Acts 11:4
But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,
Original Language Analysis
ἀρξάμενος
rehearsed the matter from the beginning
G756
ἀρξάμενος
rehearsed the matter from the beginning
Strong's:
G756
Word #:
1 of 8
to commence (in order of time)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Πέτρος
Peter
G4074
Πέτρος
Peter
Strong's:
G4074
Word #:
4 of 8
a (piece of) rock (larger than g3037); as a name, petrus, an apostle
αὐτοῖς
unto them
G846
αὐτοῖς
unto them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
6 of 8
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Historical Context
Rehearsed from beginning indicates comprehensive account. Expounded by order suggests logical, sequential presentation. Peter didn't defensively justify actions but carefully explained divine orchestration. This approach around 40 CE modeled handling controversial ministry decisions—grounding actions in verifiable divine guidance rather than personal preference. His detailed account (Acts 11:5-17) retells Acts 10 from his perspective.
Questions for Reflection
- How does systematic explanation differ from defensive reaction?
- What role does orderly presentation play in resolving controversial issues?
- In what ways should leaders document and explain controversial Spirit-led decisions?
- How does beginning with divine initiative strengthen controversial action's justification?
- What does Peter's approach teach about accountability in church leadership?
Analysis & Commentary
But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, Peter's methodical, sequential explanation demonstrates wise apologetic approach—presenting evidence systematically rather than defensively reacting.