Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

ACTS 4:8KJV
Know the Bible

Acts 4:8 (KJV)

What does Acts 4:8 mean?

Acts 4:8 describes Peter, empowered by the Holy Spirit, addressing the Jewish leaders and elders. The verse highlights that Peter is not speaking on his own, but is guided by God's Spirit as he responds to those in authority.

In this scene, Peter is standing before the religious rulers of Jerusalem after he and John were arrested for healing a man and preaching about Jesus. The verse sets the stage for Peter’s bold speech, making it clear that his words come from being "filled with the Holy Ghost," not just personal courage or wisdom. This moment marks a turning point where ordinary men speak with authority before powerful leaders because of divine help.

The Greek behind Acts 4:8

  • "filled" (ἐπλήσθη, plēsthē): This word means to be completely filled or influenced. Here, it emphasizes that Peter’s actions and words are under the direct influence of the Holy Spirit, not just his own ability.
  • "Holy" (ἅγιον, hagion) and "Ghost" (πνεῦμα, pneuma): Together, these words refer to the Holy Spirit, the presence of God actively guiding and empowering Peter.
  • "rulers" (ἄρχοντες, archontes) and "elders" (πρεσβύτεροι, presbyteroi): These terms identify the respected leaders and decision-makers of the Jewish community, showing that Peter is addressing the highest authorities.

Why Acts 4:8 matters

  • Acts 4:8 clarifies that Peter’s boldness comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit, not from personal confidence or training.
  • The verse shows a dramatic shift from Peter’s earlier fear (when he denied Jesus) to now speaking openly before powerful leaders, highlighting the change the Holy Spirit brings.
  • This moment sets up the rest of Peter’s speech, showing that the message about Jesus is not just human opinion but is presented with divine authority.

Where else these words appear

“filled” Greek G4130 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 22:10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.
  • Luke 2:6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
  • Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

“rulers” Greek G758 · used in 36 verses

  • Matthew 9:18 While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.
  • Luke 23:13 And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,
  • Acts 4:26 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.

“elders” Greek G4245 · used in 67 verses

  • Matthew 15:2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
  • Luke 15:25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.
  • 1 Timothy 5:2 The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.

“Israel” Greek G2474 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
  • Luke 4:27 And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.
  • Acts 28:20 For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.