Acts 5:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 5:14
14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)
Chapter Context
Acts 5 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, holiness, redemption. 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 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 5:14
14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)
Analysis
The summary - 'believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women' - shows that judgment purified rather than paralyzed the church. The Greek 'mallon' (the more) indicates accelerated growth, not decline. The passive 'were added to the Lord' emphasizes divine action - God builds His church. Including 'both men and women' highlights gospel's egalitarian nature in patriarchal society. Quality (holiness) and quantity (growth) coexisted - true revival produces both purity and proliferation.
Historical Context
Women's explicit inclusion was radical in first-century Judaism where women couldn't be counted in synagogue quorums. Early Christianity's welcome of women as full members attracted criticism but demonstrated kingdom values. The multitudes' addition despite (or because of) judgment severity validated supernatural origin.
Reflection
- How does church discipline promote rather than hinder gospel growth?
- What does specific mention of women believers teach about the gospel's transformation of social structures?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Acts 2:47