Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.

ACTS 5:15KJV
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Acts 5:15 (KJV)

What does Acts 5:15 mean?

Acts 5:15 describes how people in Jerusalem brought their sick into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, hoping that even Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. The verse shows the extraordinary respect and hope people had for Peter’s presence, believing it could bring healing.

This scene takes place in the early days of the Christian church, after the apostles had been performing many signs and wonders among the people. The crowds’ actions reflect both their desperation and their belief in the power at work through Peter, one of Jesus’ closest followers. The verse highlights the growing reputation of the apostles and the atmosphere of expectation surrounding their ministry.

The Greek behind Acts 5:15

  • "ἐπισκιάσει" (episkíasei, "overshadow"): This word means "to cast a shadow upon" or "to overshadow." In this context, it suggests that people believed even the touch of Peter’s shadow could bring help or healing, showing the depth of their faith in the power working through him.
  • "κλινῶν" (klinōn, "beds") and "κραβάττων" (krabattōn, "couches"): The use of two different words for beds hints that people brought the sick on whatever was available, whether more permanent beds or simple stretchers, emphasizing the urgency and diversity of the crowd.

Why Acts 5:15 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that the apostles’ influence was limited to private gatherings; their reputation had spread so widely that people filled public streets with the sick.
  • Acts 5:15 emphasizes how the early church’s ministry was not just about words or teaching but included visible acts of compassion and power that drew public attention.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing the growing impact of the apostles’ ministry, setting the stage for both increased acceptance and opposition as the story continues.

Where else these words appear

“overshadow” Greek G1982 · used in 5 verses

  • Matthew 17:5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.
  • Mark 9:7 And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.
  • Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

“forth” Greek G1627 · used in 7 verses

  • Luke 15:22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
  • Acts 5:9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.
  • 1 Timothy 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

“shadow” Greek G4639 · used in 7 verses

  • Matthew 4:16 The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.
  • Luke 1:79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
  • Hebrews 8:5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.

“streets” Greek G4113 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 6:5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
  • Luke 10:10 But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say,
  • Revelation 11:8 And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.