But motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he described to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Tell these things to James and to the brothers.” Then he departed and went to another place.
17. Tell James and the brethren: By brethren I understand not every one that was of the Church but the apostles and elders. For though it were requisite that the miracle should be made known to all, yet will Peter worthily for honor’s sake, have his fellows in office to be certified thereof.
Prayers and tears are the church's arms; therewith she fights for her friends. The delay of Peter's trial gave them time for prayer, and they pressed God fervently to snatch the lamb out of the lion's jaws. The death of James alarmed them to greater fervency; if the enemy breaks them thus with breach upon breach, what will become of Peter?
AI summary
Commenting on Acts 12:5-19
But he beckoning unto them with the hand,.... This is what the Jews call "an hint" (m), which is a beckoning, or making signs, either with the head or hand: and this was now made, to hold their peace; to be silent, and not clamorous in their expressions of joy and wonder, lest it should alarm the neighbourhood, and the consequence be bad both to...