Acts 12:5

Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

Peter therefore was kept in prison - until the festival should close; little thinking that his own end was nearer than Peter's (as Hackett well remarks).

But prayer, was made without ceasing, [ een (G1510) ektenees (G1618) ginomenee (G1096)] - 'instant,' 'earnest,' 'urgent prayer continued to be made'

Of the church - not in public assembly, because it was evidently not safe to meet thus, but in little groups in private houses, one of which was Mary's (Acts 12:12). And this was kept up during all the seven days of unleavened bread.

Unto God for him - [ peri (G4012) is fully better attested, and more probable than huper (G5228) of the Received Text.] No doubt it was for his deliverance that they prayed.