From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 15—An Angel Delivers Peter From Prison

This chapter is based on Acts 12:1-23, RSV.

“About that time Herod the king laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the church.” Herod Agrippa, subject to Claudius the Roman emperor, was professedly a proselyte to the Jewish faith. Desirous of obtaining the favor of the Jews, hoping thus to make secure his offices and honors, he proceeded to persecute the church of Christ. He cast James, the brother of John, into prison, and sent an executioner to kill him. Seeing that the Jews were well pleased, he imprisoned Peter also. TT 76.6

The death of James caused consternation among the believers. When Peter also was imprisoned, the entire church engaged in fasting and prayer. TT 76.7

Herod's act in putting James to death was applauded by the Jews, though some maintained that a public execution would have more thoroughly intimidated the believers. Herod therefore meant to gratify the Jews still further by the public spectacle of Peter's death, but not before all the people then assembled in Jerusalem. It was feared that the sight of him being led out to die might excite the pity of the multitude. TT 76.8

The priests and elders also feared lest Peter make one of those powerful appeals to study the life and character of Jesus—appeals which they had been unable to controvert. Peter's zeal had led many to take their stand for the gospel, and the rulers feared that should he be given an opportunity to defend his faith, the multitude who had come to the city to worship would demand his release. TT 76.9

While, upon various pretexts, the execution of Peter was being delayed until after Passover, the church had time for searching of heart. They prayed without ceasing for Peter, for they felt that he could not be spared from the cause. TT 77.1

Meanwhile worshipers from every nation sought the temple, a glittering vision of beauty and grandeur. But Jehovah was no longer to be found in that place of loveliness. When Christ looked for the last time on the interior of the temple, He said, “Behold, your house is forsaken and desolate.” Matthew 23:38, RSV. God's presence was withdrawn forever. TT 77.2