Acts 16:38
Acts 16:38 Meaning and Explanation
“And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Hearing that the men are Roman citizens, the magistrates are afraid.
What Does Acts 16:38 Mean?
The officers carry Paul's words back, and one word changes everything: Romans. Magistrates who violated a citizen's rights could forfeit their office and bring penalties on their colony. Yesterday's confident judges are this morning's frightened men.
They fear Rome as they never feared God, yet even that fear serves God's purpose of vindicating his servants. Meanwhile the men with the wounded backs are the calmest people in the story. A clear conscience can afford patience, while abused power trembles at its own exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 16:38
What does Acts 16:38 mean?
Hearing that the men are Roman citizens, the magistrates are afraid.