But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Peter doesn't just address the crowd; he specifically calls them "Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem," a distinction that highlights his intent to speak to both native Jews and the diverse visitors gathered there. This careful wording shows Peter's deliberate effort to reach everyone present, not just a select group, setting the stage for a message of universal significance.
But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.
English Standard Version (ESV)
As the crowd marvels at the apostles speaking in different tongues, some mock them, suggesting they are drunk. Peter, standing with the other eleven apostles, boldly steps forward to address the bewildered and accusatory crowd. He immediately seeks to gain their attention and correct their misunderstanding of the miraculous events that have just unfolded.
Imagine the scene: a crowd is buzzing, confused, and some are even mocking. Who steps up to explain the unbelievable?
Peter, not one of the eleven, but standing with them, takes the initiative. This isn't just a random speech; it's a calculated, Spirit-led response. He was known for his boldness, and in this moment, that natural temperament, empowered by the Holy Spirit, shines through. He doesn't shrink back from the ridicule; instead, he seizes the opportunity to declare the truth. His address isn't accusatory but firm and clear: 'Let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.' He calls them 'Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem,' a respectful and inclusive way to address the diverse crowd present for the feast.
Peter doesn't just want them to hear; he wants them to truly listen. What's the difference, and why does it matter so much?
The word Peter uses for 'give ear' is powerful. It's not a casual 'listen up.' It implies a deep, attentive hearing, a willingness to truly consider what's being said. This is critical because the crowd is buzzing with speculation, many assuming the apostles are drunk. Peter knows he needs their focused attention to set the record straight and explain the miraculous events they are witnessing. He understands that a true transformation begins not just with hearing a message, but with internalizing it.
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c. 30 AD
The Ascension of Jesus Christ
Following Jesus' resurrection, he ascends to heaven, commissioning his disciples to be witnesses to the ends of the earth. The disciples are instructed to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit.
c. 30 AD— this verse
The Day of Pentecost
Ten days after Jesus' ascension, the Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples in Jerusalem, empowering them to speak in various languages. This event draws a large crowd of Jewish pilgrims and residents.
c. 30 AD
Peter's Sermon and the First Baptisms
In response to the crowd's amazement and some mockery, Peter preaches a powerful sermon, explaining the events of Pentecost as the fulfillment of prophecy and calling people to repentance. Approximately 3,000 people are baptized.
c. 30-33 AD
Early Growth and Persecution of the Church
The early Christian community in Jerusalem experiences rapid growth, with many conversions. However, they also face increasing opposition and persecution from Jewish religious authorities.
c. 33-34 AD
Stephen's Martyrdom and Wider Dispersion
Stephen, a deacon known for his faith and powerful witness, becomes the first Christian martyr. His death triggers a wave of persecution that causes many believers to scatter from Jerusalem, spreading the gospel to new regions.
Peter, having experienced the power of the Holy Spirit, later instructs believers to 'always be prepared to give an answer' when asked about their hope, echoing his own bold defense here.
Joel 2:28-29Peter directly quotes this prophecy to explain the outpouring of the Spirit, showing how the events of Pentecost were a fulfillment of ancient promises.
Acts 1:8Jesus promised the disciples they would receive power from the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses. Peter's courageous address here is a direct demonstration of that promised power in action.
Proverbs 15:1Peter's calm and reasoned response to the accusations of drunkenness exemplifies the wisdom of answering 'with a soft answer,' turning wrath away, rather than returning railing for railing.
John 14:26Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would teach the disciples all things and remind them of His words. Peter's coherent and powerful sermon demonstrates the Spirit's role in empowering and guiding the apostles' speech.
barnesActs 2:14: "But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:"
But Peter - This was in accordance with the natural temperament of Peter. He was bold, forward, ardent; and he rose now to defend the apostles of Jesus Christ, and Christ himself, from an injurious charge. Not daunted by ridicule or opposition, he felt that now was the time for preaching the gospel to…
vincentActs 2:14: "But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:"
Standing up (σταθεὶς)See on Luke 18:11; and Luke 19:8.Said (ἀπεφθέγξατο)See on Acts 2:4. Better, Rev., spake forth. "This most solemn, earnest, yet sober speech" (Bengel).Hearken (ἐνωτίσασθε)Only here in New Testament. From ἐν, in; and οὖς the ear. Rev., give ear.Words (ῥήματα)See on Luke 1:…
Peter doesn't just address the crowd; he specifically calls them "Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem," a distinction that highlights his intent to speak to both native Jews and the diverse visitors gathered there. This careful wording shows Peter's deliberate effort to reach everyone present, not just a select group, setting the stage for a message of universal significance.
As the crowd marvels at the apostles speaking in different tongues, some mock them, suggesting they are drunk. Peter, standing with the other eleven apostles, boldly steps forward to address the bewildered and accusatory crowd. He immediately seeks to gain their attention and correct their misunderstanding of the miraculous events that have just unfolded.
As the crowd marvels at the apostles speaking in different tongues, some mock them, suggesting they are drunk. Peter, standing with the other eleven apostles, boldly steps forward to address the bewildered and accusatory crowd. He immediately seeks to gain their attention and correct their misunderstanding of the miraculous events that have just unfolded.
"But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words." — Peter doesn't just address the crowd; he specifically calls them "Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem," a distinction that highlights his intent to speak to both native Jews and the diverse v…
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Last reviewed October 2026