9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.
9 And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.
9 And he went out and followed him. He did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.
9 Peter followed him, but didn't believe it was really an angel - he thought he was dreaming.
9 So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.
9 So Peter left the cell, following the angel. But all the time he thought it was a vision. He didn't realize it was actually happening.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 12:9
Commentary on Acts 12:6-11
(Read Acts 12:6-11)
A peaceful conscience, a lively hope, and the consolations of the Holy Spirit, can keep men calm in the full prospect of death; even those very persons who have been most distracted with terrors on that account. God's time to help, is when things are brought to the last extremity. Peter was assured that the Lord would cause this trial to end in the way that should be most for his glory. Those who are delivered out of spiritual imprisonment must follow their Deliverer, like the Israelites when they went out of the house of bondage. They knew not whither they went, but knew whom they followed. When God will work salvation for his people, all difficulties in their way will be overcome, even gates of iron are made to open of their own accord. This deliverance of Peter represents our redemption by Christ, which not only proclaims liberty to the captives, but brings them out of the prison-house. Peter, when he recollected himself, perceived what great things God had done for him. Thus souls delivered out of spiritual bondage, are not at first aware what God has wrought in them; many have the truth of grace, that want evidence of it. But when the Comforter comes, whom the Father will send, sooner or later, he will let them know what a blessed change is wrought.