“If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;”
If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to an old man and are being asked how he was healed, — Peter frames the healing as an 'act of kindness' (euergesia, good deed, good work, benefit, favor), not a violation of law. The healed man is an 'old man' (anthropos asthenes, infirm/weak man, aged man), emphasizing the miracle's compassion. Peter's rhetorical strategy: they are condemning acts of mercy.
Church Fathers on Acts 4:9
And by what name have ye done this? Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said to them. Acts 4:8 And now, I pray you, call to mind Christ's saying; When they deliver you up unto the synagogues, take ye no thought how or what thing you shall speak; for it is the Spirit of your Father which speaks in you. Luke 12:11-14 So that it was a mighty Power they enjoyed. What then says Peter? You rulers of the people, and elders of Israel. Mark the Christian wisdom of the man; how…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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