Acts 4:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 4:31
31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.
Chapter Context
Acts 4 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, prayer, covenant. 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 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 4:31
31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.
Analysis
And when they had prayed, the place was shaken—Physical shaking authenticated God's presence, recalling Sinai (Exodus 19:18) and Isaiah 6:4. The church's response to persecution was corporate prayer for boldness (v.29), not safety—God answered with tangible confirmation. They were all filled with the Holy Ghost (ἐπλήσθησαν ἅπαντες πνεύματος ἁγίου)—a subsequent filling beyond Pentecost, showing believers need repeated Spirit-empowering for ministry challenges. They spake the word of God with boldness (παρρησίᾳ) fulfilled their prayer request—'parrēsia' denotes fearless, public speech despite opposition. The Spirit's filling produced proclamation, not ecstasy.
Historical Context
Followed the apostles' release from Sanhedrin imprisonment with orders to stop preaching (v.18). Instead of retreating, the church prayed for greater boldness (v.29). This pattern repeats throughout Acts: persecution intensifies witness. The prayer quoted Psalm 2, interpreting opposition as fulfilling prophecy about nations raging against God's Anointed.
Reflection
- Why did the church pray for boldness rather than safety from persecution?
- What circumstances in your life require a fresh filling of the Spirit for bold witness?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G3056 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- References God: James 1:5
- Prayer: Matthew 21:22
- Holy: Acts 2:4
- Word: Acts 4:29, John 15:7, Philippians 1:14
- Parallel theme: Acts 2:2, Isaiah 65:24, John 14:12, 15:16