Acts 16:18

Acts 16:18 Meaning and Explanation

And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.

King James Version (KJV)

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After many days Paul, deeply grieved, commands the spirit in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her, and it leaves that very hour.

What Does Acts 16:18 Mean?

Paul bears the daily spectacle until grief overflows. He turns and speaks, not to the girl but to the spirit holding her, and commands it in the name of Jesus Christ. Within the hour she is free.

Paul wields no power of his own; everything is in the name, the living authority of Jesus, before whom every power must bow (Philippians 2:9-10). And what moved the miracle was not strategy but compassion, a heart grieved over a child's bondage. The Lord who freed her still breaks chains no human hand can reach.

Acts 16:18 in the Original Language

diaponeomai (διαπονέομαι), 'grieved' -- to be deeply troubled, worn down with distress.

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What does Acts 16:18 mean?

After many days Paul, deeply grieved, commands the spirit in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her, and it leaves that very hour.

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