laid the groundwork for revealing the true source of this healing.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

if we this day are examined concerning a good deed done to an impotent man, by what means this man is made whole;

KJV

King James Version · 1611

If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

if we this day are examined concerning a good deed done to an impotent man, by what means this man is made whole;

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

If we are questioned today about a good work done to a man who was ill, as to how he has been made well,

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

if we to-day are examined concerning the good deed to the ailing man, by whom he hath been saved,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

If we this day are examined concerning the good deed done to the infirm man, by what means he hath been made whole:

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

if we this day are called upon to answer as to the good deed [done] to the infirm man, how he has been healed,

Context

This verse introduces Peter's rhetorical strategy, establishing the context of their questioning as being about a benevolent act. It comes immediately after his Spirit-filled introduction, preparing the way for his explicit declaration. This framing highlights the undeniable positive outcome of the apostles' work, making the Sanhedrin's opposition appear all the more unreasonable.

v.8Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders,

v.9This passage

v.10be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even in him doth this man stand here before you whole.

Cross references

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

  • 1 Peter 4:14

    If ye are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are ye; because the Spirit of glory and the Spirit of God resteth upon you.

  • Acts 3:7

    And he took him by the right hand, and raised him up: and immediately his feet and his ankle-bones received strength.

  • 1 Peter 3:15

    but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord: being ready always to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, yet with meekness and fear:

  • John 10:32

    Jesus answered them, Many good works have I showed you from the Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?

  • John 7:23

    If a man receiveth circumcision on the sabbath, that the law of Moses may not be broken; are ye wroth with me, because I made a man every whit whole on the sabbath?

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