Acts 12:24
But the word of God grew and multiplied.
Original Language Analysis
Ὁ
G3588
Ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
λόγος
the word
G3056
λόγος
the word
Strong's:
G3056
Word #:
3 of 8
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεοῦ
of God
G2316
θεοῦ
of God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
5 of 8
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
ηὔξανεν
grew
G837
ηὔξανεν
grew
Strong's:
G837
Word #:
6 of 8
to grow ("wax"), i.e., enlarge (literal or figurative, active or passive)
Cross References
Acts 6:7And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.Acts 19:20So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.2 Thessalonians 3:1Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:Matthew 16:18And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.Acts 11:21And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.Colossians 1:6Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:
Historical Context
Following Herod's death (AD 44), Jewish persecution of Christians temporarily lessened, allowing church expansion. This period saw the gospel spreading throughout the eastern Mediterranean, setting the stage for Paul's missionary journeys.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the contrast between human opposition and gospel growth teach about God's purposes?
- How have you seen God's word flourish despite or through opposition?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The contrast between Herod's death and God's word growing emphasizes that human opposition cannot thwart divine purposes. The organic language ('grew and multiplied') suggests living, reproducing expansion through conversions and church planting. This summary statement shows that persecution strengthens rather than weakens the church.