Acts 16:39 Meaning and Explanation
“And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The magistrates come in person, appease them, escort them out of the prison, and ask them to leave the city.
What Does Acts 16:39 Mean?
Paul's terms are met. The colony's chief men arrive at their own jail, plead with the prisoners they had beaten, and bring them out with public honor, then carefully request that they depart from the city.
The reversal is complete: the beaten stand vindicated, and the powerful come asking favors. Paul accepts the amends without gloating and will honor the request, but in his own order, with the church greeted and strengthened first (v. 40). Dignity, justice, and graciousness can be held in the same hand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 16:39
What does Acts 16:39 mean?
The magistrates come in person, appease them, escort them out of the prison, and ask them to leave the city.