Why does Peter motion with his hand for the people to be quiet?
Acts 12:17 (ESV)
17But motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he described to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Tell these things to James and to the brothers.” Then he departed and went to another place.
Peter motions with his hand because they were all talking at the same time. A visible signal was needed in the midst of all the excitement.
17 But motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he described to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Tell these things to James and to the brothers.” Then he departed and went to another place.