Acts 5:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 5:29
29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Chapter Context
Acts 5 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, truth, sacrifice. 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 5:29
29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Analysis
We ought to obey God rather than men—Peter states the principle of civil disobedience when human authority contradicts divine command. The Greek 'peitharchein' (obey) denotes submission to authority; 'dei' (ought) indicates moral necessity, not mere preference. This doesn't advocate anarchism but establishes God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly powers. The apostles' defiance was specific and limited: they continued preaching Christ despite orders to stop, but didn't resist arrest or sentence. This principle later guided Christian martyrs refusing emperor worship while otherwise submitting to Roman law. Daniel 3 and 6 provide Old Testament parallels.
Historical Context
Peter's response to the Sanhedrin's second prohibition against preaching (v.28). The high priest's accusation—'you intend to bring this man's blood upon us' (v.28)—shows the leaders' fear of being held accountable for Jesus' death. The apostles had been imprisoned, miraculously freed by an angel (v.19), and resumed teaching in the temple despite orders.
Reflection
- Where is the line between submitting to governing authorities and obeying God's higher law?
- What contemporary issues might require Christians to say 'we ought to obey God rather than men'?
Word Studies
- Apostle: ἀπόστολος (Apostolos) G652 - Apostle, sent one
Cross-References
- References God: Acts 4:19
- Parallel theme: Genesis 3:17, 1 Samuel 15:24