Rhoda
The Damsel at the Door
Damsel of Mary's household who recognized Peter's voice through the door for joy.
Acts 12:13-16 names Rhoda, the damsel at the gate of Mary the mother of John Mark, when Peter was freed from prison by the angel and came knocking.
Her Story
While the church prayed for Peter, the angel led him out of Herod's prison. He came to the house of Mary where many were gathered praying. He knocked; a damsel named Rhoda came to hearken. She knew Peter's voice, and opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in and told them that Peter stood before the gate. They said, 'Thou art mad.' She constantly affirmed it. When at last they opened, they were astonished. The praying church had not believed its own prayers.
What Scripture Teaches
- 1Damsel in the house of Mary the mother of John Mark (Acts 12:13)
- 2Recognized Peter's voice through the gate (12:14)
- 3In joy forgot to open the door
- 4Rebuked, she 'constantly affirmed' the truth
Key KJV Scriptures
"And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate."
Why It Matters
A young servant girl recognized the voice and held to her testimony against a roomful of unbelief. God's deliverance is often first heard at the servant's door.
Application for Today
Know the voice. Hold the testimony. Be willing to be called mad until truth opens the gate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't the praying church believe Peter was free?
Real faith and real weakness often pray together. The Lord answered beyond their expectation — a comfort to every wavering intercessor.
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