Biblical Context:
The account of James's martyrdom and Peter's imprisonment is found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 12:1-19. This passage highlights the early persecution faced by the Christian church and the miraculous intervention of God in the lives of His apostles.

Historical Background:
The events occur during the reign of Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod the Great. Herod Agrippa I ruled Judea from AD 41 to 44 and was known for his efforts to gain favor with the Jewish populace. His actions against the early Christians were partly motivated by a desire to appease Jewish leaders who opposed the burgeoning Christian movement.

James's Martyrdom:
James, the brother of John and one of the sons of Zebedee, was one of the original twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. Acts 12:2 records, "He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword." This brief statement marks James as the first apostle to be martyred, signifying the severe opposition the early church faced. His death by the sword indicates execution, likely beheading, a method used for political or religious crimes.

Peter's Imprisonment:
Following James's execution, Herod Agrippa I proceeded to arrest Peter, intending to further suppress the Christian movement. Acts 12:3-4 states, "When he saw that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out to the people after the Passover."

Peter's imprisonment was a strategic move by Herod, as he sought to publicly execute Peter after the Passover, maximizing the impact of his actions. The use of four squads of soldiers underscores the perceived threat Peter posed and Herod's determination to prevent any escape.

Divine Intervention:
The narrative takes a dramatic turn with divine intervention. The church earnestly prayed for Peter, and God responded. Acts 12:7-10 describes the miraculous event: "Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. 'Quick, get up!' he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. 'Get dressed and put on your sandals,' said the angel. And Peter did so. 'Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,' the angel told him. Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him."

This miraculous escape emphasizes God's sovereignty and His ability to deliver His servants from seemingly impossible situations. It also highlights the power of prayer within the early Christian community.

Aftermath:
Upon realizing Peter's escape, Herod ordered a thorough search and, unable to find him, executed the guards (Acts 12:18-19). This act of retribution reflects Herod's frustration and the seriousness with which he viewed the threat of the Christian movement.

Theological Significance:
The account of James's martyrdom and Peter's imprisonment serves as a testament to the cost of discipleship and the reality of persecution for the early church. It also illustrates the power of prayer and God's providential care for His people. The contrasting outcomes for James and Peter remind believers of the mystery of God's will and the call to faithfulness, regardless of earthly circumstances.