Acts 4:20

20 for we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."

Acts 4:20 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 4:20

For we cannot but speak
It was not physically, but morally impossible; or it was not lawful, and therefore they would not speak any other, and they could not avoid speaking, say they, the things which we have seen and heard;
as the miracles and doctrines of Christ, his resurrection from the dead, of which they were eye and ear witnesses. This shows their great fidelity and integrity, their inviolable attachment to Christ, and their fearlessness of the displeasure and wrath of men.

Acts 4:20 In-Context

18 And they called them back and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.

19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, "Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye;

20 for we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."

21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing for which they might punish them, because of the people; for all men glorified God for that which had been done.

22 For the man was over forty years old on whom this miracle of healing was shown.