Understanding the Scriptures
Acts 11
| Contended (v. 2) | Argued | |
| Rehearsed … and expounded (v. 4) | Explained the way it happened | |
| Cleave unto (v. 23) | Stay, remain | |
| Signified by the Spirit (v. 28) | Shown the truth by the Spirit |
Acts 12
| Vex (v. 1) | Trouble, persecute | |
| Smote (v. 7) | Hit, struck | |
| Gird thyself (v. 8) | Fasten your clothes with your belt | |
| First and the second ward (v. 10) | First and second guard | |
| Constantly affirmed (v. 15) | Insisted | |
| Beckoning (v. 17) | Making a sign with the hand | |
| No small stir (v. 18) | Great disturbance |
Acts 12:1–3, 21–23—Which Wicked King Herod?
There are several Herods mentioned in the New Testament. The King Herod at the time of Christ’s birth was the father and grandfather of the others (see Bible Dictionary, “Herod,” pp. 700–1). He was a king because of his political friendship with the Romans. He was not a Jew, and the Jews hated him for his cruelty. The Herod that killed James was Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of the first Herod. He persecuted the Christians because he was eager to please the Jewish leaders. His son, Herod Agrippa II, listened to Paul teach the gospel and found no fault in him (see Acts 25:13–26:32).
Studying the Scriptures
Do activity A or B as you study Acts 12.
The Prophet Announces a Major Policy Change
-
1.
Review Acts 11:1–18 and answer the following questions:
-
a.
How did the Saints in Jerusalem react when they heard that Peter had met with and eaten with Gentiles?
-
b.
What did Peter say to defend himself (see Acts 11:4–17)?
-
c.
What did the Saints do when they heard Peter’s explanation?
-
a.
-
2.
Read Doctrine and Covenants 21:4–6 and explain why it is essential to follow the revelations of the Lord given through His prophet.
An Angel Helps Peter Escape
The story in Acts 12:1–19 is a remarkable one. List what you think are three or four significant events in these verses and explain why they impressed you.
