Attributed commentary excerpt
Barnes' Notes on Acts 4:24
A historical reference excerpt for this verse. Read it alongside the biblical text and other available sources.
Notes on the Whole Bible
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · 19th-century historical commentary
Source: BibleWord.ai's local reference edition of this named work.
They lifted up their voice - To lift up the voice, among the Hebrews, was a phrase denoting either an “address” to the people Judges 9:7, or a phrase expressive of “weeping” Genesis 29:11; Judges 2:4; Ruth 1:9; 1 Samuel 24:16, or of “prayer.” To lift up the voice to God means simply they prayed to Him. With one accord - Unitedly. Properly, with one mind or purpose. See notes on Acts 1:14. The union of the early Christians is often noticed in the Acts of the Apostles. Thus far, there was no jar or dissension in their society, and everything has the appearance of the most entire affection and confidence. Lord - Greek: Δέσποτα Despota - “Despota.” From this word is derived the word “despot.” This is not the usual word employed by which to address God. The word commonly translated “Lord” is Κυρίος Kurios. The word used here denotes “one who rules over others,” and was applied to the highest magistrate or officer. It denotes “authority; power; absoluteness in ruling.” It is a word denoting more authority in ruling than the other. That more commonly denotes a property in a thing; this denotes “absolute rule.” It is applied to God in Luke 2:29; Revelation 6:10; Jude 1:4; to Jesus Christ, 2 Peter 2:1; to masters, 1 Timothy 6:1; Tit 2:9; 1 Peter 2:18; to husbands, 1 Peter 3:6; and to a possessor or owner, 2 Timothy 2:21. Thou art God - This ascription of praise seems to have been designed to denote their sense of his power to deliver them, and of his right to dispose of them. They were employed in his service; they were encompassed with dangers; and they acknowledged him as their God, who had made all things, and who had an entire right to direct, and to dispose of them for his own glory. In times of danger and perplexity we should remember that God has a right to do with us as he pleases; and we should go cheerfully, and commit ourselves into his hands. Which hast made ... - Genesis 1:0: This passage is taken directly from Psalms 146:6. Compare Revelation 14:7. return to 'Top of Page'
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