Tyndale Open Study NotesActs 12

• Jesus had prophesied that his followers would experience persecution and difficulty (Luke 11:49–51). For the first time since his death, Roman authorities acted violently against the church. James, the brother of John, was among the first disciples Jesus called (Mark 1:16–20; Luke 5:1–11). He was one of the first Christians killed because of his faith.

• King Herod Agrippa took action to intentionally harm the church (Acts 12:20–23). It is possible that doing this was meant to strengthen his political alignment with the Jewish people. The letter of James, the brother of Jesus, was probably written after this persecution effort to the Christians who were scattered (see 8:1–4; James Book Introduction, “Date of Writing”).

Herod had Peter guarded by four squads of soldiers, making it impossible for the apostle to escape (compare 12:6). God was in control, even though the circumstances seemed impossible for humans to overcome (compare 4:27–31; Genesis 18:14; Jeremiah 32:17, 27; Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37; 18:27).

the church was fervently praying: God answers the earnest prayers of his people (12:6–17; see Luke 11:1–13; 18:1–8; compare Matthew 7:7–11; John 15:7; Philippians 4:6–7; James 5:16; 1 John 3:22).

God, through an angel, guided Peter out of prison. Peter reunited with his praying friends, and God sent him to continue proclaiming the good news about Jesus. The message advanced by God's power, even when the church and apostles faced strong opposition and discouragement.

See “Angels” Theme Note.

Mary, the mother of John Mark, had a home where Christians often gathered. John Mark later worked with Barnabas and Saul to spread the gospel (12:25).

Rhoda was very surprised when Peter appeared, so she left him standing at the closed door. She and the other Christians thought God's answer to their prayers was amazing (12:5).

When Peter was missing after a thorough search, Herod questioned the guards and executed them (see 16:27). However, Herod himself then experienced a painful death. God punished him for his pride when he accepted the people's worship. The ancient Jewish historian Josephus provides more details about the death of Herod Agrippa I (Josephus, Antiquities 19.8.1–2).

Herod died from a terrible illness (12:23). Meanwhile, the Christian church continued to grow and share the message of the gospel freely (28:31).