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They initially think the girl has seen an angel. It should be easier to believe Peter is outside the
gate than an angel. An angel would appear to them in their prayer room rather than knocking
all the gate.

Act 12:16 But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him,
they were astonished.

But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were
astonished (speechless).

The group finally goes to the gate to see if Peter is really there.

PETER’S TESTIMONY OF BEING DELIVERED FROM PRISON

Act 12:17 But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them
how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James,

and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

When they see it is Peter, they are initially speechless, but then began talking so loudly Peter
has to quiet them with his hand. He tells them the story of his deliverance and asks them to tell
the church leaders what has happened.

After attending the prayer meeting in Mary’s house, he departs for Antioch. Although he has
been supernaturally delivered, he knows it is important to leave town quickly. The soldiers who
had been left at the prison will be in danger for their lives and might come looking for Peter at
Mary’s house.

RESPONSE TO PETER’S ESCAPE (18-20)

Herod is extremely angered by Peter’s escape and searches for him unsuccessfully. Herod
executes all of the guards who were on watch when Peter walked out of the prison.

Act 12:18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was
become of Peter.

In the natural realm, Peter’s escape is impossible. The “stir” among the soldiers is comprised of
confusion and disbelief which will then turn to anger.

Act 12:19 And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers,
and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea,

and there abode.