The Greek of this verse reflects a Semitic formula (though not expressed in translation) which may be rendered literally “they said to each other saying.” In such a context, “saying” is redundant and is merely an indication of direct discourse (see Matthew 5.2, literally “he taught them saying”).

In some languages it may be necessary to change the order of should die or be put in prison since death would automatically rule out being put in prison. Therefore, the lesser penalty would normally occur first. On the other hand, it may be useful to preserve the present order but to translate it as “for which he should be put to death, or if not put to death, then at least be kept in prison.”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on The Acts of the Apostles. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1972. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .