Book of Acts - Chapter 12 - Verse 5

This verse from the book of Acts describes the imprisonment of Peter by King Herod. Despite Peter being held captive, the church continued to fervently pray for his release. The power of prayer is emphasized here as the church united in petitioning God on Peter's behalf. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of communal prayer during times of trial and adversity. It highlights the belief that God hears and answers the prayers of His people, even in the darkest of circumstances. The verse also showcases the unity and strength of the early Christian community, who came together in solidarity to lift up one of their own in prayer. Ultimately, this passage illustrates the faith and perseverance of the church in trusting God to intervene and deliver Peter from his imprisonment, showcasing the power of prayer in the face of adversity.

One theological interpretation of the verse “Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him” is the power of intercessory prayer. The church’s continuous prayer on behalf of Peter demonstrates the belief in the effectiveness of pleading for someone else before God. It highlights the importance of community support and unity in times of trouble. This verse shows that even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, the faith community can come together in prayer to seek God’s intervention. It also emphasizes the belief that God hears and responds to the cries of His people, illustrating the faith and trust the early church had in the power of prayer.

Word studies on this verse could focus on the specific meanings of “kept in prison” and “prayer made without ceasing.” The words “kept in prison” could imply physical confinement but could also symbolize spiritual or emotional bondage. The phrase “prayer made without ceasing” emphasizes the persistence and fervency of the church’s petitions to God on Peter’s behalf. Understanding the nuances of these words can deepen our appreciation of the challenges Peter faced and the unwavering commitment of the church to support him through prayer.