Acts 5:13 (KJV)

What does Acts 5:13 mean?

Acts 5:13 says that none of the other people dared to join the apostles, but the general public held them in high regard. This means that while people respected the apostles and thought highly of them, they were hesitant or even afraid to associate themselves closely with the group.

In the setting of Acts 5, the apostles are in Jerusalem after Jesus’ resurrection, performing miracles and teaching openly. The verse follows the story of Ananias and Sapphira, who died suddenly after lying about their offering. This event made people cautious, so although the apostles were admired, most people kept their distance out of respect or fear.

The Greek behind Acts 5:13

• "rest" (λοιποί, loipoi): This word refers to the remaining people, meaning those who were not already part of the apostles or close followers. It highlights that the hesitation came from the wider group, not the apostles themselves.
• "durst" (ἐτόλμα, etolma): This Greek word means "dared" or "had the courage." It suggests that joining the apostles was seen as risky or intimidating after recent events.
• "magnified" (ἐμεγάλυνεν, emegalynen): This word means "to praise" or "to hold in high esteem." It shows that the people respected the apostles even if they were afraid to join them.

Why Acts 5:13 matters

• Acts 5:13 clears up that the apostles were not unpopular or shunned; instead, they were highly respected, but people were cautious about joining them because of the seriousness of recent events.
• The verse emphasizes the impact of the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira, showing that God’s actions through the apostles inspired both awe and fear among the people.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by explaining the social atmosphere around the early church, helping readers understand why the group grew carefully and why joining them was not taken lightly.