<p>12:12 <i>And when he had considered the thing</i>- The Greek doesn't mean this, but rather means 'to know'. We can pass through an experience, but now 'know' it until we have processed it with faith. See on 12:11 <em>Now I know of a truth</em>.</p><p><em>He came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark</em>- Peter later refers to John Mark as his spiritual son (1 Pet. 5:13). We sense here therefore the deep family relationships forged by our experience in Christ.</p><p><em>There many were gathered together and were praying</em>- Do we hold such all night prayer meetings? To pray all night requires quite some psychological stamina. However, note the difference between &quot;gathered together&quot; and &quot;praying&quot;. They came together to be together in their thoughts about Peter, &quot;and were praying&quot; at that gathering, but not necessarily every minute of the night. The powerful lesson is that even these highly committed believers were of limited faith- for when the answer to their night of prayer knocked at the door, they laughed at anyone who thought such an answer was possible. We too must ask whether we pray in the real hope of answer; or whether our praying is more for our benefit.</p>