Acts 11–12

Being a Christian

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we are Christians. We know that Jesus Christ is the head of this Church. We know that He is our Savior and Redeemer. As Christians, we try to follow His example in all things.

Acts 11–12 shows how Jesus Christ guided His early Church by revelation and blessed the Saints in difficult times.

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.

1. The Prophet Announces a Major Policy Change

   1. Review Acts 11:1–18 and answer the following questions:

      1. How did the Saints in Jerusalem react when they heard that Peter had met with and eaten with Gentiles?

      2. What did Peter say to defend himself (see Acts 11:4–17)?

      3. What did the Saints do when they heard Peter’s explanation?

   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.

2. 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.