Acts 5:14 – “Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number.”
Extended Explanation
Acts 5:14 is a remarkable statement because it comes immediately after a time of both fear and awe in the early church. The dramatic deaths of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) had left people stunned. Some hesitated to join the church (Acts 5:13), but at the same time, many still believed and were saved.
The word “nevertheless” shows that even though people were afraid to casually associate with the believers, the power of God was so evident that it still drew people in. These were not superficial followers—they were men and women who truly believed in the Lord and made a real commitment to follow Him.
The phrase “were added to their number” shows that the church was continuing to grow. Despite opposition, fear, and challenges, God was still working powerfully to bring people into His kingdom. This verse emphasizes that true faith cannot be stopped by human fear or outside pressure.
Historical Context
At this point in Acts, the early church was experiencing both extraordinary miracles and growing persecution. The apostles were preaching boldly in Jerusalem, performing healings, and spreading the message of Jesus. Many people were amazed by the miracles and the unity among believers, and as a result, more and more people were coming to faith.
However, the events with Ananias and Sapphira had made it clear that following Christ was not just a casual decision. This was not about joining a social group or adopting a new philosophy—it was about total faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior.
The church’s growth at this time was both surprising and powerful. Despite growing opposition from religious leaders, God was continuing to add to His church. This shows that His power is greater than human opposition.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches several powerful truths:
- God is in control of church growth – Despite fear and challenges, people were still coming to faith. Salvation is ultimately God’s work.
- True faith is not hindered by fear – Even though some were afraid to join (Acts 5:13), those who truly believed still stepped forward.
- The gospel is for both men and women – This verse specifically mentions that both men and women were being saved, showing that salvation is for everyone.
- God’s power is greater than opposition – No amount of persecution, fear, or challenge can stop the spread of the gospel when God is moving.
Literary Analysis
Luke, the author of Acts, uses contrast in this passage. In Acts 5:13, he describes how some were hesitant to join because of fear, but in Acts 5:14, he shows that many still believed and were saved. This contrast highlights the difference between those who were afraid of the cost and those who truly put their faith in Jesus.
The phrase “believed in the Lord” is key. It does not just say that they joined a group or admired the apostles—it specifically says they believed in Jesus. This emphasizes that salvation is about faith in Christ, not just participation in a religious movement.
The structure of this verse also mirrors Acts 2:47, where it says, “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Luke repeatedly emphasizes that it is God who adds to the church, not human effort alone.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 16:18 – Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”
- Acts 2:47 – “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”
- John 6:37 – Jesus said, “All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away.”
- Romans 1:16 – “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.”
- Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that God is still at work today. Even in a world where many reject the gospel, people are still coming to faith in Jesus. The power of God is not limited by human fear, social pressure, or opposition.
It also challenges us to consider our own faith. Are we hesitant like those in verse 13, or are we willing to step forward in faith like those in verse 14? True belief requires commitment and trust in Jesus, even when it is difficult.
Additionally, this verse shows that salvation is a work of God. The church does not grow because of clever marketing or human effort—it grows because God is drawing people to Himself. Our job is to share the gospel faithfully and trust Him with the results.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Some might wonder, if God is loving, why did the previous events in Acts 5 cause so much fear? The answer is that God’s love includes both grace and truth. His holiness cannot be separated from His love.
Even after the serious judgment of Ananias and Sapphira, God’s love is still evident because He continues to call people to salvation. He does not reject those who come to Him in faith. Instead, He welcomes them into His family.
God’s love is so powerful that it cannot be stopped by human fear or doubt. His invitation to salvation remains open to all who will believe.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus had promised that His followers would grow in number and that nothing could stop His church (Matthew 16:18). This verse is a direct fulfillment of that promise.
It also connects to Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where He commanded His disciples to make more disciples of all nations. The growth of the early church was the beginning of this worldwide mission.
Furthermore, this passage reminds us that Jesus is the one who saves. The people in Acts 5:14 did not just join a movement—they believed in the Lord. Salvation is found in Jesus alone (Acts 4:12).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does this verse teach us about God’s role in church growth?
- Why do you think some people were hesitant (Acts 5:13), while others believed and joined (Acts 5:14)?
- How does this verse challenge us to be bold in sharing our faith?
- In what ways do we see God continuing to add to His church today?
- How does this verse remind us that faith in Jesus requires commitment?
This verse is a powerful reminder that God is at work. His love and truth continue to change lives, and nothing can stop His church from growing. May we trust Him, boldly share the gospel, and rejoice as He continues to draw people to Himself.