Acts 11:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 11:14
14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.
Chapter Context
Acts 11 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, mercy. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 11:14
14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.
Analysis
Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved. The angel's prophecy identifies Peter as messenger of salvation, emphasizing gospel proclamation as God's ordained means while extending promise to entire household.
Historical Context
Words whereby...saved identifies gospel proclamation as salvation's means. God used angel to direct but human messenger to save—establishing pattern that means of grace work through human proclamation. All thy house indicates household salvation pattern common in Acts (Acts 16:31, 18:8). Around 40 CE, this expanded covenant household concept beyond ethnic Israel to Gentile families receiving gospel collectively.
Reflection
- Why does God use human messengers rather than angels for gospel proclamation?
- What does household salvation reveal about covenant community structure?
- How do words function as means of saving grace?
- In what ways does this establish human proclamation's indispensable role?
- What relationship exists between hearing words and experiencing salvation?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G4487 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- Word: Acts 10:22
- Parallel theme: Acts 2:39, 10:2, 10:6, 16:15, Genesis 17:7, Psalms 103:17