Acts 12:10

Ward. Gr. phulake, “guard.” “The first and the second ward” may refer to guards stationed near the inner door of the prison and at a door some distance away, or possibly to guards chained to him and others at the door (see on v. 4). Perhaps Peter had been placed in an inner dungeon, and thus needed to be led through two courtyards.

Unto the city. Apparently the prison was inside the city. It may have been in the Tower of Antonia (see Vol. V, p. 225; cf. below on “went out”).

His own accord. Rather, “its own accord,” the idea being that no human agency was employed (cf. Lev. 25:5). Doubtless the gate was opened by an unseen angel.

The simple and almost casual way in which Luke records this miracle is a testimony to the accuracy of his record.

Went out. There is some textual evidence (cf. p. 10) for the reading, “going out they descended the seven steps and passed on through one street.” Although this reading cannot be shown to be original, it implies a more detailed acquaintance with Jerusalem than we now have. It may be based upon a tradition that Peter was imprisoned in the Tower of Antonia, which seems to have been entered by a flight of stairs (see ch. 21:34, 35, 40).

Street. Gr. rhume, a word meaning either a street or an alley.

The angel departed. When supernatural aid was no longer necessary, he allowed Peter to take the further steps necessary for his escape.