Acts 23:34 Meaning and Explanation
“And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Felix reads the letter and asks what province Paul is from, learning that he is of Cilicia.
What Does Acts 23:34 Mean?
Felix opens with the standard question of jurisdiction: what province is the prisoner from? Paul is of Cilicia, a citizen of Tarsus (Acts 21:39; 22:3), and the answer satisfies the governor that he may properly hear the case himself.
Even intake formalities serve the plan. Provincial borders, court assignments, a governor's questions — all of it bends, unknowing, toward the purpose spoken over Paul at his calling: "he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings" (Acts 9:15). Before governors and kings he will now stand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 23:34
What does Acts 23:34 mean?
Felix reads the letter and asks what province Paul is from, learning that he is of Cilicia.