Acts 4:15 (KJV)

What does Acts 4:15 mean?

Acts 4:15 describes how the Jewish council, after questioning Peter and John, ordered them to leave the room so the council members could discuss the situation privately. The verse shows the council wanting to deliberate without the apostles present.

The setting is Jerusalem, shortly after Peter and John healed a man and preached about Jesus. The council (Sanhedrin) is made up of Jewish leaders who feel threatened by the apostles’ message. By sending Peter and John outside, the council signals both the seriousness of the situation and their uncertainty about how to respond to the apostles’ actions.

The Greek behind Acts 4:15

• συνέβαλον (synébalon, "conferred"): This Greek word often means to discuss or deliberate together, suggesting a careful, possibly anxious conversation among the council members. It highlights that the leaders did not have an immediate answer and needed to weigh their options.
• συνέδριον (synedrion, "council"): This term refers specifically to the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin, giving historical context to the setting and the authority of those involved.

Why Acts 4:15 matters

• Acts 4:15 shows the apostles’ boldness had put the council in a difficult position, forcing the leaders to pause and consult privately rather than act immediately.
• The verse sets up the tension in the story, showing the council’s uncertainty and hinting at the impact Peter and John’s testimony was having.
• This moment connects to the larger narrative of Acts, where the early church’s message repeatedly challenges established authorities and prompts careful, sometimes fearful, responses.