Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 12:6

"And when Herod was about to bring him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and guards before the door kept the prison." — Acts 12:6 (ASV)

And when Herod would have brought him forth. When he was about to bring him to be put to death.

The same night. That is, the night preceding. Herod's intention was to bring him out as soon as the Passover was over; but during the night immediately preceding the day on which Herod intended to bring him to punishment, Peter was rescued.

Peter was sleeping. Here is an instance of remarkable composure, and one of the effects of peace of conscience and of confidence in God. It was doubtless known to Peter what Herod's intention was. James had just been put to death, and Peter had no reason to expect a better fate.

Yet, in this state, he slept as quietly as if there had been no danger and was roused even by an angel to contemplate his condition and make his escape. There is nothing that will give quiet rest and gentle sleep so certainly as a conscience void of offence; and in the midst of imminent dangers, the one who confides in God may rest securely and calmly.

Between two soldiers. See Barnes on Acts 12:4.

Peter was bound to the two. His left hand was chained to the right hand of one of the soldiers, and his right hand to the left hand of the other. This was a common mode of securing prisoners among the Romans. See abundant authorities for this quoted in Lardner's Credibility, part i. chap. x. § 9, London ed. 1829, vol. i. pp. 242, 243, etc.

And the keepers, etc. See Acts 12:4. Two soldiers were stationed at the door. We may see now that every possible precaution was used to ensure the safe custody of Peter.

1. He was in prison.
2. He was in the charge of sixteen men, who could relieve each other when weary, and thus every security was given that he could not escape by inattention or weariness on their part.
3. He was bound fast between two men.
4. And he was further guarded by two others, whose business it was to watch the door of the prison.

It is to be remembered, also, that it was death for a Roman soldier to be found sleeping at his post. And in this way, every possible security was given for Peter's safe keeping. But God can deliver in spite of all the precautions of men; and it is easy for Him to overcome the most cunning devices of His enemies.