When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse highlights the apostles' immediate turn to community after their confrontation, showing that their "own company" wasn't just a place to share news, but a vital support system that strengthened them for the prayer that followed. It underscores how, even after boldness in public, the "aha moment" is found in their need to debrief and unite with their fellow believers.
When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Fresh from confronting the religious authorities, Peter and John return to their fellow believers, not to hide or despair, but to share the full account of their interrogation and threats. This meeting isn't just a casual update; it’s the immediate precursor to the community’s unified prayer, demonstrating how the apostles relied on each other and God for strength in the face of opposition.
When Peter and John were released, they didn't go home to lick their wounds. They went to their 'own company.' What does this phrase reveal about the early church?
The phrase 'their own company' (or 'their own people') points to a vital aspect of the early Christian movement: a deeply connected community. This wasn't just a casual acquaintance group; it was a fellowship of believers who shared a common faith, purpose, and mutual support.
The apostles didn't just return; they reported. What was the significance of sharing the details of their confrontation with the authorities?
The act of reporting back to their community was crucial for the apostles and the church.
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This event occurs in the very early days of the Jesus movement in Jerusalem, when the apostles were facing intense scrutiny from the same religious establishment that had condemned Jesus.
c. AD 30
Crucifixion of Jesus
Jesus of Nazareth is crucified in Jerusalem, an event that deeply impacts his followers and the religious authorities.
c. AD 30
Pentecost and the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus' followers in Jerusalem, empowering them to preach boldly and perform miracles.
c. AD 30
Healing of the Lame Man
Peter and John heal a man lame from birth at the temple gate in Jerusalem, drawing a large crowd.
c. AD 30— this verse
Arrest and Trial of Peter and John
Peter and John are arrested by temple authorities and brought before the Sanhedrin for preaching about Jesus.
c. AD 30
Release and Reporting to the Community
Peter and John are released by the Sanhedrin, with threats, and immediately report back to their fellow believers.
c. AD 30
The Apostles' Prayer
The Christian community gathers and prays fervently, acknowledging God's sovereignty and asking for boldness in the face of opposition.
This passage immediately follows, showing the apostles praying for boldness to continue speaking God's word, directly informed by the threats they just received. It highlights the community's response of unified prayer in the face of opposition.
Philippians 1:12-14Paul also reports his circumstances to the Philippian church, explaining how his imprisonment has actually advanced the gospel. This mirrors the apostles sharing their experience to embolden their community.
1 Samuel 17:36-37David recounts how God delivered him from the lion and the bear, bolstering his faith before facing Goliath. This shows a precedent for sharing past deliverances to strengthen faith for present challenges.
Exodus 18:19-20Moses' father-in-law advises him to teach the people God's statutes and ordinances, implying instruction and community sharing of God's ways. This points to the importance of disciples sharing what they've learned and experienced with their community.
Acts 1:14This verse mentions the disciples gathering together and praying with one accord. It sets the stage for the community support and prayer that Peter and John would seek after their release and reporting of events.
meyerActs 4:23: "And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them."
Acts 4:23-24 . Πρὸς τοὺς ἰδίους ] to those belonging to them, i.e. to their fellow-apostles . This explanation (Syr. Beza) is verified partly by Acts 4:31 , where it is said of all , that they proclaimed the doctrine of God; partly by Acts 4:32 , where the multitude of believers are contrasted with these . Hence neither are we to understand, with Kuinoel, Baumgar…
ellicottActs 4:23: "And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them."
(23) They went to their own company. —Literally, their own people. The statement implies a recognised place of meeting, where the members of the new society met at fixed times. All that the chief priests.—The word is probably used in its more extended meaning, as including, not only Annas and Caiaphas, but the heads of the four-and-twenty courses (see Note on Mat…
This verse highlights the apostles' immediate turn to community after their confrontation, showing that their "own company" wasn't just a place to share news, but a vital support system that strengthened them for the prayer that followed. It underscores how, even after boldness in public, the "aha moment" is found in their need to debrief and unite with their fellow believers.
Fresh from confronting the religious authorities, Peter and John return to their fellow believers, not to hide or despair, but to share the full account of their interrogation and threats. This meeting isn't just a casual update; it’s the immediate precursor to the community’s unified prayer, demonstrating how the apostles relied on each other and God for strength in the face of opposition.
Fresh from confronting the religious authorities, Peter and John return to their fellow believers, not to hide or despair, but to share the full account of their interrogation and threats. This meeting isn't just a casual update; it’s the immediate precursor to the community’s unified prayer, demonstrating how the apostles relied on each other and God for strength in the face of opposition.
"When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them." — This verse highlights the apostles' immediate turn to community after their confrontation, showing that their "own company" wasn't just a place to share news, but a vital support system that strength…
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Last reviewed October 2026