Acts 5:38 meaning
In the context of escalating religious tensions and the early struggles of the Church, a significant figure emerges in Acts 5:38. Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee, offers sage advice to the Sanhedrin regarding the apostles. He suggests a passive approach, cautioning them against rashly persecuting those proclaiming the Gospel. He emphasizes a fundamental principle: if the movement led by the apostles is not of God, it will fail on its own, but if it is, opposing it would equate to fighting against God.
Gamaliel's assertion reflects the broader theme of divine sovereignty found throughout the Scriptures, as God's will ultimately prevails in the face of human opposition. His counsel invites reflection on the nature of true spiritual authority versus mere human ambition. This passage serves as a timely reminder that unchecked zeal can lead to quashing genuine faith, an example those in positions of power should heed. As stated in Acts 5:38, the call to “let them be” resonates as a powerful assertion of divine patience and the continued potential for the work of God to flourish, regardless of human interference.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Acts 5:33-39 meaning. Many in the Council are enraged by the apostles’ defense. They wish to kill them. But Gamaliel, a Pharisee, advises the other religious leaders to leave the apostles alone. He reminds the Council of two other men from the past who pretended to be sent by God, but when they died, their followers gave up their cause. If the apostles are not from God, their ministry will fail. If they are from God, then nothing can stop them, nor would the Council want to oppose God’s will.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Acts 13:38-43 meaning. Paul explains that through faith in Jesus, anyone who believes will be forgiven of their sins and freed from the power of sin in their lives. Through Jesus we are seen as righteous in God’s sight. Paul warns his listeners to believe, lest they suffer God’s wrath toward those who scoff at Him. Paul’s audience begs Barnabas and him to return a week later to preach again. Paul encourages the Galatians in their new faith.
- Acts 5:27-32 meaning. The high priest interrogates the apostles. He asks them why they are teaching in Jesus’s name throughout Jerusalem. He reminds them that he had already threatened Peter and John to stop this. He also asks why the apostles keep accusing them of being responsible for Jesus’s death. The apostles reply that they obey God, not men. They speak their message to the Council, that God resurrected Jesus, and exalted Him as Prince and Savior to sit at the right hand of God’s throne. The apostles testify that they have witnessed these acts of God, and that the Holy Spirit is with them.
- Acts 20:25-38 meaning. Paul tells the Ephesian elders they will never see him again. He warns them to be on guard for themselves and the people in their church, because false teachers will come in to corrupt the truth, like wolves attacking a flock of sheep. The elders’ job is to protect the flock and trust in Christ. Paul reminds them to remember his example, and to faithfully live out God’s word in their lives so that they might receive the inheritance of Christ. Lastly, he reminds them to give generously and bless those who are needy. The elders weep and embrace Paul, and see him off to his ship.