Note 1 at Acts 5:17: The Greek word translated "indignation" here is "zelos." This word was used 17 times in the New Testament, and was translated "zeal" six times, "envy" or "envying" six times, "emulation" once, "fervent mind" once, "jealousy" once, and "indignation" twice. This word differs from the other Greek words translated "indignation" in the New Testament in that it "grieves, not because another has the good, but that one does not have it and seeks to supply such deficiencies in himself" (Lexical aids to the N.T.-Zodhiates). Therefore, this indignation of the Sadducees was rooted in envy or jealousy.

Proverbs 13:10 says, "Only by pride cometh contention." Self-centeredness is always at the bottom of all strife and persecution. These Sadducees were jealous of the following the apostles were developing. They wanted to receive the recognition and prestige that came from being Israel's spiritual leaders and that was being threatened. They couldn't compete with the apostle's spiritual power, so they resorted to physical force.

When viewed this way, persecution is actually a complement from our persecutors. We should rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer shame for His name (Acts 5:41).