Bible Chapter Summary
Acts 12 Summary
Herod's Persecution and Peter's Escape
King Herod stretches forth his hands to vex the church, killing James the brother of John with the sword. Seeing this pleases the Jews, Herod arrests Peter and puts him in prison, intending to bring him forth after Easter. The church prays without ceasing for Peter. The night before his trial, an angel comes to Peter, his chains fall off, and he is led out through the city gates. Peter realizes God has delivered him from Herod's hand. He goes to the house of Mary, mother of John Mark, where many are gathered praying. The servant Rhoda is so glad to hear his voice she forgets to open the gate. When Peter finally enters, the church is amazed. Herod searches for Peter but cannot find him, examines the keepers, and has them put to death. Word of God continues to grow and multiply as Barnabas and Saul return from their ministry, bringing John Mark with them.
Key themes
Key verses
Acts 12:7
“And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.”
Acts 12:11
“And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.”
Acts 12:23
“And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.”
Acts 12:24
“But the word of God grew and multiplied.”
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