to only the Jewish leadership in the city, the aristocratic, temple-based officials who troubled the believers in Acts 4–5. At the same time, other recent indications of wider resistance within Jerusalem (Acts 6:9–12; 8:1; 9:28–30) suggest the church is now rankling even more people in the city, although Acts does not explain the reasons. Whatever the case, Peter finds himself next in line for martyrdom. Herod clearly intends to exploit the political advantages he might gain by killing another apostle.