Bible Strands
Acts 23:7
As soon as he had said this, a dispute broke out between the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the assembly was divided.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Sanhedrin immediately after declaring his hope in the resurrection of the dead. His statement triggers an immediate confrontation between the Pharisees and Sadducees present in the assembly.
The words — The Greek term στάσις (stasis) translates literally as "dissension" or "division," describing the sudden rupture in the council. This word captures the structural split that follows Paul’s declaration.
The thread — The resulting division echoes the conflict described in Psalms 55:9 regarding strife in the city and Jesus’ warning in Matthew 10:34 about bringing a sword rather than peace. The theological fault line also parallels the divided reactions to Jesus in John 7:40.
Why it lands — The text demands recognition that truth declarations inherently expose preexisting theological fractures. A reader must confront the reality that doctrinal clarity will separate opposing worldviews without mediation.
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The Greek words
King James Version
And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.
Cross-references
- Psalms 55:9 O Lord, confuse and confound their speech, for I see violence and strife in the city.
- Matthew 10:34 Do not assume that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.
- John 7:40 On hearing these words, some of the people said, “This is truly the Prophet.”
- Acts 14:4 The people of the city were divided. Some sided with the Jews, and others with the apostles.