Herod Agrippa, the king of Judea, was keen on maintaining his political power and favor with influential Jewish leaders. Observing that the arrest of James, the brother of John, pleased these leaders, Herod decided to arrest Peter as well, aiming to further solidify his standing. The arrest occurred during the Festival of Unleavened Bread, a time of significant religious observance for the Jewish people. This festival, which follows Passover, commemorates the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their reliance on God.
The timing of Peter's arrest was not coincidental. Herod knew that the festival would bring many Jews to Jerusalem, providing a larger audience for his actions. This reflects the political maneuvering that often accompanied religious events in ancient times. For the early Christian community, this was a period of intense persecution, yet it also became an opportunity for God to demonstrate His power and faithfulness. The narrative that follows showcases divine intervention, reinforcing the message that God's purposes prevail despite human opposition.
