Acts 12:4-5
What is written? (ESV)
And when he had seized him, he put him in prison, delivering him over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out to the people. So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.
What does it say?
After seizing him [Peter], he [Herod] put him in prison under guard of four squads of soldiers. His intent was to bring him before the people after the Passover. While Peter was in prison, the church continued in earnest prayer to God on his behalf.
What is its immediate context?
The early days of the spread of the church from Jerusalem, instigated by persecution of Christians – primarily by Jewish leaders. Herod the king has already killed James, the brother of John (vs 2) and has determined to do the same with Peter (vs 3).
How Acts 12:4-5 is applied across Bible answers
Do we pray to Jesus or God?
The church [in Jerusalem] prayed to God for Peter's release.
