MPV Commentary

Rage Calmed by Gamaliel--Being Dismissed, They Depart Rejoicing, and Continue Their Preaching.

The apostles' doctrine had filled Jerusalem with its message, a testament to the success of their preaching and the truth of their testimony (Ac 4:4). The Sanhedrin members were concerned that if they continued to preach, it would bring them into conflict with the authorities.

They avoided directly accusing Jesus, instead referring to him as "this man." This subtle avoidance may have been a reminder of their own recent imprecation against Jesus' blood being upon them (Mt 27:25), and Judas' words as he betrayed Jesus, "I have sinned in that I have betrayed innocent blood" (Mt 27:4).

Then Peter stood up with the other apostles and said... (See on Ac 2:22, and Ac 3:13, etc.).

Peter proclaimed Jesus as both Prince and Savior. The title "Prince" emphasized his royal authority, while "Savior" highlighted his role in saving people from sin. These two aspects of Jesus' work are intertwined, making him a glorious whole (Ac 3:15; Heb 2:10).

As the Prince, Jesus dispenses spiritual blessings, including repentance and remission of sins. Repentance involves a complete change that leads to faith, securing forgiveness (Ac 2:38; 20:21). This passage beautifully presents Christ as the Dispenser of all spiritual blessings.

The apostles testified that they were witnesses to these events, and the Holy Spirit attested them through undeniable miracles. The Sanhedrin members were cut to the heart by this testimony, but instead of being drawn to faith, they took counsel to slay the apostles (Ac 2:37).

Then Gamaliel stood up in their defense, likely a respected rabbi and member of the Sanhedrin. He was possibly the same person who had taken the infant Jesus in his arms (Lu 2:25-35). Gamaliel advised caution, citing examples of previous insurrections led by Theudas and Judas of Galilee.

If this movement were merely a human endeavor, it would eventually come to nothing, he said. However, individual neutrality towards Christ is actually hostility against him, as Jesus himself taught (Lu 11:23).

The Sanhedrin members beat the apostles for disobeying their orders (Lu 23:16). Despite this persecution, the apostles departed rejoicing that they were considered worthy to suffer shame for Jesus' name. This was their first taste of persecution, and it felt sweet because they were suffering for Christ's sake.

The apostles continued to preach Jesus Christ in every house, proclaiming him as the Messiah (Ac 2:46).