Acts 4:5-7 Debbie McCleery

The next day the rulers, the elders and the teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and others of the high priest’s family. They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?”

Peter and John are brought in for a hearing. The ruling priestly authorities have questions. It’s no coincidence Annas is in the room as his presence has been looming in the background of the disciples. He was chief priest until he was removed from office in 15 CE but he still has some clout he likes to pull. Much like a former president is still sought after by the press for words of encouragement or comfort. Anna’s five sons have each served as chief priest and now his son-in-law Caiaphas is serving that position.

They do not question how this miracle was done rather they believe it had been accomplished but they question under who’s authority was this miracle done in. It’s no strange coincidence they would ask this as they asked Jesus under who’ authority he was teaching under. Jesus answered this through and through the gospels but primarily when he said he did what he saw his Father doing. Teaching and miracles were done under the name of rabbis but this goes beyond rabbis and teachers. This goes straight back to God. Under who’s authority are you working under?