Acts 5:41

They therefore

(ο μεν ουν). No answering δε.They were counted worthy to suffer dishonour for the Name

(κατηξιωθησαν υπερ του ονοματος ατιμασθηνα). First aorist passive indicative of καταξιοω, old verb to count worthy. Three times in N.T. (Luke 20:35; Acts 5:41; 2 Thessalonians 1:5). First aorist passive infinitive of ατιμαζω, old verb to make one dishonoured (ατιμος). Forms here an oxymoron (οξυς, sharp, μορος, foolish) pointedly foolish saying "which is witty or impressive through sheer contradiction or paradox as laborious idleness, sublime indifference" (Vincent). The apostles felt honoured by dishonour. Note the same use of "the Name" as in James 2:7; 3 John 1:7. With the Jews this absolute use of "the Name" meant Jehovah. The Christians now apply it to Jesus.