Acts 4:7 – “They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: ‘By what power or what name did you do this?’”

Extended Explanation

This verse describes the moment when Peter and John were officially questioned by the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin. The leaders wanted to know “by what power or what name” they had performed the miracle of healing the crippled man (Acts 3:1-10).

This question reveals several things about the religious leaders. First, it shows that they could not deny that a miracle had taken place. The healed man was well known in Jerusalem, and everyone could see that he had been completely restored. Instead of investigating the miracle honestly, they were focused on stopping the spread of Jesus’ name.

Second, the phrase “by what power or what name” suggests that they were looking for an explanation that fit within their own framework of authority. In their minds, power came from recognized religious leaders or from God alone. They were hoping to catch Peter and John claiming an authority they did not have so that they could accuse them of blasphemy or rebellion.

But Peter and John had no interest in politics or religious traditions. Their answer (which comes in the next verses) would make it clear: the power came from Jesus Christ, whom the Sanhedrin had rejected and crucified.

Historical Context

The Sanhedrin was the Jewish ruling council, made up of 70 elders, scribes, and chief priests, plus the high priest as its leader. This was the same council that had condemned Jesus to death just a short time before (Matthew 26:57-68). Now, they were interrogating His disciples, trying to silence them in the same way.

Jewish leaders often asked about authority when confronted with something that challenged their power. In Matthew 21:23, they asked Jesus a similar question: “By what authority are you doing these things?” They were not interested in discovering the truth; they were trying to protect their own positions.

Miracles and healings were recognized as signs of divine power in Jewish culture. But since Peter and John were not trained religious leaders, the Sanhedrin viewed them as unqualified to perform such acts. They failed to recognize that true spiritual authority comes from God, not from human institutions.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights the tension between man-made religious authority and God’s true authority. The religious leaders thought they had control over spiritual matters, but they had rejected the very One who had all power—Jesus Christ.

It also shows that the world will always question the authority of Christ’s followers. People want to know who gives us the right to speak about sin, salvation, and eternal life. The answer is the same as Peter and John’s: our authority comes from Jesus, the Son of God, not from human approval.

Additionally, this verse reminds us that miracles alone do not convince people to believe. The leaders had clear evidence that a great miracle had taken place, but their hearts were hardened. Faith comes through the work of the Holy Spirit, not just by seeing signs and wonders (John 12:37).

Literary Analysis

This verse builds tension in the narrative. The scene is dramatic: Peter and John, simple fishermen, are standing before the most powerful religious figures in Israel. The question “By what power or what name did you do this?” is meant to intimidate them, but it also sets up their powerful response in the next verses.

The wording of the question is also important. In Jewish tradition, names carried great significance. To do something “in a name” meant to do it under someone’s authority. The Sanhedrin understood that invoking a name implied power. What they did not expect was that Peter and John would boldly declare the name of Jesus—the very name they had tried to erase.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 21:23 – The Jewish leaders asked Jesus, “By what authority are you doing these things?”
• John 12:37 – Even after Jesus performed many signs, people still did not believe in Him.
• Acts 3:6 – Peter healed the crippled man “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.”
• Acts 5:27-29 – When questioned again, Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than human beings!”
• Philippians 2:9-11 – Jesus’ name is above every name, and one day every knee will bow to Him.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that we should expect opposition when we stand for Christ. The world will always ask, “Who gives you the right to say these things?” Whether it is in conversations about truth, morality, or salvation, people will challenge the authority of Jesus.

Just like Peter and John, we must be ready to boldly proclaim that our faith is based on the name of Jesus. We do not need approval from the world to speak the truth. Our confidence comes from knowing that Jesus is Lord, and His authority is higher than any human authority.

It also challenges us to be firm in our beliefs. If someone asks you why you believe in Jesus, are you ready to give an answer? (1 Peter 3:15)

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is shown in how He gives His followers strength to stand for the truth. Peter and John were ordinary men, yet God empowered them to speak boldly before the most powerful authorities in their nation. This shows that His love is not just about protecting us from hardship—it is about equipping us to face it with courage.

God’s love is also seen in how He continues to reach out to those who oppose Him. The religious leaders had rejected Jesus, but now they were hearing the gospel again through Peter and John. Even in their hardness of heart, God was still giving them an opportunity to believe.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse is all about Jesus because it sets up the moment when His name will be boldly proclaimed before the highest authorities in Israel. The Sanhedrin thought they had gotten rid of Jesus, but now His followers were performing miracles in His name and spreading His message.

Jesus had already told His disciples that they would face this kind of opposition. In Luke 21:12-15, He said, “They will seize you and persecute you… and you will bear testimony to me. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves, for I will give you words and wisdom.” This prophecy was being fulfilled in Acts 4.

This verse also connects to Jesus’ ultimate authority. Philippians 2:9-11 tells us that God exalted Jesus and gave Him the name above every name. The very name that the Sanhedrin rejected would one day be acknowledged by all people.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever faced situations where people questioned your faith? How did you respond?
2. Why do you think the religious leaders were so resistant to Jesus’ name, even after seeing miracles?
3. How can we prepare ourselves to answer questions about our faith with boldness and clarity?
4. What does this verse teach us about the power and authority of Jesus’ name?
5. How does knowing that Jesus predicted opposition encourage you in your walk with Him?

This passage is a powerful reminder that the world will always challenge the authority of Jesus, but His name will never lose its power. As His followers, we are called to stand firm, boldly proclaiming that all we do is through His name and His power.