Acts 5:26

At that point, the captain went with the officers and brought the apostles--but not by force, for fear the people would stone them.

Study Bible

At that point
This phrase indicates a specific moment in time, suggesting urgency and immediacy. In the context of Acts 5, the apostles had been preaching boldly in the temple courts, despite previous warnings from the Jewish authorities. The phrase underscores the tension and the pivotal nature of the events unfolding. Historically, this was a period of significant growth and challenge for the early church, as the apostles were spreading the message of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem, the heart of Jewish religious life.

the captain
The Greek word used here is "στρατηγός" (strategos), referring to a high-ranking officer in charge of the temple guard. This position was one of authority and respect within the Jewish temple hierarchy. The captain's involvement highlights the seriousness with which the Jewish leaders viewed the apostles' activities. It also reflects the organized structure of temple security, which was tasked with maintaining order and protecting the sanctity of the temple.

went with the officers
The term "officers" translates from the Greek "ὑπηρέτης" (hypēretēs), meaning servants or attendants. These were likely members of the temple guard, responsible for enforcing the Sanhedrin's orders. Their role was to ensure compliance with religious laws and directives. This phrase illustrates the coordinated effort by the Jewish authorities to address what they perceived as a threat to their religious and social order.

and brought them
The act of bringing the apostles indicates a non-violent approach, as opposed to arresting them with force. This suggests a level of respect or caution, possibly due to the apostles' growing popularity among the people. The authorities were aware of the potential for public unrest if they acted too harshly. This reflects the delicate balance the Jewish leaders had to maintain between enforcing their authority and avoiding public backlash.

without violence
This phrase is significant, as it highlights the restraint exercised by the temple authorities. The Greek word "βίας" (bias) means force or violence. The decision to avoid violence was likely influenced by the apostles' favor with the people, as well as the leaders' fear of inciting a riot. This restraint underscores the apostles' influence and the growing impact of their message, which was challenging the established religious norms.

for they feared
The fear mentioned here is a crucial element in understanding the dynamics between the apostles and the Jewish authorities. The Greek word "φοβέω" (phobeo) implies a deep concern or apprehension. The authorities were not only concerned about maintaining order but also about their own positions and the potential repercussions from the Roman authorities if a disturbance occurred. This fear reflects the power of the apostles' message and the divine authority with which they spoke.

that the people
The people, or "λαός" (laos) in Greek, refers to the general populace of Jerusalem. The apostles had gained significant support among the people due to their teachings and miraculous signs. This popular support was a source of concern for the Jewish leaders, as it threatened their control and influence. The people's favor towards the apostles is a testament to the compelling nature of the Gospel message and the work of the Holy Spirit in drawing individuals to the truth.

might stone them
Stoning was a traditional Jewish form of capital punishment for blasphemy or other serious offenses. The fear of being stoned by the people indicates the high level of support the apostles had garnered. It also reflects the volatile nature of public opinion and the potential for mob justice. This phrase highlights the precarious position of the Jewish leaders, who were caught between their desire to suppress the apostles and the risk of inciting the wrath of the people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Captain of the Temple Guard
This individual was responsible for maintaining order in the temple precincts. He played a key role in the arrest of the apostles, ensuring it was done without inciting a riot.

2. The Officers
These were the temple police who assisted the captain in maintaining order and executing the orders of the Sanhedrin.

3. The Apostles
The followers of Jesus who were preaching His resurrection and performing miracles, causing a stir among the Jewish leaders.

4. The Sanhedrin
The Jewish ruling council that was concerned about the apostles' influence and sought to suppress their message.

5. The People
The general populace who were supportive of the apostles due to the miracles and teachings they witnessed, creating a potential threat of violence against the authorities.

Teaching Points

Fear of Man vs. Fear of God
The authorities acted out of fear of the people rather than reverence for God. Believers are called to prioritize God's will over human approval.

God's Protection of His Messengers
Despite opposition, God protected the apostles, allowing them to continue their mission. This encourages believers to trust in God's protection when facing opposition.

The Power of Public Witness
The apostles' influence on the people demonstrates the power of a faithful witness. Christians are encouraged to live out their faith boldly, impacting those around them.

Non-violent Resistance
The apostles did not resist arrest, showing a model of peaceful endurance in the face of persecution. Believers can learn to respond to opposition with grace and peace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fear of the people by the authorities in Acts 5:26 reflect the tension between human authority and divine mission?

2. In what ways can believers today experience God's protection when they face opposition for their faith?

3. How can the example of the apostles' peaceful response to arrest inform our reactions to persecution or opposition?

4. What are some practical ways we can prioritize the fear of God over the fear of man in our daily lives?

5. How does the public's support of the apostles challenge us to be bold in our witness for Christ in our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 4:1-3
This passage describes a previous arrest of Peter and John, showing the ongoing tension between the apostles and the Jewish authorities.

Matthew 21:46
This verse highlights the fear of the people that the Jewish leaders had, similar to the fear seen in Acts 5:26.

John 7:30-32
This passage shows the authorities' fear of the people's reaction, a recurring theme in the Gospels and Acts.