Acts 4:9 – “If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed,”

Extended Explanation

Peter is responding to the Jewish religious leaders who had arrested him and John for preaching about Jesus and healing a crippled man at the temple gate (Acts 3:1-10). Now standing before the Sanhedrin, Peter begins his defense by pointing out something absurd: they are being put on trial for doing a good thing.

The phrase “called to account” suggests that they are being treated as criminals, even though all they did was help a man in need. This reveals the injustice of the situation. The religious leaders were not truly concerned about the healed man; they were upset because Peter and John were spreading the message of Jesus.

Peter’s words are both respectful and bold. Instead of being intimidated, he uses this opportunity to turn the focus back on the miracle itself. The leaders could not deny that a crippled man was now walking, but they were more interested in stopping the apostles than in recognizing God’s power.

Historical Context

At this time, the Sanhedrin (the Jewish ruling council) had authority over religious and legal matters in Jerusalem. They were supposed to uphold God’s law, yet they were opposing the very work of God.

Miracles were seen as signs of divine power in Jewish culture. Normally, a healing like this would have been cause for celebration. However, the religious leaders saw it as a threat to their authority.

The Sanhedrin had already rejected Jesus and pressured the Romans to crucify Him. Now, Peter and John were boldly proclaiming that Jesus was alive and that His power was still at work. The leaders were afraid that the movement of Jesus’ followers would grow beyond their control.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights an important truth: doing good in Jesus’ name will not always be welcomed. Peter and John were not arrested for committing a crime but for proclaiming the truth about Jesus. This shows that opposition to the gospel is not always logical—it is often driven by fear, pride, or a refusal to accept God’s authority.

It also reminds us that God’s power is undeniable. The Sanhedrin could not argue against the miracle, yet they refused to believe. This demonstrates the hardness of human hearts. Seeing God’s power is not enough—people must be willing to humble themselves and accept His truth.

Additionally, this verse shows that Christianity is not just about words—it is about action. Peter and John did not just preach; they demonstrated God’s power through love and kindness. The gospel is not only something to be believed but something to be lived out.

Literary Analysis

Peter’s statement is carefully worded. Instead of immediately defending himself, he exposes the absurdity of the situation. He is essentially saying, “Are we really on trial for helping a man?”

This is a rhetorical strategy. By framing the issue in this way, Peter makes the religious leaders look unreasonable. He shifts the focus away from their accusations and toward the real issue—the power of Jesus Christ.

The phrase “an act of kindness” is also important. It emphasizes that their actions were not rebellious or harmful but compassionate. This contrasts with the harshness of the religious leaders, who were more concerned about their own authority than about the well-being of others.

Biblical Cross-References

• John 10:32 – Jesus said, “I have shown you many good works from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?” The religious leaders had also rejected Jesus despite His miracles.
• Acts 3:6 – Peter healed the man in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.
• Matthew 10:22 – Jesus warned His disciples, “You will be hated by everyone because of me.”
• Luke 6:22-23 – Jesus said, “Blessed are you when people hate you… because of the Son of Man.”
• Acts 5:29 – Later, Peter and John would again stand before the authorities and boldly declare, “We must obey God rather than human beings!”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that standing for Jesus may sometimes bring opposition, even when we are doing good. Many Christians around the world face criticism, rejection, or even persecution not for wrongdoing, but for living out their faith.

It also challenges us to consider how we respond when we face resistance. Do we get discouraged, or do we use the opportunity to share Christ boldly? Peter did not complain about being arrested—he used it as an opening to proclaim Jesus.

Additionally, this verse encourages us to continue doing good, no matter the opposition. The world may reject the truth, but our responsibility is to show the love of Christ in both words and actions.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is evident in this situation. Even though Peter and John were on trial, God gave them the wisdom, courage, and opportunity to speak about Jesus. His love is not just about keeping us out of trouble—it is about giving us strength in the midst of trouble.

This verse also shows that God cares for the hurting. The religious leaders ignored the healed man, but God did not. He saw his suffering and restored him through Peter and John. This is a beautiful picture of how God reaches out to broken people, both physically and spiritually.

Lastly, God’s love is seen in His patience. The same religious leaders who rejected Jesus were now being given another chance to hear the gospel. Even though they opposed the truth, God was still reaching out to them.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This moment is a direct continuation of Jesus’ ministry. The miracle Peter and John performed was not by their own power—it was through Jesus. The same power that healed people during Jesus’ earthly ministry was still at work through His followers.

This also connects to Jesus’ own trials. Just as Peter and John were questioned for doing good, Jesus was arrested and condemned even though He was innocent. John 15:18-20 tells us that if the world persecuted Jesus, it would also persecute His followers.

Additionally, this verse points to the truth that Jesus is alive. The religious leaders had crucified Him, but His power had not been stopped. Peter and John were standing before them as living proof that Jesus was still working.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever faced opposition for doing something good in Jesus’ name? How did you respond?
2. Why do you think the religious leaders were more concerned about stopping Peter and John than celebrating the healed man?
3. What can we learn from Peter’s boldness in this passage?
4. How does this verse encourage you to continue doing good, even when others reject it?
5. What are some ways we can live out our faith, not just in words but through acts of kindness?

This verse is a reminder that following Jesus means standing firm in the face of opposition. The world may reject the message, but God’s truth and love will never be stopped. Like Peter and John, we are called to live boldly, showing the power of Christ in both our words and actions.