Introduction: Unfolding the Account
Acts 11:4 says:
Ἀρξάμενος δὲ ὁ Πέτρος ἐξετίθετο αὐτοῖς καθεξῆς, λέγων·
“But Peter, having begun, began to explain to them in order, saying…”
The main verb here is ἐξετίθετο {exetítheto}, from ἐκτίθημι {ektíthēmi}, meaning “to set forth, to explain, to lay out systematically.” The imperfect middle indicative form is rich with nuance, portraying continuous, personal, and deliberate exposition. Luke employs this verb in settings that involve careful explanation, reasoned defense, or theological instruction.
Morphological and Semantic Breakdown
- ἐξετίθετο {exetítheto} –
Root: ἐκτίθημι {ektíthēmi};
Form: imperfect middle indicative, 3rd person singular;
Tense: imperfect (past, ongoing action);
Voice: middle (emphasizes the subject’s engagement in the act);
Mood: indicative (factual);
Translation: “he was explaining,” “he laid out.”
Notes: Often used in forensic and teaching contexts, this verb implies that Peter’s explanation was orderly, reflective, and for the sake of others’ understanding.
Lexical and Syntactical Nuance
The verb ἐκτίθημι is composed of:
– ἐκ- (“out of”)
– τίθημι (“to place, set”)
So literally, ἐξετίθετο suggests “he was setting out (his case)” or “he was laying it forth.” This is not casual speech—it is structured, almost judicial in tone.
In the middle voice, the subject (Peter) is involved personally and intentionally in the act of explanation. He is not just repeating words; he is unfolding a vision and experience with deliberate order and self-involvement.
Comparative Usage in Acts
Luke uses ἐκτίθημι in key expository moments:
– Acts 18:26 – Priscilla and Aquila ἐξέθεντο to Apollos “the way of God more accurately.”
– Acts 28:23 – Paul ἐξετίθετο the kingdom of God, from morning until evening.
In each case, the verb marks theological explanation, often to correct, defend, or reveal.
Theological and Narrative Significance
In Acts 11, Peter is not defending himself emotionally; he is explaining God’s initiative:
– His exposition begins with a vision from heaven,
– Is confirmed by divine instruction,
– Culminates in Spirit outpouring on Gentiles.
So grammatically, ἐξετίθετο signifies more than speech. It is Spirit-guided exposition, unfolding revelation step by step.
The imperfect tense emphasizes:
– Duration: It wasn’t a single statement but a continuous narration.
– Intent: Peter took time and care to explain God’s work.
He Was Explaining
The verb ἐξετίθετο reveals Peter’s heart and mind:
– He’s not simply reporting;
– He’s interpreting,
– And bearing witness.
The imperfect middle makes it clear:
He was actively engaged,
patiently setting forth,
so that those who doubted
might finally understand:
“What God has cleansed, you must not call common.”
