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Introduction to Acts

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Acts

  1. The beginning of the church and its mission (1:12:41)
  2. The early church in Jerusalem (2:426:7)
  3. Increasing opposition and the martyrdom of Steven (6:87:60)
  4. The persecution of the church and Philips ministry (8:140)
  5. Paul becomes an apostle (9:131)
  6. The ministry of Peter and the first Gentile converts (9:3212:24)
  7. Paul, the apostle to Gentiles, the Jewish law, and council of church leaders at Jerusalem (12:2516:5)
  8. The expansion of the church into the middle Mediterranean area and Asia Minor (16:619:20)
  9. Paul travels to Jerusalem and becomes a prisoner in Rome (19:2128:31)

What is the Book of Acts about?

The Book of Acts tells the story of the early church as more and more people became believers. It shows the power of the Holy Spirit helping the early Christians. The events in this book began when Jesus went back to heaven and ended about thirty years later.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “The Acts of the Apostles.” Or translators may choose a title that may be clearer, for example, “The Acts of the Holy Spirit through the Apostles.”

Who wrote the Book of Acts?

This book does not give the name of the author. However, it is addressed to Theophilus, the same person to whom the Gospel of Luke is addressed. Also, in parts of the book, the author uses the word “we.” This indicates that the author traveled with Paul. Most scholars think that Luke was this person traveling with Paul. Therefore, since early Christian times, most Christians have thought Luke is the author of the Book of Acts as well as the Gospel of Luke.

Luke was a medical doctor. His way of writing shows that he was an educated man. He was probably a Gentile. He saw many of the events described in the Book of Acts.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What is the Church?

The Church is the group of people who believe in Christ. The Church includes both Jew and Gentile believers. The events in this book show God helping the Church. He empowered believers to live righteous lives through his Holy Spirit.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Acts?

These are the most significant textual issues in Acts:

The following verses are found in older versions of the Bible, but they are not in the best ancient copies of the Bible. Some modern versions put the verses in square brackets ([]). The ULT and UST put them in a footnote.

  • “Philip said, If you believe with all your heart, you may be baptized. The Ethiopian answered, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God” (Acts 8:37).
  • “But it seemed good to Silas to remain there.” (Acts 15:34)
  • “And we wanted to judge him according to our law. But Lysias, the officer, came and forcibly took him out of our hands, sending him to you.” (Acts 24:6b-8a)
  • “When he had said these things, the Jews departed, having a great dispute among themselves.” (Acts 28:29)

In the following verses, it is uncertain what the original text said. Translators will need to choose which reading to translate. The ULT has the first readings but include the second readings in footnotes.

  • “They returned from Jerusalem” (Acts 12:25). Some versions read, “They returned to Jerusalem (or to there).”
  • “he put up with them” (Acts 13:18). Some versions read, “he cared for them.”
  • “This is what the Lord says, who has done these things that have been known from ancient times.” (Acts 15:17-18). Some older versions read, “This is what the Lord says, to whom are known all his deeds from ancient times.”

(See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

31:introvyg90

Acts 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter records an event, commonly known as the “Ascension,” when Jesus returned to heaven after he became alive again. He will not come back until he returns at his “second coming.” (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/resurrection]])

The UST has set the words “Dear Theophilus” apart from the other words. This is because English speakers often start letters this way. You might want to start this book the way people start letters in your culture.

Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the two quotes from Psalms in 1:20.

Special concepts in this chapter

Baptize

The word “baptize” has two meanings in this chapter. It refers to the water baptism of John and to the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5). (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/baptize]])

“He spoke about the kingdom of God”

Some scholars believe that when Jesus “spoke about the kingdom of God,” he explained to the disciples why the kingdom of God did not come before he died. Others believe that the kingdom of God did begin while Jesus was alive and that here Jesus was explaining that it was beginning in a new form.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

The twelve disciples

The following are the lists of the twelve disciples:

In Matthew:

Simon (Peter), Andrew, James son of Zebedee, John son of Zebedee, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot.

In Mark:

Simon (Peter), Andrew, James the son of Zebedee and John the son of Zebedee (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder), Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot.

In Luke:

Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon (who was called the Zealot), Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot.

Thaddaeus is probably the same person as Jude, the son of James.

Akeldama

This is a phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic. Luke used Greek letters so his readers would know how it sounded, and then he told what it means. You should probably spell it the way it sounds in your language and then explain the meaning. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])

41:1q9epτὸν μὲν πρῶτον λόγον ἐποιησάμην1

The former book is the Gospel of Luke.

51:1ryj5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesὦ Θεόφιλε1

Luke wrote this book to a man named Theophilus. Some translations follow their own cultures way of addressing a letter and write “Dear Theophilus” at the beginning of the sentence. Theophilus means “friend of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

61:2n435rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἄχρι ἧς ἡμέρας & ἀνελήμφθη1

This refers to Jesus ascension into heaven. Alternate translation: “until the day on which God took him up to heaven” or “until the day that he ascended into heaven” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

71:2a394ἐντειλάμενος & διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου1

The Holy Spirit led Jesus to instruct his apostles on certain things.

81:3dup3μετὰ τὸ παθεῖν αὐτὸν1

This refers to Jesus suffering and death on the cross.

91:3yc16οἷς & παρέστησεν ἑαυτὸν ζῶντα1

Jesus appeared to his apostles and to many other disciples.

101:4d3krrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “he” refers to Jesus. Except where otherwise noted, the word “you” in the book of Acts is plural. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

111:4lw3e0

This event happened during the 40 days that Jesus appeared to his followers after he had risen from the dead.

121:4vb7gκαὶ συναλιζόμενος1

“When Jesus was meeting together with his apostles”

131:4sg4hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὴν ἐπαγγελίαν τοῦ Πατρὸς1

This is a reference to the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit, whom the Father promised to send” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

141:4tj6rἣν1

If you translated the previous phrase to include the words “Holy Spirit,” you can change the word “which” to “whom.” Alternate translation: “about whom Jesus said”

151:5uu4kἸωάννης μὲν ἐβάπτισεν ὕδατι; & ἐν Πνεύματι βαπτισθήσεσθε Ἁγίῳ1

Jesus contrasts how John baptized people in water with how God would baptize believers in the Holy Spirit.

161:5fnq5Ἰωάννης μὲν ἐβάπτισεν ὕδατι1

“John indeed baptized people with water”

171:5dzj1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὑμεῖς & βαπτισθήσεσθε1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will baptize you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

181:6n9wt0

Here the word “they” refers to the apostles.

191:6f7ujεἰ ἐν τῷ χρόνῳ τούτῳ, ἀποκαθιστάνεις τὴν βασιλείαν τῷ Ἰσραήλ1

“will you now make Israel a great kingdom again”

201:7y1furc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletχρόνους ἢ καιροὺς1

Possible meanings are (1) the words “times” and “seasons” refer to different kinds of time. Alternate translation: “the general period of time or the specific date” or (2) the two words are basically synonymous. Alternate translation: “the exact time” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

211:8ld4kλήμψεσθε δύναμιν, & καὶ ἔσεσθέ μου μάρτυρες,1

The apostles will receive power that will enable them to be witnesses for Jesus. Alternate translation: “God will empower you … to be my witnesses”

221:8vb4mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἕως ἐσχάτου τῆς γῆς1

Possible meanings are (1) “all over the world” or (2) “to the places on earth that are farthest away” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

231:9e1q1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitβλεπόντων αὐτῶν1

“as they watched.” The apostles “were looking up” at Jesus because Jesus rose into the sky. Alternate translation: “as they were looking up at the sky” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

241:9l1cqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπήρθη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he rose up into the sky” or “God took him up into the sky” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

251:9ug58νεφέλη ὑπέλαβεν αὐτὸν ἀπὸ τῶν ὀφθαλμῶν αὐτῶν1

“a cloud blocked their view so that they could no longer see him”

261:10enu1ἀτενίζοντες & εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν1

“staring at the sky” or “gazing at the sky”

271:11gpg3ἄνδρες, Γαλιλαῖοι1

The angels address the apostles as men who are from Galilee.

281:11cue7ἐλεύσεται ὃν τρόπον1

Jesus will return in the sky, just as clouds covered him when he arose into heaven.

291:12x2nkτότε ὑπέστρεψαν1

“The apostles returned”

301:12p19grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitΣαββάτου ἔχον ὁδόν1

This refers to the distance which, according to Rabbinical tradition, a person was allowed to walk on a Sabbath day. Alternate translation: “about one kilometer away” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

311:13vis2καὶ ὅτε εἰσῆλθον1

“When they reached their destination.” Verse 12 says they were returning to Jerusalem.

321:13zt12τὸ ὑπερῷον1

“the room on the upper level of the house”

331:14z6cfοὗτοι πάντες ἦσαν & ὁμοθυμαδὸ1

This means that the apostles and believers there all shared a common commitment and purpose, and there was no strife among them.

341:14u4prπροσκαρτεροῦντες & τῇ προσευχῇ1

This means that the disciples prayed together regularly and frequently.

351:15cup20

This event happened during the time that Peter and the other believers were staying together in the upper room.

361:15il8wrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις1

These words mark the beginning of a new part of the story. They refer to the period of time after Jesus ascended while the disciples were meeting in the upper chamber. Alternate translation: “During that time” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

371:15tl5mrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersἑκατὸν εἴκοσι1

“one hundred and twenty people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

381:15liz1ἐν μέσῳ τῶν ἀδελφῶν1

Here the word “brothers” refers to fellow believers and includes both men and women.

391:16i8tlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἔδει πληρωθῆναι τὴν Γραφὴν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the things that we read about in scripture had to take place” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

401:16f3umrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιὰ στόματος Δαυεὶδ1

The word “mouth” refers to the words that David wrote. Alternate translation: “through the words of David” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

411:17tmv1rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

In verses 18-19 the author tells the reader background information about how Judas died and what people called the field where he died. This is not part of Peters speech. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

421:17tmv2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Although Peter is addressing the entire group of people, here the word “us” refers only to the apostles. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

431:17q73y0

In verse 17 Peter continues his speech to the believers that he began in Acts 1:16.

441:18dd58οὗτος & οὖν1

The words “this man” refers to Judas Iscariot.

451:18w83jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμισθοῦ τῆς ἀδικίας1

“the money that he earned from the evil thing that he did.” The words “his wickedness” refer to Judas Iscariots betraying Jesus to the people who killed him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

461:18kg3qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπρηνὴς γενόμενος, ἐλάκησεν μέσος, καὶ ἐξεχύθη πάντα τὰ σπλάγχνα αὐτοῦ1

This suggests that Judas fell from a high place, rather than just falling down. The fall was severe enough to cause his body to burst open. Other passages of scripture mention that he hanged himself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

471:19mxf3Χωρίον Αἵματος1

When the people living in Jerusalem heard of the way in which Judas died, they renamed the field.

481:20d7pk0

Based on the situation with Judas that Peter just recounted, he recalls two Psalms of David that relate to the incident. The quote ends at the end of this verse.

491:20mz130

Peter continues his speech to the believers that he began in Acts 1:16.

501:20ip5wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγέγραπται γὰρ ἐν βίβλῳ Ψαλμῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “For David wrote in the Book of Psalms” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

511:20mc45rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismγενηθήτω ἡ ἔπαυλις αὐτοῦ ἔρημος, καὶ μὴ ἔστω ὁ κατοικῶν ἐν αὐτῇ1

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

521:20chq4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorγενηθήτω ἡ ἔπαυλις αὐτοῦ ἔρημος1

Possible meanings are (1) that the word “field” refers to the field where Judas died or (2) that the word “field” refers to Judass dwelling place and is a metaphor for his family line. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

531:20lsm2γενηθήτω & ἔρημος1

“become empty”

541:21xz69rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “us” refers to the apostles and does not include the audience to whom Peter is speaking. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

551:21t9160

Peter finishes his speech to the believers that he began in Acts 1:16.

561:21c5k2δεῖ οὖν1

Based on the scriptures that he quoted and on what Judas had done, Peter tells the group what they must do.

571:21zuf7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomεἰσῆλθεν καὶ ἐξῆλθεν ἐφ’ ἡμᾶς ὁ Κύριος Ἰησοῦς1

Going in and out among a group of people is a metaphor for openly being part of that group. Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus lived among us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

581:22mrx7ἀρξάμενος ἀπὸ τοῦ βαπτίσματος Ἰωάννου ἕως τῆς ἡμέρας ἧς ἀνελήμφθη ἀφ’ ἡμῶν, μάρτυρα τῆς ἀναστάσεως αὐτοῦ σὺν ἡμῖν, γενέσθαι ἕνα τούτων1

The qualification for the new apostle that began with the words “It is necessary … that one of the men who accompanied us” in verse 21 ends here. The subject of the verb “must be” is thus “one of the men.” Here is a reduced form of the sentence: “It is necessary … that one of the men who accompanied us … beginning from the baptism of John … must be a witness with us.”

591:22qb8jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀρξάμενος ἀπὸ τοῦ βαπτίσματος Ἰωάννου1

The noun “baptism” can be translated as a verb. Possible meanings: (1) “beginning from when John baptized Jesus” or (2) “beginning from when John baptized people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

601:22yi3arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἕως τῆς ἡμέρας ἧς ἀνελήμφθη ἀφ’ ἡμῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “until the day when Jesus left us and rose up to heaven” or “until the day that God took him up from us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

611:22g3n9μάρτυρα τῆς ἀναστάσεως αὐτοῦ σὺν ἡμῖν, γενέσθαι1

“must begin to testify with us about his resurrection”

621:23lz7yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔστησαν δύο1

Here the word “They” refers to all of the believers who were present. Alternate translation: “They proposed two men who fulfilled the requirements that Peter listed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

631:23s1ffrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἸωσὴφ τὸν καλούμενον Βαρσαββᾶν, ὃς ἐπεκλήθη Ἰοῦστος1

This can be translated with an active form. Alternate translation: “Joseph, whom people also called Barsabbas and Justus” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

641:24zd1frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπροσευξάμενοι, εἶπαν1

Here the word “They” refers to all of the believers, but it was probably one of the apostles who spoke these words. Alternate translation: “The believers prayed together and one of the apostles said” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

651:24se6mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσὺ Κύριε, καρδιογνῶστα πάντων1

Here the word “hearts” refers to the thoughts and motives. Alternate translation: “You, Lord, know the thoughts and motives of everyone” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

661:25mg47rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletλαβεῖν τὸν τόπον τῆς διακονίας ταύτης καὶ ἀποστολῆς1

Here the word “apostleship” defines what kind of “ministry” this is. Alternate translation: “to take Judas place in this apostolic ministry” or “to take Judas place in serving as an apostle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

671:25ryv6ἀφ’ ἧς παρέβη Ἰούδας1

Here the expression “turned away” means that Judas stopped performing this ministry. Alternate translation: “which Judas stopped fulfilling”

681:25tx6nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismπορευθῆναι εἰς τὸν τόπον τὸν ἴδιον1

This phrase refers to Judas death and likely to his judgment after death. Alternate translation: “to go where he belongs” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

691:26r84cἔδωκαν κλήρους αὐτοῖς1

The apostles cast lots to decide between Joseph and Matthias.

701:26w4phἔπεσεν ὁ κλῆρος ἐπὶ Μαθθίαν1

The lot indicated that Matthias was the one to replace Judas.

711:26fk4xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveσυνκατεψηφίσθη μετὰ τῶν ἕνδεκα ἀποστόλων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the believers considered him to be an apostle with the other eleven” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

722:introx8fr1

Acts 02 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 2:17-21, 25-28, and 34-35.

Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted material in 2:31.

The events described in this chapter are commonly called “Pentecost.” Many people believe that the church began to exist when the Holy Spirit came to live inside believers in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Tongues

The word “tongues” has two meanings in this chapter. Luke describes what came down from heaven (Acts 2:3) as tongues that looked like fire. This is different from “a tongue of flame,” which is a fire that looks like a tongue. Luke also uses the word “tongues” to describe the languages that the people spoke after the Holy Spirit filled them (Acts 2:4).

Last days

No one knows for sure when the “last days” (Acts 2:17) began. Your translation should not say more than the ULT does about this. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])

Baptize

The word “baptize” in this chapter refers to Christian baptism (Acts 2:38-41). Though the event described in Acts 2:1-11 is the baptism of the Holy Spirit that Jesus promised in Acts 1:5, the word “baptize” here does not refer to that event. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/baptize]])

The prophecy of Joel

Many of the things that Joel said would happen did happen on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:17-18), but some things Joel spoke of did not happen (Acts 2:19-20). (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])

Wonders and signs

These words refer to things that only God could do that showed that Jesus is who the disciples said he is.

732:1i4sa0

This is a new event; it is now the Day of Pentecost, 50 days after Passover.

742:1i4sb0

Here the word “they” refers to the apostles and the other 120 believers that Luke mentions in Acts 1:15.

752:2jc1wἄφνω1

This word refers to an event that happens unexpectedly.

762:2qjc3ἐγένετο & ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἦχος1

Possible meanings are (1) “heaven” refers to the place where God lives. Alternate translation: “a sound came from heaven” or (2) “heaven” refers to the sky. Alternate translation: “a sound came from the sky”

772:2jec5ἦχος, ὥσπερ φερομένης πνοῆς βιαίας1

“a noise that sounded like a very strong wind blowing”

782:2t4y4ὅλον τὸν οἶκον1

This may have been a house or a larger building.

792:3re3trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileὤφθησαν αὐτοῖς & γλῶσσαι ὡσεὶ πυρός1

These might not be actual tongues or fire, but something that looked like them. Possible meanings are (1) tongues that looked like they were made of fire or (2) small flames of fire that looked like tongues. When fire burns in a small space, such as on a lamp, the flame can be shaped like a tongue. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

802:3xtk4διαμεριζόμεναι & καὶ ἐκάθισεν ἐφ’ ἕνα ἕκαστον αὐτῶν1

This means that the “tongues like fire” spread out so that there was one on each person.

812:4v7hirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπλήσθησαν πάντες Πνεύματος Ἁγίου, καὶ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit filled all of those who were there and they” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

822:4nr9fλαλεῖν ἑτέραις γλώσσαις1

They were speaking in languages that they did not already know.

832:5dz1lrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Here the word “them” refers to the believers; the word “his” refers to each person in the multitude. Verse 5 gives background information about the large number of Jews who were living in Jerusalem, many of whom were present during this event. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

842:5yft2ἄνδρες εὐλαβεῖς1

Here “godly men” refers to people who were devout in their worship of God and tried to obey all of the Jewish laws.

852:5stq9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπαντὸς ἔθνους τῶν ὑπὸ τὸν οὐρανόν1

“every nation in the world.” The word “every” is an exaggeration that emphasizes that the people came from many different nations. Alternate translation: “many different nations” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

862:6bpj7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγενομένης δὲ τῆς φωνῆς ταύτης1

This refers to the sound that was similar to a strong wind. Alternate translation: “When they heard this sound” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

872:6u9hcτὸ πλῆθος1

“the large crowd of people”

882:7m8kdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletἐξίσταντο δὲ πάντες καὶ ἐθαύμαζον1

These two words share similar meanings. Together they emphasize the intensity of amazement. Alternate translation: “They were greatly amazed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

892:7wnk2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὐχ ἰδοὺ, ἅπαντες οὗτοί εἰσιν οἱ λαλοῦντες Γαλιλαῖοι1

The people ask this question to express their amazement. The question could be changed to an exclamation. Alternate translation: “All of these Galileans could not possibly know our languages!” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

902:8hzm8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionκαὶ πῶς ἡμεῖς ἀκούομεν ἕκαστος τῇ ἰδίᾳ διαλέκτῳ ἡμῶν, ἐν ᾗ ἐγεννήθημεν1

Possible meanings are (1) this is a rhetorical question that expresses how amazed they were or (2) this is a real question for which the people wanted an answer. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

912:8wb5tτῇ ἰδίᾳ διαλέκτῳ ἡμῶν, ἐν ᾗ ἐγεννήθημεν1

“in our own languages that we have learned from birth”

922:9f1verc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΠάρθοι, & Μῆδοι, & Ἐλαμεῖται1

These are names of people groups. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

932:9dm23rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesτὴν Μεσοποταμίαν, Ἰουδαίαν; & Καππαδοκίαν, Πόντον, & Ἀσίαν;1

These are names of large areas of land. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

942:10tmb4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΦρυγίαν, & Παμφυλίαν, Αἴγυπτον, & Λιβύης & Κυρήνην1

These are names of large areas of land. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

952:11jnp7rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΚρῆτες & Ἄραβες1

These are names of people groups. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

962:11w8jyπροσήλυτοι1

converts to the Jewish religion

972:12el2frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletἐξίσταντο & καὶ διηποροῦντο1

These two words share similar meanings. Together they emphasize that the people could not understand what was happening. Alternate translation: “surprised and confused” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

982:13fg59rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomγλεύκους μεμεστωμένοι εἰσίν1

Some people accuse the believers of having drunk too much wine. Alternate translation: “They are drunk” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

992:13jj1nγλεύκους1

This refers to wine that is in the process of fermentation.

1002:14k5hr0

Peter begins his speech to the Jews who were there on the Day of Pentecost.

1012:14c919σταθεὶς & σὺν τοῖς ἕνδεκα1

All the apostles stood up in support of Peters statement.

1022:14d9tbἐπῆρεν τὴν φωνὴν αὐτοῦ1

This is an idiom for “spoke loudly.” (See: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom)

1032:14ei5jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῦτο ὑμῖν γνωστὸν ἔστω1

This means that Peter is about to explain the meaning of what the people had witnessed. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “know this” or “let me explain this to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1042:14qp16rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐνωτίσασθε τὰ ῥήματά μου1

Peter was referring to what he was saying. Alternate translation: “listen carefully to what I am saying” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1052:15h28qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitγὰρ & ὥρα τρίτη τῆς ἡμέρας1

“It is only nine oclock in the morning.” Peter expected his audience to know that people do not get drunk that early in the day. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1062:16ktw90

Here Peter tells them a passage about which the prophet Joel wrote in the Old Testament that relates to what is happening with the languages in which the believers spoke. This is written in the form of poetry as well as being a quotation.

1072:16f9hzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῦτό ἐστιν τὸ εἰρημένον διὰ τοῦ προφήτου Ἰωήλ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “this is what God told the prophet Joel to write” or “this is that which the prophet Joel spoke” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1082:17ijl8ἔσται1

“This is what will happen” or “This is what I will do”

1092:17u2d1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐκχεῶ ἀπὸ τοῦ Πνεύματός μου ἐπὶ πᾶσαν σάρκα1

Here the words “pour out” mean to give generously and abundantly. Alternate translation: “I will give my Spirit abundantly to all people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1102:18uwd70

Peter continues to quote the prophet Joel.

1112:18nd34τοὺς δούλους μου, καὶ ἐπὶ τὰς δούλας1

“both my male and my female servants.” These words emphasize that God will pour out his Spirit on all of his servants, both men and women.

1122:18wz2irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐκχεῶ ἀπὸ τοῦ Πνεύματός μου1

Here the words “pour out” mean to give generously and abundantly. See how you translated this in Acts 2:17. Alternate translation: “I will give my Spirit abundantly to all people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1132:19p5ziἀτμίδα καπνοῦ1

“thick smoke” or “clouds of smoke”

1142:20ylv70

Peter finishes quoting the prophet Joel.

1152:20a6yhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὁ ἥλιος μεταστραφήσεται εἰς σκότος1

This means that the sun will appear to be dark instead of light. Alternate translation: “The sun will become dark” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1162:20f34krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἡ σελήνη εἰς αἷμα1

This means that the moon will appear to be red like blood. Alternate translation: “the moon will appear to be red” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1172:20swb2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletἡμέραν & τὴν μεγάλην καὶ ἐπιφανῆ1

The words “great” and “remarkable” share similar meanings and emphasize the intensity of greatness. Alternate translation: “the very great day” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1182:20lc4gἐπιφανῆ1

great and beautiful

1192:21vql5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπᾶς ὃς ἂν ἐπικαλέσηται τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου σωθήσεται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Lord will save everyone who calls on him” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1202:22sa780

Peter continues his speech to the Jews that he began in Acts 1:16.

1212:22g6vjἀκούσατε τοὺς λόγους τούτους1

“listen to what I am about to say”

1222:22f2t1ἀποδεδειγμένον ἀπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ εἰς ὑμᾶς δυνάμεσι, καὶ τέρασι, καὶ σημείοις1

This means that God proved that he had appointed Jesus for his mission, and proved who he was by his many miracles.

1232:23s38brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτῇ, ὡρισμένῃ βουλῇ καὶ προγνώσει τοῦ Θεοῦ1

The nouns “plan” and “foreknowledge” can be translated as verbs. This means that God planned out and knew beforehand what would happen to Jesus. Alternate translation: “because God planned out and knew beforehand everything that would happen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1242:23i6unrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῦτον & ἔκδοτον1

Possible meanings: (1) “you handed Jesus over into the hands of his enemies” or (2) “Judas betrayed Jesus to you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1252:23f5knδιὰ χειρὸς ἀνόμων, προσπήξαντες ἀνείλατε1

Although “lawless men” actually crucified Jesus, Peter accuses the crowd of having killed him because they demanded his death.

1262:23e38arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιὰ χειρὸς ἀνόμων1

Here “hand” refers to the actions of the lawless men. Alternate translation: “through the actions of lawless men” or “by what lawless men did” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1272:23f6kdἀνόμων1

Possible meanings are (1) the unbelieving Jews who accused Jesus of crimes or (2) the Roman soldiers who performed the execution of Jesus.

1282:24ei37rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὃν ὁ Θεὸς ἀνέστησεν1

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “But God caused him to live again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1292:24s8j3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorλύσας τὰς ὠδῖνας τοῦ θανάτου1

Peter speaks of dying as if death were a person who ties people up with painful ropes and holds them captive. He speaks of God ending Christs death as if God broke the ropes that held Chist and set Christ free. Alternate translation: “ending the pains of death” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1302:24ykq4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκρατεῖσθαι αὐτὸν ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for death to hold him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1312:24vuf4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationκρατεῖσθαι αὐτὸν ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ1

Peter speaks of Christ remaining dead as if death were a person who held him captive. Alternate translation: “for him to remain dead” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1322:25dd5a0

Here Peter quotes a passage that David wrote in a Psalm which relates to Jesus crucifixion and resurrection. Since Peter says that David said these words about Jesus, the words “I” and “my” refer to Jesus and the words “Lord” and “he” refer to God.

1332:25n2lsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐνώπιόν μου1

“in front of me.” Alternate translation: “in my presence” or “with me” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1342:25l6xprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐκ δεξιῶν μού1

To be at someones “right hand” often means to be in a position to help and sustain. Alternate translation: “right beside me” or “with me to help me” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1352:25s4yprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ σαλευθῶ1

Here the word “moved” means to be troubled. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will not be able to cause me trouble” or “nothing will trouble me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1362:26z8vwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheηὐφράνθη ἡ καρδία μου, καὶ ἠγαλλιάσατο ἡ γλῶσσά μου1

People consider the “heart” the center of emotions and the “tongue” voices those emotions. Alternate translation: “I was glad and rejoiced” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1372:26zz6krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἡ σάρξ μου κατασκηνώσει ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι1

Possible meanings of the word “flesh” are (1) he is a mortal who will die. Alternate translation: “Even though I am only mortal, I will have confidence in God” or (2) it is synecdoche for his entire person. Alternate translation: “I will live with confidence in God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1382:27whi30

Since Peter says that David said these words about Jesus, the words “my,” “Holy One,” and “me” refer to Jesus and the words “you” and “your” refer to God.

1392:27m3ij0

Peter finishes quoting David.

1402:27rld3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personοὐδὲ δώσεις τὸν Ὅσιόν σου ἰδεῖν διαφθοράν1

The Messiah, Jesus, refers to himself with the words “your Holy One.” Alternate translation: “neither will you allow me, your Holy One, to see decay” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1412:27l5cdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἰδεῖν διαφθοράν1

Here the word “see” means to experience something. The word “decay” refers to the decomposition of his body after death. Alternate translation: “to decay” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1422:28gsk6ὁδοὺς ζωῆς1

“the ways that lead to life”

1432:28y7gfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπληρώσεις με εὐφροσύνης μετὰ τοῦ προσώπου σου1

Here the word “face” refers to the presence of God. Alternate translation: “very glad when I see you” or “very glad when I am in your presence” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1442:28ej5mεὐφροσύνης1

joy, happiness

1452:29wh970

In verses 29 & 30, the words he,” “his,” and “him” refer to David. In verse 31, the first “He” refers to David and the words within the quote “He” and “his” refer to Christ.

1462:29pv1x0

Peter continues his speech that he began in Acts 1:16 to the Jews that surround him and the other believers in Jerusalem.

1472:29ps7cἀδελφοί, ἐξὸν1

“My fellow Jews, I”

1482:29vtc6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαὶ ἐτελεύτησεν καὶ ἐτάφη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he died and people buried him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1492:30hq71rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐκ καρποῦ τῆς ὀσφύος αὐτοῦ, καθίσαι ἐπὶ τὸν θρόνον αὐτοῦ1

“God would set one of Davids descendants upon Davids throne.” Alternate translation: “God would appoint one of Davids descendants to be king in Davids place” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1502:30x11qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐκ καρποῦ τῆς ὀσφύος αὐτοῦ1

Here the word “fruit” refers to what “his body” produces. Alternate translation: “one of his descendants” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1512:31tn4brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὔτε ἐνκατελείφθη εἰς ᾍδην1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God did not abandon him to Hades” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1522:31up5xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὔτε ἡ σὰρξ αὐτοῦ εἶδεν διαφθοράν1

Here the word “see” means to experience something. The word “decay” refers to the decomposition of his body after death. See how you translated this in Acts 2:27. Alternate translation: “nor did his flesh decay” or “nor did he remain dead long enough for his flesh to decay” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1532:32kw6arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here, the second word “this” refers to the disciples speaking in other languages when they received the Holy Spirit. The word “we” refers to the disciples and those that witnessed the risen Jesus after his death. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

1542:32udn1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἀνέστησεν ὁ Θεός1

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “God caused him to live again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1552:33kij2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτῇ δεξιᾷ & τοῦ Θεοῦ ὑψωθεὶς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because God has exalted Jesus up to his right hand” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1562:33c9mrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomτῇ δεξιᾷ & τοῦ Θεοῦ ὑψωθεὶς1

“Right hand of God” here is an idiom that means that Christ will rule as God, with Gods authority. Alternate translation: “Christ is in the position of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1572:33c1drrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐξέχεεν & ὃ1

Here the words “poured out” mean that Jesus, who is God, made these events to happen. It is implicit that he does this by giving the Holy Spirit to the believers. Alternate translation: “he has caused to happen these things that” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1582:33wsg9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐξέχεεν1

Here the words “pour out” mean to give generously and abundantly. See how you translated a similar phrase in Acts 2:17. Alternate translation: “given abundantly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1592:34i8wu0

Peter again quotes one of Davids Psalms. David is not speaking of himself in this Psalm. “The Lord” and “my” refer to God; “my Lord” and “your” refer to Jesus the Messiah.

1602:34m7fy0

Peter finishes his speech to the Jews that he began in Acts 1:16.

1612:34kvn8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionκάθου ἐκ δεξιῶν μου1

To sit at the “right hand of God” is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. Alternate translation: “Sit in the place of honor beside me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1622:35nf1xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἕως ἂν θῶ τοὺς ἐχθρούς σου ὑποπόδιον τῶν ποδῶν σου1

This means that God will completely defeat the Messiahs enemies and make them subject to him. Alternate translation: “until I make you victorious over all of your enemies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1632:36pnp5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomπᾶς οἶκος Ἰσραὴλ1

This refers to the entire nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “every Israelite” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1642:37xan10

Here the word “they” refers to the people in the crowd to whom Peter spoke.

1652:37w1ma0

The Jews respond to Peters speech and Peter answers them.

1662:37zls6ἀκούσαντες1

“when the people heard what Peter had said”

1672:37s85qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκατενύγησαν τὴν καρδίαν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Peters words pierced their hearts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1682:37l15xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomκατενύγησαν τὴν καρδίαν1

This means that the people felt guilty and became very sad. Alternate translation: “deeply troubled” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1692:38cmb7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveβαπτισθήτω1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “allow us to baptize you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1702:38geb2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

“In the name of” here is a metonym for “by the authority of” Alternate translation: “by the authority of Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1712:39v8viπᾶσι τοῖς εἰς μακρὰν1

This means either (1) “all people who live far away” or (2) “all people who are far from God.”

1722:40k1kjrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory0

This is the end of the part of the story that happened on the Day of Pentecost. Verse 42 begins a section that explains how the believers continued to live after the Day of Pentecost. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

1732:40v6iprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletδιεμαρτύρατο, καὶ παρεκάλει αὐτοὺς1

“he seriously told them and begged them.” Here the words “testified” and “urged” share similar meanings and emphasize that Peter urged them strongly to respond to what he was saying. Alternate translation: “he strongly urged them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1742:40wtd5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitσώθητε ἀπὸ τῆς γενεᾶς τῆς σκολιᾶς ταύτης1

The implication is that God will punish “this wicked generation.” Alternate translation: “Save yourselves from the punishment that these wicked people will suffer” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1752:41r9qzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomοἱ & ν ἀποδεξάμενοι τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ1

Here the word “received” means that they accepted what Peter said to be true. Alternate translation: “they believed what Peter said” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1762:41kz64rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐβαπτίσθησαν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people baptized them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1772:41a47frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπροσετέθησαν ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ ἐκείνῃ, ψυχαὶ ὡσεὶ τρισχίλιαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “about three thousand souls joined the believers on that day” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1782:41sv5jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheψυχαὶ ὡσεὶ τρισχίλιαι1

Here the word “souls” refers to people. Alternate translation: “about 3,000 people” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1792:42gc59rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheκλάσει τοῦ ἄρτου1

Bread was part of their meals. Possible meanings are (1) this refers to any meals they might eat together. Alternate translation: “eating meals together” or (2) this refers to the meals they would eat together in order to remember Christs death and resurrection. Alternate translation: “eating the Lords Supper together” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1802:43gi9vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐγίνετο δὲ πάσῃ ψυχῇ φόβος1

Here the word “Fear” refers to deep respect and awe for God. The word “soul” refers to the entire person. Alternate translation: “Each person felt a deep respect and awe for God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1812:43ys3yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπολλά τε τέρατα καὶ σημεῖα διὰ τῶν ἀποστόλων ἐγίνετο1

Possible meanings are (1) “the apostles performed many wonders and signs” or (2) “God performed many wonders and signs through the apostles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1822:43q6dmτέρατα καὶ σημεῖα1

“miraculous deeds and supernatural events.” See how you translated this in Acts 2:22.

1832:44u8qkπάντες δὲ οἱ πιστεύοντες ἦσαν ἐπὶ τὸ αὐτὸ1

Possible meanings are (1) “All of them believed the same thing” or (2) “All who believed were together in the same place.”

1842:44jy2wεἶχον ἅπαντα κοινά1

“shared their belongings with one another”

1852:45h8tnκτήματα καὶ τὰς ὑπάρξεις1

“land and things they owned”

1862:45f74src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιεμέριζον αὐτὰ πᾶσιν1

Here the word “them” refers to the profit that they made from selling their property and possessions. Alternate translation: “distributed the proceeds to all” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1872:45n9hiκαθότι ἄν τις χρείαν εἶχεν1

They distributed the proceeds that they earned from selling their property and possessions to any believer who had a need.

1882:46in43προσκαρτεροῦντες ὁμοθυμαδὸν1

Possible meanings are (1) “they continued meeting together” or (2) “they all continued to have the same attitude.”

1892:46q1gerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheκλῶντές & κατ’ οἶκον ἄρτον1

Bread was part of their meals. Alternate translation: “they eat meals together in their homes” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1902:46i2ykrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν ἀγαλλιάσει καὶ ἀφελότητι καρδίας1

Here “heart” is a metonym for a persons emotions. Alternate translation: “joyfully and humbly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1912:47z6igαἰνοῦντες τὸν Θεὸν καὶ ἔχοντες χάριν πρὸς ὅλον τὸν λαόν1

“praising God. All the people approved of them”

1922:47kc42rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοὺς σῳζομένους1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those whom the Lord saved” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1933:introhpd90

Acts 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The covenant God made with Abraham

This chapter explains that Jesus came to the Jews because God was fulfilling part of the covenant he had made with Abraham. Peter thought that the Jews were the ones who were truly guilty of killing Jesus, but he

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“You delivered up”

The Romans were the ones who killed Jesus, but they killed him because the Jews captured him, brought him to the Romans, and told the Romans to kill him. For this reason Peter thought that they were the ones who were truly guilty of killing Jesus. But he tells them that they are also the first ones to whom God has sent Jesus followers to invite them to repent (Luke 3:26). (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])

1943:1u6nurc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Verse 2 gives background information about the lame man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1953:1b5rm0

One day Peter and John go to the temple.

1963:1br7iεἰς τὸ ἱερὸν1

They did not go into the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate translation: “to the temple courtyard” or “into the temple area”

1973:2f227rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτις ἀνὴρ, χωλὸς ἐκ κοιλίας μητρὸς αὐτοῦ ὑπάρχων, ἐβαστάζετο, ὃν ἐτίθουν καθ’ ἡμέραν πρὸς τὴν θύραν τοῦ ἱεροῦ, τὴν λεγομένην Ὡραίαν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Every day, people carried a certain man, lame from birth, and laid him near the Beautiful gate” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1983:2j68tχωλὸς1

unable to walk

1993:4xq4uἀτενίσας & Πέτρος εἰς αὐτὸν σὺν τῷ Ἰωάννῃ εἶπεν1

Both Peter and John looked at the man, but only Peter spoke.

2003:4t1q9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἀτενίσας & εἰς αὐτὸν1

Possible meanings are (1) “looking directly at him” or (2) “looking intently at him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2013:5e3c6ὁ & ἐπεῖχεν αὐτοῖς1

Here the word “looked” means to pay attention to something. Alternate translation: “The lame man paid close attention to them”

2023:6x6bmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀργύριον καὶ χρυσίον1

These words refer to money. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2033:6zi9trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὃ & ἔχω1

It is understood that Peter has the ability to heal the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2043:6t2vfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Here the word “name” refers to power and authority. Alternate translation: “With the authority of Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2053:7ec6jἤγειρεν αὐτόν1

“Peter caused him to stand”

2063:8abc1ἐξαλλόμενος, ἔστη καὶ περιεπάτει, καὶ εἰσῆλθεν1

The lame man did these actions.

2073:8zp7xεἰσῆλθεν & εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν1

He did not go inside the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate translation: “he entered … the temple area” or “he entered … into the temple courtyard”

2083:10zy7hἐπεγίνωσκον & ὅτι αὐτὸς ἦν ὁ1

“realized that it was the man” or “recognized him as the man”

2093:10p2zhτῇ Ὡραίᾳ Πύλῃ1

This was the name of one of the entrances to the temple area. See how you translated a similar phrase in Acts 3:2.

2103:10j6zfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletἐπλήσθησαν θάμβους καὶ ἐκστάσεως1

Here the words “wonder” and “amazement” share similar meanings and emphasize the intensity of the peoples amazement. Alternate translation: “they were extremely amazed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2113:11g4y1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The phrase “in the porch that is called Solomons” makes it clear that they were not inside the temple where only the priests were allowed to enter. Here the words “us” and “we” refer to Peter and John but not to the crowd to whom Peter is talking. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

2123:11eu1l0

After healing the man who could not walk, Peter talks to the people.

2133:11rj43τῇ στοᾷ τῇ καλουμένῃ Σολομῶντος1

“Solomons Porch.” This was a covered walkway that consisted of rows of pillars that supported a roof, and which people named after king Solomon.

2143:11rk1mἔκθαμβοι1

“extremely surprised”

2153:12x9m9ἰδὼν δὲ, ὁ Πέτρος1

Here the word “this” refers to the amazement of the people.

2163:12ndi3ἄνδρες, Ἰσραηλεῖται1

“Fellow Israelites.” Peter was addressing the crowd.

2173:12uyg1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί θαυμάζετε1

Peter asks this question to emphasize that they should not be surprised by what had happened. Alternate translation: “you should not be surprised” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2183:12j6ldrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἡμῖν τί ἀτενίζετε, ὡς ἰδίᾳ δυνάμει ἢ εὐσεβείᾳ πεποιηκόσιν τοῦ περιπατεῖν αὐτόν1

Peter asks this question to emphasize that the people should not think that he and John had healed the man by their own abilities. This could be written as two statements. Alternate translation: “Do not fix your eyes on us. We did not make him walk by our own power or godliness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2193:12mwd9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἡμῖν & ἀτενίζετε1

This means that they looked intently at them without stopping. Alternate translation: “stare at us” or “look at us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2203:13q8q20

Peter continues his speech to the Jews that he began in Acts 3:12.

2213:13cp1jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἠρνήσασθε κατὰ πρόσωπον Πειλάτου1

Here the phrase “before the face of” means “in the presence of.” Alternate translation: “rejected in Pilates presence” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2223:13yy96κρίναντος ἐκείνου ἀπολύειν1

“when Pilate had decided to release Jesus”

2233:14s6qjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveᾐτήσασθε ἄνδρα, φονέα χαρισθῆναι ὑμῖν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for Pilate to release a murderer” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2243:15jwb1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” includes just Peter and John. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

2253:15ljn8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἈρχηγὸν τῆς ζωῆς1

This refers to Jesus. Possible meanings are (1) “the one who gives people eternal life” or (2) “the ruler of life” or (3) “the founder of life” or (4) “the one who leads people to life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2263:16xu92καὶ1

This word, “Now,” shifts the audiences attention to the lame man.

2273:16abc2ἐπὶ τῇ πίστει τοῦ ὀνόματος αὐτοῦ1

“by faith in the name of Jesus”

2283:16qt8wἐστερέωσεν τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ1

“the name of Jesus has made well”

2293:16abc3ἔδωκεν αὐτῷ1

“gave to the lame man”

2303:17v45tκαὶ νῦν1

Here Peter shifts the audiences attention from the lame man and continues to talk to them directly.

2313:17x62kκατὰ ἄγνοιαν ἐπράξατε1

Possible meanings are (1) that the people did not know that Jesus was the Messiah or (2) that the people did not understand the significance of what they were doing.

2323:18gcc1ὁ & Θεὸς & προκατήγγειλεν διὰ στόματος πάντων τῶν προφητῶν1

When the prophets spoke, it was as though God himself was speaking because he told them what to say. Alternate translation: “God foretold by telling all of the prophets what to speak”

2333:18ms6dὁ & Θεὸς & προκατήγγειλεν1

“God spoke about ahead of time” or “God told about before they happened”

2343:18z3l7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyστόματος πάντων τῶν προφητῶν1

Here the word “mouth” refers to the words that the prophets spoke and wrote down. Alternate translation: “the words of all the prophets” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2353:19cw18rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκαὶ ἐπιστρέψατε1

“and turn to the Lord.” Here “turn” is a metaphor for starting to obey the Lord. Alternate translation: “and start obeying the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2363:19zm6yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπρὸς τὸ ἐξαλειφθῆναι ὑμῶν τὰς ἁμαρτίας1

Here “blotted out” is a metaphor for forgiving. Sins are spoken of as if they are written in a book and God erases them from the book when he forgives them. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that God will forgive you for sinning against him” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2373:20f2wmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀπὸ προσώπου τοῦ Κυρίου1

Here the words “presence of the Lord” is a metonym for the Lord himself. Alternate translation: “from the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2383:20x3caκαιροὶ ἀναψύξεως ἀπὸ προσώπου τοῦ Κυρίου1

“times of relief from the presence of the Lord.” Possible meanings are (1) “times when God will strengthen your spirits” or (2) “times when God will revive you”

2393:20h3nkἀποστείλῃ τὸν προκεχειρισμένον ὑμῖν Χριστὸν1

“that he may again send the Christ.” This refers to Christs coming again.

2403:20yzr6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὸν προκεχειρισμένον ὑμῖν1

This may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom he has appointed for you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2413:21sj210

In verses 22-23 Peter quotes something Moses told before the Messiah came.

2423:21u33e0

Peter continues his speech that he began in Acts 3:12 to the Jews who stood in the temple area.

2433:21vgn8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationὃν δεῖ οὐρανὸν μὲν δέξασθαι1

“He is the One heaven must welcome.” Peter speaks of heaven as if it were a person who welcomes Jesus into his home. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

2443:21y1psδεῖ οὐρανὸν μὲν δέξασθαι, ἄχρι1

This means that it is necessary for Jesus to remain in heaven because that is what God has planned.

2453:21x2f3ἄχρι χρόνων ἀποκαταστάσεως πάντων1

Possible meanings are (1) “until the time when God will restore all things” or (2) “until the time when God will fulfill everything that he foretold.”

2463:21a2m8ὧν ἐλάλησεν ὁ Θεὸς διὰ στόματος τῶν ἁγίων ἀπ’ αἰῶνος αὐτοῦ προφητῶν1

When the prophets spoke long ago, it was as if God himself was speaking because he told them what to say. Alternate translation: “about which things God spoke long ago by telling his holy prophets to speak about them”

2473:21a12irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyστόματος τῶν ἁγίων & αὐτοῦ προφητῶν1

Here the word “mouth” refers to the words that the prophets spoke and wrote down. Alternate translation: “the words of his holy prophets” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2483:22v5nfπροφήτην & ἀναστήσει & ἐκ τῶν ἀδελφῶν ὑμῶν, ὡς ἐμέ1

“will cause a one of your brothers to become a true prophet, and everyone will know about him”

2493:22t8diτῶν ἀδελφῶν ὑμῶν1

“your nation”

2503:23t8a5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that prophet, God will completely destroy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2513:24y1z70

Peter finishes his speech to the Jews that he began in Acts 3:12.

2523:24u6x3καὶ πάντες δὲ οἱ προφῆται1

“In fact, all the prophets.” Here the word “Yes” adds emphasis to what follows.

2533:24xp9hἀπὸ Σαμουὴλ καὶ τῶν καθεξῆς1

“beginning with Samuel and continuing with the prophets who lived after he did”

2543:24m9prτὰς ἡμέρας ταύτας1

“these times” or “the things that are happening now”

2553:25rh2nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὑμεῖς ἐστε οἱ υἱοὶ τῶν προφητῶν, καὶ τῆς διαθήκης1

Here the word “sons” refers to heirs who will receive what the prophets and the covenant promised. Alternate translation: “You are the heirs of the prophets and heirs of the covenant” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2563:25mad5ἐν τῷ σπέρματί σου1

“Because of your offspring”

2573:25g31mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐνευλογηθήσονται πᾶσαι αἱ πατριαὶ τῆς γῆς1

Here the word “families” refers to people groups or nations. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I will bless all the people groups in the world” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2583:26b7tzἀναστήσας ὁ Θεὸς τὸν παῖδα αὐτοῦ1

“After God caused Jesus to become his servant and made him famous”

2593:26z5q6τὸν παῖδα αὐτοῦ1

This refers to the Messiah, Jesus.

2603:26x8ssrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῷ ἀποστρέφειν ἕκαστον ἀπὸ τῶν πονηριῶν ὑμῶν1

Here “turning … from” is a metaphor for causing someone stop doing something. Alternate translation: “causing every one of you to stop doing wicked things” or “causing every one of you to repent from your wickedness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2614:intropv3a0

Acts 04 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 4:25-26.

Special concepts in this chapter

Unity

The first Christians wanted very much to be united. They wanted to believe the same things and share everything they owned and help those who needed help.

“Signs and wonders”

This phrase refers to things that only God can do. The Christians wanted God to do what only he can do so that people would believe that what they said about Jesus was true.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Cornerstone

The cornerstone was the first piece of stone that people put down when they were building a building. This is a metaphor for the most important part of something, the part on which everything depends. To say that Jesus is the cornerstone of the church is to say that nothing in the church is more important than Jesus and that everything about the church depends on Jesus. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Name

“There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). With these words Peter was saying that no other person who has ever been on the earth or will ever be on earth can save people.

2624:1ew3l0

The religious leaders arrest Peter and John after Peters having healed the man who was born lame.

2634:1abc4λαλούντων & αὐτῶν1

“As Peter and John were speaking”

2644:1d3tvἐπέστησαν αὐτοῖς1

“approached them” or “came to them”

2654:2m74src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδιαπονούμενοι1

“They were very angry.” The Sadducees, in particular, would have been angry about what Peter and John were saying because they did not believe in resurrection. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2664:2abc5τὸ διδάσκειν αὐτοὺς1

“Peter and John were teaching”

2674:2mg5lκαταγγέλλειν ἐν τῷ Ἰησοῦ τὴν ἀνάστασιν, τὴν ἐκ νεκρῶν1

Peter and John were saying that God would raise people from the dead in the same way as he had raised Jesus from among the dead. Translate this in a way that allows “the resurrection” to refer to both Jesus resurrection and the general resurrection of other people.

2684:2np5gτὴν ἐκ νεκρῶν1

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To come back from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

2694:3zla7ἐπέβαλον αὐτοῖς1

“The priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees arrested Peter and John”

2704:3h5f9ἦν γὰρ ἑσπέρα1

It was common practice not to question people at night.

2714:4bm1fἀριθμὸς τῶν ἀνδρῶν1

This refers only to men who believed and does not include how many women or children believed.

2724:4qd8gἐγενήθη & ὡς χιλιάδες πέντε1

“grew to about five thousand”

2734:5j6p80

Here the word “their” refers to the Jewish people as a whole.

2744:5i9tj0

The rulers question Peter and John who answer without fear.

2754:5lw2dἐγένετο1

This phrase is used here to mark where the action starts. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

2764:5cdj1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheτοὺς ἄρχοντας, καὶ τοὺς πρεσβυτέρους, καὶ τοὺς γραμματεῖς1

This is a reference to the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling court, which consisted of these three groups of people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2774:6l44nἸωάννης, καὶ Ἀλέξανδρος1

These two men were members of the high priests family. This is not the same John as the apostle.

2784:7abc6στήσαντες αὐτοὺς1

“When they had set Peter and John”

2794:7t1eqἐν ποίᾳ δυνάμει1

“Who gave you power”

2804:7jc21rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν ποίῳ ὀνόματι1

Here the word “name” refers to authority. Alternate translation: “by whose authority” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2814:8su5xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτότε Πέτρος πλησθεὶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου1

This can be stated in active form. See how you translated this in Acts 2:4. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit filled Peter and he” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2824:9pq85rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionεἰ ἡμεῖς σήμερον ἀνακρινόμεθα & ἐν τίνι οὗτος σέσωσται1

Peter asks this question to clarify that this was the real reason that they were on trial. Alternate translation: “You are asking us this day … by what means we made this man well” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2834:9je6drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἡμεῖς σήμερον ἀνακρινόμεθα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you are questioning us this day” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2844:9b92nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν τίνι οὗτος σέσωσται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “by what means we have made this man well” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2854:10snd5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγνωστὸν ἔστω πᾶσιν ὑμῖν καὶ παντὶ τῷ λαῷ Ἰσραὴλ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “May all of you and all of the people of Israel know this” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2864:10j3pxπᾶσιν ὑμῖν καὶ παντὶ τῷ λαῷ Ἰσραὴλ1

“to you who are questioning us and to all the other people of Israel”

2874:10khn7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ τοῦ Ναζωραίου1

Here the word “name” refers to power and authority. Alternate translation: “by the power of Jesus Christ of Nazareth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2884:10jyj6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὃν ὁ Θεὸς ἤγειρεν ἐκ νεκρῶν1

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “whom God caused to live again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2894:11tdw8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Peter as well as those to whom he is speaking. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

2904:11nwg60

Peter completes his speech to the Jewish religious rulers that he began in Acts 4:8.

2914:11w195rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὗτός ἐστιν ὁ λίθος & ὁ γενόμενος εἰς κεφαλὴν γωνίας1

Peter is quoting from the Psalms. This is a metaphor that means the religious leaders, like builders, rejected Jesus, but God will made him the most important in his kingdom, as a cornerstone in a building is important. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2924:11f1nxκεφαλὴν1

Here the word “head” means “most important” or “vital.”

2934:11c1bhὑμῶν, τῶν οἰκοδόμων1

“you as builders rejected” or “you as builders rejected as worth nothing”

2944:12tq3zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsκαὶ οὐκ ἔστιν ἐν ἄλλῳ οὐδενὶ1

The noun “salvation” can be translated as a verb. This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “He is the only person who is able to save” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2954:12l66wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐδὲ γὰρ ὄνομά ἐστιν ἕτερον ὑπὸ τὸν οὐρανὸν τὸ δεδομένον ἐν ἀνθρώποις1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “no other name under heaven that God has given among men” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2964:12iz7krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyοὐδὲ & ὄνομά & ἕτερον & δεδομένον ἐν ἀνθρώποις1

The phrase “name … given among men” refers to the person of Jesus. Alternate translation: “no other person under heaven, who is given among men, by whom” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2974:12jm25rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὑπὸ τὸν οὐρανὸν1

This is a way of referring to everywhere in the world. Alternate translation: “in the world” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2984:12gg8hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν ᾧ δεῖ σωθῆναι ἡμᾶς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which can save us” or “who can save us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2994:13xn390

Here the second instance of “they” refers to Peter and John. All other occurrences of the word “they” in this section refer to the Jewish leaders.

3004:13t6kcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὴν τοῦ Πέτρου παρρησίαν καὶ Ἰωάννου1

Here the abstract noun “boldness” refers to the way in which Peter and John responded to the Jewish leaders, and can be translated with an adverb or an adjective. Alternate translation: “how boldly Peter and John had spoken” or “how bold Peter and John were” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

3014:13p9pqπαρρησίαν1

having no fear

3024:13qaa5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκαταλαβόμενοι ὅτι ἄνθρωποι ἀγράμματοί εἰσιν καὶ ἰδιῶται1

The Jewish leaders “realized” this because of the way Peter and John spoke. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3034:13r6d6καὶ καταλαβόμενοι1

“and understood”

3044:13erv7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletἄνθρωποι ἀγράμματοί & ἰδιῶτα1

The words “ordinary” and “uneducated” share similar meanings. They emphasize that Peter and John had received no formal training in Jewish law. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

3054:14h3cyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτόν & ἄνθρωπον & τὸν τεθεραπευμένον1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the man whom Peter and John had healed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3064:14fq4wοὐδὲν εἶχον ἀντειπεῖν1

“nothing to say against Peter and Johns healing of the man.” Here the word “this” refers to what Peter and John had done.

3074:15ql31αὐτοὺς1

This refers to Peter and John.

3084:16p4g6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί ποιήσωμεν τοῖς ἀνθρώποις τούτοις1

The Jewish leaders ask this question out of frustration because they could not think of what to do with Peter and John. Alternate translation: “There is nothing that we can do with these men!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3094:16nh5src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγὰρ γνωστὸν σημεῖον γέγονεν δι’ αὐτῶν, πᾶσιν τοῖς κατοικοῦσιν Ἰερουσαλὴμ φανερόν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “For everyone who lives in Jerusalem knows that they have done a remarkable miracle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3104:16jn12rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπᾶσιν τοῖς κατοικοῦσιν Ἰερουσαλὴμ1

This is a generalization. It may also be an exaggeration to show that the leaders think that this is a very big problem. Alternate translation: “many of the people who live in Jerusalem” or “people who live throughout Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

3114:17f71lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἵνα μὴ ἐπὶ πλεῖον διανεμηθῇ1

Here the word “it” refers to any miracles or teaching Peter and John might continue to do. Alternate translation: “in order that news of this miracle spreads no further” or “in order that no more people hear about this miracle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3124:17w52jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyμηκέτι λαλεῖν ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματι τούτῳ μηδενὶ ἀνθρώπων1

Here the word “name” refers to the person of Jesus. Alternate translation: “not to speak anymore to anyone about this person, Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3134:19hf3urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Peter and John but not to those whom they are addressing. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

3144:19jf1drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyεἰ δίκαιόν ἐστιν ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Here the phrase “in the sight of God” refers to Gods opinion. Alternate translation: “Whether God thinks it is right” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3154:21gy8drc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Verse 22 gives background information about the age of the lame man who was healed. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

3164:21y5y1οἱ δὲ προσαπειλησάμενοι1

The Jewish leaders again threatened to punish Peter and John.

3174:21z2bxμηδὲν εὑρίσκοντες τὸ πῶς κολάσωνται αὐτούς1

Although the Jewish leaders threatened Peter and John, they could not find a reason to punish them without causing the people to riot.

3184:21jbl6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπὶ τῷ γεγονότι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for what Peter and John had done” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3194:22ju4wὁ ἄνθρωπος, ἐφ’ ὃν γεγόνει τὸ σημεῖον τοῦτο τῆς ἰάσεως1

“The man whom Peter and John had miraculously healed”

3204:23j3ap0

Speaking together, the people quote a Psalm of David from the Old Testament. Here the word “they” refers to the rest of the believers, but not to Peter and John.

3214:23j2cxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἦλθον πρὸς τοὺς ἰδίους1

The phrase “their own people” refers to the rest of the believers. Alternate translation: “went to the other believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3224:24zu28ὁμοθυμαδὸν ἦραν φωνὴν πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν1

To raise the voice is an idiom for speaking. “they began speaking together to God” (See: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom)

3234:25vc5zὁ τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν, διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου στόματος Δαυεὶδ παιδός σου εἰπών1

This means that the Holy Spirit caused David to speak or write down what God said.

3244:25ka83rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν & στόματος Δαυεὶδ παιδός σου1

Here the word “mouth” refers to the words that David spoke or wrote down. Alternate translation: “by the words of your servant, our father David” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3254:25kat6τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν & Δαυεὶδ1

Here “father” refers to “ancestor/”

3264:25f1x6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἵνα τί ἐφρύαξαν ἔθνη, καὶ λαοὶ ἐμελέτησαν κενά1

This is a rhetorical question that emphasizes the futility of opposing God. Alternate translation: “The Gentile nations should not have raged, and the peoples should not have imagined useless things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3274:25w622rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitλαοὶ ἐμελέτησαν κενά1

These “useless things” consist of plans to oppose God. Alternate translation: “the peoples imagine useless things against God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3284:25h6rcλαοὶ1

people groups

3294:26fb5a0

The believers complete their quotation from King David in the Psalms that they began in Acts 4:25.

3304:26w2byrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismπαρέστησαν οἱ βασιλεῖς τῆς γῆς καὶ οἱ ἄρχοντες συνήχθησαν ἐπὶ τὸ αὐτὸ κατὰ τοῦ Κυρίου1

These two lines mean basically the same thing. The two lines emphasize the combined effort of the earths rulers to oppose God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

3314:26w64brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπαρέστησαν & συνήχθησαν1

These two phrases mean that they joined their armies together to fight a battle. Alternate translation: “set their armies together … gathered their troops together” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3324:26yv19κατὰ τοῦ Κυρίου, καὶ κατὰ τοῦ Χριστοῦ αὐτοῦ1

Here the word “Lord” refers to God. In the Psalms, the word “Christ” refers to the Messiah or Gods anointed one.

3334:27b1g90

The believers continue praying.

3344:27nuc1ἐν τῇ πόλει ταύτῃ1

“this city” refers to Jerusalem.

3354:27ca33τὸν ἅγιον παῖδά σου Ἰησοῦν1

“Jesus who serves you faithfully”

3364:28yz7mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyποιῆσαι ὅσα ἡ χείρ σου, καὶ ἡ βουλὴ σου προώρισεν1

Here the word “hand” is used to mean Gods power. Additionally, the phrase “your hand and your desire decided” shows Gods power and plan. Alternate translation: “to do all that you had decided because you are powerful and did all that you planned” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3374:29b38z0

The believers complete their prayer that they began in Acts 4:24.

3384:29t5qmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἔπιδε ἐπὶ τὰς ἀπειλὰς αὐτῶν1

Here the words “look upon” are a request for God to take notice of the way in which the Jewish leaders threatened the believers. Alternate translation: “notice how they threaten to punish us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3394:29zh7jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyμετὰ παρρησίας πάσης λαλεῖν τὸν λόγον σου1

The word “word” here is a metonym for Gods message. The abstract noun “boldness” can be translated as an adverb. Alternate translation: “speak your message boldly” or “be bold when we speak your message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3404:30x9r1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὴν χεῖρά σου, ἐκτείνειν σε εἰς ἴασιν1

Here the word “hand” refers to Gods power. This is a request for God to show how powerful he is. Alternate translation: “while you show your power by healing people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3414:30t5uwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιὰ τοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ ἁγίου παιδός σου, Ἰησοῦ1

Here the word “name” refers to power and authority. Alternate translation: “through the power of your holy servant Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3424:30txb5τοῦ ἁγίου παιδός σου, Ἰησοῦ1

“Jesus who serves you faithfully.” See how you translated this in Acts 4:27.

3434:31x9b3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐσαλεύθη ὁ τόπος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the place … shook” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3444:31ps3mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπλήσθησαν ἅπαντες τοῦ Ἁγίου Πνεύματος1

This can be stated in active form. See how you translated this in Acts 2:4. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit filled them all” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3454:32xu3jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἦν καρδία καὶ ψυχὴ μία1

Here the word “heart” refers to the thoughts and the word “soul” refers to the emotions. Together they refer to the total person. Alternate translation: “thought the same way and wanted the same things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3464:32zyp5ἦν αὐτοῖς πάντα κοινά1

“shared their belongings with one another.” See how you translated this in Acts 2:44.

3474:33d8drχάρις τε μεγάλη ἦν ἐπὶ πάντας αὐτούς1

Possible meanings are: (1) that God was greatly blessing the believers or (2) that the people in Jerusalem held the believers in very high esteem.

3484:34gw3vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleὅσοι & κτήτορες χωρίων ἢ οἰκιῶν ὑπῆρχον1

The word “all” here is a generalization. Alternate translation: “Many people who owned title to lands or houses” or “People who owned title to lands or houses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

3494:34ti1hκτήτορες χωρίων ἢ οἰκιῶν ὑπῆρχον1

“owned land or houses”

3504:34l938rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὰς τιμὰς τῶν πιπρασκομένων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the money that they received from the things that they sold” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3514:35vv4zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐτίθουν παρὰ τοὺς πόδας τῶν ἀποστόλων1

This means that they presented the money to the apostles. Alternate translation: “presented it to the apostles” or “gave it to the apostles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3524:35ps4src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιεδίδετο & ἑκάστῳ, καθότι ἄν τις χρείαν εἶχεν1

The noun “need” can be translated with a verb. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they distributed the money to each believer who needed it” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

3534:36uc2arc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants0

Luke introduces Barnabas into the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

3544:36nr4vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomυἱὸς παρακλήσεως1

The apostles used this name to show that Joseph was a person who encouraged others. “Son of” is an idiom used to describe a persons behavior or character. Alternate translation: “Encourager” or “one who encourages” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3554:37gtv5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἔθηκεν παρὰ τοὺς πόδας τῶν ἀποστόλων1

This means that they presented to money to the apostles. See how you translated this in Acts 4:35. Alternate translation: “presented it to the apostles” or “gave it to the apostles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3565:introk2uh0

Acts 05 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit”

No one knows for sure if Ananias and Sapphira were truly Christians when they decided to lie about the land that they sold (Acts 5:1-10), because Luke does not say. However, Peter knew that they lied to the believers, and he knew that they had listened to and obeyed Satan.

When they lied to the believers, they also lied to the Holy Spirit. This is because the Holy Spirit lives inside believers.

3575:1v27arc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Continuing the story of how the new Christians shared their belongings with other believers, Luke tells about two believers, Ananias and Sapphria. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-background]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

3585:1ysl9δέ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line to tell a new part of the story.

3595:2xm1tσυνειδυίης καὶ τῆς γυναικός1

“his wife also knew that he kept back part of the sale money”

3605:2dy8brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomπαρὰ τοὺς πόδας τῶν ἀποστόλων ἔθηκεν1

This means that they presented to money to the apostles. See how you translated this in Acts 4:35. Alternate translation: “presented it to the apostles” or “gave it to the apostles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3615:3y7j60

If your language does not use rhetorical questions, you may reword these as statements.

3625:3grr9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionδιὰ τί ἐπλήρωσεν ὁ Σατανᾶς τὴν καρδίαν σου, ψεύσασθαί σε τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον, καὶ νοσφίσασθαι ἀπὸ τῆς τιμῆς τοῦ χωρίου1

Peter uses this question to rebuke Ananias. Alternate translation: “you should not have let Satan fill your heart to lie … land.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3635:3pqd4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπλήρωσεν ὁ Σατανᾶς τὴν καρδίαν σου1

Here the word “heart” is a metonym for the will and emotions. The phrase “Satan filled your heart” is a metaphor. Possible meanings of the metaphor are (1) “Satan completely controlled you” or (2) “Satan convinced you” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3645:3zz5urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitψεύσασθαί σε τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον, καὶ νοσφίσασθαι ἀπὸ τῆς τιμῆς1

This implies that Ananias had told the apostles that he was giving the entire amount that he had received from selling his land. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3655:4vu7grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὐχὶ μένον σοὶ ἔμενεν, καὶ πραθὲν ἐν τῇ σῇ ἐξουσίᾳ ὑπῆρχεν1

Peter uses this question to rebuke Ananias. Alternate translation: “While it remained unsold, it was your own … control.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3665:4vi8wἔμενεν1

“While you had not sold it”

3675:4wm2rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionπραθὲν ἐν τῇ σῇ ἐξουσίᾳ ὑπῆρχεν1

Peter uses this question to rebuke Ananias. Alternate translation: “after it was sold, you had control over the money that you received.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3685:4k7ncrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπραθὲν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “after you sold it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3695:4i5dwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί ὅτι ἔθου ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ σου τὸ πρᾶγμα τοῦτο1

Peter used this question to rebuke Ananias. Here the word “heart” refers to the will and emotions. Alternate translation: “You should not have thought of doing this thing” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3705:5cc5yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismπεσὼν ἐξέψυξεν1

Here “breathed his last” means “breathed his final breath” and is a polite way of saying that he died. Ananias fell down because he died; he did not die because he fell down. Alternate translation: “died and fell to the ground” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

3715:7ry54ἡ γυνὴ αὐτοῦ & εἰσῆλθεν1

“Ananias wife came in” or “Sapphira came in”

3725:7k3c9τὸ γεγονὸς1

“that her husband had died”

3735:8bcf6τοσούτου1

“for this much money.” This refers to the amount of money that Ananias had given to the apostles.

3745:9w1lbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “you” is plural and refers to both Ananias and Sapphira. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

3755:9vym80

This is the end of the part of the story about Ananias and Sapphira.

3765:9v7swrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί ὅτι συνεφωνήθη ὑμῖν πειράσαι τὸ Πνεῦμα Κυρίου1

Peter asks this question to rebuke Sapphira. Alternate translation: “You should not have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3775:9hc22συνεφωνήθη ὑμῖν1

“the two of you have agreed together”

3785:9pg1eπειράσαι τὸ Πνεῦμα Κυρίου1

Here the word “test” means to challenge or to prove. They were trying to see if they could get away with lying to God without receiving punishment.

3795:9xj1lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοἱ πόδες τῶν θαψάντων τὸν ἄνδρα σου1

Here the phrase “the feet” refers to the men. Alternate translation: “the men who have buried your husband” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3805:10nwb9ἔπεσεν & πρὸς τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ1

This means that when she died, she fell on the floor in front of Peter. This expression should not be confused with falling down at a persons feet as a sign of humility.

3815:10s7enrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismἐξέψυξεν1

Here “breathed his last” means “breathed her final breath” and is a polite way of saying “she died.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Acts 5:5. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

3825:12aud20

Here the words “They” and “they” refer to the believers.

3835:12c2e70

Luke continues to tell what happens in the early days of the church.

3845:12lde1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιὰ δὲ τῶν χειρῶν τῶν ἀποστόλων, ἐγίνετο σημεῖα καὶ τέρατα πολλὰ1

or “Many signs and wonders took place among the people through the hands of the apostles.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3855:12ux3nσημεῖα καὶ τέρατα1

“supernatural events and miraculous deeds.” See how you translated these terms in Acts 2:22

3865:12sri8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheδιὰ & τῶν χειρῶν τῶν ἀποστόλων1

Here the word “hands” refers to the apostles. Alternate translation: “through the apostles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3875:12k99kΣτοᾷ Σολομῶντος1

This was a covered walkway that consisted of rows of pillars that supported a roof, and which people named after king Solomon. See how you translated “the porch that is called Solomons” in Acts 3:11.

3885:13qd8rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐμεγάλυνεν αὐτοὺς ὁ λαός1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the people held the believers in high esteem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3895:14l9bs0

Here the word “they” refers to the people who lived in Jerusalem.

3905:14m9wxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμᾶλλον & προσετίθεντο πιστεύοντες τῷ Κυρίῳ1

This could be stated in active form. See how you translated “were added” in Acts 2:41. Alternate translation: “more people were believing in the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3915:15y2evrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἡ σκιὰ ἐπισκιάσῃ τινὶ αὐτῶν1

It is implied that God would heal them if Peters shadow touched them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3925:16fu1aὀχλουμένους ὑπὸ πνευμάτων ἀκαθάρτων1

“those whom unclean spirits had afflicted”

3935:16lyc7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐθεραπεύοντο ἅπαντες1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God healed them all” or “the apostles healed them all” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3945:17p4ta0

The religious leaders began to persecute the believers.

3955:17x2edδὲ1

This begins a contrasting story. You may translate this in the way that your language introduces a contrasting narrative.

3965:17f9yerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἀναστὰς & ὁ ἀρχιερεὺς1

Here the phrase “rose up” means that the high priest decided to take action, not that he stood up from a seated position. Alternate translation: “the high priest took action” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3975:17pc45rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπλήσθησαν ζήλου1

The abstract noun “jealousy” can be translated as an adjective. This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they became very jealous” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

3985:18j58prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐπέβαλον τὰς χεῖρας ἐπὶ τοὺς ἀποστόλους1

This means that they seized the apostles by force. They would have ordered guards to do this. Alternate translation: “had the guards arrest the apostles” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3995:19wd370

Here the words “them” and “they” refer to the apostles.

4005:20qm16rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τῷ ἱερῷ1

This phrase here refers to the temple courtyard, not to the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate translation: “in the temple courtyard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4015:20z1x3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπάντα τὰ ῥήματα τῆς ζωῆς ταύτης1

The word “words” here is a metonym for the message that the apostles had already proclaimed. Possible meanings are (1) “all this message of eternal life” or (2) “the whole message of this new way of living” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4025:21df1urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitεἰς τὸ ἱερὸν1

They went into the temple courtyard, not into the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate translation: “into the temple courtyard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4035:21l7ufὑπὸ τὸν ὄρθρον1

“as it began to be light.” Although the angel led them out of the jail during the night, the sun was rising by the time the apostles reached the temple courtyard.

4045:21li6arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἀπέστειλαν εἰς τὸ δεσμωτήριον ἀχθῆναι αὐτούς1

This implies someone went to the jail. Alternate translation: “sent someone to the jail to bring the apostles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

4055:23ld7drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔσω οὐδένα εὕρομεν1

The words “no one” refer to the apostles. This implies that there was no one else in the jail cell besides the apostles. Alternate translation: “we did not find them inside” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4065:24a8dzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “you” is plural and refers to the captain of the temple and the chief priests. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

4075:24k5g6διηπόρουν1

“they were very puzzled” or “they were very confused”

4085:24baw2περὶ αὐτῶν1

“concerning the words they had just heard” or “concerning these things”

4095:24p78mτί ἂν γένοιτο τοῦτο1

“and what would happen as a result”

4105:25c1amrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τῷ ἱερῷ, ἑστῶτες1

They did not go into the part of the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate translation: “standing in the temple courtyard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4115:26f7pzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

The word “they” in this section refers to the captain and the officers. In the phrase “feared that the people might stone them” the word “them” refers to the captain and the officers. All other occurrences of “them” in this chunk refer to the apostles. Here the word “you” is plural and refers to the apostles. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

4125:26e24h0

The captain and the officers bring the apostles before the Jewish religious council.

4135:26i2v5ἐφοβοῦντο1

“they were afraid”

4145:27iq7wἐπηρώτησεν αὐτοὺς ὁ ἀρχιερεὺς1

“The high priest questioned them.” The word “interrogate” means to question someone to find out what is true.

4155:28g2hirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματι τούτῳ1

Here the word “name” refers to the person of Jesus. See how you translated this in Acts 4:17. Alternate translation: “not to speak anymore about this person, Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4165:28j4krrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπεπληρώκατε τὴν Ἰερουσαλὴμ τῆς διδαχῆς ὑμῶν1

Teaching many people in a city is spoken of as if they were filling the city with a teaching. Alternate translation: “you have taught many people in Jerusalem about him” or “you have taught about him throughout the Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4175:28ym1krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyβούλεσθε ἐπαγαγεῖν ἐφ’ ἡμᾶς τὸ αἷμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τούτου1

Here the word “blood” is a metonym for death, and to bring someones blood on people is a metaphor for saying that they are guilty of that persons death. Alternate translation: “desire to make us responsible for this mans death” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4185:29y211rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “We” refers to the apostles, and not to the audience. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

4195:29di9uἀποκριθεὶς & Πέτρος καὶ οἱ ἀπόστολοι1

Peter spoke on behalf of all of the apostles when he said the following words.

4205:30r7avrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὁ Θεὸς τῶν πατέρων ἡμῶν ἤγειρεν Ἰησοῦν1

Here “raised up” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “The God of our fathers caused Jesus to live again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4215:30pu5jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκρεμάσαντες ἐπὶ ξύλου1

Here Peter uses the word “tree” to refer to the cross which was made out of wood. Alternate translation: “by hanging him on a cross” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4225:31uh2drc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionτοῦτον ὁ Θεὸς & ὕψωσεν, τῇ δεξιᾷ αὐτοῦ1

To be at the “right hand of God” is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. Alternate translation: “God exalted him to the place of honor beside him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

4235:31mr1drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτοῦ δοῦναι μετάνοιαν τῷ Ἰσραὴλ καὶ ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν1

The words “repentance” and “forgiveness” can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: “give the people of Israel an opportunity to repent and have God forgive their sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

4245:31q1ilrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῷ Ἰσραὴλ1

The word “Israel” refers to the Jewish people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4255:32yml6τοῖς πειθαρχοῦσιν αὐτῷ1

“those who submit to Gods authority”

4265:33ekh20

Gamaliel addresses the council members.

4275:33abx6ἀνελεῖν αὐτούς1

“kill the apostles”

4285:34i2rrrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsΓαμαλιήλ, νομοδιδάσκαλος τίμιος παντὶ τῷ λαῷ1

Luke introduces Gamaliel and provides background information about him. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-participants]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

4295:34fpr4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτίμιος παντὶ τῷ λαῷ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom all the people honored” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4305:34xk6grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκέλευσεν ἔξω & τοὺς ἀνθρώπους ποιῆσαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “commanded the guards to take the apostles outside” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4315:35ae1uπροσέχετε1

“think carefully about” or “be cautious about.” Gamaliel was warning them not to do something that they would later regret.

4325:36uaj6ἀνέστη Θευδᾶς1

Possible meanings are (1) “Theudas rebelled” or (2) “Theudas appeared.”

4335:36b3nlλέγων εἶναί τινα1

“claiming to be somebody important”

4345:36ie3xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὃς ἀνῃρέθη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People killed him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4355:36juz1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπάντες ὅσοι ἐπείθοντο αὐτῷ διελύθησαν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “all the people scattered who had been obeying him” or “all who had been obeying him went in different directions” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4365:36rzg5ἐγένοντο εἰς οὐδέν1

This means that they did not do what they had planned to do.

4375:37f33yμετὰ τοῦτον1

“After Theudas”

4385:37p56fἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις τῆς ἀπογραφῆς1

“during the time of the census”

4395:37kz4src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἀπέστησε λαὸν ὀπίσω αὐτοῦ1

This means that he persuaded some people to rebel with him against the Roman government. Alternate translation: “caused many people to follow him” or “caused many people to join him in rebellion” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4405:38i4bw0

Gamaliel finishes addressing the council members. Though they beat the apostles, command them not to teach about Jesus, and let them go, the disciples continue to teach and preach.

4415:38wz89rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀπόστητε ἀπὸ τῶν ἀνθρώπων τούτων καὶ ἄφετε αὐτούς1

Gamaliel is telling the Jewish leaders no to punish the apostles any more or to put them back in jail. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4425:38zh1dἐὰν ᾖ ἐξ ἀνθρώπων, ἡ βουλὴ αὕτη ἢ τὸ ἔργον τοῦτο1

“if men have devised this plan or are doing this work”

4435:38uql8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαταλυθήσεται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone will overthrow it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4445:39j819rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisεἰ & ἐκ Θεοῦ ἐστιν1

Here the word “it” refers to “this plan or work.” Alternate translation: “if God has devised this plan or commanded these men to do this work” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

4455:39cyp1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπείσθησαν δὲ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “So Gamaliel persuaded them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4465:40z31c0

Here first word “they” refers to the council members. The rest of the words “them,” “They,” and “they” refer to the apostles.

4475:40p6lzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπροσκαλεσάμενοι τοὺς ἀποστόλους, δείραντες1

The council members would have ordered the temple guards to do these things. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4485:40fca9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyλαλεῖν ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Ἰησοῦ1

Here “name” refers to the authority of Jesus. See how you translated a similar phrase in Acts 4:18. Alternate translation: “to speak anymore in the authority of Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4495:41cv8yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκατηξιώθησαν ὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματος ἀτιμασθῆναι1

The apostles rejoiced because God had honored them by letting the Jewish leaders dishonor them. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God had counted them worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4505:41lk82rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματος1

Here “the Name” refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: “for Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4515:42jj94πᾶσάν τε ἡμέραν1

“After that day, every day.” This phrase marks what the apostles did every day through the following days.

4525:42kyp6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τῷ ἱερῷ καὶ κατ’ οἶκον1

They did not go into the temple building where only the priests went. Alternate translation: “in the temple courtyard and in different peoples houses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4536:introz5r50

Acts 06 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The distribution to the widows

The believers in Jerusalem gave food every day to women whose husbands had died. All of them had been raised as Jews, but some of them had lived in Judea and spoke Hebrew, and others had lived in Gentile areas and spoke Greek. Those who gave out the food gave it to the Hebrew-speaking widows but not to the Greek-speaking widows. To please God, the church leaders appointed Greek-speaking men to make sure the Greek-speaking widows received their share of the food. One of these Greek-speaking men was Stephen.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“His face was like the face of an angel”

No one knows for sure what it was about Stephens face that was like the face of an angel, because Luke does not tell us. It is best for the translation to say only what the ULT says about this.

4546:1ky47rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

This is the beginning of a new part of the story. Luke gives important background information to understand the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

4556:1f8brrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventἐν δὲ ταῖς ἡμέραις ταύταις1

Consider how new parts of a story are introduced in your language. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

4566:1t94sπληθυνόντων1

“was greatly increasing”

4576:1e7vbἙλληνιστῶν1

These were Jews who had lived most of their lives somewhere in the Roman Empire outside of Israel, and had grown up speaking Greek. Their language and culture were somewhat different from those who had grown up in Israel.

4586:1ftz8τοὺς Ἑβραίους1

These were Jews who had grown up in Israel speaking Hebrew or Aramaic. The church consisted of only Jews and converts to Judaism so far.

4596:1e1z9αἱ χῆραι1

women whose husband has died

4606:1s4qyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπαρεθεωροῦντο & αἱ χῆραι αὐτῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Hebrew believers were overlooking the Grecian widows” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4616:1k4jgπαρεθεωροῦντο1

“being ignored” or “being forgotten.” There were so many who needed help that some were missed.

4626:1rde8διακονίᾳ τῇ καθημερινῇ1

The money that was being given to the apostles was used in part to buy food for the early church widows.

4636:2jr1yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “you” refers to the believers. The words “us” and “we” here refer to the 12 apostles. Where applicable, use the exclusive form in your language. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

4646:2n5r4οἱ δώδεκα1

This refers to the eleven apostles plus Matthias, who was selected in Acts 1:26.

4656:2g56wτὸ πλῆθος τῶν μαθητῶν1

“all of the disciples” or “all the believers”

4666:2jm17rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleκαταλείψαντας τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This is an exaggeration in order to emphasize the importance of their task of teaching the word of God. Alternate translation: “stop preaching and teaching the word of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

4676:2fwk6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιακονεῖν τραπέζαις1

This is a phrase meaning to serve food to the people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4686:3y3bmἄνδρας & πλήρεις Πνεύματος καὶ σοφίας1

Possible meanings are (1) the men have three qualities—a good reputation, being full of the Spirit, and being full of wisdom or (2) the men have a reputation for two qualities—being full of the Spirit, and being full of wisdom .

4696:3p1yzἄνδρας & μαρτυρουμένους1

“men that people know are good” or “men whom people trust”

4706:3i27aἐπὶ τῆς χρείας ταύτης1

“to be responsible to do this task”

4716:4b3bjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisτῇ διακονίᾳ τοῦ λόγου1

It may be helpful to add more information. Alternate translation: “the ministry of teaching and preaching the message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

4726:5wh9tἤρεσεν ὁ λόγος ἐνώπιον παντὸς τοῦ πλήθους1

“All the disciples liked their suggestion”

4736:5ajq1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitΣτέφανον, & καὶ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου, καὶ Φίλιππον, καὶ Πρόχορον, καὶ Νικάνορα1

These are Greek names, and suggest that all of the men elected were from the Grecian Jewish group of believers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4746:5qas9προσήλυτον1

a Gentile who converted to the Jewish religion

4756:6wu1yrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionἐπέθηκαν αὐτοῖς τὰς χεῖρας1

This represented giving a blessing and imparting responsibility and authority for the work to the seven. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

4766:7x48w0

This verse gives an update on the churchs growth.

4776:7wu4lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorλόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ ηὔξανεν1

The writer speaks of the growing number of people who believed the word as if the word of God itself were covering a larger area. Alternate translation: “the number of people who believed the word of God increased” or “the number of people who believed the message from God increased” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4786:7jg8yὑπήκουον τῇ πίστει1

“followed the teaching of the new belief”

4796:7qq3lτῇ πίστει1

Possible meanings are (1) the gospel message of trust in Jesus or (2) the teaching of the church or (3) the Christian teaching.

4806:8wn1trc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

These verses give background information about Stephen and other people that is important to understanding the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

4816:8n3re0

This is the beginning of a new part of the story.

4826:8et2jrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsΣτέφανος δὲ1

This introduces Stephen as the main character in this part of the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

4836:8h8sgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitΣτέφανος & πλήρης χάριτος καὶ δυνάμεως, ἐποίει1

The words “grace” and “power” here refer to power from God. This could be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “God was giving Stephen power to do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4846:9k88nσυναγωγῆς, τῆς λεγομένης Λιβερτίνων1

“Freedmen” were probably ex-slaves from these different locations. It is unclear if the other people listed were part of the synagogue or just participated in the debate with Stephen.

4856:9j8pqσυνζητοῦντες τῷ Στεφάνῳ1

“arguing with Stephen”

4866:10s2clrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “We” refers only to the men they persuaded to lie. The word “they” refers back to the people from the synagogue of the freemen in Acts 6:9. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

4876:10fp410

The background information that began in Acts 6:8 continues through verse 10.

4886:10v5iarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomοὐκ ἴσχυον ἀντιστῆναι1

This phrase means they could not prove false what he said. Alternate translation: “could not argue against” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4896:10fnb2Πνεύματι1

this refers to the Holy Spirit

4906:11ren5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἄνδρας λέγοντας1

They were given money to give false testimony. Alternate translation: “some men to lie and say” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4916:11x747ῥήματα βλάσφημα εἰς1

“bad things about”

4926:12tqk9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Each use of word “they” most likely refers back to the people from the synagogue of the Freedmen in Acts 6:9. They were responsible for the false witnesses and for inciting the council, the elders, the scribes, and the other people. Here the word “we” refers only to the false witness that they brought to testify. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

4936:12l251συνεκίνησάν & τὸν λαὸν, καὶ τοὺς πρεσβυτέρους, καὶ τοὺς γραμματεῖς1

“caused the people, the elders, and the scribes to be very angry at Stephen”

4946:12j3wdσυνήρπασαν αὐτὸν1

“grabbed him and held him so he could not get away”

4956:13zv6sοὐ παύεται λαλῶν1

“continually speaks”

4966:14vak4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomπαρέδωκεν ἡμῖν1

The phrase “handed down” means “passed on.” Alternate translation: “taught our ancestors” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4976:15gf7erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἀτενίσαντες εἰς αὐτὸν1

This is an idiom that means they looked intently at him. Here “eyes” is a metonym for sight. Alternate translation: “looked intently at him” or “stared at him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4986:15k8rwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileὡσεὶ πρόσωπον ἀγγέλου1

This phrase compares his face to that of an angel but does not say specifically what they have in common. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4997:introp9h40

Acts 07 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 7:42-43 and 49-50.

It appears that 8:1 is part of the narrative of this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

“Stephen said”

Stephen told the history of Israel very briefly. He paid special attention to the times that the Israelites had rejected the people God had chosen to lead them. At the end of the story, he said that the Jewish leaders he was talking to had rejected Jesus just as the evil Israelites had always rejected the leaders God had appointed for them.

“Full of the Holy Spirit”

The Holy Spirit completely controlled Stephen so that he said only and all of what God wanted him to say.

Foreshadowing

When an author speaks of something that is not important at that time but will be important later in the story, this is called foreshadowing. Luke mentions Saul, also known as Paul, here, even though he is not an important person in this part of the story. This is because Paul is an important person in the rest of the Book of Acts.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Implied information

Stephen was talking to Jews who knew the law of Moses well, so he did not explain things that his hearers already knew. But you may need to explain some of these things so that your readers will be able to understand what Stephen was saying. For example, you may need to make explicit that when Josephs brothers “sold him into Egypt” (Acts 7:9), Joseph was going to be a slave in Egypt. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Metonymy

Stephen spoke of Joseph ruling “over Egypt” and over all of Pharaohs household. By this he meant that Joseph ruled over the people of Egypt and of the people and possessions in Pharaohs household. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Background knowledge

The Jewish leaders to whom Stephen spoke already knew much about the events he was telling them about. They knew what Moses had written in the Book of Genesis. If the Book of Genesis has not been translated into your language, it may be difficult for your readers to understand what Stephen said.

5007:1pt4hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

The word “our” includes both Steven, the Jewish council to whom he spoke, and the entire audience. The word “your” is singular refers to Abraham. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

5017:1hy9r0

The part of the story about Stephen, which began in Acts 6:8, continues. Stephen begins his response to the high priest and the council by talking about things that happened in Israels history. Most of this history comes from Moses writings.

5027:2abc7ὁ δὲ ἔφη1

Stephen is speaking.

5037:2v5siἀδελφοὶ καὶ πατέρες, ἀκούσατε1

Stephen was being very respectful to the council in greeting them as extended family.

5047:4pfg30

In verse 4 the words “he,” “his,” and “him” refer to Abraham. In verse 5 the words “He” and “he” refer to God, but the word “him” refers to Abraham.

5057:4pfg4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “you” refers to the Jewish council and audience. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

5067:5ax1jοὐκ ἔδωκεν & ἐν αὐτῇ1

“He did not give any of it”

5077:5qff6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomοὐδὲ βῆμα ποδός1

Possible meanings for this phrase are (1) enough ground to stand on or (2) enough ground to take a step. Alternate translation: “a very tiny piece of ground” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

5087:5u6iwεἰς κατάσχεσιν αὐτὴν, καὶ τῷ σπέρματι αὐτοῦ μετ’ αὐτόν1

“for Abraham to own and to give to his descendants”

5097:6tn6bἐλάλησεν & οὕτως ὁ Θεὸς1

It may be helpful to state that this occurred later than the statement in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Later God told Abraham”

5107:6t1h9rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersἔτη τετρακόσια1

“400 years” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

5117:7f7fwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸ ἔθνος & κρινῶ ἐγώ1

“nation” refers to the people in it. Alternate translation: “I will judge the people of the nation” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5127:7q7y6τὸ ἔθνος ᾧ ἐὰν δουλεύσωσιν1

“the nation that they will serve”

5137:8mwc9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔδωκεν αὐτῷ διαθήκην περιτομῆς1

The Jews would have understood that this covenant required Abraham to circumcise the males of his family. Alternate translation: “made a covenant with Abraham to circumcise the males of his family” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5147:8g4bbοὕτως ἐγέννησεν τὸν Ἰσαὰκ1

The story transitions to Abrahams descendants.

5157:8ams1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἸακὼβ τοὺς1

“Jacob became the father.” Stephen shortened this. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

5167:9n981οἱ πατριάρχαι1

“Jacobs older sons” or “Josephs older brothers”

5177:9tik7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀπέδοντο εἰς Αἴγυπτον1

The Jews knew their ancestors sold Joseph to be a slave in Egypt. Alternate translation: “sold him as a slave in Egypt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5187:9w1isrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἦν & μετ’ αὐτοῦ1

This is an idiom for helping someone. Alternate translation: “helped him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

5197:10yr7mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπ’ Αἴγυπτον1

This refers to the people of Egypt. Alternate translation: “over all the people of Egypt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5207:10pb4prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὅλον τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ1

This refers to all his possessions. Alternate translation: “everything he owned” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5217:11p42jἦλθεν & λιμὸς1

“a famine came.” The ground stopped producing food.

5227:11p37vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν1

This refers Jacob and his sons, who were the ancestors of the Jewish people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5237:12pia8σιτία1

Grain was the most common food at that time.

5247:12mbg8τοὺς πατέρας ἡμῶν1

Here this phrase refers to Jabobs sons, Josephs older brothers.

5257:13ce2brc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinalἐν τῷ δευτέρῳ1

“On their next trip” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

5267:13m37eἀνεγνωρίσθη1

Joseph revealed to his brothers his identity as their brother.

5277:13jxk8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveφανερὸν ἐγένετο τῷ Φαραὼ τὸ γένος Ἰωσήφ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Pharaoh learned that they were Josephs family” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5287:14aam5ἀποστείλας1

“sent his brothers back to Canaan” or “sent his brothers back home”

5297:15w2smἐτελεύτησεν1

Make sure it does not sound as though he died as soon as he arrived in Egypt. Alternate translation: “eventually Jacob died”

5307:15fe56αὐτὸς καὶ οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν1

“Jacob and his sons who became our ancestors”

5317:16slg3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαὶ μετετέθησαν & καὶ ἐτέθησαν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Jacobs descendants carried Jacobs body and his sons bodies over … and buried them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5327:16la8aτιμῆς ἀργυρίου1

“with money”

5337:17np3urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The word “our” includes Stephen and his audience. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

5347:17tuq21

In some languages it may be helpful to say that the people increased in number before saying that the time of the promise arrived.

5357:17tlh9ἤγγιζεν ὁ χρόνος τῆς ἐπαγγελίας1

It was close to the time that God would fulfill his promise to Abraham.

5367:18whe7ἀνέστη βασιλεὺς ἕτερος1

“another king began to rule”

5377:18g2wqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπ’ Αἴγυπτον1

“Egypt” refers to the people of Egypt. Alternate translation: “the people of Egypt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5387:18e2y6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὃς οὐκ ᾔδει τὸν Ἰωσήφ1

“Joseph” refers to the reputation of Joseph. Alternate translation: “who did not know that Joseph had helped Egypt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5397:20q66src://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsἐν ᾧ καιρῷ ἐγεννήθη Μωϋσῆς1

This introduces Moses into the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

5407:20cd5zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἦν ἀστεῖος τῷ Θεῷ1

This phrase is an idiom that means Moses was very beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

5417:20pnb1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀνετράφη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “his parents nourished him” or “his parents cared for him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5427:21w3iurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκτεθέντος δὲ αὐτοῦ1

Moses was “placed outside” because of Pharaohs command. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When his parents placed him outside” or “When they abandoned him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5437:21url3ἡ θυγάτηρ Φαραὼ, καὶ ἀνεθρέψατο αὐτὸν ἑαυτῇ εἰς υἱόν1

She did for him every good thing a mother would do for her own son. Use your languages normal word for what a mother does to make sure her son becomes a healthy adult.

5447:21mbp7εἰς υἱόν1

“as if he were her own son”

5457:22c9nwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπαιδεύθη Μωϋσῆς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Egyptians educated Moses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5467:22att9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάσῃ σοφίᾳ Αἰγυπτίων1

This is an exaggeration to emphasize that he was trained in the best schools in Egypt. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

5477:22m3dmδυνατὸς ἐν λόγοις καὶ ἔργοις αὐτοῦ1

“effective in his speech and actions” or “influential in what he said and did”

5487:23fj9src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀνέβη ἐπὶ τὴν καρδίαν αὐτοῦ1

Here “heart” is a metonym for “mind.” The phrase “it came into his heart” is an idiom that means to decide something. Alternate translation: “it came into his mind” or “he decided” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

5497:23x493rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐπισκέψασθαι τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς αὐτοῦ, τοὺς υἱοὺς Ἰσραήλ1

This refers to his people, and not just to his family. Alternate translation: “see how his own people, the children of Israel, were doing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5507:24l4zvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαὶ ἰδών τινα ἀδικούμενον, ἠμύνατο καὶ ἐποίησεν ἐκδίκησιν τῷ καταπονουμένῳ, πατάξας τὸν Αἰγύπτιον1

This can be stated in active form by rearranging the order. Alternate translation: “Seeing an Egyptian mistreating an Israelite, Moses defended and avenged the Israelite by striking the Egyptian who was oppressing him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5517:24abc8ἠμύνατο1

Moses defended the Israelite who was being mistreated.

5527:24r2e8πατάξας τὸν Αἰγύπτιον1

Moses hit the Egyptian so hard that he died.

5537:25wm3jἐνόμιζεν1

“he imagined”

5547:25nhb9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιὰ χειρὸς αὐτοῦ δίδωσιν σωτηρίαν αὐτοῖς1

Here “hand” refers to the actions of Moses. Alternate translation: “was rescuing them through what Moses was doing” or “was using the actions of Moses to rescue them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5557:26t1hwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “us” refers to the Israelites but does not include Moses. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

5567:26t2vcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitαὐτοῖς μαχομένοις1

The audience would have known from the account in Exodus that these were two Israelite men, but Stephen does not specify that. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5577:26mpc7συνήλλασσεν αὐτοὺς εἰς εἰρήνην1

“urged them to stop fighting”

5587:26zzt4ἄνδρες, ἀδελφοί ἐστε1

Moses was addressing the Israelites who were fighting.

5597:26k1kurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἱνα τί ἀδικεῖτε ἀλλήλους1

Moses asked this question to encourage them to stop fighting. Alternate translation: “you should not hurt each other!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5607:27q2r4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίς σε κατέστησεν ἄρχοντα καὶ δικαστὴν ἐφ’ ἡμῶν?1

The man used this question to rebuke Moses. Alternate translation: “You have no authority over us!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5617:28hk1gμὴ ἀνελεῖν με σὺ θέλεις, ὃν τρόπον ἀνεῖλες ἐχθὲς τὸν Αἰγύπτιον1

The man used this question to warn Moses that he and probably others knew Moses had killed the Egyptian.

5627:29l149rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

Stephens audience already knew that Moses had married a Midianite woman when he fled Egypt. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5637:29q8qvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τῷ λόγῳ τούτῳ1

The implied information is that Moses understood that the Israelites knew that he had killed an Egyptian the day before (Acts 7:28). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5647:30zx1crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκαὶ πληρωθέντων ἐτῶν τεσσεράκοντα1

“After 40 years passed.” This was the amount of time Moses had been in Midian. Alternate translation: “Forty years after Moses fled from Egypt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5657:30f7yurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὤφθη & ἄγγελος1

Stephens audience knew that God spoke through the angel. The UST makes this explicit. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5667:31q6w6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐθαύμασεν τὸ ὅραμα1

Moses was surprised that the bush was not burning up in the fire. This was previously known by Stephens audience. Alternate translation: “because the bush was not burning up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5677:31uk7uπροσερχομένου δὲ αὐτοῦ κατανοῆσαι1

This may mean Moses initially drew close to the bush to investigate.

5687:32b4q6ἐγὼ ὁ Θεὸς τῶν πατέρων σου1

“I am the God whom your ancestors worshiped”

5697:32tdr7ἔντρομος δὲ γενόμενος, Μωϋσῆς οὐκ ἐτόλμα κατανοῆσαι1

This may mean Moses drew back in fear when he heard the voice.

5707:32e19krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔντρομος & γενόμενος, Μωϋσῆς1

Moses shook from fear. This can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Moses trembled with fear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5717:33x7cdrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionλῦσον τὸ ὑπόδημα1

God told Moses this so he would honor God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

5727:33clk4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὁ γὰρ τόπος ἐφ’ ᾧ ἕστηκας γῆ ἁγία ἐστίν1

The implied information is that where God is present, the immediate area around God is considered or made holy by God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5737:34yz7bἰδὼν, εἶδον1

“seen for sure.” The word certainly adds emphasis to seen.

5747:34x5bgτοῦ λαοῦ μου1

The word “my” emphasizes that these people belonged to God. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob”

5757:34j32cκατέβην ἐξελέσθαι αὐτούς1

“will personally cause their release”

5767:34sq8yνῦν δεῦρο1

“get ready.” God uses an order here.

5777:35x4p20

Verses 35-38 contains a series of connected phrases referring to Moses. Each phrase begins with statements such as “This Moses” or “This same Moses” or “This is the man” or “It is the same Moses.” If possible, use similar statements to emphasize Moses. After the Israelites left Egypt, they spent 40 years wandering around the wilderness before God led them into the land he had promised them.

5787:35gn6eτοῦτον τὸν Μωϋσῆν, ὃν ἠρνήσαντο1

This refers back to the events recorded in Acts 7:27-28.

5797:35vp7eλυτρωτὴν1

“rescuer”

5807:35yjz9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσὺν χειρὶ ἀγγέλου τοῦ ὀφθέντος αὐτῷ ἐν τῇ βάτῳ1

The hand is a metonym for the action performed by the person. In this case, the angel had commanded Moses to return to Egypt. Stephen speaks as if the angel had a physical hand. You may need to make explicit what action the angel did. Alternate translation: “by the action of the angel” or “by having the angel … bush command him to return to Egypt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5817:35abc9ὀφθέντος αὐτῷ1

The angel appeared to Moses.

5827:36gz9rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔτη τεσσεράκοντα1

Stephens audience knew about the forty years the Israelites spent in the wilderness. Alternate translation: “during the 40 years that the Israelite people lived in the wilderness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5837:37b4sgπροφήτην & ἀναστήσει1

“cause a man to be a prophet”

5847:37j2rxἐκ τῶν ἀδελφῶν ὑμῶν1

“from among your own people”

5857:38l8u70

The quotation in verse 40 is from the writings of Moses.

5867:38e8quοὗτός ἐστιν ὁ γενόμενος ἐν τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ1

“This is the man Moses who was among the Israelites”

5877:38fd25οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ γενόμενος1

The phrase “This is the man” throughout this passage refers to Moses.

5887:38y2zuὃς ἐδέξατο λόγια ζῶντα δοῦναι ὑμῖν1

God was the one who gave those words. Alternate translation: “this is the man to whom God spoke living words to give to us”

5897:38p3xkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyλόγια ζῶντα1

Possible meanings are (1) “a message that endures” or (2) “words that give life.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5907:39mvz8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀπώσαντο1

This metaphor emphasizes their rejection of Moses. Alternate translation: “they rejected him as their leader” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5917:39z3zerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐστράφησαν ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις αὐτῶν1

Here “hearts” is a metonym for peoples thoughts. To do something in the heart means to desire do to something. Alternate translation: “they desired to turn back” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5927:41w38i0

Stephens quotation here is from the prophet Amos.

5937:41ux1jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐμοσχοποίησαν1

Stephens audience knew the calf they made was a statue. Alternate translation: “they made a statue that looked like a calf” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5947:41hh77ἐμοσχοποίησαν & εἰδώλῳ & τοῖς ἔργοις τῶν χειρῶν αὐτῶν1

These phrases all refer to the same statue of the calf.

5957:42d3ddrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionἔστρεψεν & ὁ Θεὸς1

“God turned away.” This action expresses that God was not pleased with the people and no longer helped them. Alternate translation: “God stopped correcting them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

5967:42rag5παρέδωκεν αὐτοὺς1

“abandoned them”

5977:42u7lxτῇ στρατιᾷ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ1

Possible meanings for the original phrase are (1) the stars only or (2) the sun, moon, and stars.

5987:42f314βίβλῳ τῶν προφητῶν1

This was apparently a collection of the writings of several of the Old Testament prophets into one scroll. It would also have included the writings of Amo.

5997:42gd1brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionσφάγια καὶ θυσίας προσηνέγκατέ μοι, ἔτη τεσσεράκοντα ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ, οἶκος Ἰσραήλ1

God asked this question to show Israel they did not worship Him with their sacrifices. Alternate translation: “You did not honor me when you offered slain beasts and sacrifices … Israel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

6007:42j4q8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyοἶκος Ἰσραήλ1

This refers to the whole nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “all you Israelites” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6017:43zek50

The quotation from the prophet Amos continues here.

6027:43fs4q0

Stephen continues his response to the high priest and the council which he began in Acts 7:2.

6037:43rk4zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀνελάβετε1

It is implied that they took these idols with them as they traveled in the wilderness. Alternate translation: “you carried with you from place to place” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6047:43im7eσκηνὴν τοῦ Μολὸχ1

the tent that housed the false god Molech

6057:43cq47ὸ ἄστρον τοῦ θεοῦ & Ῥαιφάν1

the star that is identified with the false god Rephan

6067:43gm4gτοὺς τύπους οὓς ἐποιήσατε1

They made statues or images of the gods Molech and Rephan in order to worship them.

6077:43zgq6μετοικιῶ ὑμᾶς ἐπέκεινα Βαβυλῶνος1

“I will remove you to places even farther than Babylon.” This would be Gods act of judgment.

6087:44m9gwἡ σκηνὴ τοῦ μαρτυρίου1

The tent that housed the ark (a box) with the 10 commandments carved in stone inside it

6097:45n2scἣν & εἰσήγαγον, διαδεξάμενοι οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν μετὰ Ἰησοῦ1

The phrase “under Joshua” means that their ancestors did these things in obedience to Joshuas direction. Alternate translation: “our fathers, in accordance with Joshuas instructions, received the tabernacle and brought it with them”

6107:45n1ppτῇ κατασχέσει τῶν ἐθνῶν, ὧν ἐξῶσεν ὁ Θεὸς ἀπὸ προσώπου τῶν πατέρων ἡμῶν1

This sentence tells why the ancestors were able to take possession of the land. Alternate translation: “God forced the nations to leave the land before the face of our fathers”

6117:45spm5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῇ κατασχέσει τῶν ἐθνῶν & ὁ Θεὸς ἀπὸ προσώπου τῶν πατέρων ἡμῶν1

Here “the face of our fathers” refers to the presence of their ancestors. Possible meanings are (1) “As our ancestors watched, God took the land from the nations and drove them out” or (2) “When our ancestors came, God took the land from the nations and drove them out” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6127:45c2fbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῶν ἐθνῶν1

This refers to the people who lived in the land before Israel. Alternate translation: “the people who previously lived here” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6137:45m9ibὧν ἐξῶσεν1

“forced them to leave the land”

6147:46w3cuσκήνωμα τῷ οἴκῳ Ἰακώβ1

“a house for the ark where the God of Jacob could stay.” David wanted a permanent place for the ark to reside in Jerusalem, not in a tent.

6157:47a7bx0

In verses 49 and 50, Stephen quotes from the prophet Isaiah. In the quotation, God is speaking about himself.

6167:48c822rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheχειροποιήτοις1

The hand is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “made by people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

6177:49k2vnὁ οὐρανός μοι θρόνος, ἡ δὲ γῆ ὑποπόδιον τῶν ποδῶν μου1

The prophet is comparing the greatness of Gods presence to how impossible it is for man to build a place for God to rest on earth since the whole earth is nothing but a place for God to rest his feet.

6187:49wc9mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionποῖον οἶκον οἰκοδομήσετέ μοι1

God asks this question to show how useless mans efforts are to take care of God. Alternate translation: “You can not build a house adequate enough for me!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

6197:49u1ftrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίς τόπος τῆς καταπαύσεώς μου1

God asks this question to show man that he cannot provide God any rest. Alternate translation: “There is no place of rest good enough for me!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

6207:50rfk1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὐχὶ ἡ χείρ μου ἐποίησεν ταῦτα πάντα1

God asks this question to show that man did not create anything. Alternate translation: “My hand made all these things!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

6217:51zei20

With a sharp rebuke, Stephen finishes his response to the high priest and the council which he began in Acts 7:2.

6227:51umq6σκληροτράχηλοι1

Stephen shifted from identifying with the Jewish leaders to rebuking them.

6237:51vn7hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomσκληροτράχηλοι1

This does not mean their necks were stiff but rather that they were “stubborn.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6247:51zp55rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀπερίτμητοι καρδίαις καὶ τοῖς ὠσίν1

The Jews regarded uncircumcised people as disobedient to God. Stephen uses “hearts and ears” to represent to the Jewish leaders who acted the way Gentiles act when they do not obey or listen to God. Alternate translation: “you refuse to obey and hear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6257:52x7kfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίνα τῶν προφητῶν οὐκ ἐδίωξαν οἱ πατέρες ὑμῶν1

Stephen asked this question to show them that they learned nothing from the errors of their forefathers. Alternate translation: “Your forefathers persecuted every prophet!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

6267:52q8wbΔικαίου1

This refers to the Christ, the Messiah.

6277:52agd9ὑμεῖς προδόται καὶ φονεῖς ἐγένεσθε1

“you have also betrayed and murdered him”

6287:52fcc6φονεῖς1

“murderers of the Righteous One” or “murderers of the Christ”

6297:53euw5τὸν νόμον εἰς διαταγὰς ἀγγέλων1

“the laws that God caused angels to give to our ancestors”

6307:54t4u20

The council reacts to Stephens words.

6317:54ef2gἀκούοντες δὲ ταῦτα1

This is the turning point; the sermon ends and the council members react.

6327:54u4l7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomδιεπρίοντο1

To “cut to the heart” is an idiom for making a person extremely angry. Alternate translation: “were extremely angry” or “became very angry” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6337:54ae9src://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionἔβρυχον τοὺς ὀδόντας ἐπ’ αὐτόν1

This action expressed their strong anger at Stephen or hatred of Stephen. Alternate translation: “they became so angry that they ground their teeth together” or “moved their teeth back and forth as they looked at Stephen”(See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6347:55ntp4ἀτενίσας εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν1

“Stared up into heaven.” It appears that only Stephen saw this vision and not anyone else in the crowd.

6357:55bl2jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitεἶδεν δόξαν Θεοῦ1

People normally experienced the glory of God as a bright light. Alternate translation: “saw a bright light from God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6367:55vyz3rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionκαὶ Ἰησοῦν ἑστῶτα ἐκ δεξιῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

To stand at the “right hand of God” is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. Alternate translation: “and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor and authority beside God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6377:56aqp8Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου1

Stephen refers to Jesus by the title “Son of Man.”

6387:57p4cgrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionσυνέσχον τὰ ὦτα αὐτῶν1

“put their hands on their ears.” They did this to show that they did not want to hear any more of what Stephen said. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6397:58ks1uἐκβαλόντες ἔξω τῆς πόλεως1

“They seized Stephen and forcefully took him out of the city”

6407:58wy7nτὰ ἱμάτια1

These are cloaks or robes they would wear outside to stay warm, similar in function to a jacket or coat.

6417:58sx2pπαρὰ τοὺς πόδας1

“in front of.” They were placed there so Saul could watch them.

6427:58e2vlνεανίου1

Saul was probably around 30 years old at the time.

6437:59le7k0

This ends the story of Stephen.

6447:59k2elδέξαι τὸ πνεῦμά μου1

“take my spirit.” It may be helpful to add “please” to show that this was a request. Alternate translation: “please receive my spirit”

6457:60u86qrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionθεὶς δὲ τὰ γόνατα1

This is an act of submission to God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6467:60tvf8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesμὴ στήσῃς αὐτοῖς ταύτην τὴν ἁμαρτίαν1

This can be stated in a positive way. Alternate translation: “forgive them for this sin” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

6477:60r9virc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismἐκοιμήθη1

Here to fall asleep is a euphemism for dying. Alternate translation: “died” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

6488:introq9d90

Acts 08 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 8:32-33.

The first sentence of verse 1 ends the description of the events in chapter 7. Luke begins a new part of his history with the words “So there began.”

Special concepts in this chapter

Receiving the Holy Spirit

In this chapter for the first time Luke speaks of people receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:15-19). The Holy Spirit had already enabled the believers to speak in tongues, to heal the sick, and to live as a community, and he had filled Stephen. But when the Jews started putting believers in prison, those believers who could leave Jerusalem did leave, and as they went, they told people about Jesus. When the people who heard about Jesus received the Holy Spirit, the church leaders knew that those people had truly become believers.

Proclaimed

This chapter more than any other in the Book of Acts speaks of the believers proclaiming the word, proclaiming the good news, and proclaiming that Jesus is the Christ. The word “proclaim” translates a Greek word that means to tell good news about something.

6498:1tp9erc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge0

It may be helpful to your audience to move these parts of the story about Stephen together by using a verse bridge as the UST does. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge]])

6508:1a7uc0

The story shifts from Stephen to Saul in these verses.

6518:1ez88rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundἐγένετο & ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ, διωγμὸς μέγας ἐπὶ τὴν ἐκκλησίαν, τὴν ἐν Ἱεροσολύμοις. πάντες δὲ διεσπάρησαν κατὰ τὰς χώρας τῆς Ἰουδαίας καὶ Σαμαρείας, πλὴν τῶν ἀποστόλων1

This part of verse 1 is background information about the persecution that began after Stephens death. This explains why Saul was persecuting the believers in verse 3. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

6528:1vc8xἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ1

This refers to the day that Stephen died (Acts 7:59-60).

6538:1u5pirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντες & διεσπάρησαν1

The word “all” is a generalization to express that a large number of the believers left Jerusalem because of the persecution. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

6548:1k5a2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπλὴν τῶν ἀποστόλων1

This statement implies that the apostles remained in Jerusalem even though they also experienced this great persecution. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6558:2sjc8ἄνδρες εὐλαβεῖς1

“God-fearing men” or “Men who feared God”

6568:2a38xἐποίησαν κοπετὸν μέγαν ἐπ’ αὐτῷ1

“greatly mourned his death”

6578:3nz28σύρων τε ἄνδρας καὶ γυναῖκας1

Saul forcefully took Jewish believers out of their home and put them into prison.

6588:3yd2iκατὰ τοὺς οἴκους1

“houses one by one”

6598:3ylr6σύρων τε ἄνδρας καὶ γυναῖκας1

“took away men and women by force”

6608:3w6vkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἄνδρας καὶ γυναῖκας1

This refers to men and women who believed in Jesus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6618:4dh3x0

This begins the story of Philip, whom the people had chosen as a deacon (Acts 6:5).

6628:4ymy5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιασπαρέντες1

The cause for the scattering, the persecution, was stated previously. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “who had fled the great persecution and had gone” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

6638:4su6irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον1

This is a metonym for “the message.” You may need to make explicit that the message was about Jesus. Alternate translation: “the message about Jesus” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6648:5gz5mκατελθὼν εἰς τὴν πόλιν τῆς Σαμαρείας1

The phrase “went down” is used here because Samaria is lower in elevation than Jerusalem.

6658:5f45bτὴν πόλιν τῆς Σαμαρείας1

Possible meanings are (1) Luke expected the readers to know which city he was writing about. Alternate translation: “the main city in Samaria” or (2) Luke did not expect his readers to know which city he was writing about. Alternate translation: “a city in Samaria”

6668:5pk1lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐκήρυσσεν αὐτοῖς τὸν Χριστόν1

The title “Christ” refers to Jesus, the Messiah. Alternate translation: “told them that Jesus is the Messiah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6678:6cnt9δὲ οἱ ὄχλοι1

“When many people in the city of Samaria.” The location was specified in Acts 8:5.

6688:6wm83προσεῖχον1

The reason people paid attention was because of all the healing Philip did.

6698:7xb2nἐχόντων πνεύματα ἀκάθαρτα1

“who had them” or “who were controlled by unclean spirits”

6708:8z5z3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐγένετο δὲ πολλὴ χαρὰ ἐν τῇ πόλει ἐκείνῃ1

The phrase “that city” refers to the people who were rejoicing. Alternate translation: “So the people of the city were rejoicing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6718:9jm7nrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Simon is introduced to the story of Philip. This verse gives the beginning of the background information about Simon and who he was among the Samaritans. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

6728:9bed1rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsἀνὴρ δέ τις ὀνόματι Σίμων1

This is a way of introducing a new person into the story. Your language may use different wording to introduce a new person into the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

6738:9cx7aτῇ πόλει1

“the city in Samaria” (Acts 8:5)

6748:10kb9brc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Simon is introduced to the story of Philip. This verse continues to give the beginning of the background information about Simon and who he was among the Samaritans. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

6758:10evt7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντες1

The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “Many of the Samaritans” or “The Samaritans in the city” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

6768:10ibl1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismἀπὸ μικροῦ ἕως μεγάλου1

These two phrases refer to everyone from one extreme to the other. Alternate translation: “no matter how important they were” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

6778:10j3d8οὗτός ἐστιν ἡ Δύναμις τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἡ καλουμένη Μεγάλη1

People were saying that Simon was the divine power known as “The Great Power.”

6788:10yw5vἡ Δύναμις τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἡ καλουμένη Μεγάλη1

Possible meanings are (1) the powerful representative of God or (2) God or (3) the most powerful man or (4) and angel. Since the term is unclear, it may be best to simply translate it as “the Great power of God” .

6798:11pxj8rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Simon is introduced to the story of Philip. This verse ends the background information about Simon and who he was among the Samaritans. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

6808:12yiw30

These verses give more information about Simon and some of the Samaritans coming to believe in Jesus.

6818:12vsy8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐβαπτίζοντο1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Philip baptized them” or “Philip baptized the new believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

6828:13k2thrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsὁ & Σίμων & αὐτὸς ἐπίστευσεν1

The word “himself” is here used to emphasize that Simon believed. Alternate translation: “Simon was also one of those who believed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

6838:13v91trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveβαπτισθεὶς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Philip baptized Simon” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

6848:13aj93θεωρῶν τε σημεῖα1

This could begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “When he saw”

6858:14q8wx0

Luke continues the news of what was happening in Samaria.

6868:14s7lrrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventἀκούσαντες δὲ οἱ ἐν Ἱεροσολύμοις ἀπόστολοι1

This marks the beginning of a new part of the story of the Samaritans becoming believers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

6878:14ju21rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἡ Σαμάρεια1

This refers to the many people, who had become believers, throughout the district of Samaria. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

6888:14e682δέδεκται1

“had believed” or “had accepted”

6898:15af1nοἵτινες καταβάντες1

“when Peter and John had come down”

6908:15hk1mκαταβάντες1

This phrase is used here because Samaria is lower in elevation than Jerusalem.

6918:15bun9προσηύξαντο περὶ αὐτῶν1

“Peter and John prayed for the Samaritan believers”

6928:15n7vcὅπως λάβωσιν Πνεῦμα Ἅγιον1

“that the Samaritan believers might receive the Holy Spirit”

6938:16m1nwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμόνον & βεβαπτισμένοι ὑπῆρχον1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Philip had only baptized the Samaritan believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

6948:16rn3crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyμόνον & βεβαπτισμένοι ὑπῆρχον εἰς τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ1

Here “name” represents authority, and being baptized into his name represents being baptized in order to be under his authority. Alternate translation: “they had only been baptized to become disciples of the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6958:17fwh8ἐπετίθεσαν τὰς χεῖρας ἐπ’ αὐτούς1

Peter and John placed their hands on the Samaritan people who had believed Stephens message of the gospel.

6968:17q7gdrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionἐπετίθεσαν τὰς χεῖρας ἐπ’ αὐτούς1

This symbolic action shows that Peter and John wanted God to give the Holy Spirit to the believers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6978:18rh79rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιὰ τῆς ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν τῶν ἀποστόλων δίδοται τὸ Πνεῦμα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the apostles gave the Holy Spirit by laying their hands on people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

6988:19fbw9ἵνα ᾧ ἐὰν ἐπιθῶ τὰς χεῖρας, λαμβάνῃ Πνεῦμα Ἅγιον1

“that I can give the Holy Spirit to anyone on whom I place my hands”

6998:20df1j0

Here the words him, your, you, and yours all refer to Simon.

7008:20jju3τὸ ἀργύριόν σου, σὺν σοὶ εἴη εἰς ἀπώλειαν1

“May you and your money be destroyed”

7018:20gh12τὴν δωρεὰν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Here this refers to the ability to give the Holy Spirit by laying his hands on someone.

7028:21p2evrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletοὐκ ἔστιν σοι μερὶς οὐδὲ κλῆρος ἐν τῷ λόγῳ τούτῳ1

The words “part” and “share” mean the same thing and are used for emphasis. Alternate translation: “You may not participate in this work” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

7038:21xbh2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἡ γὰρ καρδία σου οὐκ ἔστιν εὐθεῖα1

Here “heart” is a metonym for a persons thoughts or motives. Alternate translation: “you are not right in your heart” or “the motives of your mind are not right” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7048:22ppk5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἡ ἐπίνοια τῆς καρδίας σου1

Here “heart” is a metonym for a persons thoughts. Alternate translation: “for what you intended to do” or “for what you were thinking of doing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7058:22sa6sτῆς κακίας & ταύτης1

“these evil thoughts”

7068:22pe2uεἰ ἄρα ἀφεθήσεταί1

“he may be willing to forgive”

7078:23d3v7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰς & χολὴν πικρίας1

Here “in the poison of bitterness” is a metaphor for being very envious. It speaks of envy as if it tastes bitter and poisons the person who is envious. Alternate translation: “very envious” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

7088:23j696rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσύνδεσμον ἀδικίας1

The phrase “bonds of sin” is spoken of as if sin can restrain Simon and keep him a prisoner. It is metaphor that means Simon is not able to stop himself from sinning. Alternate translation: “because you continue sinning you are like a prisoner” or “you are like a prisoner to sin” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

7098:24n5cw0

Here the word “you” refers to Peter and John.

7108:24u1a4ὅπως μηδὲν ἐπέλθῃ ἐπ’ ἐμὲ1

This can be stated another way. Alternate translation: “the things you have said … may not happen to me”

7118:24sk5wὅπως μηδὲν ἐπέλθῃ ἐπ’ ἐμὲ1

This refers to Peters rebuke about Simons silver perishing along with him.

7128:25dl9f0

This is concludes the part of the story about Simon and the Samaritans.

7138:25uz15διαμαρτυράμενοι1

Peter and John told what they personally knew about Jesus to the Samaritans.

7148:25ww9krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyλαλήσαντες τὸν λόγον τοῦ Κυρίου1

“Word” here is a metonym for “message.” Peter and John explained the message about Jesus to the Samaritans. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7158:25eu66rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheπολλάς & κώμας τῶν Σαμαρειτῶν1

Here “villages” refers to the people in them. Alternate translation: “to the people in many Samaritan villages” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

7168:26zkc5rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Verse 27 gives background information about the man from Ethiopia. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

7178:26rnh40

This begins the part of the story about Philip and the man from Ethiopia.

7188:26mbj9rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventδὲ1

This marks a transition in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

7198:26w1nkἀνάστηθι καὶ πορεύου1

These verbs work together to emphasize that he should get ready to start a long journey that will take some time. Alternate translation: “Get ready to travel”

7208:26le2cτὴν καταβαίνουσαν ἀπὸ Ἰερουσαλὴμ εἰς Γάζαν1

The phrase “goes down” is used here because Jerusalem is higher in elevation than Gaza.

7218:26a18yrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundαὕτη ἐστὶν ἔρημος1

Most scholars believe Luke added this comment to describe the area through which Philip would travel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

7228:27xy7xrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsἰδοὺ1

The word “behold” alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

7238:27s1ufεὐνοῦχος1

The emphasis of “eunuch” here is about the Ethiopians being a high government official, not so much his physical state of being castrated.

7248:27t5t1rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΚανδάκης1

This was a title for the queens of Ethiopia. It is similar to the way the word Pharaoh was used for the kings of Egypt. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

7258:27v8q7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὃς ἐληλύθει προσκυνήσων εἰς Ἰερουσαλήμ1

This implies that he was a Gentile who believed in God and had come to worship at the Jewish temple. Alternate translation: “He had come to worship God at the temple in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7268:28d3kvτοῦ ἅρματος1

Possibly “wagon” or “carriage” is more fitting in this context. Chariots are normally mentioned as a vehicle for war, not as a vehicle for long-distance travel. Also, people stood to ride in chariots.

7278:28bx2jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀνεγίνωσκεν τὸν προφήτην Ἠσαΐαν1

This is the Old Testament book Isaiah. Alternate translation: “reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7288:29llh1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκολλήθητι τῷ ἅρματι τούτῳ1

Philip understood that this meant he was to stay close to the person riding in the chariot. Alternate translation: “accompany the man in this chariot” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7298:30ffh7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀναγινώσκοντος Ἠσαΐαν τὸν προφήτην1

This is the Old Testament book Isaiah. Alternate translation: “reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7308:30x98iἆρά & γινώσκεις ἃ ἀναγινώσκεις1

The Ethiopian was intelligent and could read, but he lacked spiritual discernment. Alternate translation: “Do you understand the meaning of what you are reading?”

7318:31r5g2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionπῶς & δυναίμην ἐὰν μή τις ὁδηγήσει με1

This question was asked to state emphatically that he could not understand without help. Alternate translation: “I cannot understand unless someone guides me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

7328:31zx9hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπαρεκάλεσέν & τὸν Φίλιππον, ἀναβάντα καθίσαι σὺν αὐτῷ1

It is implied here that Philip agreed to travel down the road with him to explain the scriptures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7338:32nd930

This a passage from the book of Isaiah. Here the words “he” and “his” refer to the Messiah.

7348:32lu3jὡς ἀμνὸς ἐναντίον τοῦ κείραντος αὐτὸν ἄφωνος1

A shearer is a person who cuts the wool off the sheep so that it may be used.

7358:33y2a1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν τῇ ταπεινώσει, ἡ κρίσις αὐτοῦ ἤρθη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He was humiliated and they did not judge him fairly” or “he allowed himself to be humbled before his accusers and he suffered injustice” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

7368:33k3uzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτὴν γενεὰν αὐτοῦ τίς διηγήσεται1

This question was used to emphasize the he will not have descendants. Alternate translation: “No one will be able to speak about his descendant, for there will not be any” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

7378:33idk8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveαἴρεται ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς ἡ ζωὴ αὐτοῦ1

This referred to his death. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “men killed him” or “men took his life from the earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

7388:34htb2δέομαί σου1

“Please tell me”

7398:35uw21rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῆς Γραφῆς ταύτης1

This refers to Isaiahs writings in the Old Testament. Alternate translation: “in the writings of Isaiah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7408:36ip13ἐπορεύοντο κατὰ τὴν ὁδόν1

“they continued to travel along the road”

7418:36muz2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί κωλύει με βαπτισθῆναι1

The eunuch uses this question as a way of asking Philip for permission to be baptized. Alternate translation: “Please allow me to be baptized” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

7428:38l8wlἐκέλευσεν στῆναι τὸ ἅρμα1

“the eunich told the driver of the chariot to stop”

7438:39tz5u0

This is the end of the part of the story about Philip and the man from Ethiopia. The story of Philip ends at Caesarea.

7448:39xp52οὐκ εἶδεν αὐτὸν οὐκέτι ὁ εὐνοῦχος1

“the eunuch did not see Philip again”

7458:40r1x7Φίλιππος & εὑρέθη εἰς Ἄζωτον1

There was no indication of Philips traveling between where he baptized the Ethiopian and Azotus. He just suddenly disappeared along the road to Gaza and reappeared at the town of Azotus.

7468:40arh5διερχόμενος1

This refers to the area around the town of Azotus.

7478:40zfn6τὰς πόλεις πάσας1

“to all the cities in that region”

7489:introjm6x0

Acts 09 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“The Way”

No one knows for sure who first started calling believers “followers of the Way.” This is probably what the believers called themselves, because the Bible often speaks of a person living his life as if that person were walking on a path or “way.” If this is true, the believers were “following the way of the Lord” by living in a way that pleased God.

“Letters for the synagogues in Damascus”

The “letters” Paul asked for were probably legal papers that permitted him to put Christians in prison. The synagogue leaders in Damascus would have obeyed the letter because it was written by the high priest. If the Romans had seen the letter, they also would have allowed Saul to persecute the Christians, because they permitted the Jews to do as they desired to people who broke their religious laws.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

What Saul saw when he met Jesus

It is clear that Saul saw a light and that it was because of this light that he “fell upon the ground.” Some people think that Saul knew that it was the Lord speaking to him without seeing a human form, because the Bible often speaks of God as being light and living in light. Other people think that later in his life he was able to say, “I have seen the Lord Jesus” because it was a human form that he saw here.

7499:1r4n5rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

These verses give background information telling us what Saul has been doing since the stoning of Stephen. Here the word “him” refers to the high priest and “he” refers to Saul. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

7509:1yt9e0

The story shifts back to Saul and his salvation.

7519:1anb6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἔτι ἐμπνέων ἀπειλῆς καὶ φόνου εἰς τοὺς μαθητὰς1

The noun “murder” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “still speaking threats, even to murder the disciples” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

7529:2v9lwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπρὸς τὰς συναγωγάς1

This refers to the people in the synagogues. Alternate translation: “for the people in the synagogues” or “for the leaders in the synagogues” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7539:2y8f6ἐάν τινας εὕρῃ1

“when he found anyone” or “if he found anyone”

7549:2pk19τῆς ὁδοῦ, ὄντας1

“who followed the teachings of Jesus Christ”

7559:2n94sτῆς ὁδοῦ1

This term appears to have been a title for Christianity at that time.

7569:2a6z4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδεδεμένους ἀγάγῃ εἰς Ἰερουσαλήμ1

“he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.” Pauls purpose can be made clear by adding “so that the Jewish leaders could judge and punish them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7579:3lv9q0

After the high priest gave Saul the letters, Saul left for Damascus.

7589:3jf4gἐν & τῷ πορεύεσθαι1

Saul left Jerusalem and now travels to Damascus.

7599:3by55rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventἐγένετο1

This is an expression that marks a change in the story to show something different is about to happen. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

7609:3dm6cτε αὐτὸν περιήστραψεν φῶς ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ1

“a light from heaven shone all around him”

7619:3gua8ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ1

Possible meanings are (1) heaven, where God lives or (2) the sky. The first meaning is preferable. Use that meaning if your language has a separate word for it.

7629:4y4u4πεσὼν ἐπὶ τὴν γῆν1

Possible meanings are that (1) “Saul threw himself to the ground” or (2) “The light caused him to fall to the ground” or (3) “Saul fell to the ground the way one who fainted fell.” Saul did not fall accidentally.

7639:4c9l4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί με διώκεις1

This rhetorical question communicates a rebuke to Saul. In some languages a statement would be more natural (AT): “You are persecuting me!” or a command (AT): “Stop persecuting me!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

7649:5q8ge0

Every occurrence of the word “you” here is singular.

7659:5jaq2τίς εἶ, κύριε1

Saul was not acknowledging that Jesus is the Lord. He uses that title because he understood that he spoke to someone of supernatural power.

7669:5abc01

Jesus is speaking.

7679:6i1kjἀλλὰ ἀνάστηθι καὶ εἴσελθε εἰς τὴν πόλιν1

“get up and go into the city Damascus”

7689:6fbi6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveλαληθήσεταί σοι1

This can be stated in the active form. Alternate translation: “someone will tell you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

7699:7xu7cἀκούοντες μὲν τῆς φωνῆς, μηδένα δὲ θεωροῦντες1

“they heard the voice, but they did not see anyone”

7709:7f9feμηδένα δὲ θεωροῦντες1

“but saw no one.” Apparently only Saul experienced the light.

7719:8puw3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀνεῳγμένων & τῶν ὀφθαλμῶν αὐτοῦ1

This implies that he had closed his eyes because the light was too bright. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7729:8dgg8οὐδὲν ἔβλεπεν1

“he could not see anything.” Saul was blind.

7739:9fhn6ἦν & μὴ βλέπων1

“was blind” or “could not see anything”

7749:9t8ucοὐκ ἔφαγεν οὐδὲ ἔπιεν1

It is not stated whether he chose not to eat or drink as a form of worship, or if he had no appetite because he was too distressed from his situation. It is preferable not to specify the reason.

7759:10kgn9rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

The story of Saul continues but Luke introduces another man named Ananias. This is not the same Ananias who died earlier in Acts Acts 5:3. You may translate this name the same way though as you did in Acts 5:1. Though there is more than one Judas mentioned in the New Testament, it is likely this is the only appearance of this Judas. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

7769:10j847rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsἦν δέ1

This introduces Ananias as a new character. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

7779:10vl8kὁ & εἶπεν1

“Ananias said”

7789:11mn24πορεύθητι ἐπὶ τὴν ῥύμην τὴν καλουμένην Εὐθεῖαν1

“go to Straight Street”

7799:11ie1lοἰκίᾳ Ἰούδα1

This Judas is not the disciple who betrayed Jesus. This Judas was owner of a house in Damascus where Saul was staying.

7809:11u5j8Σαῦλον ὀνόματι Ταρσέα1

“a man from the city of Tarsus named Saul” or “Saul of Tarsus”

7819:12jk46rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionἐπιθέντα αὐτῷ χεῖρας1

This was a symbol of giving a spiritual blessing to Saul. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

7829:12nx5qἀναβλέψῃ1

“he might regain his ability to see”

7839:13la9tἁγίοις σου1

Here “holy people” refers to Christians. Alternate translation: “the people in Jerusalem who believe in you”

7849:14ptd6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὧδε & ἐξουσίαν & δῆσαι πάντας1

It is implied that the extent of the power and authority granted Saul was limited to the Jewish people at this point in time. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7859:14t3flrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτοὺς ἐπικαλουμένους τὸ ὄνομά σου1

Here “your name” refers to Jesus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7869:15jmt7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσκεῦος ἐκλογῆς ἐστίν μοι οὗτος1

“chosen instrument” refers to something that is set apart for service. Alternate translation: “I have chosen him to serve me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7879:15z5fjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτοῦ βαστάσαι τὸ ὄνομά μου1

This is an expression for identifying or speaking out for Jesus. Alternate translation: “in order that he might speak about me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7889:16kty3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματός μου1

This is an expression meaning “for telling people about me.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7899:17q61xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

The word “you” here is singular and refers to Saul. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

7909:17j2pf0

Ananias goes to the house where Saul is staying. After Saul is healed, the story shifts from Ananias back to Saul.

7919:17s8msἀπῆλθεν δὲ Ἁνανίας καὶ εἰσῆλθεν εἰς τὴν οἰκίαν1

It may be helpful to state that Ananias went to the house before he entered into it. Alternate translation: “So Ananias went, and after he found the house where Saul was, he entered it”

7929:17my6mrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionἐπιθεὶς ἐπ’ αὐτὸν τὰς χεῖρας1

Ananias put his hands on Saul. This was a symbol of giving a blessing to Saul. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

7939:17a89qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὅπως ἀναβλέψῃς καὶ πλησθῇς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “has sent me so that you might see again and that the Holy Spirit might fill you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

7949:18m1hxἀπέπεσαν & ὡς λεπίδες1

“something that appeared like fish scales fell”

7959:18g2eaἀνέβλεψέν1

“he was able to see again”

7969:18efs9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀναστὰς ἐβαπτίσθη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he got up and Ananias baptized him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

7979:20rc490

Here only the second “he” refers to Jesus, the Son of God. The first “he” and the other ones refer to Saul.

7989:20w65rrc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

7999:21xid8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντες οἱ ἀκούοντες1

The word “All” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “Those who heard him” or “Many who heard him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

8009:21f4fdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὐχ οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ πορθήσας ἐν Ἰερουσαλὴμ τοὺς ἐπικαλουμένους τὸ ὄνομα τοῦτο1

This is a rhetorical and negative question that emphasizes that Saul was indeed the man who had persecuted the believers. Alternate translation: “This is the man who destroyed those in Jerusalem who called on this name Jesus!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

8019:21ctg3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸ ὄνομα τοῦτο1

Here “name” refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: “the name of Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8029:22r1npσυνέχυννεν τοὺς Ἰουδαίους1

They were distressed in the sense that they could not find a way to refute Sauls arguments that Jesus was the Christ.

8039:23g6gw0

The word “him” in this section refers to Saul.

8049:23g74crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1

This refers to the leaders of the Jews. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

8059:24lv62rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐγνώσθη δὲ τῷ Σαύλῳ ἡ ἐπιβουλὴ αὐτῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But someone told their plan to Saul” or “But Saul learned about their plan” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

8069:24cy9nπαρετηροῦντο & καὶ τὰς πύλας1

This city had a wall surrounding it. People could normally only enter and exit the city through the gates.

8079:25lc8mοἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ1

people who believed Sauls message about Jesus and were following his teaching

8089:25u8g8διὰ τοῦ τείχους, καθῆκαν αὐτὸν, χαλάσαντες ἐν σπυρίδι1

“used ropes to lower him in a large basket through an opening in the wall”

8099:26j1el0

Here the words “he” and “him” refer to Saul all but one time. “And he told them how” in verse 27 refers to Barnabas.

8109:26e38mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleκαὶ πάντες ἐφοβοῦντο αὐτόν1

Here “they were all” is a generalization, but it is possible that it refers to every person. Alternate translation: “but they were afraid of him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

8119:27abcaδιηγήσατο αὐτοῖς1

“Barnabas told the apostles”

8129:27abcbεἶδεν1

“Saul had seen”

8139:27abccἐλάλησεν αὐτῷ1

“the Lord had spoken to Saul”

8149:27n9f1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπαρρησιάσατο ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Ἰησοῦ1

This is a way of saying he preached or taught the gospel message of Jesus Christ without fear. Alternate translation: “had openly preached the message about Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8159:28m5rsἦν μετ’ αὐτῶν1

Here the word “He” refers to Paul. The word “them” probably refers to the apostles and other disciples in Jerusalem.

8169:28fbb7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου1

Possible meanings are (1) this simply refers to the Lord Jesus and tells who Paul spoke about. Alternate translation: “about the Lord Jesus” or (2) “name” is a metonym for authority. Alternate translation: “under the authority of the Lord Jesus” or “with the authority that the Lord Jesus gave him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8179:29d7lmσυνεζήτει πρὸς τοὺς Ἑλληνιστάς1

Saul tried to reason with the Jews who spoke Greek.

8189:30uz9aοἱ ἀδελφοὶ1

The words “the brothers” refers to the believers in Jerusalem.

8199:30j4mtκατήγαγον αὐτὸν εἰς Καισάρειαν1

The phrase “brought him down” is used here because Caesarea is lower in elevation than Jerusalem.

8209:30aqn6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐξαπέστειλαν αὐτὸν εἰς Ταρσόν1

Caesarea was a seaport. They brothers probably sent Saul to Tarsus by ship. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8219:31vk8y0

Verse 31 is a statement that gives an update on the churchs growth.

8229:31n7c50

In verse 32, the story shifts from Saul to a new part of the story about Peter.

8239:31s4bnἡ & ἐκκλησία καθ’ ὅλης τῆς Ἰουδαίας, καὶ Γαλιλαίας, καὶ Σαμαρείας1

This is the first use of the singular “church” to refer to more than one local congregation. Here it refers to all the believers in all the groups throughout Israel.

8249:31fh2gεἶχεν εἰρήνην1

“lived peacefully.” This means the persecution that started with the murder of Stephen was finished.

8259:31elq7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοἰκοδομουμένη1

The agent was either God or the Holy Spirit. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God helped them grow” or “the Holy Spirit built them up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

8269:31j8c9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπορευομένη τῷ φόβῳ τοῦ Κυρίου1

“Walking” here is a metaphor for “living.” Alternate translation: “living in obedience to the Lord” or “continuing to honor the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

8279:31hl24τῇ παρακλήσει τοῦ Ἁγίου Πνεύματος1

“with the Holy Spirit strengthening and encouraging them”

8289:32w68grc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventἐγένετο δὲ1

This phrase is used to mark a new part of the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

8299:32m9sgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleδιὰ πάντων1

This is an generalization for Peters visiting the believers in many places in the region of Judea, Galilee, and Samaria. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

8309:32ad7gκατελθεῖν1

The phrase “came down” is used here because Lydda is lower in elevation than the other places where he was traveling.

8319:32g5c4Λύδδα1

Lydda is a city located about 18 kilometers southeast of Joppa. This city was called Lod in the Old Testament and in modern Israel.

8329:33hzd7εὗρεν & ἐκεῖ ἄνθρωπόν τινα1

Peter was not intentionally searching for a paralyzed person, but happened upon him. Alternate translation: “There Peter met a man”

8339:33jnc4rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsἄνθρωπόν τινα ὀνόματι Αἰνέαν1

This introduces Aeneas as a new character in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

8349:33uj5frc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundκατακείμενον ἐπὶ κραβάττου, ὃς ἦν παραλελυμένος1

This is background information about Aeneas. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

8359:33k7hwπαραλελυμένος1

unable to walk, probably unable to move below the waist

8369:34ff2aστρῶσον σεαυτῷ1

“roll up your mat”

8379:35z3fprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντες οἱ κατοικοῦντες Λύδδα καὶ τὸν Σαρῶνα1

This is a generalization referring to many of the people there. Alternate translation: “those who lived in Lydda and in Sharon” or “many people who lived in Lydda and Sharon” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

8389:35qkv4Λύδδα καὶ τὸν Σαρῶνα1

The city of Lydda was located in the Plain of Sharon.

8399:35pf23εἶδαν αὐτὸν1

It may be helpful to state that they saw that the man was healed. Alternate translation: “saw the man whom Peter had healed”

8409:35x9ywrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοἵτινες ἐπέστρεψαν ἐπὶ τὸν Κύριον1

Here “turned to the Lord” is a metaphor for starting to obey the Lord. Alternate translation: “and they repented of their sins and started obeying the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

8419:36gy8urc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

These verses give background information about the woman named Tabitha. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

8429:36du3s0

Luke continues the story with a new event about Peter.

8439:36zgq5rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventδέ & ἦν1

This introduces a new part in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

8449:36gwr4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΤαβειθά, ἣ διερμηνευομένη λέγεται, Δορκάς1

Tabitha is her name in the Aramaic language, and Dorcas is her name in the Greek language. Both names mean “gazelle.” Alternate translation: “Her name in the Greek language was Dorcas” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8459:36q2rnπλήρης ἔργων ἀγαθῶν1

“doing many good things”

8469:37mg72rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐγένετο δὲ ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις ἐκείναις1

This refers to the time when Peter was in Joppa. This can be stated. Alternate translation: “It came about while Peter was nearby” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8479:37y8sxλούσαντες & αὐτὴν1

This was washing to prepare for her burial.

8489:37znj4ἔθηκαν ἐν ὑπερῴῳ1

This was a temporary display of the body during the funeral process.

8499:38uhz5ἀπέστειλαν δύο ἄνδρας πρὸς αὐτὸν1

“the disciples sent two men to Peter”

8509:39k1seεἰς τὸ ὑπερῷον1

“to the upstairs room where Dorcas body was lying”

8519:39me79πᾶσαι αἱ χῆραι1

It is possible that all the widows of the town were there since it was not a large town.

8529:39piu7χῆραι1

women whose husbands had died and therefore needed help

8539:39y6q5μετ’ αὐτῶν οὖσα1

“while she was still alive with the disciples”

8549:40ek9crc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory0

The story of Tabitha ends in verse 42. Verse 43 tells us what happens to Peter after the story ends. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

8559:40yp2uἐκβαλὼν & ἔξω πάντας1

“told them all to leave the room.” Peter had everyone leave so he could be alone to pray for Tabitha.

8569:41r7n6δοὺς & αὐτῇ χεῖρα, ἀνέστησεν αὐτήν1

Peter took hold of her hand and helped her stand up.

8579:41b73sτοὺς ἁγίους καὶ τὰς χήρας1

The widows were possibly also believers but are mentioned specifically because Tabitha was so important to them.

8589:42nda9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγνωστὸν δὲ ἐγένετο καθ’ ὅλης τῆς Ἰόππης1

This refers to the miracle of Peters raising Tabitha from the dead. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People throughout all Joppa heard about this matter” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

8599:42fyz4ἐπίστευσαν & ἐπὶ τὸν Κύριον1

“believed in the gospel of the Lord Jesus”

8609:43k9ikrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventἐγένετο1

“It came about that.” This introduces the beginning of the next event in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

8619:43qar2Σίμωνι, βυρσεῖ1

“a man named Simon who made leather from animal skins”

86210:introym7z0

Acts 10 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Unclean

The Jews believed that they could become unclean in Gods sight if they visited or ate food with a Gentile. This was because the Pharisees had made a law against it because they wanted to keep people from eating foods that the law of Moses said were unclean. The law of Moses did say that some foods were unclean, but it did not say that Gods people could not visit or eat with Gentiles. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/clean]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Baptism and the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit “fell on” those who were listening to Peter. This showed the Jewish believers that Gentiles could receive the word of God and receive the Holy Spirit just as the Jewish believers had. After that, the Gentiles were baptized.

86310:1m1vxrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

These verses give background information about Cornelius. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

86410:1nfy50

This is the beginning of the part of the story about Cornelius.

86510:1wtb9rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsἀνὴρ δέ τις1

This was a way of introducing a new person to this part of the historical account. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

86610:1x476ὀνόματι Κορνήλιος, ἑκατοντάρχης ἐκ Σπείρης τῆς καλουμένης Ἰταλικῆς1

“his name was Cornelius. He was an officer in charge of 100 soldiers from the Italian section of the Roman army.

86710:1abcdΣπείρης τῆς καλουμένης Ἰταλικῆς1

“the Italian Regiment”

86810:2s6rhεὐσεβὴς καὶ φοβούμενος τὸν Θεὸν1

“He believed in God and sought to honor and worship God in his life”

86910:2n8i3φοβούμενος τὸν Θεὸν1

The word for “worshiped” here has the sense of deep respect and awe.

87010:2abceτῷ λαῷ1

This here refers to Jewish people who were in need.

87110:2w2kxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleδεόμενος τοῦ Θεοῦ διὰ παντός1

The word “constantly” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “he prayed to God a lot” or “he prayed to God regularly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

87210:3up3jὥραν ἐνάτην1

“three oclock in the afternoon.” This is the normal afternoon prayer time for Jews.

87310:3g3lvεἶδεν & φανερῶς1

“Cornelius clearly saw”

87410:4abcfὁ δὲ, ἀτενίσας αὐτῷ1

Cornelius looked intently at the angel.

87510:4abcgεἶπεν δὲ αὐτῷ1

“Then the angel said to Cornelius”

87610:4p5mlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitαἱ προσευχαί σου, καὶ αἱ ἐλεημοσύναι σου, ἀνέβησαν εἰς μνημόσυνον ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

It is implied that his gifts and prayers had been accepted by God. Alternate translation: “God is pleased by your prayers and your gifts … a memorial offering to him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

87710:6lt9nβυρσεῖ1

a person who makes leather from animal skins

87810:7g6lqὡς δὲ ἀπῆλθεν ὁ ἄγγελος ὁ λαλῶν αὐτῷ1

“When Cornelius vision of the angel had ended.”

87910:7i3x7στρατιώτην εὐσεβῆ τῶν προσκαρτερούντων αὐτῷ1

“one of the soldiers who served him, who also worshiped God.” This soldier worshiped God. That was rare in the Roman army, so Cornelius other soldiers probably did not worship God.

88010:7yg7gεὐσεβῆ1

An adjective to describe a person who worshiped God and served him.

88110:8pcg2ἐξηγησάμενος ἅπαντα αὐτοῖς1

Cornelius explained his vision to his two servants and to one of his soldiers.

88210:8d2p3ἀπέστειλεν αὐτοὺς εἰς τὴν Ἰόππην1

“sent two of his two servants and the one soldier to Joppa.”

88310:9ey9n0

Here the word “they” refers to Cornelius two servants and the soldier under Cornelius command (Acts 10:7).

88410:9w3g40

The story shifts away from Cornelius to tell us what God is doing with to Peter.

88510:9tu7nπερὶ ὥραν ἕκτην1

“around noon”

88610:9r6l8ἀνέβη & ἐπὶ τὸ δῶμα1

The roofs of the houses were flat, and people often did many different activities on them.

88710:10slq7παρασκευαζόντων & αὐτῶν1

“before the people finished cooking the food”

88810:10im7xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐγένετο ἐπ’ αὐτὸν ἔκστασις1

“God gave him a vision” or “he saw a vision” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

88910:11n4hiθεωρεῖ τὸν οὐρανὸν ἀνεῳγμένον1

This was the beginning of Peters vision. It can be a new sentence.

89010:11u9u4ὡς ὀθόνην μεγάλην, τέσσαρσιν ἀρχαῖς1

The container holding the animals had the appearance of a large square piece of cloth.

89110:11jh1mτέσσαρσιν ἀρχαῖς καθιέμενον1

“with its four corners suspended” or “with its four corners higher than the rest of it”

89210:12ua3jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπάντα τὰ τετράποδα, καὶ ἑρπετὰ τῆς γῆς, καὶ πετεινὰ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ1

From Peters response in the next verse, it can be implied that the law of Moses commanded the Jews not to eat some of them. Alternate translation: “animals and birds that the Mosaic laws forbade Jews to eat” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

89310:13a2z4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐγένετο φωνὴ πρὸς αὐτόν1

The person speaking is not specified. The “voice” was probably God, although it could possibly have been an angel from God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

89410:14z7r5μηδαμῶς1

“I will not do that”

89510:14a2jjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὐδέποτε ἔφαγον πᾶν κοινὸν καὶ ἀκάθαρτον1

It is implied that some the animals in the container were unclean as defined by the law of Moses and were not to be eaten by believers who lived before Christ died. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

89610:15xs5src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personἃ ὁ Θεὸς ἐκαθάρισεν1

If God is the speaker, he is referring to himself in the third person. Alternate translation: “What I, God, have cleansed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

89710:16rlr9τοῦτο & ἐγένετο ἐπὶ τρίς1

It is not likely that everything Peter saw happened three times. This probably means that the phrase, “What God has cleansed, do not call it defiled,” was repeated three times. However, it may be best to simply say “This happened three times” instead of trying to explain in detail.

89810:17d4ziδιηπόρει ὁ Πέτρος1

This means that Peter was having difficulty understanding what the vision meant.

89910:17n6daἰδοὺ1

The word “behold” here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows, in this case, the two men standing at the gate.

90010:17e62mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐπέστησαν ἐπὶ τὸν πυλῶνα1

“stood before the gate to the house.” It is implied that this house had a wall with a gate in it to enter the property. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

90110:17h72mδιερωτήσαντες τὴν οἰκίαν1

This happened before they arrived at the house. This could be stated earlier in the verse, as the UST does.

90210:18qe9dφωνήσαντες1

Cornelius men remained outside the gate while asking about Peter.

90310:19e8aiδιενθυμουμένου περὶ τοῦ ὁράματος1

“wondering about the meaning of the vision”

90410:19d9q8τὸ Πνεῦμα1

“the Holy Spirit”

90510:19iqx5ἰδοὺ1

“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: three”

90610:19va39rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariantsἄνδρες τρεῖς ζητοῦσιν σε1

Cornelius sent two of his servants and one soldier. Some ancient texts have a different number of men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

90710:20ym1xκατάβηθι1

“go down from the roof of the house”

90810:20wx4nπορεύου σὺν αὐτοῖς, μηδὲν διακρινόμενος1

It would be natural for Peter not to want to go with them, because they were strangers and they were Gentiles.

90910:21lj1fἐγώ εἰμι ὃν ζητεῖτε1

“I am the man you are looking for”

91010:22i4zh0

The words “They” and “them” here refer to the two servants and the soldier from Cornelius (Acts 10:7).

91110:22baa3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveΚορνήλιος, ἑκατοντάρχης ἀνὴρ δίκαιος, καὶ φοβούμενος τὸν Θεὸν, μαρτυρούμενός τε ὑπὸ ὅλου τοῦ ἔθνους τῶν Ἰουδαίων, ἐχρηματίσθη ὑπὸ ἀγγέλου ἁγίου, μεταπέμψασθαί σε εἰς τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ, καὶ ἀκοῦσαι ῥήματα παρὰ σοῦ1

This can be divided into several sentences and stated in active form as the UST does. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

91210:22wvl1φοβούμενος τὸν Θεὸν1

The word for “worship” here has the sense of deep respect and awe.

91310:22gv91rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleὅλου τοῦ ἔθνους τῶν Ἰουδαίων1

This number of people is exaggerated with the word “all” to emphasize how widely this was known among the Jews. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

91410:23jlc7εἰσκαλεσάμενος οὖν αὐτοὺς ἐξένισεν1

The journey to Caesarea was too long for them to begin that afternoon.

91510:23shs5ἐξένισεν1

“be his guests”

91610:23t7czτινες τῶν ἀδελφῶν τῶν ἀπὸ Ἰόππης1

This refers to believers who lived in Joppa.

91710:24c3s6τῇ & ἐπαύριον1

This was the next day after they left Joppa. The journey to Caesarea took longer than one day.

91810:24g2upὁ δὲ Κορνήλιος ἦν προσδοκῶν αὐτοὺς1

“Cornelius expected them”

91910:25wxt8ὡς & τοῦ εἰσελθεῖν τὸν Πέτρον1

“when Peter entered the house”

92010:25b4pnrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionπεσὼν ἐπὶ τοὺς πόδας, προσεκύνησεν1

“he knelt down and put his face close to Peters feet.” He did this to honor Peter. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

92110:25u2x5πεσὼν1

He purposely lies down facing the ground to show that he is worshiping.

92210:26s7n5ἀνάστηθι, καὶ ἐγὼ & ἄνθρωπός εἰμι1

This was a mild rebuke or correction to Cornelius not to worship Peter. Alternate translation: “Stop doing that! I am only a man, as you are”

92310:27f9x6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

The word “him” here refers to Cornelius. Here the words “You” and “you” are plural and include Cornelius as well as the Gentiles who were present. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

92410:27bg7b0

Peter addresses the people who are gathered in Cornelius house.

92510:27twp9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitσυνεληλυθότας πολλούς1

“many Gentile people gathered together.” It is implied that these people Cornelius had invited were Gentiles. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

92610:28g7j7ὑμεῖς ἐπίστασθε1

Peter is addressing Cornelius and his invited guests.

92710:28iyx6ἀθέμιτόν ἐστιν ἀνδρὶ Ἰουδαίῳ1

“it is forbidden for a Jewish man.” This refers to the Jewish religious law.

92810:28k3weἀλλοφύλῳ1

This refers to people who were not Jews and not specifically to where they lived.

92910:30krz8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

In verses 31 and 32 Cornelius quotes what the angel had said to him when he appeared to him at the ninth hour. The words “you” and “your” are all singular. The word “we” here does not include Peter. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

93010:30n5fs0

Cornelius responds to Peters question.

93110:30na4uἀπὸ τετάρτης ἡμέρας1

Cornelius is referring to the day before the third night before he is speaking to Peter. Biblical culture counts the current day, so the day before three nights ago is “four days ago.” Current Western culture does not count the current day, so many Western translations read, “three days ago.”

93210:30mqv8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariantsπροσευχόμενος1

Some ancient authorities say “fasting and praying” instead of simply “praying.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

93310:30yy6eτὴν ἐνάτην1

The normal afternoon time that the Jews pray to God.

93410:31heh3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεἰσηκούσθη σου ἡ προσευχὴ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has heard your prayer” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

93510:31s6nzἐμνήσθησαν ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“brought you to Gods attention.” This does not imply that God had forgotten.

93610:32ci31μετακάλεσαι Σίμωνα, ὃς ἐπικαλεῖται Πέτρος1

“tell Simon who is also called Peter to come to you”

93710:33p5eeἐξαυτῆς1

“right away”

93810:33ruf3σύ τε καλῶς ἐποίησας παραγενόμενος1

This expression is a polite way of thanking Peter for coming. Alternate translation: “I certainly thank you for coming”

93910:33ry21ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This refers to the presence of God.

94010:33xt4xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὰ προστεταγμένα σοι ὑπὸ τοῦ Κυρίου1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that the Lord has told you to say” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

94110:34ku8u0

Peter begins speaking to everyone in the house of Cornelius.

94210:34cyn8ἀνοίξας δὲ Πέτρος τὸ στόμα εἶπεν1

“Peter began to speak to them”

94310:34ha31ἐπ’ ἀληθείας1

This means that what he is about to say is especially important to know.

94410:34iii7οὐκ ἔστιν προσωπολήμπτης ὁ Θεός1

“God does not favor certain people”

94510:35j78eὁ φοβούμενος αὐτὸν καὶ ἐργαζόμενος δικαιοσύνην, δεκτὸς αὐτῷ ἐστιν1

“he accepts anyone who worships him and does righteous deeds”

94610:35b5crφοβούμενος1

The word “worships” here has the sense of deep respect and awe.

94710:36bjk70

The word “him” here refers to Jesus.

94810:36sv4s0

Peter continues to talk to Cornelius and his guests.

94910:36md1lοὗτός ἐστιν πάντων Κύριος1

Here “all” means “all people.”

95010:37ch65rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleκαθ’ ὅλης τῆς Ἰουδαίας1

The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “throughout Judea” or “in many places in Judea” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

95110:37sq2iμετὰ τὸ βάπτισμα ὃ ἐκήρυξεν Ἰωάννης1

“after John preached to the people to repent and then baptized them”

95210:38jtr3Ἰησοῦν τὸν ἀπὸ Ναζαρέθ, ὡς ἔχρισεν αὐτὸν ὁ Θεὸς Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ καὶ δυνάμει1

This long sentence, which begins in verse 36, can be shortened into several sentences as in the UST. “You know … of all. You yourselves know … announced. You know the events … with power”

95310:38ku82rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἔχρισεν αὐτὸν ὁ Θεὸς Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ καὶ δυνάμει1

The Holy Spirit and Gods power are spoken of as if they are something that can be poured out onto a person. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

95410:38y5yarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντας τοὺς καταδυναστευομένους ὑπὸ τοῦ διαβόλου1

The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “those who were oppressed by the devil” or “many people who were oppressed by the devil” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

95510:38tj3urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὁ Θεὸς ἦν μετ’ αὐτοῦ1

The idiom “was with him” means “was helping him.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

95610:39kal7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The words “We” and “we” here refer to Peter and the apostles and believers who were with Jesus when he was on earth. The words “he” and “him” here refer to Jesus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

95710:39sx3aἔν & τῇ χώρᾳ τῶν Ἰουδαίων1

This refers mainly to Judea at that time.

95810:39z4dtκρεμάσαντες ἐπὶ ξύλου1

This is another expression that refers to crucifixion. Alternate translation: “nailing him to a wooden cross”

95910:40cxj5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomτοῦτον ὁ Θεὸς ἤγειρεν1

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “God caused him to live again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

96010:40w8kvτῇ τρίτῃ ἡμέρᾳ1

“the third day after he died”

96110:40iz8lἔδωκεν αὐτὸν ἐμφανῆ γενέσθαι1

“permitted many people to see him after he was raised from the dead”

96210:41q7d1ἐκ νεκρῶν1

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld.

96310:42ik96rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “us” includes Peter and believers. It excludes his audience. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

96410:42zne50

Peter finishes his speech to everyone in the house of Cornelius, which he began in Acts 10:34.

96510:42c1akrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὅτι οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ ὡρισμένος ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that God chose this Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

96610:42ws4trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjζώντων καὶ νεκρῶν1

This refers to people who are still living and people who have died. Alternate translation: “the people who are alive and the people who are dead” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

96710:43ub5dτούτῳ πάντες οἱ προφῆται μαρτυροῦσιν1

“All the prophets bear witness to Jesus”

96810:43vq6lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν λαβεῖν & πάντα τὸν πιστεύοντα εἰς αὐτὸν1

This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will forgive the sins of everyone who believes in Jesus because of what Jesus has done” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

96910:43y6d1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιὰ τοῦ ὀνόματος αὐτοῦ1

Here “his name” refers to the actions of Jesus. His name means God who saves. Alternate translation: “through what Jesus has done for them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

97010:44cz7xἐπέπεσε τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον1

Here the word “fell” means “happened suddenly.” Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit suddenly came”

97110:44wf7uπάντας τοὺς ἀκούοντας1

Here “all” refers to all the Gentiles at the house who were listening to Peter.

97210:45j6wtἡ δωρεὰ τοῦ Ἁγίου Πνεύματος1

This refers to the Holy Spirit himself who was given to them.

97310:45g161rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῦ Ἁγίου Πνεύματος ἐκκέχυται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God poured out the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

97410:45mqs8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐκκέχυται1

The Holy Spirit is spoken of as if he were something that could be poured out upon people. It implies a generous amount. Alternate translation: “generously given” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

97510:45je22ἡ δωρεὰ1

“the free gift”

97610:45f33nκαὶ ἐπὶ τὰ ἔθνη1

Here “also” refers to the fact that the Holy Spirit had already been given to the Jewish believers.

97710:46w58d0

The words “he” and “him” refer to Peter.

97810:46mpg50

This is the end of the part of the story about Cornelius.

97910:46p6paαὐτῶν λαλούντων γλώσσαις, καὶ μεγαλυνόντων τὸν Θεόν1

These were known spoken languages that caused the Jews to acknowledge that the Gentiles were indeed praising God.

98010:47u5d5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionμήτι τὸ ὕδωρ δύναται κωλῦσαί τις τοῦ μὴ βαπτισθῆναι τούτους, οἵτινες τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον ἔλαβον, ὡς καὶ ἡμεῖς1

Peter uses this question to convince the Jewish Christians that the Gentile believers should be baptized. Alternate translation: “No one should keep water from these people! We should baptize them because they have received … we!” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

98110:48t2y9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπροσέταξεν & αὐτοὺς & βαπτισθῆναι1

It is implied that the Jewish Christians were the ones who would baptize them. Alternate translation: “Peter commanded the Gentile believers to allow the Jewish Christians to baptize them” or “Peter commanded the Jewish Christians to baptize them” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

98210:48ax6xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ βαπτισθῆναι1

Here “in the name of Jesus Christ” expresses that the reason for their baptism was that they believed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “be baptized as believers in Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

98311:introhva50

Acts 11 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“The Gentiles also had received the word of God”

Almost all of the first believers were Jewish. Luke writes in this chapter that many Gentiles started to believe in Jesus. They believed that the message about Jesus was true and so began to “receive the word of God.” Some of the believers in Jerusalem did not believe that Gentiles could truly follow Jesus, so Peter went to them and told them what had happened to him and how he had seen the Gentiles receive the Word of God and receive the Holy Spirit.

98411:1uw5m0

This is the beginning of a new event in the story.

98511:1j7f70

Peter arrives in Jerusalem and begins talking to the Jews there.

98611:1ab75rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventδὲ1

This marks a new part of the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

98711:1f1mdοἱ & ἀδελφοὶ1

The phrase “brothers” here refers to the believers in Judea.

98811:1q8wlοἱ ὄντες κατὰ τὴν Ἰουδαίαν1

“who were in the province of Judea”

98911:1w3rxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐδέξαντο τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This expression refers to the fact that the Gentiles believed the gospel message about Jesus. Alternate translation: “believed the message of God about Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

99011:2kb4mἀνέβη & εἰς Ἰερουσαλήμ1

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of coming up to Jerusalem and going down from it.

99111:2yar6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyοἱ ἐκ περιτομῆς1

This is a reference to some of the Jews who believed that every believer must be circumcised. Alternate translation: “some Jewish believers in Jerusalem who wanted all followers of Christ to be circumcized” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

99211:3ah7vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἄνδρας, ἀκροβυστίαν ἔχοντας1

The phrase “uncircumcised men” refers to Gentiles. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

99311:3t9e1συνέφαγεν αὐτοῖς1

It was against Jewish tradition for Jews to eat with Gentiles.

99411:4lrh60

Peter responds to the Jews by telling them about his vision and about what had happened at Cornelius house.

99511:4bfp5ἀρξάμενος & Πέτρος ἐξετίθετο1

Peter did not criticize the Jewish believers but reacted in a friendly explanatory manner.

99611:4nuy6καθεξῆς1

“exactly what happened”

99711:5j37pὡς ὀθόνην μεγάλην1

The container holding the animals had the appearance of a large square piece of cloth. See how you translated this in Acts 10:11.

99811:5axu6τέσσαρσιν ἀρχαῖς1

“with its four corners suspended” or “with its four corners higher than the rest of it.” See how you translated this in Acts 10:11.

99911:6lbh4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτετράποδα τῆς γῆς1

From Peters response, it can be implied that the law of Moses commanded the Jews not to eat some of them. See how you translated a similar phrase in Acts 10:12. Alternate translation: “animals and birds that the Mosaic laws forbade Jews to eat” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

100011:6ew64θηρία1

This probably refer to the animals people do not or can not tame or control.

100111:6t36iἑρπετὰ1

These are reptiles.

100211:7i5icrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἤκουσα & φωνῆς1

The person speaking is not specified. The “voice” was probably God, although it could possibly have been an angel from God. See how you translated “a voice” in Acts 10:13. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

100311:8m4muμηδαμῶς1

“I will not do that.” See how you translated this in Acts 10:14.

100411:8m5p5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκοινὸν ἢ ἀκάθαρτον οὐδέποτε εἰσῆλθεν εἰς τὸ στόμα μου1

Apparently the animals in the sheet were animals which the Jewish law in the Old Testament forbade the Jews to eat. This can be said in a positive way. Alternate translation: “I have eaten only meat from holy and clean animals” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

100511:8kj91ἀκάθαρτον1

In the Old Testament Jewish law, a person became ritually “unclean” in various ways, such as eating certain forbidden animals.

100611:9n2gnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἃ ὁ Θεὸς ἐκαθάρισεν, σὺ μὴ κοίνου1

This refers to the animals in the sheet. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

100711:10xrq6τοῦτο & ἐγένετο ἐπὶ τρίς1

It is not likely that everything was repeated three times. This probably means that “What God has cleansed, do not call it defiled” was repeated three times. However, it may be best to simply say “This happened three times” instead of trying to explain in detail. See how you translated “This happened three times” in Acts 10:16.

100811:11ias8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here “we” refers to Peter and the believers in Joppa. It does not include his current audience in Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

100911:11b2qvἰδοὺ1

This word alerts us to the new people in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this.

101011:11k44jἐξαυτῆς1

“immediately” or “at that exact moment”

101111:11qwn5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀπεσταλμένοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone had sent them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

101211:12lf6mμηδὲν διακρίναντα1

“that I should not be concerned that they were Gentiles”

101311:12cf8xἦλθον & σὺν ἐμοὶ & οἱ ἓξ ἀδελφοὶ οὗτοι1

“These six brothers went with me to Caesarea”

101411:12xrc6οἱ ἓξ ἀδελφοὶ οὗτοι1

“These six Jewish believers”

101511:12w6iaεἰς τὸν οἶκον τοῦ ἀνδρός1

This refers to the house of Cornelius.

101611:13few6Σίμωνα, τὸν ἐπικαλούμενον Πέτρον1

“Simon who is also called Peter.” See how you translated the same phrase in Acts 10:32.

101711:14hpr2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπᾶς ὁ οἶκός σου1

This refers to all the people in the household. Alternate translation: “everyone who lives in your house” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

101811:15qy12rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “us” refers to Peter, the apostles, and any of the Jewish believers who had received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

101911:15a8jwἐν & τῷ ἄρξασθαί με λαλεῖν, ἐπέπεσεν τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς1

This implies that Peter had not finished speaking but had intended to say more.

102011:15ak2prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἐπέπεσεν τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς, ὥσπερ καὶ ἐφ’ ἡμᾶς ἐν ἀρχῇ1

Peter leaves out some things to keep the story short. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit came on the Gentile believers, just as he came on the Jewish believers at Pentecost” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

102111:15th4mἐν ἀρχῇ1

Peter is referring to the day of Pentecost.

102211:16v116rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὑμεῖς & βαπτισθήσεσθε ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will baptize you in the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

102311:17pe42rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The word “them” refers to Cornelius and his Gentile guests and household. Peter does not call them Gentiles in his account to the Jewish believers at Jerusalem. The word “they” refers to the Jewish believers to whom Peter spoke. The word “us” includes all of the Jewish believers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

102411:17e5760

Peter finishes his speech (which he began in Acts 11:4) to the Jews about his vision and about what had happened at the house of Cornelius.

102511:17u3nurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionεἰ οὖν τὴν ἴσην δωρεὰν ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς, ὡς καὶ ἡμῖν πιστεύσασιν ἐπὶ τὸν Κύριον Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν, ἐγὼ τίς ἤμην δυνατὸς κωλῦσαι τὸν Θεόν1

Peter uses this question to emphasize that he was only obeying God. Alternate translation: “Since God gave to them … I decided that I could not oppose God!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

102611:17y7agτὴν ἴσην δωρεὰν1

Peter refers to the gift of the Holy Spirit.

102711:18nr7gἡσύχασαν1

“they did not argue with Peter”

102811:18z3fyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsκαὶ τοῖς ἔθνεσιν ὁ Θεὸς τὴν μετάνοιαν εἰς ζωὴν ἔδωκεν1

“God has given repentance that leads to life to the Gentiles also.” Here “life” refers to eternal life. The abstract nouns “repentance” and “life” can be translated as the verbs “repent” and “live.” Alternate translation: “God has allowed the Gentiles also to repent and live eternally” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

102911:19zck40

Luke tells about what happened to the believers who fled after the stoning of Stephen.

103011:19bwb8rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventοὖν1

This introduces the new part of the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

103111:19m3i7οἱ & διασπαρέντες ἀπὸ τῆς θλίψεως τῆς γενομένης ἐπὶ Στεφάνῳ, διῆλθον1

The Jews began persecuting Jesus followers because Stephen had said and done things that the Jews did not like. Because of this persecution, many of Jesus followers left Jerusalem and went to many different places.

103211:19w5jnοἱ & διῆλθον1

“those went in many different directions”

103311:19whm6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιασπαρέντες ἀπὸ τῆς θλίψεως1

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom the Jews had been persecuting and so had left Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

103411:19vx4bτῆς θλίψεως τῆς γενομένης ἐπὶ Στεφάνῳ1

the persecution that happened because of what Stephen had said and done

103511:19c8haεἰ μὴ μόνον Ἰουδαίοις1

The believers thought Gods message was for the Jewish people, and not for the Gentiles.

103611:20mww9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐλάλουν καὶ πρὸς τοὺς Ἑλληνιστάς1

These Greek-speaking people were Gentiles, not Jews. Alternate translation: “also spoke to Gentiles who spoke Greek” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

103711:21aj5grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἦν χεὶρ Κυρίου μετ’ αὐτῶν1

Gods hand signifies his powerful help. Alternate translation: “God was powerfully enabling those believers to preach effectively” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

103811:21n9pqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπέστρεψεν ἐπὶ τὸν Κύριον1

Here “turned to the Lord” is a metaphor for starting to obey the Lord. Alternate translation: “and they repented of their sins and began to obey the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

103911:22mrg90

In these verses, the word “he” refers to Barnabas. The word “they” refers to the believers of the church at Jerusalem. The words “them” and “their” refer to the new believers (Acts 11:20).

104011:22i7vsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὦτα τῆς ἐκκλησίας1

Here “ears” refers to the believers hearing about the event. Alternate translation: “the believers in the church” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

104111:23b7w7ἰδὼν τὴν χάριν τὴν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“saw how God acted kindly toward the believers”

104211:23m1q9παρεκάλει πάντας1

“he kept on encouraging them”

104311:23qlu4προσμένειν τῷ Κυρίῳ1

“to remain faithful to the Lord” or “to continue to trust in the Lord”

104411:23bz6wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῇ προθέσει τῆς καρδίας1

Here the “heart” refers to a persons will and desire. Alternate translation: “with all their will” or “with complete commitment” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

104511:24he5zπλήρης Πνεύματος Ἁγίου1

The Holy Spirit controlled Barnabas as he obeyed the Holy Spirit.

104611:24e57trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπροσετέθη ὄχλος ἱκανὸς τῷ Κυρίῳ1

Here “added” means they came to believe the same thing as the others. Alternate translation: “many more people also believed in the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

104711:25yhl60

Here the word “he” refers to Barnabas and “him” refers to Saul.

104811:25dm92ἐξῆλθεν & εἰς Ταρσὸν1

“out to the city of Tarsus”

104911:26hu2gκαὶ εὑρὼν1

It progably took some time and effort for Barnabas to locate Saul.

105011:26wf5lrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventἐγένετο1

This begins a new event in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

105111:26w4dzαὐτοῖς & συναχθῆναι ἐν τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ1

“Barnabas and Saul gathered together with the church”

105211:26x8gxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveχρηματίσαι & ἐν Ἀντιοχείᾳ τοὺς μαθητὰς, Χριστιανούς1

This implies that other people called the believers by this name. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The people of Antioch called the disciples Christians” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

105311:26r6slπρώτως ἐν Ἀντιοχείᾳ1

“for the first time in Antioch”

105411:27pz7yrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Here Luke tells background information about a prophecy in Antioch. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

105511:27h6zwδὲ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story-line.

105611:27d8bbκατῆλθον ἀπὸ Ἱεροσολύμων & εἰς Ἀντιόχειαν1

Jerusalem was higher in elevation than Antioch, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of going up to Jerusalem or going down from it.

105711:28wyk8ὀνόματι Ἅγαβος1

“whose name was Agabus”

105811:28q3tlἐσήμανεν διὰ τοῦ Πνεύματος1

“the Holy Spirit enabled him to prophesy”

105911:28l3izλιμὸν μεγάλην μέλλειν ἔσεσθαι1

“a great shortage of food would happen”

106011:28pd2trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleἐφ’ ὅλην τὴν οἰκουμένην1

This was a generalization referring to the part of the world that they were interested in. Alternate translation: “all over the inhabited world” or “throughout the Roman Empire” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

106111:28jmc5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐπὶ Κλαυδίου1

Lukes audience would know that Claudius was the emperor of Rome at that time. Alternate translation: “when Claudius was the Roman emperor” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

106211:29lhp80

The words “They” and “they” refer to the believers in the church in Antioch (Acts 11:27).

106311:29de92δὲ1

This word means marks an event that happened because of something else that happened first. In this case, they sent money because of Agabus prophesy or the famine.

106411:29rk9zκαθὼς εὐπορεῖτό τις1

The richer people sent more; the poorer people sent less.

106511:29up7aἐν τῇ Ἰουδαίᾳ ἀδελφοῖς1

“the believers in Judea”

106611:30l8i8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomδιὰ χειρὸς Βαρναβᾶ καὶ Σαύλου1

The hand is a synecdoche for the action of the whole person. Alternate translation: “by having Barnabas and Saul take to them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

106712:introf66j0

Acts 12 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 12 tells what happened to King Herod while Barnabas was bringing Saul back from Tarsus and they were delivering money from Antioch Jerusalem (11:25-30). He killed many of the leaders of the church, and he put Peter in prison. After God helped Peter escape the prison, Herod killed the prison guards, and then God killed Herod. In the last verse of the chapter, Luke tells how Barnabas and Saul return to Antioch.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Personification

The “word of God” is spoken of as if it were a living thing that could grow and become many. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/wordofgod]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

106812:1u4w7rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

This is background information about Herods killing James. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

106912:1ua9p0

This begins the new persecution, first of James death and then of Peters imprisonment and then release.

107012:1ti1yrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventδὲ1

This begins a new part of the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

107112:1f2grκατ’ ἐκεῖνον & τὸν καιρὸν1

This refers to the time of the famine.

107212:1zy6yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐπέβαλεν & τὰς χεῖρας & τινας1

This means Herod had the believers arrested. See how you translated this in Acts 5:18. Alternate translation: “sent soldiers to arrest” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

107312:1u1gvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτινας τῶν ἀπὸ τῆς ἐκκλησίας1

Only James and Peter are specified, which implies that these were leaders of the church in Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

107412:1s7lcκακῶσαί1

“in order to cause the believers to suffer”

107512:2aw4tἀνεῖλεν δὲ Ἰάκωβον, τὸν ἀδελφὸν Ἰωάννου, μαχαίρῃ1

This tells the manner in which James was killed.

107612:2r1zvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀνεῖλεν & Ἰάκωβον1

Possible meanings are (1) Herod himself killed James or (2) Herod ordered someone to kill James. Alternate translation: “Herod gave the order and they killed James” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

107712:3pms70

Here the word “he” refers to Herod (Acts 12:1).

107812:3v4agἰδὼν δὲ ὅτι ἀρεστόν ἐστιν τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1

“When Herod realized that putting James to death pleased the Jewish leaders”

107912:3wpm1ἀρεστόν ἐστιν τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1

“made the Jewish leaders happy”

108012:3cu7sὅτι & ἐστιν1

“Herod did this” or “This happened”

108112:3ly66ἡμέραι τῶν Ἀζύμων1

This refers to a time of Jewish religious feast time during the Passover season. Alternate translation: “the festival when the Jewish people ate bread without yeast”

108212:4pps1τέσσαρσιν τετραδίοις στρατιωτῶν1

“four groups of soldiers.” Each squad had four soldiers that guarded Peter, one group at a time. The groups divided the 24 hour day into four shifts. Each time two soldiers would have been at his side and the other two soldiers by the entrance.

108312:4i23aβουλόμενος & ἀναγαγεῖν αὐτὸν τῷ λαῷ1

“Herod planned to judge Peter in the presence of the people” or “Herod planned to judge Peter before the Jewish people”

108412:5v2yzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὁ μὲν οὖν Πέτρος ἐτηρεῖτο ἐν τῇ φυλακῇ1

This implies that the soldiers continually guarded Peter in prison. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “So the soldiers guarded Peter in the prison” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

108512:5f8qcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπροσευχὴ & ἦν ἐκτενῶς γινομένη ὑπὸ τῆς ἐκκλησίας πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν περὶ αὐτοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the group of believers in Jerusalem earnestly prayed to God for him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

108612:5g189ἐκτενῶς1

continuously and with dedication

108712:6km83rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἤμελλεν προαγαγεῖν αὐτὸν ὁ Ἡρῴδης τῇ νυκτὶ ἐκείνῃ1

That Herod planned to execute him can be clarified. Alternate translation: “The happened on the day before Herod was going to bring Peter out from prison to put him on trial and then to execute him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

108812:6g2bhδεδεμένος ἁλύσεσιν δυσίν1

“tied with two chains” or “fastened with two chains.” Each chain would have been attached to one of the two guards who stayed beside Peter.

108912:6aqv1ἐτήρουν τὴν φυλακήν1

“were guarding the prison doors”

109012:7kk4i0

The words “him” and “his” refer to Peter.

109112:7i7g3ἰδοὺ1

This word alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

109212:7lu25ἐπέστη1

“next to him” or “beside him”

109312:7z2i1ἐν τῷ οἰκήματι1

“in the prison room”

109412:7dc5bπατάξας & τοῦ Πέτρου1

“The angel tapped Peter” or “The angel poked Peter.” Peter was evidently sleeping deeply enough that this was required to wake him.

109512:7dqn9ἐξέπεσαν αὐτοῦ αἱ ἁλύσεις ἐκ τῶν χειρῶν1

The angel caused the chains to fall from Peter without touching them.

109612:8hxt9ἐποίησεν & οὕτως1

“Peter did what the angel told him to do” or “Peter obeyed”

109712:8abchλέγει αὐτῷ1

“The angel said to Peter”

109812:9gx770

Here the word “He” refers to Peter. The words “they” and “They” refer to Peter and the angel.

109912:9abciἠκολούθει1

“Peter followed the angel”

110012:9sh8kοὐκ ᾔδει1

“He did not understand”

110112:9p9tyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀληθές ἐστιν τὸ γινόμενον διὰ τοῦ ἀγγέλου1

This could be changed to active form. Alternate translation: “the actions of the angel were real” or “what the angel did truly happened” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

110212:10r7gyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδιελθόντες δὲ πρώτην φυλακὴν καὶ δευτέραν1

It is implied that the soldiers were not able to see Peter and the angel as they walked by. Alternate translation: “The first and second guards did not see them as they passed by, and then” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

110312:10c18qδιελθόντες1

“had walked by”

110412:10e36src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisκαὶ δευτέραν1

The word “guard” is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “and the second guard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

110512:10y86kἦλθαν ἐπὶ τὴν πύλην τὴν σιδηρᾶν1

“Peter and the angel arrived at the iron gate”

110612:10if3cτὴν φέρουσαν εἰς τὴν πόλιν1

“that opened to the city” or “that went from the prison to the city”

110712:10i3strc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsἥτις αὐτομάτη ἠνοίγη αὐτοῖς1

Here “by itself” means neither Peter nor the angel opened it. Alternate translation: “the gate swung open for them” or “the gate opened itself for them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

110812:10j268προῆλθον ῥύμην μίαν1

“walked along a street”

110912:10fl89εὐθέως ἀπέστη & ἀπ’ αὐτοῦ1

“left Peter suddenly” or “suddenly disappeared”

111012:11wlb6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomκαὶ ὁ Πέτρος ἐν ἑαυτῷ γενόμενος1

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “When Peter became fully awake and alert” or “When Peter became aware that what had happened was real” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

111112:11ue4krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐξείλατό με ἐκ χειρὸς Ἡρῴδου1

Here “the hand of Herod” refers to “Herods hold” or “Herods plans.” Alternate translation: “brought me from the harm Herod had planned for me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

111212:11hw63ἐξείλατό με1

“rescued me”

111312:11p739rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheπάσης τῆς προσδοκίας τοῦ λαοῦ τῶν Ἰουδαίων1

Here “the people of the Jews” probably referred mainly to the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “all that the Jewish leaders thought would happen to me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

111412:12tfh3συνιδών1

He became aware that God had rescued him.

111512:12ux4vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἸωάννου, τοῦ ἐπικαλουμένου Μάρκου1

John was also called Mark. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “John, whom people also called Mark” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

111612:13x5fg0

Here the words “she” and “her” all refer to the servant girl Rhoda. Here the words they” and “They” refer to the people who were inside praying (Acts 12:12).

111712:13pfn7κρούσαντος & αὐτοῦ1

“Peter knocked.” Tapping on the door was a normal Jewish custom to let others know you wish to visit them. You may need to change this to fit your culture.

111812:13c634τὴν θύραν τοῦ πυλῶνος1

“at the outer door” or “at the door of the entrance from the street to the courtyard”

111912:13khq1προσῆλθε & ὑπακοῦσαι1

“came to the gate to ask who was knocking”

112012:14y2ffἀπὸ τῆς χαρᾶς1

“because she was so joyful” or “being overly excited”

112112:14m3m7οὐκ ἤνοιξεν τὸν πυλῶνα1

“did not open the door” or “forgot to open the door”

112212:14ky3pεἰσδραμοῦσα1

You may prefer to say “went running into the room in the house”

112312:14yq3rἀπήγγειλεν1

“she told them” or “she said”

112412:14a19kἑστάναι & πρὸ τοῦ πυλῶνος1

“standing outside the door.” Peter was still standing outside.

112512:15ybz7μαίνῃ1

The people not only did not believe her, but rebuked her by saying she was crazy. Alternate translation: “You are crazy”

112612:15xnm2ἡ & διϊσχυρίζετο οὕτως ἔχειν1

“she insisted that what she said was true”

112712:15en8bοἱ & ἔλεγον1

“They answered”

112812:15qa8mὁ ἄγγελός ἐστιν αὐτοῦ1

“What you have seen is Peters angel.” Some Jews believed in guardian angels and may have thought that Peters angel had come to them.

112912:16wwg10

Here the words “they” and “them” refer to the people in the house. The words “He” and “he” refer to Peter.

113012:16bi6lὁ δὲ Πέτρος ἐπέμενεν κρούων1

The word “continued” means that Peter kept knocking the entire time those inside were talking.

113112:17jx1aἀπαγγείλατε & ταῦτα1

“Tell these things”

113212:17jf16τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς1

“the other believers”

113312:18blx50

The word “him” here refers to Peter. The word “he” refers to Herod.

113412:18ail9δὲ1

This word is used to mark a break in the story-line. Time has passed; it is now the next day.

113512:18iqv4γενομένης & ἡμέρας1

“in the morning”

113612:18zl7irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesἦν τάραχος οὐκ ὀλίγος ἐν τοῖς στρατιώταις, τί ἄρα ὁ Πέτρος ἐγένετο1

This phrase is used to emphasize what really happened. This could be said in a positive way. Alternate translation: “there was a great disturbance among the soldiers over what had happened to Peter” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

113712:18ilz4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἦν τάραχος οὐκ ὀλίγος ἐν τοῖς στρατιώταις, τί ἄρα ὁ Πέτρος ἐγένετο1

The abstract noun “disturbance” can be expressed with the words “disturbed” or “upset.” Alternate translation: “the soldiers were very disturbed about what had happened to Peter” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

113812:19twr1Ἡρῴδης δὲ ἐπιζητήσας αὐτὸν καὶ μὴ εὑρὼν1

“After Herod searched for Peter and could not find him”

113912:19pz6vἩρῴδης δὲ ἐπιζητήσας αὐτὸν1

Possible meanings are that (1) “when Herod heard Peter was missing, he went himself to search the prison” or (2) “when Herod heard Peter was missing, he sent other soldiers to search the prison.”

114012:19c69iἀνακρίνας τοὺς φύλακας, ἐκέλευσεν ἀπαχθῆναι1

It was the normal punishment for the Roman government to kill the guards if their prisoner escaped.

114112:19br16καὶ κατελθὼν1

The phrase “went down” is used here because Caesarea is lower in elevation than Judea.

114212:20n2lw0

Luke continues with another event in Herods life.

114312:20aip7rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-neweventδὲ1

This word is used here to mark the next event in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

114412:20gxs4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleὁμοθυμαδὸν & παρῆσαν πρὸς αὐτόν1

Here the word “They” is a generalization. It is unlikely that all the people of Tyre and Sidon went to Herod. Alternate translation: “Men representing the people of Tyre and Sidon went together to talk with Herod” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

114512:20t6miπείσαντες Βλάστον1

“These men persuaded Blastus”

114612:20qsg4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΒλάστον1

Blastus was an assistant to or an officer of King Herod. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

114712:20l5r1ᾐτοῦντο εἰρήνην1

“these men requested peace”

114812:20j253rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὸ τρέφεσθαι αὐτῶν τὴν χώραν ἀπὸ τῆς βασιλικῆς1

They probably purchased this food. Alternate translation: “the people of Tyre and Sidon bought all their food from the people that Herod ruled” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

114912:20dy51rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὸ τρέφεσθαι αὐτῶν1

It is implied that Herod restricted this supply of food because he was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

115012:21e3w9τακτῇ & ἡμέρᾳ1

This was probably the day on which Herod agreed to meet with the representatives. Alternate translation: “On the day when Herod agreed to meet them”

115112:21kv7gἐσθῆτα βασιλικὴν1

expensive clothing that would demonstrate he was the king

115212:21g6irκαθίσας ἐπὶ τοῦ βήματος1

This was where Herod formally addressed people who came to see him.

115312:22ze1s0

This is the end of the part of the story about Herod.

115412:23b4bcπαραχρῆμα & ἄγγελος1

“Right away an angel” or “While the people were praising Herod, an angel”

115512:23b5s9ἐπάταξεν αὐτὸν1

“afflicted Herod” or “caused Herod to become very ill”

115612:23iw57οὐκ ἔδωκεν τὴν δόξαν τῷ Θεῷ1

Herod let those people worship him instead of telling them to worship God.

115712:23d419rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγενόμενος σκωληκόβρωτος, ἐξέψυξεν1

Here “worms” refers to worms inside the body, probably intestinal worms. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “worms ate Herods insides and he died” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

115812:24j2unrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory0

Verse 24 continues the history from verse 23. Verse 25 continues the history from 11:30. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

115912:24m1swrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ & λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ ηὔξανεν καὶ ἐπληθύνετο1

The word of God is spoken of as if it was a living plant that was able to grow and reproduce. Alternate translation: “the message of God spread to more places and more people believed in him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

116012:24wn8mὁ & λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“the message God sent about Jesus”

116112:25pv6arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπληρώσαντες τὴν διακονίαν1

This refers back to when they brought money from the believers at Antioch in Acts 11:29-30. Alternate translation: “delivered the money to the church leaders in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

116212:25t7d8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὑπέστρεψαν εἰς Ἰερουσαλὴμ1

They went back to Antioch from Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “Barnabas and Saul returned to Antioch” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

116313:introrlh60

Acts 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the three quotes from Psalms in 13:33-35.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 13:41.

The chapter is where the second half of the Book of Acts begins. Luke writes more about Paul than about Peter, and it describes how it is the Gentiles and not the Jews to whom the believers tell the message about Jesus.

Special concepts in this chapter

A light for the Gentiles

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. The Jews considered all Gentiles as walking in darkness, but Paul and Barnabas spoke of telling the Gentiles about Jesus as if they were going to bring them physical light. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

116413:1ce7src://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Verse 1 gives background information about the people in the church at Antioch. Here the first word “they” probably refers to these five leaders but may also include the other believers. The next words “they” and “their” probably refer to the other three leaders not including Barnabas and Saul but could include other believers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

116513:1qa2i0

Luke begins to tell about the mission trips on which the church at Antioch send Barnabas and Saul.

116613:1rej8δὲ ἐν Ἀντιοχείᾳ κατὰ τὴν οὖσαν ἐκκλησίαν1

“At that time in the church at Antioch”

116713:1srw6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΣυμεὼν & Νίγερ & Λούκιος & Μαναήν1

These are mens names. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

116813:1u48cἩρῴδου τοῦ τετράρχου σύντροφος1

Manaen was probably Herods playmate or close friend growing up.

116913:2ifb9ἀφορίσατε & μο1

“Appoint to serve me”

117013:2j6ymπροσκέκλημαι αὐτούς1

The verb here means that God chose them to do this work.

117113:3ku45rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionἐπιθέντες τὰς χεῖρας αὐτοῖς1

“laid their hands on these men whom God had set apart for his service.” This act showed that the leaders agreed that the Holy Spirit had called Barnabas and Saul to do this work. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

117213:3p1usἀπέλυσαν1

“sent those men off” or “sent those men off to do the work the Holy Spirit told them to do”

117313:4br2m0

Here the words “they,” “They,” and “their” refer to Barnabas and Silas.

117413:4mt3hοὖν1

This word marks an event that happened because of a previous event. In this case, the previous event is Barnabas and Saul being set apart by the Holy Spirit.

117513:4abcjαὐτοὶ & ἐκπεμφθέντες1

“Barnabas and Saul were sent out”

117613:4iyh8κατῆλθον1

The phrase “went down” is used here because Seleucia is lower in elevation than Antioch.

117713:4d1q5Σελεύκιαν1

a city by the sea

117813:5at85Σαλαμῖνι1

The city of Salamis was on Cyprus Island.

117913:5ct8brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheκατήγγελλον τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“Word of God” here is a synecdoche for “message of God.” Alternate translation: “proclaimed the message of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

118013:5p5t3συναγωγαῖς τῶν Ἰουδαίων1

Possible meanings are that (1) “there were multiple Jewish synagogues in the city of Salamis where Barnabas and Saul preached” or (2) “Barnabas and Saul started at the synagogue at Salamis and continued to preach in all the synagogues they found while they traveled around the Island of Cyprus.”

118113:5sxw6εἶχον δὲ καὶ Ἰωάννην, ὑπηρέτην1

“John Mark went with them and was helping them”

118213:5ukx2ὑπηρέτην1

“helper”

118313:6h9he0

Here the word “they” refers to Paul, Silas, and John Mark.The words “This man” refer to “Sergius Paulus.” The first word “he” refers to Sergius Paulus, the proconsul; the second word “he” refers to Elymas (also called Bar-Jesus), the magician.

118413:6ja1iὅλην τὴν νῆσον1

They crossed from one side of the island to the other and shared the gospel message in each town they passed through.

118513:6cl2zΠάφου1

a major city on Cyprus island where the proconsul lived

118613:6zf3bεὗρον1

Here “found” means they came upon him without looking for him. Alternate translation: “they met” or “they came upon”

118713:6xe7hἄνδρα, τινὰ μάγον1

“a particular person who practices witchcraft” or “a person who practices supernatural magic arts”

118813:6ak38rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesᾧ ὄνομα Βαριησοῦς1

“Bar Jesus” means “Son of Jesus.” There is no relation between this man and Jesus Christ. Jesus was a common name at that time. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

118913:7bee2σὺν1

“was often with” or “was often in the company of”

119013:7s1suἀνθυπάτῳ1

This was a governor in charge of a Roman province. Alternate translation: “governor”

119113:7h5xxrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundἀνδρὶ συνετῷ1

This is background information about Sergius Paulus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

119213:7abckπροσκαλεσάμενος1

“The proconsul summoned”

119313:8lp2urc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἘλύμας ὁ μάγος1

This was Bar-Jesus, who was also called “the magician.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

119413:8qw4jοὕτως & μεθερμηνεύεται τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ1

“that was what he was called in Greek”

119513:8n23sἀνθίστατο & αὐτοῖς & ζητῶν διαστρέψαι1

“resisted them by trying to turn” or “attempted to stop them by trying to turn”

119613:8w2xtrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorζητῶν διαστρέψαι τὸν ἀνθύπατον ἀπὸ τῆς πίστεως1

Here “to turn … away from” is a metaphor for convincing someone to not do something. Alternate translation: “attempted to persuade the governor not to believe the gospel message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

119713:9gws20

The word “him” refers to the magician Elymas, who is also called Bar Jesus (Acts 13:6-8).

119813:9nau10

While on the island of Paphos, Paul begins to talk to Elymas.

119913:9ey6drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveΣαῦλος & ὁ καὶ Παῦλος1

“Saul” as his Jewish name, and “Paul” was his Roman name. Since he was speaking to a Roman official, he used his Roman name. Alternate translation: “Saul, who now called himself Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

120013:9xjy9ἀτενίσας εἰς αὐτὸν1

“looked at him intensely”

120113:10d2pkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyυἱὲ διαβόλου1

Paul is saying the man is acting like the devil. Alternate translation: “You are like the devil” or “You act like the devil” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

120213:10r8x2ὦ πλήρης παντὸς δόλου καὶ πάσης ῥᾳδιουργίας1

“you are always intent in causing others to believe what is not true using falsehood and always doing what is wrong”

120313:10pyu7ῥᾳδιουργίας1

In this context it means to be lazy and not diligent in following Gods law.

120413:10hlq9ἐχθρὲ πάσης δικαιοσύνης1

Paul is grouping Elymas with the devil. Just as the devil is an enemy of God and is against righteousness, so also was Elymas.

120513:10bc9prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὐ παύσῃ διαστρέφων τὰς ὁδοὺς τοῦ Κυρίου τὰς εὐθείας1

Paul uses this question to rebuke Elymas for opposing God. Alternate translation: “You are always saying that the truth about the Lord God is false!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

120613:10p8sarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomτὰς ὁδοὺς τοῦ Κυρίου τὰς εὐθείας1

Here “straight paths” refer to the ways that are true. Alternate translation: “the true ways of the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

120713:11k51g0

The words “you” and “him” refer to Elymas the magician. The word “he” refers to the Sergius Paulus, proconsul (governor of Paphos).

120813:11pey70

Paul finishes speaking to Elymas.

120913:11xul9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyχεὶρ Κυρίου ἐπὶ σέ1

Here “hand represents the power of God and “upon you” implies punishment. Alternate translation: “The Lord will punish you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

121013:11rse8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἔσῃ τυφλὸς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will make you blind” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

121113:11w3ghμὴ βλέπων τὸν ἥλιον1

Elymas will be so completely blind that he not even be able to see the sun. Alternate translation: “You will not even see the sun”

121213:11b5b8ἄχρι καιροῦ1

“for a period of time” or “until the time appointed by God”

121313:11t7j1ἔπεσεν ἐπ’ αὐτὸν ἀχλὺς καὶ σκότος1

“the eyes of Elymas became blurry and then dark” or “Elymas started seeing unclearly and then he could not see anything”

121413:11a7esπεριάγων1

“Elymas wandered around” or “Elymas started feeling around and”

121513:12x9flἀνθύπατος1

This was a governor in charge of a Roman province. Alternate translation: “governor”

121613:12pyh7ἐπίστευσεν1

“he believed in Jesus”

121713:12twa8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκπλησσόμενος ἐπὶ τῇ διδαχῇ τοῦ Κυρίου1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the teaching about the Lord amazed him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

121813:13i65trc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Verses 13 and 14 give background information about this part of the story. “Paul and his friends” were Barnabas and John Mark (also called John). From this point on, Saul is called Paul in Acts. Pauls name is listed first which indicates that he had become the leader of the group. It is important to keep this order in the translation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

121913:13rk3k0

This is a new part of the story about Paul in Antioch in Pisidia.

122013:13r9hiδὲ1

This marks the beginning of a new part of the story.

122113:13abclοἱ περὶ, Παῦλον1

This refers to Paul and his companions.

122213:13k4s9ἀναχθέντες & ἀπὸ τῆς Πάφου1

“traveled by sailboat from Paphos”

122313:13h1cbἦλθον εἰς Πέργην τῆς Παμφυλίας1

“arrived in Perga which is in Pamphylia”

122413:13g6l5Ἰωάννης δὲ ἀποχωρήσας ἀπ’ αὐτῶν1

“But John Mark left Paul and Barnabas”

122513:14vrp1Ἀντιόχειαν τὴν Πισιδίαν1

“the city of Antioch in the district of Pisidia”

122613:15dnb4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheμετὰ δὲ τὴν ἀνάγνωσιν τοῦ νόμου καὶ τῶν προφητῶν1

The “law and the prophets” refer to parts of the Jewish scriptures which were read. Alternate translation: “After someone read from the books of the law and the writings of the prophets” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

122713:15z7bhἀπέστειλαν & πρὸς αὐτοὺς λέγοντες1

“told someone to say” or “asked someone to say”

122813:15td4hἀδελφοί1

The term “brothers” is here used by the people in the synagogue to refer to Paul and Barnabas as fellow Jews.

122913:15jru8εἴ τίς ἐστιν ἐν ὑμῖν λόγος παρακλήσεως1

“if you want to say anything to encourage us”

123013:15kj1hλέγετε1

“please speak it” or “please tell it to us”

123113:16tbc4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The first word “he” refers to Paul. The second word “he” refers to God. Here the word “our” refers to Paul and his fellow Jews. The words “they” and “them” refer to the Israelites. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

123213:16p93q0

Paul begins his speech to those in the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch. He begins by talking about things that happened in Israels history.

123313:16i8pzrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionκατασείσας τῇ χειρὶ1

This could refer to moving his hands as a signal that he was ready to speak. Alternate translation: “moved his hands to show that he was about to speak” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

123413:16rh93οἱ φοβούμενοι τὸν Θεόν1

This refers to Gentiles who had converted to Judaism. “you who are not Israelites but who worship God”

123513:16ah55τὸν Θεόν, ἀκούσατε1

“God, listen to me” or “God, listen to what I am about to say”

123613:17se2bὁ Θεὸς τοῦ λαοῦ τούτου Ἰσραὴλ1

“The God the people of Israel worship”

123713:17l9cnτοὺς πατέρας ἡμῶν1

“our ancestors”

123813:17aaj5τὸν λαὸν ὕψωσεν1

“caused them to become very numerous”

123913:17vw4zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyμετὰ βραχίονος ὑψηλοῦ1

This refers to Gods mighty power. Alternate translation: “with great power” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

124013:17b74tἐξ αὐτῆς1

“out from the land of Egypt”

124113:18zv9eἐτροποφόρησεν αὐτοὺς1

This means “he tolerated them.” Some versions have a different word that means “he took care of them.” Alternate translation: “God endured their disobedience” or “God took care of them”

124213:19nvp7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “he” refers to God. The words “their land” refer to the land the seven nations had previously occupied. The word “them” refers to the people of Israel. The word “our” refers to Paul and his audience. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

124313:19h5qgἔθνη1

Here the word “nations” refers to different people groups and not to geographical boundaries.

124413:20m4jdὡς ἔτεσι τετρακοσίοις καὶ πεντήκοντα1

“took more than 450 years to accomplish”

124513:20abcmἔδωκεν1

“God gave them”

124613:20qmc8ἕως Σαμουὴλ προφήτου1

“until the time of the prophet Samuel”

124713:21akg60

The quotation here is from the history of Samuel and from a Psalm of Ethan in the Old Testament.

124813:21yxi8ἔτη τεσσεράκοντα1

“to be their king for forty years”

124913:22z4x3μεταστήσας αὐτὸν1

This expression means God caused Saul to stop being king. Alternate translation: “rejected Saul from being king”

125013:22bsp6ἤγειρεν τὸν Δαυεὶδ αὐτοῖς εἰς βασιλέα1

“God chose David to be their king”

125113:22iyd6βασιλέα1

“the king of Israel” or “the king over the Israelites”

125213:22sw2rᾧ & εἶπεν1

“God said this about David”

125313:22dbu5εὗρον1

“I have observed that”

125413:22mp53rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἄνδρα κατὰ τὴν καρδίαν μου1

This expression means he “is a man who wants what I want.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

125513:23lby60

The quotation here is from the Gospels.

125613:23xj5aτούτου & ἀπὸ τοῦ σπέρματος1

“From Davids descendants.” This is placed at the beginning of the sentence to emphasize that the savior had to be one of Davids descendants (Acts 13:22).

125713:23kc76rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἤγαγεν τῷ Ἰσραὴλ1

This refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “gave to the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

125813:23mk5gκατ’ ἐπαγγελίαν1

“just as God promised he would do”

125913:24abcnπρὸ προσώπου τῆς εἰσόδου αὐτοῦ1

“before the coming of Jesus”

126013:24x892rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsβάπτισμα μετανοίας1

You can translate the word “repentance” as the verb “repent.” Alternate translation: “the baptism to repent” or “the baptism that people requested when they wanted to repent for their sin” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

126113:25vww3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί ἐμὲ ὑπονοεῖτε εἶναι?1

John asked this question to compel the people to think about who he was. Alternate translation: “Think about who I am” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

126213:25rp32rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὐκ εἰμὶ ἐγώ1

John was referring to the Messiah, whom they were expecting to come. Alternate translation: “I am not the Messiah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

126313:25nnl5ἀλλ’ ἰδοὺ1

This emphasizes the importance of what he will say next.

126413:25r1plrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔρχεται μετ’ ἐμὲ1

This also refers to the Messiah. Alternate translation: “The Messiah will soon come” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

126513:25gys2οὗ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἄξιος τὸ ὑπόδημα τῶν ποδῶν λῦσαι1

“I am not worthy even to untie his shoes.” The Messiah is so much greater than John that he did not even feel worthy do the lowest job for him.

126613:26jdp6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The word “they” and “their” refers to the Jews who lived in Jerusalem. Here the word “us” includes Paul and his entire audience in the synagogue. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

126713:26kci9ἀδελφοί, υἱοὶ γένους Ἀβραὰμ, καὶ οἱ ἐν ὑμῖν φοβούμενοι τὸν Θεόν1

Paul addresses his audience of Jews and Gentile converts to Judaism to remind them of their special status as worshiping the true God.

126813:26u6znrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὁ λόγος τῆς σωτηρίας ταύτης ἐξαπεστάλη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has sent the message about this salvation” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

126913:26v6r3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτῆς σωτηρίας ταύτης1

The word “salvation” can be translated with the verb “save.” Alternate translation: “that God will save people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

127013:27psk5τοῦτον ἀγνοήσαντες1

“did not realize that this man Jesus was the one whom God had sent to save them”

127113:27ri1frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὰς φωνὰς τῶν προφητῶν1

Here the word “sayings” represents the message of the prophets. Alternate translation: “the writings of the prophets” or “the message of the prophets” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

127213:27m4tzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὰς & ἀναγινωσκομένας1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which someone reads” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

127313:27rle6τὰς φωνὰς τῶν προφητῶν & ἐπλήρωσαν1

“they actually did just what the prophets said they would do in the books of the prophets”

127413:28v3hw0

Here the word “they” refers to the Jewish people and their religious leaders in Jerusalem. The word him” here refers to Jesus.

127513:28y9j6μηδεμίαν αἰτίαν θανάτου εὑρόντες1

“they did not find any reason why anyone should kill Jesus”

127613:28d4xmᾐτήσαντο Πειλᾶτον1

The word “asked” here is a strong word meaning to demand, beg or plead for.

127713:29sq1jὡς δὲ ἐτέλεσαν πάντα τὰ περὶ αὐτοῦ γεγραμμένα1

“When thy did to Jesus all the things that the prophets said would happen to him”

127813:29m5f1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκαθελόντες ἀπὸ τοῦ ξύλου1

It may be helpful to explicitly say Jesus died before this happened. Alternate translation: “they killed Jesus and then took him down from the cross after he died” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

127913:29vwt4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀπὸ τοῦ ξύλου1

“from the cross.” This was another way people at that time referred to the cross. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

128013:30h5jwὁ δὲ Θεὸς ἤγειρεν αὐτὸν1

“But” indicates a strong contrast between what the people did and what God did.

128113:30mqx8ἤγειρεν αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν1

“raised him from among those who were dead.” To be with “the dead” means that Jesus was dead.

128213:30zsx4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἤγειρεν αὐτὸν1

Here, to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “caused him to live again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

128313:30d14pἐκ νεκρῶν1

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To raise someone from among them speaks of making that person alive again.

128413:31ig7wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὃς ὤφθη ἐπὶ ἡμέρας πλείους τοῖς συναναβᾶσιν αὐτῷ ἀπὸ τῆς Γαλιλαίας εἰς Ἰερουσαλήμ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The disciples who traveled with Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem saw him for many days” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

128513:31g4vlἡμέρας πλείους1

We know from other writings that this period was 40 days. Translate “many days” with a term that would be appropriate for that length of time.

128613:31vqj4νῦν εἰσιν μάρτυρες αὐτοῦ πρὸς τὸν λαόν1

“are now testifying to the people about Jesus” or “are now telling the people about Jesus”

128713:32ipb90

The second quotation here is from the prophet Isaiah.

128813:32y273καὶ1

This word marks an event that happened because of previous event. In this case, the previous event is Gods raising Jesus from the dead.

128913:32hr2gτοὺς πατέρας1

“our ancestors.” Paul is still speaking to the Jews and Gentile converts in the synagogue at Antioch of Pisidia. These were the physical ancestors of the Jews, and the spiritual ancestors of the converts.

129013:33b1uhrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridgeἐκπεπλήρωκεν τοῖς τέκνοις ἡμῶν, ἀναστήσας1

You may need to rearrange the parts of this sentence, which begins in verse 32. “God has fulfilled for us, their children, these promises that he made to our ancestors, by” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge]])

129113:33dy6wτοῖς τέκνοις ἡμῶν1

“for us, who are the children of our ancestors.” Paul is still speaking to the Jews and Gentile converts in the synagogue at Antioch of Pisidia. These were the physical ancestors of the Jews, and the spiritual ancestors of the converts.

129213:33d95nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἀναστήσας Ἰησοῦν1

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “by making Jesus alive again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

129313:33y3tzὡς & ἐν τῷ ψαλμῷ γέγραπται τῷ δευτέρῳ1

“This is what was written in the second Psalm”

129413:33h9irτῷ ψαλμῷ & τῷ δευτέρῳ1

“Psalm 2”

129513:33tla1rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱός & γεγέννηκά σε1

These are important titles that describe the relationship between Jesus and God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

129613:34iy5qὅτι δὲ ἀνέστησεν αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν, μηκέτι μέλλοντα ὑποστρέφειν εἰς διαφθοράν, οὕτως εἴρηκεν1

“God spoke these words about his making Jesus alive again so that he would never die again”

129713:34h3njἐκ νεκρῶν1

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To come back from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

129813:34q3kqτὰ ὅσια & τὰ πιστά1

“certain blessings”

129913:35r1evrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδιότι καὶ ἐν ἑτέρῳ λέγει1

Pauls audience would have understood that this Psalm refers to the Messiah. Alternate translation: “In another Psalm of David, he also says about the Messiah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

130013:35gl8sκαὶ & λέγει1

“David also says.” David is the author of Psalm 16 from which this quotation is taken.

130113:35hvt8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyοὐ δώσεις τὸν Ὅσιόν σου ἰδεῖν διαφθοράν1

The phrase “see decay” is a metonym for “decay.” Alternate translation: “You will not allow the body of your Holy One to rot” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

130213:35ry97οὐ δώσεις1

David is speaking to God here.

130313:36u8vhἰδίᾳ γενεᾷ1

“during his lifetime”

130413:36m5wxὑπηρετήσας τῇ τοῦ Θεοῦ βουλῇ1

“did what God wanted him to do” or “did what pleased God”

130513:36rpb4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismἐκοιμήθη1

This was a polite way to refer to death. Alternate translation: “he died” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

130613:36nwy9προσετέθη πρὸς τοὺς πατέρας αὐτοῦ1

“was buried with his ancestors who had died”

130713:36la5src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyεἶδεν διαφθοράν1

The phrase “experienced decay” is a metonym for “his body decayed.” Alternate translation: “his body rotted” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

130813:37bmw3ὃν δὲ1

“but Jesus whom”

130913:37n9plrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὁ Θεὸς ἤγειρεν1

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “God caused to live again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

131013:37j52xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyοὐκ εἶδεν διαφθοράν1

The phrase “experienced no decay” is a way to say “his body did not decay.” Alternate translation: “did not rot” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

131113:38ki8q0

Here the word “him” refers to Jesus.

131213:38yg35γνωστὸν & ἔστω ὑμῖν1

“know this” or “this is important for you to know”

131313:38qy18ἀδελφοί1

Paul uses this term because they are his fellow-Jews and followers of Judaism. They are not Christian believers at this point. Alternate translation: “my fellow Israelites and other friends”

131413:38t3i5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὅτι διὰ τούτου, ὑμῖν ἄφεσις ἁμαρτιῶν καταγγέλλεται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that we proclaim to you that your sins can be forgiven through Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

131513:38w7y1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἄφεσις ἁμαρτιῶν1

The abstract noun “forgiveness” can be translated with the verb “to forgive.” Alternate translation: “that God can forgive your sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

131613:39j6rrἐν τούτῳ πᾶς ὁ πιστεύων1

“By him every person who believes” or “Every one who believes in him”

131713:39g5h9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν τούτῳ πᾶς ὁ πιστεύων δικαιοῦται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Jesus justifies everyone who believes” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

131813:40kk1j0

In his message to the people in the synagogue, Paul quotes the prophet Habakkuk. Here the word “I” refers to God.

131913:40zx6p0

Paul finishes his speech in the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch, which he began in Acts 13:16.

132013:40y2kgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitβλέπετε1

It is implied that the thing they should be careful about is Pauls message. Alternate translation: “give close attention to the things I have said” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

132113:40tt1xτὸ εἰρημένον ἐν τοῖς προφήταις1

“so that what the prophets spoke about”

132213:41tqk5ἴδετε, οἱ καταφρονηταί1

“you who feel contempt” or “you who ridicule”

132313:41ky3sθαυμάσατε1

“be amazed” or “be shocked”

132413:41ilh2καὶ ἀφανίσθητε1

“then die”

132513:41dvn1ἔργον ἐργάζομαι1

“am doing something” or “am doing a deed”

132613:41nm2qἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις ὑμῶν1

“during your lifetime”

132713:41w6tqἔργον ὃ1

“I am doing something which”

132813:41p4c2ἐάν τις ἐκδιηγῆται ὑμῖν1

“even if someone tells you about it”

132913:42ax8vἐξιόντων δὲ1

“When Paul and Barnabas were leaving”

133013:42f3swἐξιόντων δὲ, αὐτῶν παρεκάλουν1

“As Paul and Barnabas left, the people begged them”

133113:42y4p9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὰ ῥήματα ταῦτα1

Here “words” refers to the message that Paul had spoken. Alternate translation: “this same message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

133213:43a58zλυθείσης δὲ τῆς συναγωγῆς1

Possible meanings are (1) this restates “As Paul and Barnabas left” in verse 42 or (2) Paul and Barnabas left the meeting before it ended and this occurs later.

133313:43sws7προσηλύτων1

These were non-Jewish people who converted to Judaism.

133413:43q2ajοἵτινες προσλαλοῦντες αὐτοῖς, ἔπειθον αὐτοὺς1

“and Paul and Barnabas spoke to those people and urged them”

133513:43fv15rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπροσμένειν τῇ χάριτι τοῦ Θεοῦ1

It is implied that they believed Pauls message that Jesus was the Messiah. Alternate translation: “to continue to trust that God kindly forgives peoples sins because of what Jesus did” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

133613:44m1290

Here the word “him” refers to Paul.

133713:44vq3yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσχεδὸν πᾶσα ἡ πόλις1

The “city” represents the people in the city. This phrase is used to show the great response to the Lords word. Alternate translation: “almost all the people of the city” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

133813:44yga7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀκοῦσαι τὸν λόγον τοῦ Κυρίου1

It is implied that Paul and Barnabas were the ones who spoke the word of the Lord. Alternate translation: “to hear Paul and Barnabas speak about the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

133913:45j4zqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1

Here “Jews” represents Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

134013:45qrh2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπλήσθησαν ζήλου1

Here jealousy is spoken of as if it were something that could fill up a person. Alternate translation: “became very jealous” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

134113:45nc5lἀντέλεγον1

“contradicted” or “opposed”

134213:45m1anrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῖς ὑπὸ Παύλου λαλουμένοις1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the things that Paul said” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

134313:46zvt5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The first two instances of the word “you” are plural and refer to the Jews to whom Paul is speaking. Here the words “we” and “us” refers to Paul and Barnabas but not the crowd that was present. Pauls quotation is from the prophet Isaiah in the Old Testament. In the original passage, the word “I” refers to God and the word “you” is singular and refers to the Messiah. Here, Paul and Barnabas seem to be saying that the quotation also refers to their ministry. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

134413:46as6qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἦν ἀναγκαῖον1

This implies that God had commanded this be done. Alternate translation: “God commanded” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

134513:46jn55rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὑμῖν & ἀναγκαῖον πρῶτον λαληθῆναι τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. “Word of God” here is a synecdoche for “message from God.” Alternate translation: “that we speak the message from God to you first” or “that we speak the word of God to you first” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

134613:46lly5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπειδὴ ἀπωθεῖσθε αὐτὸν1

Their rejection of the word of God is spoken of as if it were something they pushed away. Alternate translation: “Since you reject the word of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

134713:46ms36οὐκ ἀξίους κρίνετε ἑαυτοὺς τῆς αἰωνίου ζωῆς1

“have shown that you are not worthy of eternal life” or “act as though you are not worthy of eternal life”

134813:46rf9krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitστρεφόμεθα εἰς τὰ ἔθνη1

“we will go to the Gentiles.” Paul and Barnadas were implying that they would preach to the Gentiles. Alternate translation: “we will leave you and start preaching to the Gentiles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

134913:47v8aurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰς φῶς1

Here the truth about Jesus that Paul was preaching is spoken of as if it were a light that allowed people to see. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

135013:47t5sprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsεἰς σωτηρίαν ἕως ἐσχάτου τῆς γῆς1

The abstract word “salvation” can be translated with the verb “to save.” The phrase “uttermost parts” refers to everywhere. Alternate translation: “tell people everywhere in the world that I want to save them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

135113:48e9agrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐδόξαζον τὸν λόγον τοῦ Κυρίου1

Here “word” refers to the message about Jesus that they had believed. Alternate translation: “praised God for the message about the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

135213:48jct2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὅσοι ἦσαν τεταγμένοι εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “As many as God appointed to eternal life believed” or “All the people whom God had chosen to receive eternal life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

135313:49qh9zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιεφέρετο & ὁ λόγος τοῦ Κυρίου δι’ ὅλης τῆς χώρας1

Here “word” refers to the message about Jesus. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Those who believed spread the word of the Lord through the whole region” or “Those who believed went everywhere in the region and told others about the message of Jesus” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

135413:50eqi50

Here the word “they” refers to Paul and Barnabas.

135513:50t4bv0

This ends Paul and Barnabas time in Antioch of Pisidia and they go to Iconium.

135613:50u8rmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοἱ & Ἰουδαῖοι1

This probably refers to the leaders of the Jews. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

135713:50cf21παρώτρυναν1

“convinced” or “stirred up”

135813:50wmm5τοὺς πρώτους1

“the most important men”

135913:50n7qeἐπήγειραν διωγμὸν ἐπὶ τὸν Παῦλον καὶ Βαρναβᾶν1

“They convinced the important men and women to persecute Paul and Barnabas”

136013:50cq9hἐξέβαλον αὐτοὺς ἀπὸ τῶν ὁρίων αὐτῶν1

“removed Paul and Barnabas from their city”

136113:51abcoοἱ δὲ, ἐκτιναξάμενοι1

“But Paul and Silas shook off”

136213:51xi1zrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-symlanguageἐκτιναξάμενοι τὸν κονιορτὸν τῶν ποδῶν ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς1

This was a symbolic act to indicate to the unbelieving people that God had rejected them and would punish them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-symlanguage]])

136313:52dp5kοἵ & μαθηταὶ1

This probably refers to the new believers in the Antioch of Pisidia that Paul and Silas just left.

136414:introrsg20

Acts 14 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“The message of his grace”

The message of Jesus is the message that God will show grace to those who believe in Jesus. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])

Zeus and Hermes

The Gentiles in the Roman Empire worshiped many different false gods who do not really exist. Paul and Barnabas told them to believe in the “living God.” (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“We must enter into the kingdom of God through many sufferings.”

Jesus told his followers before he died that everyone who followed him would suffer persecution. Paul is saying the same thing using different words.

136514:1vh8u0

The story of Paul and Barnabas in Iconium continues.

136614:1abcpεἰσελθεῖν αὐτοὺς1

'

136714:1hk1zἐγένετο δὲ, ἐν Ἰκονίῳ1

“Paul and Barnabas entered”

136814:1f4sqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitλαλῆσαι οὕτως1

“spoke so powerfully.” It may be helpful to state that they spoke the message about Jesus. Alternate translation: “spoke the message about Jesus so powerfully” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

136914:2wc4xοἱ & ἀπειθήσαντες Ἰουδαῖοι1

This refers to a portion of the Jews who did not believe the message about Jesus.

137014:2n2pprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπήγειραν & τὰς ψυχὰς τῶν ἐθνῶν1

Causing the Gentiles to become angry is spoken of as if calm waters were disturbed. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

137114:2k8mvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheτὰς ψυχὰς1

Here the word “minds” refers to the people. Alternate translation: “the Gentiles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

137214:2fu13τῶν ἀδελφῶν1

Here “brothers” refers to Paul and Barnabas and the new believers.

137314:3lp4v0

Here the word “He” refers to the Lord.

137414:3a3gpμὲν οὖν & διέτριψαν1

“Nevertheless they stayed there.” Paul and Barnabas stayed in Iconium to help the many people who had believed in Acts 14:1. “So” could be omitted if it adds confusion to the text.

137514:3f2xhτῷ μαρτυροῦντι τῷ λόγῳ τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ1

“demonstrated that the message about his grace was true”

137614:3wcn5τῷ λόγῳ τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ1

“about the message of the Lords grace”

137714:3c2cvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιδόντι σημεῖα καὶ τέρατα γίνεσθαι διὰ τῶν χειρῶν αὐτῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “by enabling Paul and Barnabas to perform signs and wonders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

137814:3p9iqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheδιὰ τῶν χειρῶν αὐτῶν1

Here “hands” refers to the will and effort of these two men as guided by the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “by the ministry of Paul and Barnabas” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

137914:4btu3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐσχίσθη & τὸ πλῆθος τῆς πόλεως1

Here “city”refers to the people in the city. Alternate translation: “most of the people of the city were divided” or “most of the people of the city did not agree with each other” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

138014:4smz5ἦσαν σὺν τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1

“supported the Jews” or “agreed with the Jews.” The first group mentioned did not agree with the message about grace.

138114:4q1xcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisσὺν τοῖς ἀποστόλοις1

The second group mentioned agreed with the message about grace. It may be helpful to restate the verb. Alternate translation: “sided with the apostles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

138214:4mw9hτοῖς ἀποστόλοις1

Luke refers to Paul and Barnabas. Here “apostle” might be used in the general sense of “ones sent out.”

138314:5s5h70

Here the word “they” refers to Paul and Barnabas.

138414:5q6g2ὑβρίσαι καὶ λιθοβολῆσαι αὐτούς1

“to beat Paul and Barnabas and to kill them by throwing stones at them”

138514:6tpl1rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesτῆς Λυκαονίας1

A district in Asia Minor (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

138614:6m5gvrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΛύστραν1

A city in Asia Minor south of Iconium and north of Derbe (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

138714:6tl4qrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΔέρβην1

A city in Asia Minor south of Iconium and Lystra (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

138814:7z5ndκἀκεῖ εὐαγγελιζόμενοι ἦσαν1

“where Paul and Barnabas continued to proclaim the good news”

138914:8ep460

The first word “he” refers to the crippled man; the second word “he” refers to Paul. The word “him” refers to the crippled man.

139014:8l5pu0

Paul and Barnabas are now in Lystra.

139114:8wb5krc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsτις ἀνὴρ & ἐκάθητο1

This introduces a new person in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

139214:8kz7dἀδύνατος & τοῖς ποσὶν1

“unable to move his legs” or “unable to walk on his feet”

139314:8tca1χωλὸς ἐκ κοιλίας μητρὸς αὐτοῦ1

“having been born as a cripple”

139414:8hw4lχωλὸς1

person who cannot walk

139514:9di49ὃς ἀτενίσας αὐτῷ1

“Paul looked straight at the man”

139614:9xak4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἔχει πίστιν τοῦ σωθῆναι1

The abstract noun “faith” can be translated with the verb “believe.” Alternate translation: “believed that Jesus could heal him” or “believed that Jesus could make him well” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

139714:10v1kzἥλατο1

“leaped in the air.” This implies that his legs were completely healed.

139814:11axe6ὃ ἐποίησεν Παῦλος1

This refers to Pauls healing the crippled man.

139914:11lvs9ἐπῆραν τὴν φωνὴν αὐτῶν1

To raise the voice is to speak loudly. Alternate translation: “they spoke loudly” (See: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom)

140014:11d1gzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοἱ θεοὶ & κατέβησαν πρὸς ἡμᾶς1

A large number of people believed Paul and Barnabas were their pagan gods who had come down from heaven. Alternate translation: “The gods have come down from heaven to us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

140114:11x3biΛυκαονιστὶ1

“in their own Lycaonian language.” The people of Lystra spoke Lycaonian and also Greek.

140214:11rm85ὁμοιωθέντες ἀνθρώποις1

These people believed that the gods needed to change their appearance in order to look like men.

140314:12t7uurc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΔία1

Zeus was the king over all the other pagan gods. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

140414:12hh25rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἙρμῆν1

Hermes was the pagan god who brought messages to people from Zeus and the other gods. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

140514:13iz6rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὅ τε ἱερεὺς τοῦ Διὸς, τοῦ ὄντος πρὸ τῆς πόλεως & ἐνέγκας1

It may be helpful to include additional information about the priest. Alternate translation: “There was a temple just outside the city where the people worshiped Zeus. When the priest who served in the temple heard what Paul and Barnabas had done, he brought” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

140614:13v2a9ταύρους καὶ στέμματα1

The oxen were to be sacrificed. The wreaths were either to crown Paul and Barnabas, or put on the oxen for sacrifice.

140714:13iha1ἐπὶ τοὺς πυλῶνας1

The gates of the cities were often used as a meeting place for the people of the city.

140814:13ud37ἤθελεν θύειν1

“wanted to offer sacrifice to Paul and Barnabas as the gods Zeus and Hermes”

140914:14kt1fοἱ ἀπόστολοι Βαρναβᾶς καὶ Παῦλος1

Luke is here probably using “apostle” in the general sense of “one sent out.”

141014:14kx43διαρρήξαντες τὰ ἱμάτια ἑαυτῶν1

This was a symbolic action to show that they were deeply distressed and upset that the crowd wanted to sacrifice to them.

141114:15w4fdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἄνδρες, τί ταῦτα ποιεῖτε1

Barnabas and Paul are rebuking the people for trying to sacrifice to them. Alternate translation: “Men, you must not do these things!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

141214:15f8vcταῦτα ποιεῖτε1

“worshiping us”

141314:15u9pqκαὶ ἡμεῖς ὁμοιοπαθεῖς ἐσμεν ὑμῖν ἄνθρωποι1

By this statement, Barnabas and Paul are saying that they are not gods. Alternate translation: “We are just human beings like you. We are not gods!”

141414:15n9e4ὁμοιοπαθεῖς & ὑμῖν1

“like you in every way”

141514:15n98grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀπὸ τούτων τῶν ματαίων ἐπιστρέφειν ἐπὶ Θεὸν ζῶντα1

Here “turn from … to” is a metaphor meaning to stop doing one thing and start doing something else. Alternate translation: “stop worshiping these false gods that cannot help you, and instead begin to worship the living God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

141614:15qr5bΘεὸν ζῶντα1

“a God who truly exists” or “a God who lives”

141714:16s2rnἐν ταῖς παρῳχημέναις γενεαῖς1

“In previous times” or “Until now”

141814:16vpt5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπορεύεσθαι ταῖς ὁδοῖς αὐτῶν1

Walking in a way, or walking on a path, is a metaphor for living ones life. Alternate translation: “to live their lives the way they wanted to” or “to do whatever they wanted to do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

141914:17fw2s0

Paul and Barnabas continue speaking to the crowd outside the city of Lystra (Acts 14:8).

142014:17kig8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐκ ἀμάρτυρον αὑτὸν ἀφῆκεν1

This could also be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “God has certainly left a witness” or “God has indeed testified” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

142114:17s3qnἀγαθουργῶν1

“as shown by the fact that”

142214:17ps9zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐμπιπλῶν τροφῆς καὶ εὐφροσύνης τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν1

Here “you hearts” refers to the people. Alternate translation: “giving you enough to eat and things about which to be happy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

142314:18ut73μόλις κατέπαυσαν τοὺς ὄχλους τοῦ μὴ θύειν αὐτοῖς1

Paul and Barnabas stopped the multitude from sacrificing to them, but it was difficult to do so.

142414:18la43μόλις κατέπαυσαν1

“had difficulty preventing”

142514:19bz7k0

Here the words “he” and “him” refer to Paul.

142614:19wmc2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπείσαντες τοὺς ὄχλους1

It my be helpful to explicitly state what they persuaded the crowd to do. Alternate translation: “persuaded the people not to believe Paul and Barnabas, and to turn against them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

142714:19xbv3τοὺς ὄχλους1

This may not be the same group as the “multitude” in the previous verse. Some time had passed, and this might be a different group that gathered together.

142814:19t8mgνομίζοντες αὐτὸν τεθνηκέναι1

“because they thought that he was already dead”

142914:20pan3τῶν μαθητῶν1

These were new believers in the city of Lystra.

143014:20aqx3εἰσῆλθεν εἰς τὴν πόλιν1

“Paul re-entered Lystra with the believers”

143114:20e2y9ἐξῆλθεν σὺν τῷ Βαρναβᾷ εἰς Δέρβην1

“Paul and Barnabas went to the city of Derbe”

143214:21wv7erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the words “they” and “They” refer to Paul. Here the word “We” includes Paul, Barnabas, and the believers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

143314:21ykt4τὴν πόλιν ἐκείνην1

“Derbe” (Acts 14:20)

143414:22ek9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐπιστηρίζοντες τὰς ψυχὰς τῶν μαθητῶν1

Here “souls” refers to the disciples. This emphasizes their inner thoughts and beliefs. Alternate translation: “Paul and Barnabas urged the believers to continue to believe the message about Jesus” or “Paul and Barnabas urged the believers to continue to grow strong in their relationship with Jesus (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

143514:22zkd2παρακαλοῦντες ἐμμένειν τῇ πίστει1

“encouraging the believers to keep trusting in Jesus”

143614:22d9icrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotationsκαὶ ὅτι διὰ πολλῶν θλίψεων, δεῖ ἡμᾶς εἰσελθεῖν εἰς τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Some version translate this as an indirect quote, “saying that we must enter into the kingdom of God through many sufferings.” The word “we” here includes Luke and the readers. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

143714:22wu1crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveδεῖ ἡμᾶς εἰσελθεῖν1

Paul includes his hearers, so the word “we” is inclusive. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

143814:23pk5l0

Except for the third use of the word “they” which refers to the people that Paul and Barnabas had led to the Lord, all the words “they” here refer to Paul and Barnabas.

143914:23mqp9χειροτονήσαντες δὲ αὐτοῖς κατ’ ἐκκλησίαν πρεσβυτέρους1

“When Paul and Barnabas had appointed leaders in each new group of believers”

144014:23nd87παρέθεντο αὐτοὺς1

Possible meanings are (1) “Paul and Barnabas entrusted the elders they had appointed” or (2) “Paul and Barnabas entrusted the leaders and other believers”

144114:23ls62εἰς ὃν πεπιστεύκεισαν1

Who “they” refers to depends on your choice for the meaning of “them” in the previous note (either elders or leaders and other believers).

144214:25t513rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκαὶ λαλήσαντες ἐν Πέργῃ τὸν λόγον1

“Word” here is a metonym for “message of God.” Alternate translation: “(See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

144314:25h8shκατέβησαν εἰς Ἀττάλιαν1

The phrase “went down” is used here because Attalia is lower in elevation than Perga.

144414:26f2cgὅθεν ἦσαν παραδεδομένοι τῇ χάριτι τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This can be stated in the active form. Alternate translation: “where believers and leaders in Antioch had committed Paul and Barnabas to the grace of God” or “where the people of Antioch prayed that God would care for and protect Paul and Barnabas”

144514:27vcd30

Here the words “they,” “them,” and “They” refer to Paul and Barnabas. The word “he” refers to God.

144614:27i9dvσυναγαγόντες τὴν ἐκκλησίαν1

“called the local believers to meet together”

144714:27b4idrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἤνοιξεν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν θύραν πίστεως1

Gods enabling the Gentiles to believe is spoken of as if he had opened a door that had prevented them from entering into faith. Alternate translation: “God had made it possible for the Gentiles to believe” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

144814:28abcqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesχρόνον οὐκ ὀλίγον1

This phrase is a litotes. The words not and a little together mean a lot. Alternate translation: “for a long time” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

144915:introh9170

Acts 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 15:16-17.

The meeting that Luke describes in this chapter is commonly called the “Jerusalem Council.” This was a time when many church leaders got together to decide if believers needed to obey the whole law of Moses.

Special concepts in this chapter

Brothers

In this chapter Luke begins to use the word “brothers” to refer to fellow Christians instead of fellow Jews.

Obeying the law of Moses

Some believers wanted the Gentiles to be circumcised because God had told Abraham and Moses that everyone who wanted to belong to him had to be circumcised and that this was a law that would always exist. But Paul and Barnabas had seen God give uncircumcised Gentiles the gift of the Holy Spirit, so they did not want the Gentiles to be circumcised. Both groups went to Jerusalem to have the church leaders decide what they should do.

“Abstain from things sacrificed to idols, blood, things strangled, and from sexual immorality”

It is possible that the church leaders decided on these laws so that Jews and Gentiles could not only live together but eat the same foods together.

145015:1qck60

Paul and Barnabas are still in Antioch when there is a dispute about the Gentiles and circumcision.

145115:1su66rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτινες1

“Some men.” You can make explicit that these men were Jews who believed in Christ. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

145215:1p3k9κατελθόντες ἀπὸ τῆς Ἰουδαίας1

The phrase “came down” is used here because Judea is higher in elevation than Antioch.

145315:1zi1nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐδίδασκον τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς1

Here “brothers” stands for believers in Christ. It is implied that they were in Antioch. Alternate translation: “taught the believers at Antioch” or “were teaching the believers at Antioch” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

145415:1pm8hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐὰν μὴ περιτμηθῆτε τῷ ἔθει τῷ Μωϋσέως, οὐ δύνασθε σωθῆναι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Unless someone circumcises you according to the custom of Moses, God cannot save you” or “God will not save you from your sins unless you receive circumcision according to the law of Moses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

145515:2abcrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesστάσεως καὶ ζητήσεως οὐκ ὀλίγης1

This phrase is a litotes. The words not and a little together mean a lot. Alternate translation: “a sharp dispute and debate” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

145615:2f9ndrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsγενομένης & στάσεως καὶ ζητήσεως οὐκ ὀλίγης1

The abstract nouns “dispute” and “debate” can be stated as verbs and where the men came from can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “strongly confronted and debated” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

145715:2ek6aἀναβαίνειν & εἰς Ἰερουσαλὴμ1

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of going up to Jerusalem.

145815:2z983τοῦ ζητήματος τούτου1

“this issue”

145915:3h2mw0

Here the words “They,” “they,” and “them” refer to Paul, Barnabas, and certain others (Acts 15:2).

146015:3av5yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοἱ μὲν οὖν προπεμφθέντες ὑπὸ τῆς ἐκκλησίας1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Therefore the community of believers sent them from Antioch to Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

146115:3aia5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπροπεμφθέντες ὑπὸ τῆς ἐκκλησίας1

Here “church” stands for the people that were a part of the church. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

146215:3i5kdδιήρχοντο τήν τε Φοινίκην καὶ Σαμάρειαν, ἐκδιηγούμενοι1

The words “passed through” and “announced” indicate they spent some time in different places sharing in detail what God was doing.

146315:3rk37rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐκδιηγούμενοι τὴν ἐπιστροφὴν τῶν ἐθνῶν1

The abstract noun “conversion” means the Gentiles were rejecting their false gods and believing in God. Alternate translation: “announced to the community of believers in those places that Gentiles were believing in God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

146415:3nje7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐποίουν χαρὰν μεγάλην πᾶσι τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς1

Their message causing the brothers to be joyful is spoken of as if “joy” were an object that they brought to the brothers. Alternate translation: “What they said caused their fellow believers to rejoice” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

146515:3bbd4τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς1

Here “brothers” refers to fellow believers.

146615:4ej1rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπαρεδέχθησαν ὑπὸ τῆς ἐκκλησίας, καὶ τῶν ἀποστόλων, καὶ τῶν πρεσβυτέρων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the apostles, the elders, and the rest of the community of believers welcomed them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

146715:4a2x1μετ’ αὐτῶν1

“through them”

146815:5efe50

Here the word “them” refers to non-Jewish believers who were not circumcised and did not keep the Old Testament laws of God.

146915:5f2b50

Paul and Barnabas are now in Jerusalem to meet with the apostles and elders there.

147015:5k6k7δέ τινες1

Here Luke contrasts those who believe that salvation is only in Jesus to others who believe salvation is by Jesus yet also believe that circumcision is required for salvation.

147115:5b9ntτηρεῖν τὸν νόμον Μωϋσέως1

“to obey the law of Moses”

147215:6ugu6ἰδεῖν περὶ τοῦ λόγου τούτου1

The church leaders decided to discuss whether or not Gentiles needed to be circumcised and obey the law of Moses in order for God to save them from their sins.

147315:7wct8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

The first word “them” refers to apostles and elders (Acts 15:6) and the other words “them” and “their” refer to the believing Gentiles. Here the word “you” is plural and refers to the apostles and elders present. The word “he” refers to God. Here “us” is plural and refers to Peter, the apostles and elders, and all Jewish believers in general. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

147415:7hxu90

Peter begins to speak to the apostles and elders who met to discuss whether Gentiles had to receive circumcision and keep the law (Acts 15:5-6).

147515:7a6q9ἀδελφοί1

Peter is addressing all of the believers who were present.

147615:7s3wbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheδιὰ τοῦ στόματός μου1

Here “mouth” refers to Peter. Alternate translation: “from me” or “by me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

147715:7yer1ἀκοῦσαι τὰ ἔθνη1

“the Gentiles would hear”

147815:7b5s8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1

Here “word” stands for a message. Alternate translation: “the message about Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

147915:8m1xcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὁ καρδιογνώστης1

Here “heart” refers to the “minds” or “inner beings.” Alternate translation: “who knows the peoples minds” or “who knows what people think” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

148015:8p6d2ἐμαρτύρησεν αὐτοῖς1

“witnesses to the Gentiles”

148115:8i1gcδοὺς τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον1

“causing the Holy Spirit to come upon them”

148215:8abcsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisκαθὼς καὶ ἡμῖν1

Here Luke expects his readers to understand the words he gave that he leaves out. Alternate translation: “just as he also gave to us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

148315:9zs2gοὐδὲν διέκρινεν1

God did not treat Jewish believers different from Gentile believers.

148415:9ase1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῇ πίστει καθαρίσας τὰς καρδίας αὐτῶν1

Gods forgiving the Gentile believers sins is spoken as though he literally cleaned their hearts. Here “heart” stands for the persons inner being. Alternate translation: “forgiving their sins because they believed in Jesus” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

148515:10ha45rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Peter includes his audience by his use of “our” and “we.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

148615:10wjq70

Peter finishes speaking to the apostles and elders.

148715:10rfr4νῦν1

This does not mean “at this moment,” but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

148815:10zaz6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί πειράζετε τὸν Θεόν, ἐπιθεῖναι ζυγὸν ἐπὶ τὸν τράχηλον τῶν μαθητῶν, ὃν οὔτε οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν οὔτε ἡμεῖς ἰσχύσαμεν βαστάσαι1

Peter uses a question with a word picture to tell the Jewish believers they should not require the non-Jewish believers to perform circumcision to be saved. Alternate translation: “Do not test God by putting a burden on the non-Jewish believers which we Jews were not able to bear!” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

148915:10bfd5οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν1

This refers to their Jewish ancestors.

149015:11q28crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀλλὰ διὰ τῆς χάριτος τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ, πιστεύομεν σωθῆναι καθ’ ὃν τρόπον κἀκεῖνοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But we believe the Lord Jesus shall save us by his grace, just as he saved the non-Jewish believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

149115:12um1p0

Here the word “them” refers to Paul and Barnabas.

149215:12d1ucπᾶν τὸ πλῆθος1

“Everyone” or “The whole group” (Acts 15:6)

149315:12uks6ἐποίησεν ὁ Θεὸς1

“God had done” or “God had caused”

149415:13vb250

Here the word “they” refers to Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15:12).

149515:13l7mp0

James begins to speak to the apostles and elders (Acts 15:6).

149615:13pl6mἀδελφοί, ἀκούσατέ1

“Fellow believers, listen.” James was probably speaking only to men.

149715:14abctἐπεσκέψατο, λαβεῖν ἐξ ἐθνῶν1

“graciously helped the Gentiles by taking out of them”

149815:14s9dnλαβεῖν ἐξ ἐθνῶν λαὸν1

“so that he might choose from among them a people”

149915:14pnr9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ1

“for Gods name.” Here “name” refers to God. Alternate translation: “for himself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

150015:15h9um0

Here “I” refers to God who spoke through the words of his prophet.

150115:15ibb20

James quotes the prophet Amos from the Old Testament.

150215:15am6yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσυμφωνοῦσιν οἱ λόγοι τῶν προφητῶν1

Here “words” stands for a message. Alternate translation: “What the prophets said agrees” or “The prophets agree” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

150315:15nbi1τούτῳ συμφωνοῦσιν1

“confirm this truth”

150415:15j4f5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαθὼς γέγραπται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “as they wrote” or “as the prophet Amos wrote long ago” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

150515:16f5wfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀνοικοδομήσω τὴν σκηνὴν Δαυεὶδ τὴν πεπτωκυῖαν, καὶ τὰ κατεστραμμένα αὐτῆς, ἀνοικοδομήσω καὶ ἀνορθώσω αὐτήν1

This speaks of Gods again choosing one of Davids descendants to rule over his people as though he were setting up a tent again after it fell down. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

150615:16ist8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσκηνὴν1

Here “tent” stands for Davids family. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

150715:17sm79rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐκζητήσωσιν οἱ κατάλοιποι τῶν ἀνθρώπων τὸν Κύριον1

This speaks about people wanting to obey God and learn more about him as if they were literally looking for him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

150815:17hkw1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsκατάλοιποι τῶν ἀνθρώπων1

Here “men” includes males and females. Alternate translation: “remnant of people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

150915:17pe4lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personἐκζητήσωσιν & τὸν Κύριον1

God is speaking about himself in the third person. Alternate translation: “may seek me, the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

151015:17tu21rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαὶ πάντα τὰ ἔθνη, ἐφ’ οὓς ἐπικέκληται τὸ ὄνομά μου ἐπ’ αὐτούς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “including all the Gentiles who belong to me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

151115:17c8gmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸ ὄνομά μου1

Here “my name” stands for God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

151215:18tr27rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγνωστὰ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that people have known” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

151315:19g3zxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here “we” includes James, the apostles, and the elders. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

151415:19f6za0

James finishes speaking to the apostles and elders. (See: Acts 15:2 and Acts 15:13)

151515:19pyb9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμὴ παρενοχλεῖν τοῖς ἀπὸ τῶν ἐθνῶν1

You can make explicit in what way James does not want to trouble the Gentiles. Alternate translation: “we should not require the Gentiles to become circumcised and obey the laws of Moses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

151615:19vr6urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπιστρέφουσιν ἐπὶ τὸν Θεόν1

A person who starts obeying God is spoken of as if the person is physically turning towards God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

151715:20wx8fἀπέχεσθαι τῶν ἀλισγημάτων τῶν εἰδώλων, καὶ τῆς πορνείας, καὶ τοῦ πνικτοῦ, καὶ τοῦ αἵματος1

Sexual immorality, strangling animals, and consuming blood were often part of ceremonies to worship idols and false gods.

151815:20n6f2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀλισγημάτων τῶν εἰδώλων1

This possibly refers to eating the meat of an animal that someone has sacrificed to an idol or to anything to do with idol worship. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

151915:20j2rlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτοῦ πνικτοῦ, καὶ τοῦ αἵματος1

God did not allow Jews to eat meat that still had the blood in it. Also, even earlier in Moses writings in Genesis, God had forbidden the drinking of blood. Therefore, they could not eat an animal that someone strangled because the blood was not properly drained from the body of the animal. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

152015:21si1hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitΜωϋσῆς γὰρ ἐκ γενεῶν ἀρχαίων κατὰ πόλιν τοὺς κηρύσσοντας αὐτὸν, ἔχει ἐν ταῖς συναγωγαῖς κατὰ πᾶν Σάββατον ἀναγινωσκόμενος.1

James is implying that Gentiles know how important these rules are because Jews preach them in every city where there is a synagogue. It also implies the Gentiles can go to the teachers from the synagogues to learn more about these rules. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

152115:21zd7trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyΜωϋσῆς & τοὺς κηρύσσοντας1

Here “Moses” represents the law of Moses. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The law of Moses has been proclaimed” or “Jews have taught the law of Moses” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

152215:21xg5nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleκατὰ πόλιν1

The word “every” here is a generalization. Alternate translation: “in many cities” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

152315:21pbm5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀναγινωσκόμενος1

Here “he” refers to Moses, whose name here represents his law. Alternate translation: “and the law is read” or “and they read the law” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

152415:22rhn30

Here the word “them” refers to Judas and Silas. The word “They” refers to the apostles, elders, and other believers of the church in Jerusalem.

152515:22hp6jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὅλῃ τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ1

Here “church” refers to the people who are a part of the church in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “the church in Jerusalem” or “the whole community of believers in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

152615:22c711rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἸούδαν τὸν καλούμενον Βαρσαββᾶν1

This is the name of a man. “Barsabbas” is a second name that people called him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

152715:23e4g2οἱ ἀπόστολοι καὶ οἱ πρεσβύτεροι, ἀδελφοὶ, τοῖς κατὰ τὴν Ἀντιόχειαν, καὶ Συρίαν, καὶ Κιλικίαν, ἀδελφοῖς τοῖς ἐξ ἐθνῶν, χαίρειν1

This is the introduction of the letter. Your language may have a way of introducing the author of the letter and to whom it is written. Alternate translation: “This letter is from your brothers, the apostles and elders. We are writing to you Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. Greetings to you” or “To our Gentile brothers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. Greetings from the apostles and elders, your brothers”

152815:23kp51ἀδελφοὶ, τοῖς κατὰ τὴν Ἀντιόχειαν1

Here the word “brothers” refers to fellow believers. By using these words, the apostles and elders assure the Gentile believers that they accept them as fellow believers.

152915:23php8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΚιλικίαν1

This is the name of a province on the coast in Asia Minor north of the Island of Cyprus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

153015:24g8m9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here all instances of “we,” “our,” and “us” refer to the believers in the church in Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and Acts 15:22)

153115:24p1tlὅτι τινὲς1

“that some men”

153215:24kh16οἷς οὐ διεστειλάμεθα1

“even though we gave no orders for them to go”

153315:24bxq8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐτάραξαν ὑμᾶς λόγοις ἀνασκευάζοντες τὰς ψυχὰς ὑμῶν1

Here “souls” refers to the people. Alternate translation: “have taught things that have troubled you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

153415:25c3dlἐκλεξαμένοις ἄνδρας1

The men they sent were Judas called Barsabbas and Silas (Acts 15:22).

153515:26t7vwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Here “name” refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “because they believe in our Lord Jesus Christ” or “because they serve our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

153615:27j1jbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the words “We” and “us” refer to the leaders and believers in the church in Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and Acts 15:22)

153715:27v2ee0

This concludes the letter from the Jerusalem church to the Gentile believers in Antioch.

153815:27xw8lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitαὐτοὺς διὰ λόγου ἀπαγγέλλοντας τὰ αὐτά1

This phrase emphasizes that Judas and Silas will say the same things that the apostles and elders had written. Alternate translation: “who themselves will tell you the same things about which we have written” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

153915:28l9z6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμηδὲν πλέον ἐπιτίθεσθαι ὑμῖν βάρος, πλὴν τούτων τῶν ἐπάναγκες1

This speaks about laws that people need to obey as if they were objects that people carry on their shoulders. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

154015:29nt7sεἰδωλοθύτων1

This means they are not allowed to eat the meat of an animal that someone sacrifices to an idol.

154115:29vcc6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitαἵματος1

This refers to drinking blood or eating meat from which the blood has not been drained. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

154215:29rt55πνικτῶν1

A strangled animal was killed but its blood was not drained.

154315:29buy9ἔρρωσθε1

This announces the end of the letter. Alternate translation: “Goodbye”

154415:30khi80

Paul, Barnabas, Judas, and Silas leave for Antioch.

154515:30c3ukοἱ μὲν οὖν ἀπολυθέντες, κατῆλθον εἰς Ἀντιόχειαν1

The word “they” refers to Paul, Barnabas, Judas, and Silas. Alternate translation: “So when the four men were dismissed, they came down to Antioch”

154615:30usz6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀπολυθέντες1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when the apostles and elders dismissed the four men” or “when the believers in Jerusalem sent them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

154715:30t55aκατῆλθον εἰς Ἀντιόχειαν1

The phrase “came down” is used here because Antioch is lower in elevation than Jerusalem.

154815:31k1mrἀναγνόντες & ἐχάρησαν1

“the believers in Antioch rejoiced”

154915:31e4gfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐπὶ τῇ παρακλήσει1

The abstract noun “encouragement” can be expressed with the verb “encourage.” Alternate translation: “because what the apostles and elders wrote encouraged them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

155015:32r65lκαὶ & προφῆται1

Prophets were teachers authorized by God to speak for him. Alternate translation: “because they were prophets” or “who were also prophets”

155115:32e2enτοὺς ἀδελφοὺς1

“the fellow believers”

155215:32j99grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπεστήριξαν1

Helping someone to depend even more on Jesus is spoken of as if they were making them physically stronger. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

155315:33y2ls0

Judas and Silas return to Jerusalem while Paul and Barnabas remain in Antioch.

155415:33v7pjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorποιήσαντες δὲ χρόνον1

This speaks about time as if it were a commodity that a person could spend. The word “they” refers to Judas and Silas. Alternate translation: “After they stayed there for a while” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

155515:33v6imrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀπελύθησαν μετ’ εἰρήνης ἀπὸ τῶν ἀδελφῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the brothers sent Judas and Silas back in peace” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

155615:33wzw4τῶν ἀδελφῶν1

This refers to the believers in Antioch.

155715:33xv3hπρὸς τοὺς ἀποστείλαντας αὐτούς1

“to the believers in Jerusalem who sent Judas and Silas” (Acts 15:22)

155815:35e7s4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον τοῦ Κυρίου1

Here “word” stands for a message. Alternate translation: “the message about the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

155915:36k6c60

Paul and Barnabas go on separate journeys.

156015:36i1n5ἐπιστρέψαντες δὴ1

“I suggest we now return”

156115:36ib2jἐπισκεψώμεθα τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς1

“care for the brothers” or “offer to help the believers”

156215:36ua1frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον τοῦ Κυρίου1

Here “word” stands for the message. Alternate translation: “the message about the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

156315:36y9i9πῶς ἔχουσιν1

“learn how they are doing.” They want to learn about the current condition of the brothers and how they are holding on to Gods truth.

156415:37s635συνπαραλαβεῖν καὶ τὸν Ἰωάννην, τὸν καλούμενον Μᾶρκον1

“to take John, who was also called Mark”

156515:38a5nnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesΠαῦλος & ἠξίου & μὴ & συνπαραλαμβάνειν τοῦτον1

The words “not good” are used to say the opposite of good. Alternate translation: “Paul thought that taking Mark would be bad” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

156615:38ht3kΠαμφυλίας1

This was a province in Asia Minor. See how you translated this in Acts 2:10.

156715:38ln7wμὴ συνελθόντα αὐτοῖς εἰς τὸ ἔργον1

“did not continue to work with them then” or “did not continue to serve with them”

156815:39bb8w0

Here the word “they” refers to Barnabas and Paul.

156915:39u97arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐγένετο δὲ παροξυσμὸς1

The abstract noun “disagreement” can be stated as the verb “disagree.” Alternate translation: “They strongly disagreed with each other” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

157015:40l2uqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπαραδοθεὶς τῇ χάριτι τοῦ Κυρίου ὑπὸ τῶν ἀδελφῶν1

To entrust to someone means to place the care and responsibility for someone or something to another person. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “after the believers in Antioch entrusted Paul to the grace of the Lord” or “after the believers in Antioch prayed for the Lord to take care of Paul and show kindness to him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

157115:41e3ymrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδιήρχετο1

The previous sentence implies that Silas was with Paul. Alternate translation: “they went” or “Paul and Silas went” or “Paul took Silas and went” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

157215:41t81zδιήρχετο & τὴν Συρίαν καὶ τὴν Κιλικίαν1

These are provinces or areas in Asia Minor, near the island of Cyprus.

157315:41tbv3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπιστηρίζων τὰς ἐκκλησίας1

Encouraging the believers in the churches is spoken of as though Paul and Silas were making the believers physically stronger. The word “churches” refers to the groups of believers in Syria and Cilicia. Alternate translation: “encouraging the believers in the churches” or “helping the community of believers to depend even more in Jesus” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

157416:introe7z20

Acts 16 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Timothys circumcision

Paul circumcised Timothy because they were telling the message of Jesus to Jews and Gentiles. Paul wanted the Jews to know that he respected the law of Moses even though the church leaders in Jerusalem had decided that Christians did not need to be circumcised.

The woman who had a spirit of divination

Most people want very much to know the future, but the law of Moses said that speaking with the spirits of dead people to learn about the future is a sin. This woman seems to have been able to tell the future very well. She was a slave, and her masters made much money from her work. Paul wanted her to stop sinning, so he told the spirit to leave her. Luke does not say that she began to follow Jesus or tell us anything more about her.

157516:1l2b10

The first, third, and fourth instances of the word “him” refer to Timothy. The second “him” refers to Paul.

157616:1f49mrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

This continues the missionary journeys of Paul with Silas. Timothy is introduced into the story and joins Paul and Silas. Verses 1 and 2 give background information about Timothy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

157716:1km5qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goκατήντησεν & καὶ1

Here “came” can be translated as “went.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

157816:1d4kaΔέρβην1

This is the name of a city in Asia Minor. See how you translated it in Acts 14:6.

157916:1u3vrἰδοὺ1

The word “behold” alerts us to a new person in the narrative. Your language may have a way of doing this.

158016:1wxl8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisπιστῆς1

The words “in Christ” are understood. Alternate translation: “who believed in Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

158116:2t1lurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὃς ἐμαρτυρεῖτο ὑπὸ τῶν & ἀδελφῶν1

This can be stated in active from. Alternate translation: “The brothers spoke well of him” or “Timothy had a good reputation among the brothers” or “The brothers said good things about him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

158216:2rez2ὑπὸ τῶν & ἀδελφῶν1

Here “brothers” refers to believers. Alternate translation: “by the believers”

158316:3p6z8περιέτεμεν αὐτὸν1

It is possible that Paul himself circumcised Timothy, but it is more likely that he had someone else circumcise Timothy.

158416:3za93διὰ τοὺς Ἰουδαίους τοὺς ὄντας ἐν τοῖς τόποις ἐκείνοις1

“because of the Jews living in the areas where Paul and Timothy would be traveling”

158516:3hk2lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitᾔδεισαν γὰρ ἅπαντες, ὅτι Ἕλλην ὁ πατὴρ αὐτοῦ ὑπῆρχεν1

Since Greek men did not have their sons circumcised, the Jews would have known Timothy was not circumcised, and they would have rejected Paul and Timothy before hearing their message about Christ. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

158616:4n46i0

The word “they” here refers to Paul, Silas (Acts 15:40), and Timothy (Acts 16:3).

158716:4bu6rαὐτοῖς φυλάσσειν1

“for the church members to obey” or “for the believers to obey”

158816:4gpi3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὰ κεκριμένα ὑπὸ τῶν ἀποστόλων καὶ πρεσβυτέρων τῶν ἐν Ἱεροσολύμοις1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that the apostles and elders in Jerusalem had written” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

158916:5q8v9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveαἱ & ἐκκλησίαι ἐστερεοῦντο τῇ πίστει, καὶ ἐπερίσσευον τῷ ἀριθμῷ καθ’ ἡμέραν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The believers became stronger in their faith, and there were more and more people becoming believers every day” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

159016:5lv4frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorαἱ & ἐκκλησίαι ἐστερεοῦντο τῇ πίστει1

This speaks of helping someone to believe more confidently as if it were making them physically stronger. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

159116:6g97eτὴν Φρυγίαν1

This is a region in Asia. See how you translated this name in Acts 2:10.

159216:6ue3krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκωλυθέντες ὑπὸ τοῦ Ἁγίου Πνεύματος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit had forbidden them” or “the Holy Spirit did not permit them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

159316:6h4u4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον1

Here “word” stands for “message.” Alternate translation: “the message about Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

159416:7x1b1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἐλθόντες δὲ1

Here “came” can be translated as “went” or “arrived.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

159516:7b1xqrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΜυσίαν & Βιθυνίαν1

These are two more regions in Asia. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

159616:7b539τὸ Πνεῦμα Ἰησοῦ1

“the Holy Spirit”

159716:8s6l1κατέβησαν εἰς Τρῳάδα1

The phrase “came down” is used here because Troas is lower in elevation than Mysia.

159816:8xq6nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goκατέβησαν1

Here “came” can be translated as “went.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

159916:9t6v2ὅραμα & τῷ Παύλῳ ὤφθη1

“Paul saw a vision from God” or “Paul had a vision from God”

160016:9hq8eπαρακαλῶν αὐτὸν1

“begging him” or “inviting him”

160116:9cm2uδιαβὰς εἰς Μακεδονίαν1

The phrase “Come over” is used because Macedonia is across the sea from Troas.

160216:10fg5hἐζητήσαμεν ἐξελθεῖν εἰς Μακεδονίαν, συμβιβάζοντες ὅτι προσκέκληται ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς εὐαγγελίσασθαι αὐτούς1

Here the words “we” and “us” refer to Paul and his companions including Luke, the author of Acts.

160316:11m2p50

Paul and his companions are now in Philippi on their missionary trip. Verse 13 begins the story of Lydia. This short story happens during Pauls travels.

160416:11q2prrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΣαμοθρᾴκην & Νέαν Πόλιν1

These are coastal cities near Phillipi in Macedonia. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

160516:11yy6zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goεἰς Νέαν Πόλιν1

Here “came to” can be translated as “went to” or “arrived at.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

160616:12tl9frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκολωνία1

This is a city outside of Italy where many people who came from Rome lived. The people there had the same rights and freedoms as people who lived in cities in Italy. They could govern themselves and they did not have to pay taxes. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

160716:14x8bp0

This ends the story of Lydia.

160816:14n952rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsτις γυνὴ ὀνόματι Λυδία1

Here “A certain woman” introduces a new person in the story. Alternate translation: “There was a woman named Lydia” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

160916:14qj86rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisπορφυρόπωλις1

Here “cloth” is understood. Alternate translation: “a merchant who sold purple cloth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

161016:14c6n8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΘυατείρων1

This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

161116:14cyk3σεβομένη τὸν Θεόν1

A worshiper of God is a Gentile who gives praise to God and follows him, but does not obey all of the Jewish laws.

161216:14rd4rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἧς ὁ Κύριος διήνοιξεν τὴν καρδίαν, προσέχειν1

For the Lord to cause someone to pay attention and believe a message is spoken of as if he were opening a persons heart. Alternate translation: “The Lord caused her to listen well and to believe” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

161316:14s9jurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἧς & διήνοιξεν τὴν καρδίαν1

Here “heart” stands for a persons mind. Also, the author speaks about the “heart” or “mind” as if it were a box that a person could open so it is ready for someone to fill it. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

161416:14a74yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῖς λαλουμένοις ὑπὸ τοῦ Παύλου1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “what Paul said” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

161516:15g7e9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὡς δὲ ἐβαπτίσθη καὶ ὁ οἶκος αὐτῆς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When they baptized Lydia and members of her household” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

161616:15s799rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὁ οἶκος αὐτῆς1

Here “house” represents the people who live in her house. Alternate translation: “the members of her household” or “her family and household servants” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

161716:16vyn4rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Background information is given here to explain that this young fortune teller brought much financial gain to her masters by guessing peoples futures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

161816:16anc10

This begins the first event in another short story during Pauls travels; it is about a young fortune teller.

161916:16ufy4ἐγένετο δὲ1

This phrase marks the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

162016:16y1gcrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsπαιδίσκην τινὰ1

The phrase “a certain” introduces a new person to the story. Alternate translation: “there was a young woman” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

162116:16ymt9πνεῦμα Πύθωνα1

An evil spirit spoke to her often about the immediate future of people.

162216:17tni9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁδὸν σωτηρίας1

How a person can be saved is spoken of here as if it were a way or path that a person walks on. Alternate translation: “how God can save you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

162316:18lj79rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιαπονηθεὶς δὲ Παῦλος, καὶ ἐπιστρέψας1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But she greatly annoyed Paul so he turned around” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

162416:18qi1krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Here “name” stands for speaking with the authority or as the representative of Jesus Christ. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

162516:18u4z8ἐξῆλθεν αὐτῇ τῇ ὥρᾳ1

“the spirit came out immediately”

162616:19m1y7οἱ κύριοι αὐτῆς1

“the owners of the slave girl”

162716:19r1a1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἰδόντες & οἱ κύριοι αὐτῆς, ὅτι ἐξῆλθεν ἡ ἐλπὶς τῆς ἐργασίας αὐτῶν1

It can be stated clearly why they no longer hoped to make money. Alternate translation: “When her masters saw that she could no longer earn money for them by telling fortunes” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

162816:19bws7εἰς τὴν ἀγορὰν1

“into the public square.” This is a public place of business, where buying and selling of goods, cattle, or services takes place.

162916:19hf82ἐπὶ τοὺς ἄρχοντας1

“into the presence of the authorities” or “so that the authorities could judge them”

163016:20d2rgκαὶ προσαγαγόντες αὐτοὺς τοῖς στρατηγοῖς1

“When they had brought them to the judges”

163116:20wa94στρατηγοῖς1

rulers, judges

163216:20dkz2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveοὗτοι οἱ ἄνθρωποι ἐκταράσσουσιν ἡμῶν τὴν πόλιν1

Here the word “our” refers to the people of the city and includes the magistrates who ruled it. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

163316:21gna6παραδέχεσθαι οὐδὲ ποιεῖν1

“to believe or to obey” or “to accept or to do”

163416:22r1gr0

Here the words “their” and “them” refer to Paul and Silas. The word “they” here refers to soldiers.

163516:22at6irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκέλευον ῥαβδίζειν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “commanded the soldiers to beat them with rods” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

163616:23dsr3πολλάς & ἐπιθέντες αὐτοῖς πληγὰς1

“had hit them many times with rods”

163716:23y4mcπαραγγείλαντες τῷ δεσμοφύλακι ἀσφαλῶς τηρεῖν αὐτούς1

“told the jailer to make sure they did not get out”

163816:23zkp7δεσμοφύλακι1

a person responsible for all the people held in the jail or prison

163916:24a79xὃς παραγγελίαν τοιαύτην λαβὼν1

“he heard this command”

164016:24rl8cτοὺς πόδας ἠσφαλίσατο αὐτῶν εἰς τὸ ξύλον1

“securely locked their feet in the stocks”

164116:24jug6ξύλον1

a piece of wood with holes for preventing a persons feet from moving

164216:25rwu30

The word “them” refers to Paul and Silas.

164316:25hme20

This continues Paul and Silas time in Philippi in prison and tells what happens to their jailer.

164416:26q7z1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveσεισμὸς & ὥστε σαλευθῆναι τὰ θεμέλια τοῦ δεσμωτηρίου1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “earthquake which shook the foundations of the prison” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

164516:26m4yerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheτὰ θεμέλια τοῦ δεσμωτηρίου1

When the foundations shook, this caused the entire prison to shake. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

164616:26s6murc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἠνεῴχθησαν & αἱ θύραι πᾶσαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “all the doors opened” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

164716:26p393rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπάντων τὰ δεσμὰ ἀνέθη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “everyones chains came loose” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

164816:27ljy6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Paul, Silas, and all of the other prisoners but excludes the jailer. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

164916:27hr9qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἔξυπνος & γενόμενος ὁ δεσμοφύλαξ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The jailer woke up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

165016:27cwt5ἤμελλεν ἑαυτὸν ἀναιρεῖν1

“was ready to kill himself.” The jailer preferred to commit suicide rather than suffer the consequences of letting the prisoners escape.

165116:29pe66rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitαἰτήσας & φῶτα1

The reason why the jailer needed light can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “called for someone to bring light so he could see who was still in the prison” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

165216:29h5airc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyφῶτα1

The word “lights” stands for something that makes light. Alternate translation: “for torches” or “for lamps” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

165316:29r6isεἰσεπήδησεν1

“quickly entered the jail”

165416:29bb6trc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionπροσέπεσεν τῷ Παύλῳ καὶ Σιλᾷ1

The jailer humbled himself by bowing down at the feet of Paul and Silas. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

165516:30a3h6προαγαγὼν αὐτοὺς ἔξω1

“led them outside the jail”

165616:30u132rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτί με δεῖ ποιεῖν, ἵνα σωθῶ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “what must I do for God to save me from my sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

165716:31br4krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveσωθήσῃ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will save you” or “God will save you from your sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

165816:31w8edrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὁ οἶκός σου1

Here “house” stands for the people who live in the house. Alternate translation: “all the members of your household” or “your family” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

165916:32kb350

Here the first use of the word “they” as well as the words “their” and “them” refer to Paul and Silas. Compare Acts 16:25. The last use of the word “they” refers to the people in the jailers household. The words “him,” “his,” and “he” refer to the jailer.

166016:32pq5wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐλάλησαν αὐτῷ τὸν λόγον τοῦ Κυρίου1

Here “word” stands for a message. Alternate translation: “They told him the message about the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

166116:33r3larc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐβαπτίσθη, αὐτὸς καὶ οἱ αὐτοῦ πάντες παραχρῆμα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Paul and Silas baptized the jailer and all the members of his household” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

166216:35x3x80

This is the last event in the story of Paul and Silas in Philippi (Acts 16:12).

166316:35lb4zδὲ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke tells the last event in the story that started in Acts 16:16.

166416:35qum8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀπέστειλαν & τοὺς ῥαβδούχους1

Here “word” stands for “message” or “command.” Alternate translation: “sent a message to the guards” or “sent a command to the guards” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

166516:35j5m6ἀπέστειλαν1

Here “sent” means the magistrates told someone to go tell the guards their message.

166616:35vev9ἀπόλυσον τοὺς ἀνθρώπους ἐκείνους1

“Release those men” or “Allow those men to leave”

166716:36k3i6ἐξελθόντες1

“come outside of the jail”

166816:37v4ykrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

All of the times the word “they” is used and the first time “them” is used, the words refer to the magistrates. The word “themselves” refers to the magistrates. The second time the word “them” is used, it refers to Paul and Silas. The word “us” refers only to Paul and Silas. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

166916:37b4jmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔφη πρὸς αὐτούς1

Probably Paul is speaking to the jailer, but he intends for the jailer to tell the magistrates what he says. Alternate translation: “said to the jailer” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

167016:37b7ccrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδείραντες ἡμᾶς δημοσίᾳ1

Here “They” refers to the magistrates who commanded their soldiers to beat them. Alternate translation: “The magistrates ordered their soldiers to beat us in public” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

167116:37wc37ἀκατακρίτους ἀνθρώπους Ῥωμαίους ὑπάρχοντας, ἔβαλαν εἰς φυλακήν1

“men who are Roman citizens, and they had their soldiers put us in jail though they had not proven in court that we were guilty”

167216:37qq1urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionλάθρᾳ ἡμᾶς ἐκβάλλουσιν? οὔ1

Paul uses a question to emphasize that he will not allow the magistrates to send them out the city in secret after they had mistreated Paul and Silas. Alternate translation: “I will certainly not let them send us out of the city in secret!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

167316:37jr2jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsλάθρᾳ ἡμᾶς ἐκβάλλουσιν? οὔ1

Here “themselves” is used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

167416:38ym2urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐφοβήθησαν & ἀκούσαντες ὅτι Ῥωμαῖοί εἰσιν1

To be a Roman meant to be a legal citizens of the Empire. Citizenship provided freedom from torture and the right to a fair trial. The city leaders were afraid that more important Roman authorities might learn how the city leaders had mistreated Paul and Silas. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

167516:40q59h0

Here the word “they” refers to Paul and Silas. The word “them” refers to the believers in Philippi.

167616:40y14irc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory0

This is the end of Paul and Silas time in Philippi. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

167716:40t1pfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goεἰσῆλθον πρὸς τὴν Λυδίαν1

Here “came” can be translated as “went.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

167816:40ylk9τὴν Λυδίαν1

“the home of Lydia”

167916:40ntc9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἰδόντες1

Here “brothers” refers to believers whether male or female. Alternate translation: “saw the believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

168017:introgj4c0

Acts 17 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Misunderstandings about the Messiah

The Jews expected the Christ or Messiah to be a powerful king because the Old Testament says so many times. But it also says many times that the Messiah would suffer, and that was what Paul was telling the Jews. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])

The religion of Athens

Paul said that the Athenians were “religious,” but they did not worship the true God. They worshiped many different false gods. In the past they had conquered other peoples and begun to worship the gods of the people they had conquered. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])

In this chapter Luke describes for the first time how Paul told the message of Christ to people who knew nothing of the Old Testament.

168117:1q9x40

Here the word “they” refers to Paul and Silas. Compare Acts 16:40. The word “them” refers to the Jews at the synagogue in Thessalonica.

168217:1r3qb0

This continues the story of Paul, Silas, and Timothys missionary trip. They arrive in Thessalonica, apparently without Luke, since he says “they” and not “we.”

168317:1e4w5δὲ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke, the author, starts to tell a new part of the story.

168417:1b7npδιοδεύσαντες1

“traveled through”

168517:1kll1rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesτὴν Ἀμφίπολιν καὶ τὴν Ἀπολλωνίαν1

These are coastal cities in Macedonia. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

168617:1yj66rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἦλθον εἰς Θεσσαλονίκην1

Here “came” can be translated as “went” or “arrived.” Alternate translation: “they came to the city” or “they arrived at the city” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

168717:2vbf2κατὰ & τὸ εἰωθὸς1

“as his habit was” or “as his common practice was.” Paul usually went to the synagogue on the Sabbath when Jews would be present.

168817:2bt5eἐπὶ Σάββατα τρία1

“on each Sabbath day for three weeks”

168917:2wp3krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδιελέξατο αὐτοῖς ἀπὸ τῶν Γραφῶν1

Paul explained what the scriptures means in order to prove to the Jews that Jesus is the Messiah. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

169017:2qf4tδιελέξατο αὐτοῖς1

“gave them reasons” or “debated with them” or “discussed with them”

169117:3e85n0

Here the word “He” refers to Paul (Acts 17:2).

169217:3ir9qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδιανοίγων1

Possible meanings are (1) to explain the scriptures in a way that people can understand is spoken of as if Paul were opening something so people can see what is inside of it, or (2) Paul was literally opening a book or scroll and reading from it. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

169317:3he78ἔδει1

“it was part of Gods plan”

169417:3ipb2ἀναστῆναι1

“to come back to life”

169517:3b9qiἐκ νεκρῶν1

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To come back from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

169617:4es2urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveαὐτῶν ἐπείσθησαν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Jews believed” or “the Jews understood” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

169717:4nyp2προσεκληρώθησαν τῷ Παύλῳ1

“became associated with Paul”

169817:4t21zσεβομένων Ἑλλήνων1

This refers to Greeks who worship God but have not converted to Judaism through circumcision.

169917:4ye8vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesγυναικῶν & τῶν πρώτων οὐκ ὀλίγαι1

This is an understatement to emphasize that many leading women joined them. Alternate translation: “many leading women” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

170017:5nuh60

Here the word “they” refers to the unbelieving Jews and wicked men from the marketplace.

170117:5uj43rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorζηλώσαντες1

The feeling of jealousy is spoken of as if jealousy were actually moving the person. Alternate translation: “feeling very jealous” or “feeling very angry” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

170217:5vev6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitζηλώσαντες1

It can be stated explicitly that these Jews were jealous because some of the Jews and Greeks believed Pauls message. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

170317:5btw6προσλαβόμενοι & ἄνδρας τινὰς πονηροὺς1

Here “took” does not mean the Jews took these people by force. It means the Jews persuaded these wicked men to help them.

170417:5lc6gἄνδρας τινὰς πονηροὺς1

“some evil men.” The word “men” here refers specifically to males.

170517:5ie1fτῶν ἀγοραίων1

“from the public square.” This is a public place of business, where buying and selling of goods, cattle, or services take place.

170617:5t3bcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐθορύβουν τὴν πόλιν1

Here “the city” stands for the people in the city. Alternate translation: “caused the people of the city to be in an uproar” or “caused the people of the city to riot” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

170717:5s3uvἐπιστάντες τῇ οἰκίᾳ1

“Violently attacking the house.” This probably means the people were throwing rocks at the house and trying to break down the door of the house.

170817:5ks2lrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἸάσονος1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

170917:5abcuαὐτοὺς προαγαγεῖν1

“to bring Paul and Silas out”

171017:5pp7kπροαγαγεῖν εἰς τὸν δῆμον1

Possible meanings or “people” are (1) a governmental or legal group of citizens gathered to make a decision or (2) a mob.

171117:6i79pτινας ἀδελφοὺς1

Here “brothers” refers to believers. Alternate translation: “some other believers”

171217:6e44zἐπὶ τοὺς πολιτάρχας1

“in the presence of the officials”

171317:6g7xjοἱ & ἀναστατώσαντες, οὗτοι1

The Jewish leaders were speaking and the phrase, “These men,” refers to Paul and Silas.

171417:6c2avrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleτὴν οἰκουμένην ἀναστατώσαντες1

This phrase is another way of saying Paul and Silas where causing trouble everywhere they went. The Jewish leaders were exaggerating the influence Paul and Silas were having with their teaching. Alternate translation: “caused trouble everywhere in the world” or “caused trouble everywhere they have gone” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

171517:7hlc9ὑποδέδεκται Ἰάσων1

This phrase signals that Jason was in agreement with the apostles troubling message.

171617:8th2fἐτάραξαν1

“were worried”

171717:9ya44λαβόντες τὸ ἱκανὸν παρὰ τοῦ Ἰάσονος καὶ τῶν λοιπῶν1

Jason and the others had to pay the money to the city officials as a promise of good behavior; that money might be returned if all went well or it might be used to repair the damages brought on by bad behavior.

171817:9bj48τῶν λοιπῶν1

The words “the rest” refers to other believers that the Jews brought before the officials.

171917:9aru6ἀπέλυσαν αὐτούς1

“the officials let Jason and the other believers go”

172017:10na8h0

Paul and Silas travel on to the town of Berea.

172117:10qy5crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsοἱ & ἀδελφοὶ1

The word “brothers” here refers to men and women believers. Alternate translation: “the believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

172217:11k2strc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundδὲ1

The word “now” is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke tells background information about the people in Berea and how they were willing to listen to Paul and examine what he said. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

172317:11gu6sοὗτοι & ἦσαν εὐγενέστεροι1

These “well-born” people were willing to think more objectively about new ideas than other people. Alternate translation: “more open minded” or “more willing to listen”

172417:11hle3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐδέξαντο τὸν λόγον1

Here “word” refers to a teaching. Alternate translation: “listened to the teaching” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

172517:11uh8aμετὰ πάσης προθυμίας1

These Bereans were prepared to examine earnestly Pauls teachings about the scripture.

172617:11lzm3καθ’ ἡμέραν ἀνακρίνοντες τὰς Γραφὰς1

“carefully reading and evaluating the scriptures every day”

172717:11g8anἔχοι ταῦτα οὕτως1

“the things Paul said were true”

172817:12abcvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesἀνδρῶν οὐκ ὀλίγοι1

This is an understatement to emphasize that many men believed the message. Alternate translation: “many men” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

172917:13vn8hrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

Athens is down the coast from Barea which is in Macedonia. Athens was one of the most important cities in Greece. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

173017:13asb4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἦλθον κἀκεῖ, σαλεύοντες1

This speaks about their agitating people as though it were a person stirring a liquid and causing the things at the bottom of the liquid to rise to the surface. Alternate translation: “went there and agitated” or “went there and disturbed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

173117:13wjq3ταράσσοντες τοὺς ὄχλους1

“and worried the crowds” or “caused dread and fear among the people”

173217:14ael8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοὶ1

The word “brothers” here refers to men and women believers. Alternate translation: “believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

173317:14zw1cπορεύεσθαι ἕως ἐπὶ τὴν θάλασσαν1

“to go to the coast.” From here Paul would probably sail to another city.

173417:15tjh5καθιστάνοντες τὸν Παῦλον1

“who were accompanying Paul” or “who were going along with Paul”

173517:15gs1prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotationsλαβόντες ἐντολὴν πρὸς τὸν Σιλᾶν καὶ τὸν Τιμόθεον1

“he told them to instruct Silas and Timothy.” This can also be stated as a direct quotation as in the UST. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

173617:16wk630

This is another part of the story of Paul and Silas travels. Paul is now in Athens where he is waiting for Silas and Timothy to join him.

173717:16y9crδὲ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke starts to tell a new part of the story.

173817:16we78rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheπαρωξύνετο τὸ πνεῦμα αὐτοῦ ἐν αὐτῷ, θεωροῦντος κατείδωλον οὖσαν τὴν πόλιν1

Here “spirit” stands for Paul himself. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he became upset because he saw that there were idols everywhere in the city” or “seeing the idols everywhere in the city upset him” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

173917:17q8pxδιελέγετο1

“he debated” or “he discussed.” This means that there is interaction from the listeners rather than only his preaching. They are talking with him as well.

174017:17jkj8τοῖς σεβομένοις1

This refers to Gentiles (non-Jews) who give praise to God and follow him but do not obey all of the Jewish laws.

174117:17ec14ἐν τῇ ἀγορᾷ1

“in the public square.” This is a public place of business, where buying and selling of goods, cattle, or services take place.

174217:18ru6a0

Here the words “him,” “He, “and “he” refer to Paul.

174317:18l7lerc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἘπικουρίων καὶ Στοϊκῶν φιλοσόφων1

These people believed all things were formed by chance and that the gods were too busy being happy to be bothered with governing the universe. They rejected the resurrection and wanted only simple pleasures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

174417:18f976rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΣτοϊκῶν φιλοσόφων1

These people believed freedom comes from resigning oneself to fate. They rejected a personal loving God and the resurrection. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

174517:18tjk6συνέβαλλον αὐτῷ1

“happened upon him”

174617:18dnj8τινες ἔλεγον1

“Some of the philosophers said”

174717:18g4bvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτί ἂν θέλοι ὁ σπερμολόγος οὗτος1

The word “babbler” was used to refer to birds picking up seeds as food. It refers negatively to a person who only knows a little bit of information. The philosophers said Paul had bits of information which were not worth listening to. Alternate translation: “What is this uneducated person” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

174817:18k2psοἱ1

“Other philosophers said”

174917:18l41tδοκεῖ καταγγελεὺς1

“He seems to be a proclaimer” or “He seems to be on a mission to add people to his philosophy”

175017:18sx9tξένων δαιμονίων1

This is not in the sense of “odd,” but in the sense of “foreign,” that is, gods that Greeks and Romans do not worship or know about.

175117:19fs5grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The words “him,” “He” and “you” refer to Paul (Acts 17:18). Here the words “They” and “we” refer to the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

175217:19mv8cἐπιλαβόμενοί τε αὐτοῦ, ἐπὶ τὸν Ἄρειον Πάγον ἤγαγον1

This does not mean they arrested Paul. The philosophers invited Paul to speak formally to their leaders.

175317:19b56grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπὶ τὸν Ἄρειον Πάγον1

The “Areopagus” was the place where the leaders met. Alternate translation: “to the leaders that met on the Areopagus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

175417:19ze7eτὸν Ἄρειον Πάγον & λέγοντες1

Here the leaders on the Areopagus are speaking. This can stated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “the Areopagus. The leaders said to Paul”

175517:19unc8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἌρειον Πάγον1

This is a prominent rock outcropping or hill in Athens upon which the supreme court of Athens may have met. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

175617:20lay8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorξενίζοντα γάρ τινα εἰσφέρεις εἰς τὰς ἀκοὰς ἡμῶν1

Pauls teachings about Jesus and the resurrection are spoken of as an object that a person can bring to another person. Here “ears” refers to what they hear. Alternate translation: “For you teachings some things that we have never heard before” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

175717:21dn1trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleἈθηναῖοι δὲ πάντες καὶ οἱ ἐπιδημοῦντες ξένοι1

The word “all” is a generalization referring to many. Alternate translation: “Now many of the Athenians and the strangers living there” or “Now many of the Athenians and the strangers living there” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

175817:21d8ybrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἈθηναῖοι & πάντες1

“Athenians” are people from Athens, a city near the coast below Macedonia (present day Greece). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

175917:21m8u1οἱ & ξένοι1

“the foreigners”

176017:21sk5brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰς οὐδὲν ἕτερον ηὐκαίρουν, ἢ λέγειν τι ἢ ἀκούειν1

Here “time” is spoken of as if it were an object that a person could spend. Alternate translation: “used their time doing nothing but either telling or listening” or “were always doing nothing but telling or listening” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

176117:21ij4erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleεἰς οὐδὲν ἕτερον ηὐκαίρουν, ἢ λέγειν τι ἢ ἀκούειν1

The phrase “spent their time in nothing” is an exaggeration. Alternate translation: “did not do much but tell or listen” or “spent much of their time telling or listening” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

176217:21wr1rλέγειν τι ἢ ἀκούειν τι καινότερον1

“discussing new philosophical ideas” or “talking about what was new to them”

176317:22zq3y0

Paul begins his speech to the philosophers on the Areopagus.

176417:22ja1kκατὰ πάντα & δεισιδαιμονεστέρους1

Paul is referring to the Athenians public display of honoring the gods through prayers, building altars, and offering sacrifices.

176517:23gn1jδιερχόμενος γὰρ1

“Because as I walked past” or “I walked along”

176617:23cem7ἀγνώστῳ Θεῷ1

Possible meanings are (1) “to a certain unknown god” or (2) “to a god not known.” This was a specific writing or inscription on that altar.

176717:24m1jmτὸν κόσμον1

In the most general sense, the “world” refers to the heavens and the earth and everything in them.

176817:24rqk9οὗτος & ὑπάρχων Κύριος1

“because he is the Lord.” Here “he” is referring to the unknown god mentioned in Acts 17:23 that Paul is explaining is the Lord God.

176917:24f2mzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismοὐρανοῦ καὶ γῆς1

The words “heaven” and “earth” are used together to mean all beings and things in heaven and earth. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

177017:24ju4hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheχειροποιήτοις1

Here “hands” stands for people. Alternate translation: “built by the hands of people” or “that people built” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

177117:25e3dgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐδὲ ὑπὸ χειρῶν ἀνθρωπίνων θεραπεύεται1

Here “served” has the sense of a doctor treating a patient to make the patient well again. Alternate translation: “Neither do mens hands take care of him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

177217:25yq68rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheὑπὸ χειρῶν ἀνθρωπίνων1

Here “hands” stands for the whole person. Alternate translation: “by humans” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

177317:25sj89rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsαὐτὸς διδοὺς1

“because he himself.” The word “himself” is added for emphasis. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

177417:26r3ltrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the words “he” and “him” refer to the one true God, the creator. The words “their” and “them” refer to every nation of people living on the surface of the earth. In using the word “us,” Paul includes himself, his audience, and every nation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

177517:26p1e4ἑνὸς1

This means Adam, the first person God created. This can be stated to include Eve. It was through Adam and Eve that God made all other people. Alternate translation: “one couple”

177617:26js4pὁρίσας προστεταγμένους καιροὺς καὶ τὰς ὁροθεσίας τῆς κατοικίας αὐτῶν1

This can be stated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “And he determined when and where they would live”

177717:27jae5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorζητεῖν τὸν Θεὸν, εἰ ἄρα γε ψηλαφήσειαν αὐτὸν καὶ εὕροιεν1

Here “search for God” represents desiring to know him, and “feel their way toward him and find him” represents praying and having a relationship with him. Alternate translation: “so that they should want to know God and perhaps pray to him and become one of his people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

177817:27p8hkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesκαί γε οὐ μακρὰν ἀπὸ ἑνὸς ἑκάστου ἡμῶν ὑπάρχοντα1

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “Yet he is very near to everyone of us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

177917:28tkd3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the words “him” and “his” refer to God (Acts 17:24). When Paul says “we” here, he includes himself as well as his hearers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

178017:28cbd9ἐν αὐτῷ γὰρ1

“Because of him”

178117:29k9wsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorγένος & ὑπάρχοντες τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Because God created everyone, all people are spoken of as if they were Gods literal children. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

178217:29czi9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸ θεῖον1

Here “deity” refers to Gods nature or attributes. Alternate translation: “that God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

178317:29q4q2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveχαράγματι τέχνης καὶ ἐνθυμήσεως ἀνθρώπου1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which a man then uses his skill to make it into something that he has designed” or “images that people make by using their art and imagination” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

178417:30y2u80

Here the word “he” refers to God.

178517:30zj280

Paul finishes his speech to the philosophers in the Areopagus, which he began in Acts 17:22.

178617:30suh6οὖν1

“Because what I have just said is true”

178717:30iva4χρόνους τῆς ἀγνοίας ὑπεριδὼν ὁ Θεὸς1

“God decided not to punish people during the time of ignorance”

178817:30h8uyχρόνους τῆς ἀγνοίας1

This refers to the time before God fully revealed himself through Jesus Christ and before people truly knew how to obey God.

178917:30qim5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsτοῖς ἀνθρώποις πάντας1

This means all people whether male or female. Alternate translation: “all people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

179017:31htp7ἐν ᾗ μέλλει κρίνειν τὴν οἰκουμένην ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ, ἐν ἀνδρὶ ᾧ ὥρισεν1

“when the man he has chosen will judge the world in righteousness”

179117:31jt3arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyμέλλει κρίνειν τὴν οἰκουμένην1

Here “world” refers to the people. Alternate translation: “he will judge all people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

179217:31i9awἐν δικαιοσύνῃ1

“justly” or “fairly”

179317:31l61pπίστιν παρασχὼν1

“God has demonstrated his choice of this man”

179417:31ulr4ἐκ νεκρῶν1

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To come back from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

179517:32tc8trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “We” refers to the men of Athens but not to Paul, so this is exclusive. Though some of them probably did want to hear Paul again, they may only have been being polite. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

179617:32c4smrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory0

This is the end of the part of the story about Paul in Athens. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

179717:32nb26δὲ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke shifts from Pauls teachings to the reaction of the people of Athens.

179817:32jlm5ἀκούσαντες1

These are the people who were present at the Areopagus listening to Paul.

179917:32sn6jοἱ μὲν ἐχλεύαζον1

“some ridiculed Paul” or “some laughed at Paul.” These did not believe it was possible for someone to die and then return to life.

180017:34psh8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΔιονύσιος ὁ Ἀρεοπαγίτης1

Dionysius is a mans name. Areopagite implies that Dionysius was one of the judges at the council of Areopagus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

180117:34hsz3rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΔάμαρις1

This is the name of a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

180218:introrky60

Acts 18 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The baptism of John

Some Jews who lived far away from Jerusalem and Judea had heard of John the Baptist and followed his teachings. They had not yet heard about Jesus. One of these Jews was Apollos. He followed John the Baptist, but he did not know that the Messiah had come. John had baptized people to show that they were sorry for their sins, but this baptism was different from Christian baptism. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])

180318:1jat1rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Aquila and Priscilla are introduced to the story and verses 2 and 3 give background information about them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

180418:1qa9b0

This is another part of the story of Pauls travels as he goes to Corinth.

180518:1fky7μετὰ ταῦτα1

“After these events took place in Athens”

180618:1abcwχωρισθεὶς1

“Paul departed”

180718:1h2siἐκ τῶν Ἀθηνῶν1

Athens was one of the most important cities in Greece. See how you translated this in Acts 17:15.

180818:2d9zxκαὶ εὑρών1

Possible meanings are that (1) Paul happened to find by chance or (2) Paul intentionally found.

180918:2hm16rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsτινα Ἰουδαῖον ὀνόματι Ἀκύλαν1

Here the phrase “a certain” indicates this is introducing new person in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

181018:2y97prc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΠοντικὸν τῷ γένει1

Pontus was a province on the southern coast of the Black Sea. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

181118:2q4vaπροσφάτως ἐληλυθότα1

This is probably sometime in the past year.

181218:2n631rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesτῆς Ἰταλίας1

This is the name of land. Rome is the capital city of Italy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

181318:2n95fτὸ διατεταχέναι Κλαύδιον1

Claudius was the current Roman emperor. See how you translated this in Acts 11:28.

181418:3q259τὸ ὁμότεχνον εἶναι1

“he did the same kind of work that they did”

181518:4r56h0

Silas and Timothy rejoin Paul.

181618:4h3azδιελέγετο δὲ1

“So Paul debated” or “So Paul discussed.” He gave reasons. This means that rather than just preaching, Paul talked and interacted with the people.

181718:4r2gpἔπειθέν τε Ἰουδαίους καὶ Ἕλληνας1

Possible meanings are (1) “He caused both Jews and Greeks to believe” or (2) “He kept trying to persuade the Jews and the Greeks.”

181818:5d191rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveσυνείχετο τῷ λόγῳ ὁ Παῦλος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Spirit compelled Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

181918:6ncx8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionἐκτιναξάμενος τὰ ἱμάτια1

This is a symbolic action to indicate that Paul will no longer try to teach the Jews there about Jesus. He is leaving them to Gods judgment. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

182018:6z12arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸ αἷμα ὑμῶν ἐπὶ τὴν κεφαλὴν ὑμῶν1

Here “blood” stands for the guilt of their actions. Here “heads” refers to the whole person. Paul tells the Jews they are solely responsible for the judgment they will face for their stubbornness if they refuse to repent. Alternate translation: “You alone bear the responsibility for your punishment for sin” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

182118:7cd3u0

Here the word “he” refers to Paul. The first word “his” refers to Titius Justus. The second word “his” refers to Crispus.

182218:7vs6yrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΤιτίου Ἰούστου1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

182318:7v8xgσεβομένου τὸν Θεόν1

A worshiper of God is a Gentile who gives praise to God and follows him but does not necessarily obey all of the Jewish laws.

182418:8lj2trc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΚρίσπος1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

182518:8kkk9ἀρχισυνάγωγος1

a layperson who sponsored and administered the synagogue, not necessarily the teacher

182618:8uaq5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὅλῳ τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ1

Here “house” refers to the people who lived together. Alternate translation: “the people who lived with him in his house” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

182718:8t3nprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐβαπτίζοντο1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “received baptism” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

182818:9ws7prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismμὴ φοβοῦ, ἀλλὰ λάλει καὶ μὴ σιωπήσῃς1

The Lord is giving one command in two different ways to emphasize that Paul should certainly continue preaching. Alternate translation: “You must not be afraid and, instead, continue to speak and not become silent” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

182918:9zg8arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletλάλει καὶ μὴ σιωπήσῃς1

The Lord gives the same command in two different ways to strongly command Paul to speak. Alternate translation: “you must certainly continue to speak” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

183018:9a529rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμὴ σιωπήσῃς1

It can be stated explicitly what the Lord wants Paul to speak. Alternate translation: “do not stop speaking about the gospel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

183118:10a8lqλαός ἐστί μοι πολὺς ἐν τῇ πόλει ταύτῃ1

“there are many people in this city who have put their faith in me” or “many people in this city will put their faith in me”

183218:11mqx2rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstoryἐκάθισεν δὲ ἐνιαυτὸν καὶ μῆνας ἓξ, διδάσκων ἐν αὐτοῖς τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This is a concluding statement for this part of the story. “Word of God” here is a synecdoche for the entire scriptures. Alternate translation: “Paul lived there … teaching the scriptures among them” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

183318:12f41krc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

Achaia was the Roman province in which Corinth was located. Corinth was the largest city in southern Greece and the capital of the province. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

183418:12b5bf0

The unbelieving Jews bring Paul to the judgment seat before Gallio.

183518:12se8mrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΓαλλίωνος1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

183618:12j762rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1

This stands for the Jewish leaders that did not believe in Jesus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

183718:12lp79κατεπέστησαν ὁμοθυμαδὸν1

“came together” or “joined together”

183818:12u36crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἤγαγον αὐτὸν ἐπὶ τὸ βῆμα1

The Jews took Paul by force to bring Paul before the court. Here “judgment seat” refers to the place where Gallio sat when he made legal decisions in court. Alternate translation: “took him so that the governor could judge him at the judgment seat” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

183918:14d13bεἶπεν ὁ Γαλλίων1

Gallio was the Roman governor of the Province.

184018:15y6mtνόμου τοῦ καθ’ ὑμᾶς1

Here “law” refers to the law of Moses and as well as the Jewish customs of Pauls time.

184118:15khr5κριτὴς ἐγὼ τούτων οὐ βούλομαι εἶναι1

“I refuse to make a judgment about these matters”

184218:16yf810

Here the word “they” probably refers to the Gentiles at the court. They reacted against the Jews who had brought Paul before the judgment seat (Acts 18:12).

184318:16d6nhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀπήλασεν αὐτοὺς ἀπὸ τοῦ βήματος1

“Gallio dismissed them from the judgment seat.” Here “judgment seat” refers to the place where Gallio sits to make legal decisions in court. Alternate translation: “Gallio made them leave his presence in the court” or “Gallio made them leave the court” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

184418:17cyk6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleἐπιλαβόμενοι & πάντες1

This may be an exaggeration to emphasize the strong feelings the people had. Alternate translation: “many people seized” or “many of them grabbed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

184518:17mj77ἐπιλαβόμενοι δὲ πάντες Σωσθένην τὸν ἀρχισυνάγωγον, ἔτυπτον ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ βήματος1

Possible meanings are (1) the Gentiles beat Sosthenes in the court in front of the judgment seat because he was the Jewish leader or (2) it is possible that Sosthenes was a believer in Christ, so the Jews beat him in front of the court.

184618:17x9w5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΣωσθένην τὸν ἀρχισυνάγωγον1

“Sosthenes” was the Jewish ruler of the synagogue at Corinth. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

184718:17z9fvἔτυπτον1

“repeatedly hit him” or “repeatedly punched him.”

184818:18x25wrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

Here the word “he” refers to Paul. Cenchreae was a seaport that was part of the greater Corinth city area. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

184918:18ura90

This continues Pauls missionary journey as Paul, Priscilla, and Aquila leave Corinth. This seems to indicate that Silas and Timothy remain since it says “he” here and not “we.” The word “they” refers to Paul, Priscilla, and Aquila.

185018:18et8crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsτοῖς ἀδελφοῖς ἀποταξάμενος1

The word “brothers” refers to men and women believers. Alternate translation: “left the fellow believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

185118:18v5klἐξέπλει εἰς τὴν Συρίαν, καὶ σὺν αὐτῷ Πρίσκιλλα καὶ Ἀκύλας1

Paul got on a ship that sailed for Syria. Priscilla and Aquila went with him.

185218:18kq6frc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionκειράμενος & τὴν κεφαλήν, εἶχεν γὰρ εὐχήν1

This is a symbolic action that indicates the completion of a vow. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he had someone cut off the hair on his head” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

185318:19abcxκἀκείνους κατέλιπεν1

“Paul left Priscilla and Aquilla”

185418:19st93διελέξατο τοῖς1

“discussed with” or “debated with”

185518:20u44s0

Here the words “they” and “them” refer to the Jews in Ephesus.

185618:21iz1uἀποταξάμενος1

“saying good-bye to them”

185718:22pr6u0

Phrygia is a province in Asia which is now modern day Turkey. See how you translated this in Acts 2:10.

185818:22p3640

Paul continues his missionary journey.

185918:22gyy4κατελθὼν εἰς Καισάρειαν1

“arrived at Caesarea.” The word “landed” is used to show that he arrived by ship.

186018:22r26zἀναβὰς1

He traveled to the city of Jerusalem. The phrase “went up” is used here because Jerusalem is higher in elevation than Caesarea.

186118:22q9j6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀσπασάμενος τὴν ἐκκλησίαν1

Here “church” refers to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “greeted the members of the church of Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

186218:22n3rhκατέβη1

The phrase “went down” is used here because Antioch is lower in elevation than Jerusalem.

186318:23pww5ἐξῆλθεν1

“Paul went away” or “Paul left”

186418:23h65jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκαὶ ποιήσας χρόνον τινὰ1

This speaks about “time” as if it were a commodity that a person could spend. Alternate translation: After staying there for a while” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

186518:24a7p9rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Apollos is introduced to the story. Verses 24 and 25 give background information about him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

186618:24muc20

Luke tells what happens in Ephesus with Priscilla and Aquila.

186718:24xqy7δέ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line.

186818:24n2b4rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsἸουδαῖος & τις Ἀπολλῶς ὀνόματι1

The phrase “a certain” indicates that Luke is introducing a new person in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

186918:24di14rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἈλεξανδρεὺς τῷ γένει1

“a man who was born in the city of Alexandria.” This was a city in Egypt on the north coast of Africa. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

187018:24t4ziλόγιος1

“a good speaker”

187118:24bh25δυνατὸς ὢν ἐν ταῖς Γραφαῖς1

“he knew the scriptures thoroughly.” He understood the Old Testament writings well.

187218:25z7a8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὗτος ἦν κατηχημένος τὴν ὁδὸν τοῦ Κυρίου1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Other believers had taught Apollos how the Lord Jesus wanted people to live” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

187318:25ift8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheκαὶ ζέων τῷ πνεύματι1

Here “spirit” refers to the entire person of Apollos. Alternate translation: “Being very enthusiastic” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

187418:25lr1hτὸ βάπτισμα Ἰωάννου1

“The baptism that John performed.” This is comparing Johns baptism which was with water to Jesus baptism which is with the Holy Spirit.

187518:26ga6vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὴν ὁδὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

How God wants people to live is spoken of as if it were a road that a person travels. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

187618:26k1lbἀκριβέστερον1

“correctly” or “more fully”

187718:27c2sq0

Here the he words “he” and “him” refer to Apollos (Acts 18:24).

187818:27ll36διελθεῖν εἰς τὴν Ἀχαΐαν1

“to go to the region of Achaia.” The phrase “pass over” is used here because Apollos had to cross the Aegean Sea to get to Achaia from Ephesus.

187918:27pql7τὴν Ἀχαΐαν1

Achaia was a Roman Province in the southern section of Greece. See how you translated this in Acts 18:12.

188018:27v2i6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοὶ1

The word “brothers” here refers to men and women believers. You can make explicit that these are believers in Ephesus. Alternate translation: “fellow believers in Ephesus” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

188118:27q5f2ἔγραψαν τοῖς μαθηταῖς1

“wrote a letter to the Christians in Achaia”

188218:27f99pτοῖς πεπιστευκόσιν διὰ τῆς χάριτος1

“those who had believed in salvation by grace” or “those who by Gods grace believed in Jesus”

188318:28l2ztεὐτόνως & τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις διακατηλέγχετο δημοσίᾳ1

“In public debate Apollos powerfully showed that the Jews were wrong”

188418:28v4sxἐπιδεικνὺς διὰ τῶν Γραφῶν εἶναι τὸν Χριστὸν, Ἰησοῦν1

“as he showed them by the scriptures that Jesus is the Christ”

188519:introg38y0

Acts 19 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Baptism

John baptized people to show that they were sorry for their sins. Jesus followers baptized people who wanted to follow Jesus.

Temple of Diana

The temple of Diana was an important place in the city of Ephesus. Many people came to Ephesus to see this temple, and they bought statues of the goddess Diana while they were there. The people who sold statues of Diana were afraid that if people did not believe Diana was a real goddess, they would stop giving the sellers money for statues.

188619:1rhv10

The “upper country” was an area of Asia which today is part of modern-day Turkey to the north of Ephesus. Paul must have traveled by land around the top of the Aegean sea in order to come to Ephesus (also in Turkey today) which is directly east of Corinth by sea.

188719:1wu6p0

Paul travels to Ephesus.

188819:1lp23ἐγένετο δὲ1

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

188919:1ati9διελθόντα1

“traveled through”

189019:2wqi4Πνεῦμα Ἅγιον ἐλάβετε1

This means to have the Holy Spirit come upon them.

189119:2nvn4οὐδ’ εἰ Πνεῦμα Ἅγιον ἔστιν ἠκούσαμεν1

“we have not even heard about the Holy Spirit”

189219:3hml10

Here the words “They,” “you,” and “they” refer to certain disciples in the city of Ephesus (Acts 19:1). The word “him” refers to John.

189319:3mrm6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεἰς τί οὖν ἐβαπτίσθητε1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “What kind of baptism did you receive?” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

189419:3jzp7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisεἰς τὸ Ἰωάννου βάπτισμα1

You can translate this as a complete sentence. Alternate translation: “We received the kind of baptism about which John taught” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

189519:4r46yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsβάπτισμα μετανοίας1

You can translate the abstract noun “repentance” as the verb “repent.” Alternate translation: “the baptism that people requested when they wanted to repent” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

189619:4pv7tτὸν ἐρχόμενον1

Here “the one” refers to Jesus.

189719:4q5fhτὸν ἐρχόμενον μετ’ αὐτὸν1

This means to come after John the Baptist in time and not following after him physically.

189819:5zx2b0

Paul continues staying in Ephesus.

189919:5k9stἀκούσαντες δὲ1

Here “people” refers to the disciples in Ephesus who were talking with Paul (Acts 19:1),

190019:5ueh1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐβαπτίσθησαν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they received baptism” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

190119:5g2dmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyεἰς τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ1

Here “name” refers to Jesus power and authority. Alternate translation: “as believers in the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

190219:6gk8lἐπιθέντος αὐτοῖς τοῦ Παύλου χεῖρας1

“placed his hands on them.” He probably placed his hands on their shoulders or heads. Alternate translation: “placed his hands on their heads as he prayed”

190319:6j4n8ἐλάλουν τε γλώσσαις καὶ ἐπροφήτευον1

Unlike in Acts 2:3-4, there are no details of who understood their messages.

190419:7e7kjrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundἦσαν δὲ οἱ πάντες ἄνδρες ὡσεὶ δώδεκα1

This tells how many men were baptized. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

190519:7u71irc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersἄνδρες & δώδεκα1

“12 men” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

190619:8qv8zεἰσελθὼν & εἰς τὴν συναγωγὴν, ἐπαρρησιάζετο ἐπὶ μῆνας τρεῖς1

“Paul regularly attended the synagogue meetings for three months and spoke there boldly”

190719:8yky2διαλεγόμενος καὶ πείθων1

“convincing people with convincing arguments and with clear teaching”

190819:8v8etrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπερὶ τῆς Βασιλείας τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Here “kingdom” stands for Gods rule as king. Alternate translation: “about Gods rule as king” or “about how God would show himself as king” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

190919:9mq1grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτινες ἐσκληρύνοντο καὶ ἠπείθουν1

To stubbornly refuse to believe is spoken of as though the people were becoming hard and unable to move. Alternate translation: “some Jews were stubborn and did not believe” or “some Jews stubbornly refused to accept and obey the message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

191019:9n6irrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκακολογοῦντες τὴν ὁδὸν ἐνώπιον τοῦ πλήθους1

What Christ wants people to believe is spoken of as though it were a road that a person travels. The phrase, “the Way,” seems to have been a title for Christianity at the time. Alternate translation: “to speak evil about Christianity to the crowd” or “to speak to the crowd evil things about those who follow Christ and who obey his teaching about God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and Acts 9:2)

191119:9ts8dκακολογοῦντες1

“to speak bad things about”

191219:9xsm6ἐν τῇ σχολῇ Τυράννου1

“in the large room where Tyrannus had taught people”

191319:9den4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΤυράννου1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

191419:10cw5grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντας τοὺς κατοικοῦντας τὴν Ἀσίαν ἀκοῦσαι τὸν λόγον τοῦ Κυρίου1

Here “all” is a generalization that means very many people throughout Asia heard the gospel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

191519:10kj12rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον τοῦ Κυρίου1

Here “word” stands for a message. Alternate translation: “the message about the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

191619:11cb6w0

Here the words “them” and “they” refer to those who were sick.

191719:11fa6hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheδυνάμεις τε οὐ τὰς τυχούσας, ὁ Θεὸς ἐποίει διὰ τῶν χειρῶν Παύλου1

Here “hands” stands for Pauls whole person. Alternate translation: “God was causing Paul to do miracles” or “God was doing miracles through Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

191819:11abcyοὐ τὰς τυχούσας1

“unusual”

191919:12m3klκαὶ ἐπὶ τοὺς ἀσθενοῦντας ἀποφέρεσθαι ἀπὸ τοῦ χρωτὸς αὐτοῦ σουδάρια ἢ σιμικίνθια, καὶ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when they took to sick people even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched Paul”

192019:12vc1vκαὶ & ἀπὸ τοῦ χρωτὸς αὐτοῦ σουδάρια ἢ σιμικίνθια1

Possible meanings are (1) these were cloth items that Paul had touched or (2) these were cloth items that Paul had worn or used.

192119:12aks4σουδάρια1

cloths worn around the head

192219:12xs31σιμικίνθια1

clothing worn on the front of the body to protect the clothes of people

192319:12kw9zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjτοὺς ἀσθενοῦντας1

This refers to sick people. Alternate translation: “sick people” or “those who were sick” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

192419:12nl3aἀπαλλάσσεσθαι ἀπ’ αὐτῶν τὰς νόσους1

“those who were sick became healthy”

192519:13he2x0

This is the beginning of another event that happened while Paul was in Ephesus. It is about Jewish exorcists.

192619:13fgq4ἐξορκιστῶν1

people who send evil spirits away from people or places

192719:13s12urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ1

Here “name” refers to Jesus power and authority. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

192819:13d59pτὸν Ἰησοῦν, ὃν Παῦλος κηρύσσει1

“Jesus” was a common name at the time, so these exorcists wanted people to know of whom they spoke.

192919:13vqt1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν Ἰησοῦν1

This stands for the power and authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “by the authority of Jesus” or “by the power of Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

193019:14cb8prc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΣκευᾶ1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

193119:15i4a2τὸν Ἰησοῦν γινώσκω, καὶ τὸν Παῦλον ἐπίσταμαι1

“I know Jesus and Paul” or “I know Jesus, and I know Paul”

193219:15nsl1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionὑμεῖς δὲ τίνες ἐστέ1

The spirit asked this question to emphasize that the exorcists had no authority over evil spirits. Alternate translation: “but I do not know you!” or “but you have no authority over me!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

193319:16ty4xφαλόμενος ὁ ἄνθρωπος & ἐν ᾧ ἦν τὸ πνεῦμα τὸ πονηρὸν1

This means that the evil spirit caused the man whom it was controlling to leap on the exorcists.

193419:16lu7uαὐτοὺς1

This refers to people who send evil spirits from people or places. See how you translated this in Acts 19:13.

193519:16b8cbγυμνοὺς & ἐκφυγεῖν1

The exorcists fled with their clothes ripped off them.

193619:17j85hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐμεγαλύνετο τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they honored the name of the Lord Jesus” or “they considered the name of the Lord Jesus to be great” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

193719:17j2hhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸ ὄνομα1

This stands for the power and authority of Jesus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

193819:18tj8trc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory0

This ends the story about the Jewish exorcists. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

193919:19z9rjσυνενέγκαντες τὰς βίβλους1

“collected their books.” The word “books” refers to scrolls on which magical incantations and formulas were written.

194019:19m6nfἐνώπιον πάντων1

“in front of everyone”

194119:19upz3τὰς τιμὰς αὐτῶν1

“the value of the books” or “the value of the scrolls”

194219:19u9pirc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersμυριάδας πέντε1

“50,000” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

194319:19bcv2rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoneyἀργυρίου1

A “piece of silver” was the approximate daily wage for a common laborer. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

194419:20es71rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοὕτως κατὰ κράτος τοῦ Κυρίου ὁ λόγος ηὔξανεν καὶ ἴσχυεν1

“So because of these powerful deeds, more and more people heard the message about the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

194519:21k1j10

Paul talks about going Jerusalem but does not leave Ephesus yet.

194619:21de4fδὲ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke starts to tell a new part of the story.

194719:21q18bἐπληρώθη ταῦτα & ὁ Παῦλος1

“Paul completed the work that God had for him to do in Ephesus”

194819:21fgq5ἔθετο & ἐν τῷ Πνεύματι1

Possible meanings are (1) Paul decided with the help of the Holy Spirit or (2) Paul decided within his own spirit, which means he made up his mind.

194919:21brb7Ἀχαΐαν1

Achaia was the Roman province in which Corinth was located. It was the largest city in southern Greece and the capital of the province. See how you translated this in Acts 18:12.

195019:21rdz4δεῖ με καὶ Ῥώμην ἰδεῖν1

“I must also travel to Rome”

195119:22cy6frc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἜραστον1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

195219:22k35jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitαὐτὸς ἐπέσχεν χρόνον εἰς τὴν Ἀσίαν1

It is made explicit in the next few verses that Paul remains in Ephesus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

195319:22uy9xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsαὐτὸς1

This is repeated for emphasis. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

195419:23y5aerc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Demetrius is introduced to the story. Verse 24 introduces background information about Demetrius. Ephesus had a large temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis, sometimes translated as “Diana.” She was a false goddess of fertility. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-background]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

195519:23l7gz0

Luke tells about a riot that broke out while Paul was in Ephesus.

195619:23kn49ἐγένετο & τάραχος οὐκ ὀλίγος περὶ τῆς ὁδοῦ1

This is a summary opening statement.

195719:23nb3prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesἐγένετο & τάραχος οὐκ ὀλίγος1

“the people became very upset” See how you translated this in Acts 12:18 (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

195819:23rwf2τῆς ὁδοῦ1

This was a term used to refer to Christianity. See how you translated this title in Acts 9:1.

195919:24cg16rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsΔημήτριος & τις ὀνόματι ἀργυροκόπος1

The use of the words “a certain” introduces a new person in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

196019:24nwt7ἀργυροκόπος1

a craftsman who works with silver metal to make statues and jewelry

196119:24v8cbrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΔημήτριος & ὀνόματι1

This is the name of a man. Demetrius was a silversmith in Ephesus who was against Paul and the local church. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

196219:24p58mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesπαρείχετο & οὐκ ὀλίγην ἐργασίαν1

This is a way of saying that he brought in much business. Alternate translation: “made a lot of money for those who made the idols” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

196319:25kuz6τοὺς περὶ τὰ τοιαῦτα ἐργάτας1

An occupation is a profession or job. Alternate translation: “others who did that kind of work”

196419:26w5z60

Demetrius continues to speak to the craftsmen.

196519:26rm6wθεωρεῖτε καὶ ἀκούετε ὅτι1

“You have come to know and understand that”

196619:26rx32rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμετέστησεν ἱκανὸν ὄχλον1

Pauls stopping people from worshiping idols is spoken of as though Paul were literally turning the people in a different direction. Alternate translation: “caused many people to stop worshiping the local gods” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

196719:26z7e7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisλέγων ὅτι οὐκ εἰσὶν θεοὶ, οἱ διὰ χειρῶν γινόμενοι1

Here the word “hands” can refer to the whole person. Alternate translation: “He is saying that the idols that people make are not real gods” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

196819:27r1w2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῦτο κινδυνεύει ἡμῖν, τὸ μέρος εἰς ἀπελεγμὸν ἐλθεῖν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that the people will no longer want to buy idols from us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

196919:27j3bbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὸ τῆς μεγάλης θεᾶς Ἀρτέμιδος ἱερὸν, εἰς οὐθὲν λογισθῆναι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the people will think there is no benefit in going to the temple to worship the great goddess Artemis” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

197019:27bqt4μέλλειν τε καὶ καθαιρεῖσθαι τῆς μεγαλειότητος αὐτῆς1

Artemiss greatness only comes from what people think of her.

197119:27hz7lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleἣν ὅλη ἡ Ἀσία καὶ ἡ οἰκουμένη σέβεται1

This was an exaggeration to show how popular the goddess Artemis was. Here the words “Asia” and “the world” refer to the people in Asia and the known world. Alternate translation: “whom many people in Asia and in other parts of the world worship” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

197219:28t4lm0

Here “they” refers to the craftsmen who made the idols (Acts 19:24-25).

197319:28uc5crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorγενόμενοι πλήρεις θυμοῦ1

This speaks of the craftsmen as though they were containers. Here “anger” is spoken of as if it were the contents that fill a container. Alternate translation: “they became very angry” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

197419:28lcx8ἔκραζον1

“shouted aloud” or “shouted loudly”

197519:29t7xsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπλήσθη ἡ πόλις τῆς συγχύσεως1

Here “city” refers to the people. The city is spoken of as if it were a container. And, “confusion” is spoken of as if it were the contents that filled the container. Alternate translation: “Then people all over the city became upset and started shouting” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

197619:29nt7yὥρμησάν τε ὁμοθυμαδὸν1

This was a mob or near riot situation.

197719:29ej3qεἰς τὸ θέατρον1

The Ephesus theater was used for public meetings and for entertainment such as plays and music. It was an outdoor semi-circular area with bench seats that could hold thousands of people.

197819:29hjc8συνεκδήμους Παύλου1

The men who had been with Paul.

197919:29d6r9rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΓάϊον καὶ Ἀρίσταρχον1

These are names of men. Gaius and Aristarchus came from Macedonia but were working with Paul in Ephesus at this time. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

198019:30ii1u0

Ephesus was part of the Roman empire and in the province of Asia.

198119:31z7wwδοῦναι & εἰς τὸ θέατρον1

The Ephesus theater was used for public meetings and for entertainment such as plays and music. It was an outdoor semi-circular area with bench seats that could hold thousands of people. See how you translated “theater” in Acts 19:29.

198219:33jr85rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἈλέξανδρον1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

198319:33j1mirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκατασείσας τὴν χεῖρα1

You can make explicit that Alexander was showing the crowd that he wanted them to be quiet. Alternate translation: “gestured to the crowd to be quiet” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

198419:33tlq7ἀπολογεῖσθαι1

It is not clear whom or what Alexander wanted to defend. If your language requires this information, it might be best to use a general phrase like “to explain what was going on.”

198519:34u1hprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorφωνὴ & μία1

The shouting together of the people at the same time is spoken of as though they were speaking with one voice. Alternate translation: “in unison” or “together” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

198619:35fm3mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

The words “You” and “you” refer to all the men present who were from Ephesus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

198719:35pu960

The clerk of Ephesus speaks to quiet the crowd.

198819:35sy9mὁ γραμματεὺς1

This refers to the town “writer” or “secretary.”

198919:35sd3src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίς & ἐστιν ἀνθρώπων, ὃς οὐ γινώσκει τὴν Ἐφεσίων πόλιν νεωκόρον οὖσαν τῆς μεγάλης Ἀρτέμιδος καὶ τοῦ διοπετοῦ1

The clerk asked this question to assure the crowd they were right and to comfort them. Alternate translation: “every man knows that the city of the Ephesians is temple keeper … heaven.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

199019:35k8dyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesὃς οὐ γινώσκει1

The town clerk uses “not” to emphasize that all of the people knew this. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

199119:35hiw3νεωκόρον1

The Ephesian people maintained and guarded the temple of Artemis.

199219:35afd1τοῦ διοπετοῦς1

Within the temple of Artemis was an image of the goddess. It had been fashioned from a meteorite which fell from the sky. People thought that his rock had come directly from Zeus, the ruler of the Greek gods (idols).

199319:36r8cfἀναντιρρήτων οὖν ὄντων τούτων1

“Since you know these things”

199419:36xj2nμηδὲν προπετὲς πράσσειν1

“do not do anything before you have had time to think about it”

199519:36s67qπροπετὲς1

without careful thought

199619:37s8a9τοὺς ἄνδρας τούτους1

The words “these men” refer to Gaius and Aristarchus, Pauls traveling companions (Acts 19:29).

199719:38wgv50

The town clerk finishes speaking to the crowd.

199819:38qd4sοὖν1

“Because what I have just said is true.” The town clerk had said in Acts 19:37 that Gaius and Aristarchus were not robbers or blasphemers.

199919:38zkx5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἔχουσιν πρός τινα λόγον1

The word “accusation” can be stated as the verb “accuse.” Alternate translation: “want to accuse someone” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

200019:38szf7rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownἀνθύπατοί1

the Roman governors representatives who made legal decisions in court (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

200119:38g8tpἐγκαλείτωσαν ἀλλήλοις1

This does not mean Demetrius and those with him will accuse each other. It means this is a place where people in general can speak their accusation. Alternate translation: “There people can accuse one another”

200219:39hxh3εἰ δέ τι περὶ ἑτέρων ἐπιζητεῖτε1

“But if you have other matters to discuss”

200319:39wga5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν τῇ ἐννόμῳ ἐκκλησίᾳ ἐπιλυθήσεται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “let us settle it in the regular assembly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

200419:39et5jτῇ ἐννόμῳ ἐκκλησίᾳ1

This refers to a public gathering of citizens over which the county clerk presided.

200519:40sds7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκινδυνεύομεν ἐνκαλεῖσθαι στάσεως περὶ τῆς σήμερον1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “in danger of the Roman authorities accusing us of starting this riot today” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

200620:introu91c0

Acts 20 General Notes

Structure and formatting

In this chapter Luke describes Pauls last visits to believers in the provinces of Macedonia and Asia before he went to Jerusalem.

Special concepts in this chapter

Race

Paul spoke of living for Jesus as if he were running in a race. By this he meant that he needed to keep working hard even when things were difficult and he wanted to quit. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/discipline]])

“Compelled by the Spirit”

Paul thought that the Holy Spirit wanted him to go to Jerusalem even if Paul did not want to go there. The same Holy Spirit told other people that when Paul arrived in Jerusalem, people would try to harm him.

200720:1cwq70

Paul leaves Ephesus and continues his travels.

200820:1y5cqμετὰ δὲ τὸ παύσασθαι1

“After the riot” or “Following the riot”

200920:1hr32ἀσπασάμενος1

“he said goodbye”

201020:2edb8παρακαλέσας αὐτοὺς λόγῳ πολλῷ1

“had greatly encouraged the believers” or “had said many things to encourage the believers”

201120:3yxj3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorποιήσας τε μῆνας τρεῖς1

“After he had stayed there three months.” This speaks about time as if it were something a person could spend. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

201220:3cit9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγενομένης ἐπιβουλῆς αὐτῷ ὑπὸ τῶν Ἰουδαίων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Jews formed a plot against him” or “the Jews formed a secret plan to harm him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

201320:3ah5wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheὑπὸ τῶν Ἰουδαίων1

This means only some of the Jews. Alternate translation: “by some of the Jews” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

201420:3m7naμέλλοντι ἀνάγεσθαι εἰς τὴν Συρίαν1

“as he was ready to sail for Syria”

201520:4y35xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “him” refers to Paul (Acts 20:1). All instances of “us” and “we” in the verses that follow refer to the writer and Paul and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

201620:4c9etσυνείπετο δὲ αὐτῷ1

“Traveling with him”

201720:4dw6jrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΣώπατρος & Πύρρου & Σεκοῦνδος, & Τυχικὸς & Τρόφιμος1

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

201820:4w4n1rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΒεροιαῖος & Δερβαῖος1

These are names of places. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

201920:4w8j6Ἀρίσταρχος & Γάϊος1

These are names of men. See how you translated these names in Acts 19:29.

202020:5itz1rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΤρῳάδι1

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

202120:5kv8tοὗτοι & προσελθόντες1

“these men had traveled ahead of us”

202220:6l5drτὰς ἡμέρας τῶν Ἀζύμων1

This refers to a time of Jewish religious feast time during the Passover season. See how you translated this in Acts 12:3.

202320:7dnt4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to the writer, Paul, and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and Acts 20:4-6)

202420:7mbr80

Luke tells about Pauls preaching in Troas and about what happened to Eutychus.

202520:7zff8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheκλάσαι ἄρτον1

Bread was part of their meals. Possible meanings are (1) this refers simply to eating a meal together. Alternate translation: “eat a meal” or (2) this refers to the meal they would eat together in order to remember Christs death and resurrection. Alternate translation: “to eat the Lords Supper” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

202620:7j888παρέτεινέν τε τὸν λόγον1

“he continued to speak”

202720:8ak8zὑπερῴῳ1

This may have been the third floor house.

202820:9hw7b0

Here the word “himself” refers to Paul. The first word “he” refers to Paul; the second word “he” refers to the young man, Eutychus. The word “him” refers to Eutychus.

202920:9v5q7ἐπὶ τῆς θυρίδος1

This was an opening in the wall with a ledge that was wide enough on which a person could sit.

203020:9ju64rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΕὔτυχος1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

203120:9tsp4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκαταφερόμενος ὕπνῳ βαθεῖ1

This speaks about sleep as if it were a deep hole into which a person could fall. Alternate translation: “who slept soundly” or “who became more and more tired until finally he was sleeping soundly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

203220:9abczκατενεχθεὶς ἀπὸ τοῦ ὕπνου1

The young man was fell asleep, not Paul.

203320:9jp89rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτριστέγου & καὶ ἤρθη νεκρός1

When they went down to check his condition, they saw he was dead. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “third story; and when they went to pick him up, they found that he was dead” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

203420:9kh3hτριστέγου1

This means two floors above the ground floor. If your culture does not count the ground floor, you may state this as the “second story.”

203520:11av7m0

Here the word “he” refers to Paul.

203620:11lih80

This is the end of the part of the story about Pauls preaching at Troas and about Eutychus.

203720:11w5w8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheκλάσας τὸν ἄρτον1

Bread was a common food during meals. Here “break bread” probably means they shared a meal with more kinds of food than just bread. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

203820:11t88cοὕτως ἐξῆλθεν1

“he went away”

203920:12jkj5τὸν παῖδα1

This refers to Eutychus (Acts 20:9). Possible meanings are (1) he was a young man over 14 years old or (2) he was a boy between 9 and 14 years old or (3) the word “boy” implies that he was a servant or a slave.

204020:12abx0rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ μετρίως1

This is a way of saying that they were greatly comforted. Alternate translation: “greatly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

204120:13dja7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The words “he,” “himself,” and “him” refer to Paul. Here the word “we” refers to the writer and those traveling with him, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

204220:13awt90

The writer Luke, Paul, and his other companions continue their travels; however, Paul goes separately for part of the trip.

204320:13w4ewrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsἡμεῖς & προελθόντες1

The word “ourselves” adds emphasis and separates Luke and his traveling companions from Paul, who did not travel by boat. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

204420:13q4yzrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἀνήχθημεν ἐπὶ τὴν Ἆσσον1

Assos is a town located directly below present day Behram in Turkey on the coast of the Aegean sea. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

204520:13nq2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsδιατεταγμένος1

Himself is used to emphasize that this is what Paul wanted. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

204620:13p8y7πεζεύειν1

“to travel on land”

204720:14ju8frc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἤλθομεν εἰς Μιτυλήνην1

Mitylene is a town located in present day Mitilini in Turkey on the coast of the Aegean sea. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

204820:15ll2hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Paul, the writer, and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

204920:15e6vaἄντικρυς Χίου1

“near the island” or “across from the island”

205020:15ulk6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΧίου1

Chios is an island off the coast of modern day Turkey in the Aegean Sea. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

205120:15jyr7παρεβάλομεν εἰς Σάμον1

“we arrived at the island of Samos”

205220:15b6c6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΣάμον1

Samos is an island south of Chios in the Aegean Sea off the coast of modern day Turkey. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

205320:15s7g2rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΜίλητον1

Miletus was a port city in western Asia Minor near the mouth of the Meander River. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

205420:16p272rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesκεκρίκει γὰρ ὁ Παῦλος παραπλεῦσαι τὴν Ἔφεσον1

Paul sailed south past the port city of Ephesus, further south in order to land at Miletus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

205520:16p61erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὅπως μὴ γένηται αὐτῷ χρονοτριβῆσαι1

This speaks about “time” as if it were a commodity that a person could spend or use up. Alternate translation: “so that he would not have to remain for a time” or “so that he would not have a delay” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

205620:17nw52rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “he” refers to Paul. The word “our” refers to Paul and the elders to whom he is speaking. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

205720:17v9al0

Paul calls the elders of the church of Ephesus and begins to speak to them.

205820:17l9ajrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesτῆς Μιλήτου1

Miletus was a port city in western Asia Minor near the mouth of the Meander River. See how you translated this in Acts 20:15. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

205920:18b6lirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsὑμεῖς1

Here “yourselves” is used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

206020:18vw6nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐπέβην εἰς τὴν Ἀσίαν1

Here “foot” stands for the entire person. Alternate translation: “I entered Asia” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

206120:18t7zsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπῶς μεθ’ ὑμῶν τὸν πάντα χρόνον ἐγενόμην1

This speaks about time as if it were something that a person could spend. Alternate translation: “how I always conducted myself when I was with you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

206220:19m8x9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorταπεινοφροσύνης1

This speaks about something humble as if it were low to the ground. The word “mind” stands for a persons inner attitude. Alternate translation: “humility” or “humbleness” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

206320:19wh5mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδακρύων1

Here “tears” stands for feeling sad and crying. Alternate translation: “I crying as I served the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

206420:19e6k7πειρασμῶν, τῶν συμβάντων μοι1

“Sufferings” is an abstract noun. The meaning can be expressed as a verb. Alternate Translation: “while I suffered” (See: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)

206520:19y5iwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheτῶν Ἰουδαίων1

This does not mean every Jew. This lets us know who plotted. Alternate translation: “of some of the Jews” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

206620:20nu7hὡς οὐδὲν ὑπεστειλάμην & τοῦ μὴ ἀναγγεῖλαι ὑμῖν1

“You know how I was never silent, but I always declared to you”

206720:20kut9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisκατ’ οἴκους1

Paul taught people in various private homes. The words “I taught” are understood. Alternate translation: “I also taught when I was in your homes” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

206820:21w7mvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὴν εἰς Θεὸν μετάνοιαν καὶ πίστιν εἰς τὸν Κύριον ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦν1

The abstract nouns “repentance” and “faith” can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: “that they need to repent before God and believe in our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

206920:22ty3b0

Here the word “I” refers to Paul.

207020:22vam4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδεδεμένος & τῷ Πνεύματι1

They can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because the Spirit compels me to go there” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

207120:22a9j1τὰ ἐν αὐτῇ συναντήσοντά μοι, μὴ εἰδώς1

“and I do not know what will happen to me there”

207220:23q3ierc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδεσμὰ καὶ θλίψεις με μένουσιν1

Here “chains” refers to Pauls being arrested and put in prison. Alternate translation: “people will put me in prison and cause me to suffer” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

207320:24w8d2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὡς τελειῶσαι τὸν δρόμον μου, καὶ τὴν διακονίαν ἣν ἔλαβον παρὰ τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ1

This speaks about Pauls “race” and “ministry” as if they are objects that Jesus gives and Paul receives. Here “race” and “ministry” mean basically the same thing. Paul repeats this for emphasis. Alternate translation: “so that I may complete the work that the Lord Jesus has commanded me to do” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

207420:24m5gcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτελειῶσαι τὸν δρόμον1

Paul speaks about completing the work that Jesus has commanded him to do as if he were running a race. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

207520:24hg3lδιαμαρτύρασθαι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τῆς χάριτος τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“to tell people the good news about Gods grace.” This is the ministry that Paul received from Jesus.

207620:25f1sb0

Paul continues to talk to the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:17).

207720:25kj9cκαὶ νῦν ἰδοὺ, ἐγὼ οἶδα1

“Now, pay careful attention, because I know”

207820:25z4ngἐγὼ οἶδα ὅτι & ὑμεῖς πάντες1

“I know that all of you”

207920:25aur9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν οἷς διῆλθον κηρύσσων τὴν βασιλείαν1

Here “kingdom” stands for Gods rule as king. Alternate translation: “to whom I preached the message about Gods reign as king” or “to whom I preached about how God will show himself as king” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

208020:25cq45rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοὐκέτι ὄψεσθε τὸ πρόσωπόν μου1

The word “face” here represents Pauls physical body. Alternate translation: “will not see me anymore on this earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

208120:26e546rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκαθαρός εἰμι ἀπὸ τοῦ αἵματος πάντων1

Here “blood” stands for a persons death, which, in this case, is not physical death but spiritual death when God declares a person guilty of sin. Paul had told them Gods truth. Alternate translation: “I am not responsible for anyone whom God judges guilty of sin because they did not trust in Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

208220:26v5elrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsπάντων1

Here this means any person whether male or female. Alternate translation: “any person” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

208320:27qa9yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ γὰρ ὑπεστειλάμην τοῦ μὴ ἀναγγεῖλαι & ὑμῖν1

“For I did not keep silent and not tell you.” This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “For I certainly declared to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

208420:28u52drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῷ ποιμνίῳ, ἐν ᾧ ὑμᾶς τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον ἔθετο ἐπισκόπους, ποιμαίνειν τὴν ἐκκλησίαν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Believers are likened to a “flock” of sheep here. Church leaders are entrusted by God with the care of the community of believers just as a shepherd would care for his flock of sheep and protect them from wolves. Alternate translation: “the group of believers the Holy spirit has entrusted to you. Be sure to take care of the church of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

208520:28cx69rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὴν ἐκκλησίαν τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἣν περιεποιήσατο διὰ τοῦ αἵματος τοῦ ἰδίου1

The shedding of the “blood” of Christ here is likened to a payment to God for our sins. Alternate translation: “the people Christ saved from their sins by shedding his blood on the cross” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

208620:28hjh6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτοῦ αἵματος τοῦ ἰδίου1

Here “blood” stands for Christs death. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

208720:29ka6urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰσελεύσονται & λύκοι βαρεῖς εἰς ὑμᾶς, μὴ φειδόμενοι τοῦ ποιμνίου1

This is a picture of people who teach false doctrine and who harm the community of believers as though they were wolves that eat the sheep of the flock. Alternate translation: “many enemies will come among you and try to harm the community of believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

208820:30ftf4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτοῦ ἀποσπᾶν τοὺς μαθητὰς ὀπίσω ἑαυτῶν1

A false teacher convincing believers to start believing his false teaching is spoken of as if he were leading sheep away from the flock to follow him. Alternate translation: “in order to convince people who are disciples of Christ to become his disciples instead” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

208920:31q2nlγρηγορεῖτε, μνημονεύοντες1

“be on guard and remember” or “be on guard as you remember”

209020:31ll64rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorγρηγορεῖτε1

“be awake and alert” or “watch out.” Christian leaders being alert about anyone that may harm the community of believers is spoken of as if they were guards in an army watching out for the enemy army. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

209120:31pvt6μνημονεύοντες ὅτι1

“Continue to remember that” or “Do not forget that”

209220:31rt1hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleτριετίαν νύκτα καὶ ἡμέραν, οὐκ ἐπαυσάμην & νουθετῶν1

Paul did not teach them continuously for three years, but over the space of three years. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

209320:31hs1mοὐκ ἐπαυσάμην & νουθετῶν1

“I did not stop warning”

209420:31rvh6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyμετὰ δακρύων1

Here “tears” refers to Pauls crying because of the strong emotion of concern he felt while he was warning the people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

209520:32ylm3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπαρατίθεμαι ὑμᾶς τῷ Θεῷ, καὶ τῷ λόγῳ τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ1

Here “word” stands for a message. Alternate translation: “I ask God to take care of you and that he will help you to keep believing the message I spoke to you about his grace” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

209620:32vnb2παρατίθεμαι1

to give someone else the responsibility of taking care of someone or something

209720:32s7rfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῷ & δυναμένῳ οἰκοδομῆσαι1

A persons faith becoming stronger is spoken of as if the person were a wall and someone were building him higher and stronger. Alternate translation: “which is able to make become stronger and stronger in your faith” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

209820:32zvz8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationδοῦναι τὴν κληρονομίαν1

This speaks about the “word of his grace” as if it were God himself that would give the inheritance to believers. Alternate translation: “God will give you the inheritance” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

209920:32x5jyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὴν κληρονομίαν1

The blessings that God gives believers is spoken of as if they were money or property that a child inherits from his father. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

210020:33y6ii0

Paul finishes speaking to the elders of the church of Ephesus; he began to speak them in Acts 20:18.

210120:33yw8aἀργυρίου & οὐδενὸς ἐπεθύμησα1

“I did not desire someones silver” or “I did not want for myself anyones silver”

210220:33ipq5ἀργυρίου, ἢ χρυσίου, ἢ ἱματισμοῦ, οὐδενὸς1

Clothing was considered a treasure; the more you had, the richer you were.

210320:34f5a3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsαὐτοὶ1

The word “yourselves” is used here to add emphasis. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

210420:34ja5vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheταῖς χρείαις μου & ὑπηρέτησαν αἱ χεῖρες αὗται1

The word “hands” here represents the entire person. Alternate translation: “I worked to earn money and pay for my own expenses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

210520:35wn8jκοπιῶντας δεῖ ἀντιλαμβάνεσθαι τῶν ἀσθενούντων1

“you should work so as to have money to help people who cannot earn it for themselves”

210620:35p3n8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjτῶν ἀσθενούντων1

You can state this nominal adjective as an adjective. Alternate translation: “weak persons” or “those who are weak” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

210720:35dpu1ἀσθενούντων1

“sick”

210820:35ps2irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῶν λόγων τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ1

Here “words” refers to what Jesus has said. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

210920:35e396μακάριόν ἐστιν μᾶλλον, διδόναι ἢ λαμβάνειν1

This means a person receives the favor of God and experiences more joy when he gives to other people rather than always receiving from other people.

211020:36q6bs0

Paul ends his time with the elders of the church of Ephesus by praying with them.

211120:36u3ucrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionθεὶς τὰ γόνατα αὐτοῦ & προσηύξατο1

It was a common custom to kneel down while praying. It was a sign of humility before God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

211220:37pb4rἐπιπεσόντες ἐπὶ τὸν τράχηλον τοῦ Παύλου1

“hugged him closely” or “put their arms around him”

211320:37sze4κατεφίλουν αὐτόν1

Kissing someone on the cheek is an expression of brotherly or friendly love in the Middle East.

211420:38bs3src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοὐκέτι μέλλουσιν τὸ πρόσωπον αὐτοῦ θεωρεῖν1

The word “face” here represents Pauls physical body. Alternate translation: “will not see me anymore on this earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

211521:introgh1j0

Acts 21 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Acts 21:1-19 describes Pauls journey to Jerusalem. After he arrived in Jerusalem, the believers there told him that the Jews wanted to harm him and what he should do so they would not harm him (verses 20-26). Even though Paul did what the believers told him to do, the Jews tried to kill him. The Romans rescued him and gave him a chance to speak to the Jews.

The last verse of the chapter ends with an incomplete sentence. Most translations leave the sentence incomplete, as the ULT does.

Special concepts in this chapter

“They are all determined to keep the law”

The Jews in Jerusalem were following the law of Moses. Even those who were following Jesus still kept the law. Both groups thought that Paul had been telling Jews in Greece not to keep the law. But it was only the Gentiles to whom Paul was saying that.

Nazarite vow

The vow that Paul and his three friends made was probably a Nazarite vow, because they shaved their heads (Acts 21:23).

Gentiles in the temple

The Jews accused Paul of bringing a Gentile man into a part of the temple into which God only allowed Jews to go. They thought that God wanted them to punish Paul by killing him. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

Roman citizenship

The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens.

211621:1s3h3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Luke, Paul, and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

211721:1i6f80

The writer Luke, Paul, and his companions continue their travels.

211821:1zz5hεὐθυδρομήσαντες ἤλθομεν εἰς τὴν Κῶ1

“we went straight to the city of Cos” or “we went directly to the city of Cos”

211921:1e5y6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΚῶ1

Cos is a Greek island off the coast of modern day Turkey in the South Aegean Sea region. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

212021:1p6ssrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesῬόδον1

Rhodes is a Greek island off the coast of modern day Turkey in the South Aegean Sea region south of Cos and northeast of Crete. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

212121:1x7kgrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΠάταρα1

Patara is a city on the southwest coast of modern day Turkey south of the Aegean Sea in the Mediterranean Sea. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

212221:2nz9krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκαὶ εὑρόντες πλοῖον διαπερῶν εἰς Φοινίκην1

Here “a ship crossing over” stands for the crew that would sail the ship. Alternate translation: “When we found a ship with a crew sailing over to Phoenicia” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

212321:2vbd3πλοῖον διαπερῶν1

Here “crossing” does not mean it was presently crossing but that it would be crossing to Phoenicia soon. Alternate translation: “a ship that would be going across the water” or “a ship that would be going”

212421:3er3rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Luke, Paul, and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

212521:3vkr2καταλιπόντες αὐτὴν εὐώνυμον1

“passed the island on the left” the left is the “port” side of a boat.

212621:3hwx8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐκεῖσε & τὸ πλοῖον ἦν ἀποφορτιζόμενον τὸν γόμον1

Here “ship” stands for the crew that was sailing the ship. Alternate translation: “the crew would unload the cargo from the ship” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

212721:4y35mοἵτινες τῷ Παύλῳ ἔλεγον διὰ τοῦ Πνεύματος1

“These believers told Paul what the Holy Spirit had revealed to them.” They “urged him over and over.”

212821:5fe1u0

Here the word “They” refers to the believers from Tyre.

212921:5a5wjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὅτε & ἐγένετο ἡμᾶς ἐξαρτίσαι τὰς ἡμέρας1

This speaks about days as if they were something that a person could spend. Alternate translation: “When the seven days were over” or “When it was time to leave” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

213021:5q8xlrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionθέντες τὰ γόνατα ἐπὶ τὸν αἰγιαλὸν προσευξάμενοι1

It was a common custom to kneel down while praying. This was a sign of humility before God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

213121:6ja1xἀπησπασάμεθα ἀλλήλους1

“said goodbye to one another”

213221:7hy6erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Luke, Paul and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

213321:7kt6u0

This begins Pauls time in Caesarea.

213421:7z4ntrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesκατηντήσαμεν εἰς Πτολεμαΐδα1

Ptolemaic was a city south of Tyre, Lebanon. Ptolemaic is modern day Acre, Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

213521:7ff1sτοὺς ἀδελφοὺς1

“fellow believers”

213621:8ay52ἐκ τῶν ἑπτὰ1

The “seven” refers to the men chosen to distribute food and aid to the widows in Acts 6:5.

213721:8vi48εὐαγγελιστοῦ1

a person who tells people good news

213821:9rcf4τούτῳ1

“Philip” from verse 8.

213921:9cv8brc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundδὲ1

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke tells background information about Philip and his daughters. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

214021:9r1i1θυγατέρες τέσσαρες παρθένοι, προφητεύουσαι1

“four virgin daughters who regularly received and passed along messages from God”

214121:10fe6src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the words “we” and “us” refers to Luke, Paul, and those with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

214221:10hx8k0

This tells about a prophecy made about Paul in Caesarea by the prophet Agabus.

214321:10n3i8rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participantsτις & προφήτης ὀνόματι Ἅγαβος1

This introduces a new person in the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

214421:10f9cbrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesὀνόματι Ἅγαβος1

Agabus was a man from Judea. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

214521:11i8t2ἄρας τὴν ζώνην τοῦ Παύλου1

“removed Pauls belt from Pauls waist”

214621:11nq2yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotesτάδε λέγει τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον, τὸν ἄνδρα οὗ ἐστιν ἡ ζώνη αὕτη, οὕτως δήσουσιν ἐν Ἰερουσαλὴμ οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι, καὶ παραδώσουσιν εἰς χεῖρας ἐθνῶν.1

This is a quotation within a quotation. The inner quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit says that this will be how the Jews in Jerusalem will tie up … of the Gentiles. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

214721:11i8u7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1

This does not mean all the Jews, but that these were the people who would do that. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” or “some of the Jews” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

214821:11zvw8παραδώσουσιν1

“deliver him”

214921:11s92drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyεἰς χεῖρας ἐθνῶν1

The word “hands” here represents control. Alternate translation: “into the legal custody of the Gentiles” or “to the Gentiles” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

215021:11b59grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐθνῶν1

This stands for the authorities among the Gentiles. Alternate translation: “the Gentile authorities” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

215121:12fvh4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Luke and the other believers but does not include the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

215221:13uwt2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί ποιεῖτε, κλαίοντες καὶ συνθρύπτοντές μου τὴν καρδίαν1

Paul asks this question to show the believers they should stop trying to persuade him. Alternate translation: “Stop what you are doing. Your weeping is breaking my heart” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

215321:13bj76rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσυνθρύπτοντές μου τὴν καρδίαν1

To make someone sad or to discourage someone is spoken of as if it were a heart being broken. Here “heart” stands for a persons emotions. Alternate translation: “discouraging me” or “making me very sad” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

215421:13p5e5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐ μόνον δεθῆναι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “not only for them to tie me up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

215521:13q35xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ1

Here “name” refers to the person of Jesus. Alternate translation: “for the sake of the Lord Jesus” or “because I believe in the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

215621:14hwc5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ πειθομένου & αὐτοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Paul would not allow us to persuade him” or “We were unable to persuade Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

215721:14zl98rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisπειθομένου1

You may need to make explicit what they could not persuade Paul not to do. Alternate translation: “persuaded not to go up to Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

215821:14as1irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῦ Κυρίου τὸ θέλημα γινέσθω1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “May everything happen as the Lord has planned it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

215921:15p5fmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Luke, Paul, and those traveling with them, and not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

216021:15p5flrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The word “They” refers to some of the disciples from Caesarea.

216121:15kd5l0

This ends Pauls time in Caesarea.

216221:16k9krἄγοντες παρ’ & τινι1

“Among them was a man”

216321:16zd9irc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΜνάσωνί, τινι Κυπρίῳ1

Mnason is a man from the island of Cyprus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

216421:16c7r2ἀρχαίῳ μαθητῇ1

This means Mnason was one of the first to believe in Jesus.

216521:17zpa70

Here the words “he” and “his” refers to Paul. The word “them” refers to the elders.

216621:17wz340

Paul and his companions arrive in Jerusalem.

216721:17d3gjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀπεδέξαντο ἡμᾶς οἱ ἀδελφοί1

Here “brothers” refers to the believers in Jerusalem whether male or female. Alternate translation: “the fellow believers welcomed us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

216821:19bx9eἐξηγεῖτο καθ’ ἓν ἕκαστον1

“he gave a detailed account of all”

216921:20zks90

The elders in Jerusalem begin their response to Paul.

217021:20a1hkοἱ & ἀκούσαντες & ἐδόξαζον & εἶπόν τε αὐτῷ1

Here the word “they” refers to James and the elders. The word “him” refers to Paul.

217121:20xki4ἀδελφέ1

Here “brother” means “fellow believer.”

217221:20c5puὑπάρχουσιν1

The word “they” refers to Jewish believers who wanted all believing Jews to keep the Jewish laws and customs.

217321:21pyg8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκατηχήθησαν δὲ περὶ σοῦ, ὅτι ἀποστασίαν διδάσκεις ἀπὸ Μωϋσέως τοὺς κατὰ τὰ ἔθνη πάντας Ἰουδαίους, λέγων μὴ περιτέμνειν αὐτοὺς τὰ τέκνα, μηδὲ τοῖς ἔθεσιν περιπατεῖν1

Apparently here there are some Jews that are distorting what Paul is teaching. He does not discourage the Jews from obeying the law of Moses. His message is that circumcision and the other customs are not necessary for Jesus to save them. You can make explicit that the leaders of the Jewish believers in Jerusalem knew that Paul was teaching Gods true message. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

217421:21e5s4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκατηχήθησαν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People have told the Jewish believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

217521:21sdl3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀποστασίαν & ἀπὸ Μωϋσέως1

Here “Moses” stands for the law of Moses. Alternate translation: “to stop obeying the laws that Moses gave us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

217621:21knt4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμηδὲ τοῖς ἔθεσιν περιπατεῖν1

To obey the old customs is spoken of as if the customs were leading them and the people follow behind. Alternate translation: “not to obey the old customs” or “not to practice the old customs” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

217721:21u56tτοῖς ἔθεσιν1

“the customs that Jews normally do”

217821:22b28brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to James and the elders (Acts 21:18). The word “They” refers to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem who wanted to teach Jewish believers that they could still follow the laws of Moses (Acts 21:20-21). The words “them,” “their,” and the first “they” refer to the four men who made a vow. The second words “they” and “They” refer to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem who wanted to teach Jewish believers that they could still follow the laws of Moses. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

217921:23b22rἄνδρες τέσσαρες, εὐχὴν ἔχοντες1

“four men who made a promise to God.” This was the kind of vow where a person would not drink alcohol or cut his hair until the end of a set period of time.

218021:24km4wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτούτους παραλαβὼν, ἁγνίσθητι σὺν αὐτοῖς1

They had to make themselves ritually pure so they could worship in the temple. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

218121:24c3aprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδαπάνησον ἐπ’ αὐτοῖς1

“pay for what they will need.” The expenses would go toward buying a male and female lamb, a ram, and grain and drink offerings. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

218221:24abq6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionξυρήσονται τὴν κεφαλήν1

This was a sign that the person had completed what they promised God they would do. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

218321:24nu9vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὧν κατήχηνται περὶ σοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the things that people are saying about you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

218421:24sv6irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorφυλάσσων τὸν νόμον1

This speaks of obeying the law as if the law were a leader and the people follow behind it. Alternate translation: “obey the law” or “live a life that conforms to the law of Moses and other Jewish customs” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

218521:25c4klrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to James and the elders. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

218621:25cqm90

James and the elders in Jerusalem finish their request to Paul (Acts 21:18).

218721:25a35urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitφυλάσσεσθαι αὐτοὺς, τό τε εἰδωλόθυτον, καὶ αἷμα, καὶ πνικτὸν1

All of these are rules about what they can eat. They are forbidden to eat meat of animals sacrificed to an idol, meat with blood still in it, and meat from a strangled animal because it would still have blood in the meat. See how you translated similar phrases in Acts 15:20. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

218821:25bpb5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveφυλάσσεσθαι αὐτοὺς, τό τε εἰδωλόθυτον1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they stay away from the meat of an animal that someone sacrificed to an idol” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

218921:25wjd2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπνικτὸν1

This can be stated in active form. You can also state explicitly the assumed information about strangled animals. Alternate translation: “from animals that a person has strangled” or “from animals that a person killed for food but did not drain its blood” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

219021:26cr14παραλαβὼν τοὺς ἄνδρας1

These are the 4 men who made a vow.

219121:26s8z9σὺν αὐτοῖς ἁγνισθεὶς1

Before entering the temple area the Jews were required to be ceremonially or ritually clean. This cleansing had to do with Jews having contact with Gentiles.

219221:26xu9rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheεἰσῄει εἰς τὸ ἱερόν1

They did not go into the temple itself where only the high priest was allowed to enter. They entered the temple courtyard. Alternate translation: “went into the temple courtyard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

219321:26pvy3τῶν ἡμερῶν τοῦ ἁγνισμοῦ1

This is a separate purification process from the purification process which they were required to fulfill in order to enter the temple area.

219421:26gc23rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἕως οὗ προσηνέχθη & ἡ προσφορά1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “until they presented the animals for an offering” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

219521:27l3bg0

Verse 29 gives background information about the Jews from Asia.

219621:27p4gi0

This begins the story of Pauls arrest.

219721:27j9zmαἱ ἑπτὰ ἡμέραι1

These are the seven days for purification.

219821:27k4l1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἐν τῷ ἱερῷ1

Paul was not in the temple itself. He was in the temple courtyard. Alternate translation: “in the temple courtyard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

219921:27u942rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσυνέχεον πάντα τὸν ὄχλον1

Inciting people to become very angry at Paul is spoken of as if they stirred up the crowds emotions. Alternate translation: “caused a large number of people to be very angry at Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

220021:27mks6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐπέβαλον ἐπ’ αὐτὸν τὰς χεῖρας1

Here “laid hands on” means to “seize” or to “grab.” See how you translated “laid hands on” in Acts 5:18. Alternate translation: “grabbed Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

220121:28sfg3τοῦ λαοῦ, καὶ τοῦ νόμου, καὶ τοῦ τόπου τούτου1

“the people of Israel, the law of Moses, and the temple”

220221:28jc9qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔτι τε καὶ Ἕλληνας εἰσήγαγεν εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν1

Only Jewish males were allowed in certain areas of the courtyard of the Jerusalem temple. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

220321:29t2z7rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundἦσαν γὰρ προεωρακότες Τρόφιμον τὸν Ἐφέσιον ἐν τῇ πόλει σὺν αὐτῷ, ὃν ἐνόμιζον ὅτι εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν εἰσήγαγεν ὁ Παῦλος1

This is background information. Luke is explaining why the Jews from Asia thought Paul brought a Greek into the temple. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

220421:29h1uuΤρόφιμον1

This was a Greek man that they accused Paul of having brought into the inner temple area that was only for Jews. See how you translated his name in Acts 20:4.

220521:30upl8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleἐκινήθη τε ἡ πόλις ὅλη1

The word “All” here is an exaggeration for emphasis. The word “city” represents the people in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “Many people in the city became angry at Paul” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

220621:30x2sxἐπιλαβόμενοι τοῦ Παύλου1

“seized Paul” or “grabbed Paul”

220721:30xd6rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitεὐθέως ἐκλείσθησαν αἱ θύραι1

They shut the doors so that there would not be rioting in the temple area. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Some of the Jews immediately shut the temple doors” or “The temple guards immediately shut the doors” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

220821:31d6vtrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀνέβη φάσις τῷ χιλιάρχῳ τῆς σπείρης1

Here “news” refers to the messenger who went to speak the news. Alternate translation: “someone gave news to the chief captain of the guard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

220921:31hu5rἀνέβη φάσις τῷ χιλιάρχῳ1

The phrase “came up to” is used because the chief captain was in a fortress connected to the temple that was higher in elevation than the temple courtyard.

221021:31p85aτῷ χιλιάρχῳ1

a Roman military officer or leader of about 600 soldiers

221121:31u65rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleὅλη συνχύννεται Ἰερουσαλήμ1

The word “Jerusalem” here represents the people of Jerusalem. The word “all” is an exaggeration to show a large crowd was upset. Alternate translation: “a lot of people in Jerusalem were in an uproar” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

221221:32j81t0

The first word “he” and the word “He” refer to the chief captain of the guard mentioned in Acts 21:31.

221321:32dgz5κατέδραμεν1

From the fortress, there are stairs going down into the court.

221421:32e4rjτὸν χιλίαρχον1

a Roman military officer or leader of about 600 soldiers

221521:33w28uἐπελάβετο αὐτοῦ1

“took hold of Paul” or “arrested Paul”

221621:33zi4lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκέλευσε δεθῆναι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “commanded his soldiers to bind him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

221721:33xd9wἁλύσεσι δυσί1

This means they bound Paul to two Roman soldiers, one on each side of him.

221821:33y6zwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotationsἐπυνθάνετο τίς εἴη καὶ τί ἐστιν πεποιηκώς1

This can be stated as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “He asked, Who is this man? What has he done?’” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

221921:33fi22ἐπυνθάνετο τίς εἴη1

The chief captain is speaking to the crowd, not to Paul.

222021:34pci2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἄλλοι1

The words “were shouting” are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “and others were shouting another” or “and others in the crowd were shouting something else” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

222121:34k35eαὐτοῦ1

This was a military officer or leader of about 600 soldiers.

222221:34qcc6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκέλευσεν ἄγεσθαι αὐτὸν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he ordered his soldiers to bring Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

222321:34w2qjεἰς τὴν παρεμβολήν1

This fortress was connected to the outer temple court.

222421:35h9n7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὅτε δὲ ἐγένετο ἐπὶ τοὺς ἀναβαθμούς, συνέβη βαστάζεσθαι αὐτὸν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When Paul came to the steps of the fortress, the soldiers carried him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

222521:36kax6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismαἶρε αὐτόν1

The crowd is using somewhat milder and less exact language to ask for Pauls death. Alternate translation: “Put him to death” or “Kill him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

222621:37j9xkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμέλλων τε εἰσάγεσθαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “As the soldiers were ready to bring Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

222721:37qp63τὴν παρεμβολὴν1

This fortress was connected to the outer temple court. See how you translated this in Acts 21:34.

222821:37inl1τῷ χιλιάρχῳ1

a Roman military officer of about 600 soldiers

222921:37p5cdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἙλληνιστὶ γινώσκεις11

The chief captain uses this questions to express surprise that Paul is not who he thought he was. Alternate translation: “So you speak Greek.” or “I didnt know you spoke Greek.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

223021:38xx2wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὐκ ἄρα σὺ εἶ ὁ Αἰγύπτιος, ὁ πρὸ τούτων τῶν ἡμερῶν, ἀναστατώσας καὶ ἐξαγαγὼν εἰς τὴν ἔρημον τοὺς τετρακισχιλίους ἄνδρας τῶν σικαρίων1

The chief captain uses this question and the question “Do you speak Greek?” (verse 37) to express surprise that Paul is not who he thought he was. Possible meanings are (1) as in ULT, the chief captain believes that even though Paul speaks Greek, Paul is the Egyptian. “Even though you speak Greek, I still think you are the Egyptian … wilderness.” (2) Because Paul speaks Greek, the chief captain thinks that perhaps Paul is not the Egyptian. “So you speak Greek. Perhaps I was wrong to think you were that Egyptian … wilderness.” It is best to retain the questions if the reader can infer one of the two meanings from them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

223121:38nxs6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὐκ ἄρα σὺ εἶ ὁ Αἰγύπτιος1

Shortly before Pauls visit, an unnamed man from Egypt had launched a revolt against Rome in Jerusalem. Later he escaped into the wilderness and the commander wonders if Paul might be the same man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

223221:38lwi4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀναστατώσας1

This word “rebellion” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “caused people to rebel against the Roman government” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

223321:38tqh6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersτοὺς τετρακισχιλίους ἄνδρας1

“the 4,000 terrorists” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

223421:38p2ymσικαρίων1

This refers to a group of Jewish rebels who killed Romans and anyone who supported Romans.

223521:39t6ax0

Paul begins to defend what he did.

223621:39ys84δέομαι & σου1

“I beg you” or “I plead with you”

223721:39a139ἐπίτρεψόν μοι1

“please allow me” or please permit me”

223821:40qp2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐπιτρέψαντος & αὐτοῦ1

The word “permission” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “the captain permitted Paul to speak” or “the captain allowed Paul to speak” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

223921:40a4y2ὁ Παῦλος ἑστὼς ἐπὶ τῶν ἀναβαθμῶν1

The word “steps” here refers to the steps on the stairway to the fortress.

224021:40rk1yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκατέσεισε τῇ χειρὶ τῷ λαῷ1

It can be stated explicitly why Paul motioned with the hand. Alternate translation: “motioned with his hand for the people to be quiet” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

224121:40xj6iπολλῆς δὲ σιγῆς γενομένης1

“When the people were completely silent”

224222:introgq5g0

Acts 22 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the second account of Pauls conversion in the book of Acts. Because this is such an important event in the early church, there are three accounts of Pauls conversion. (See: Acts 9 and Acts 26)

Special concepts in this chapter

“In the Hebrew language”

Most Jews at this time spoke Aramaic and Greek. Most of the people who spoke Hebrew were educated Jewish scholars. This is why the people paid attention when Paul started speaking in Hebrew.

“The Way”

No one knows for sure who first started calling believers “followers of the Way.” This is probably what the believers called themselves, because the Bible often speaks of a person living his life as if that person were walking on a path or “way.” If this is true, the believers were “following the way of the Lord” by living in a way that pleased God.

Roman citizenship

The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. The “chief captain” could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way he would treat a non-citizen.

224322:1kq95rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

Verse 2 gives background information. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

224422:1a8ir0

Paul speaks to the Jewish crowd in Jerusalem.

224522:1xe46ἀδελφοὶ καὶ πατέρες1

This is a polite way of addressing men who are Pauls age as well as the older men in the audience.

224622:1pe8tμου τῆς πρὸς ὑμᾶς νυνὶ1

“I will now explain to you” or “I will now present to you”

224722:2b4skτῇ Ἑβραΐδι διαλέκτῳ1

The Hebrew language was the language of the Jews.

224822:3g311rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀνατεθραμμένος δὲ ἐν τῇ πόλει ταύτῃ, παρὰ τοὺς πόδας Γαμαλιήλ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “but I was a student of rabbi Gamaliel here in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

224922:3d4dxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπαρὰ τοὺς πόδας Γαμαλιήλ1

Here “feet” stands for the place where a student would sit while learning from a teacher. Alternate translation: “by Gamaliel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

225022:3b1dqΓαμαλιήλ1

Gamaliel was one of the most prominent teachers of the Jewish law. See how you translated this name in Acts 5:34.

225122:3iz4grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπεπαιδευμένος κατὰ ἀκρίβειαν τοῦ πατρῴου νόμου1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He instructed me how to carefully obey every law of our forefathers” or “The instruction I received followed the exact details of the law of our forefathers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

225222:3lqk7πατρῴου νόμου1

“law of our ancestors.” This refers to the law that God gave to the people of Israel through Moses.

225322:3a8d6ζηλωτὴς ὑπάρχων τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“I am completely dedicated to obeying God” or “I am passionate about my service to God”

225422:3dbl4καθὼς πάντες ὑμεῖς ἐστε σήμερον1

“in the same way all of you are today.” Paul compares himself with the crowd.

225522:4jy3zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὃς ταύτην τὴν Ὁδὸν ἐδίωξα1

Here “this Way” represents the people who belonged to the group called “the Way.” Alternate translation: “I persecuted the people who belonged to this Way” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

225622:4bk4cταύτην τὴν Ὁδὸν1

This was a term used to refer to Christianity. See how you translated “the Way” in Acts 9:2.

225722:4dr8crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἄχρι θανάτου1

The word “death” can be translated with the verb “kill” or “die.” Alternate translation: “and I looked for ways to kill them” or “and I even caused them to die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

225822:4zd2rδεσμεύων καὶ παραδιδοὺς εἰς φυλακὰς, ἄνδρας τε καὶ γυναῖκας1

“tying up both men and women and taking them to prison”

225922:5v2kmμαρτυρεῖ1

“can testify” or “can tell you”

226022:5i45uπαρ’ ὧν & ἐπιστολὰς δεξάμενος1

“The high priests and elders gave me letters”

226122:5in72πρὸς τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς, εἰς Δαμασκὸν1

Here “brothers” refers to “fellow Jews.”

226222:5y82bἄξων & τοὺς ἐκεῖσε ὄντας, δεδεμένους εἰς Ἰερουσαλὴμ1

“They ordered me to bind with chains those of the Way and bring them back to Jerusalem”

226322:5ht9frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἵνα τιμωρηθῶσιν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “in order that they may receive punishment” or “in order that the Jewish authorities could punish them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

226422:6pe9s0

Paul describes his encounter with Jesus.

226522:6w4l7ἐγένετο δέ1

This phrase is used here to mark where the action starts. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

226622:7d6ndrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἤκουσα φωνῆς λεγούσης μοι1

Here “voice” stands for the person speaking. Alternate translation: “I heard someone say to me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

226722:9h95hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheτὴν & φωνὴν οὐκ ἤκουσαν τοῦ λαλοῦντός μοι1

Here “voice” stands for the person speaking. Alternate translation: “they did not understand what the one who spoke to me was saying” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

226822:10a91arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκἀκεῖ σοι λαληθήσεται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “there someone will tell you” or “there you will find out” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

226922:11n1kbοὐκ ἐνέβλεπον ἀπὸ τῆς δόξης τοῦ φωτὸς ἐκείνου1

“I was left blind because of that lights brightness”

227022:11n2n1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheχειραγωγούμενος ὑπὸ τῶν συνόντων μοι, ἦλθον εἰς Δαμασκόν1

Here “hands” stands for those leading Paul. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those with me guided me into Damascus” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

227122:12a17q0

The words “He” and “him” refer to Ananias.

227222:12h5bhrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἉνανίας1

Though this is not the same Ananias who died earlier in Acts Acts 5:3, you may translate it the same way though as you did in Acts 5:1. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

227322:12z1g3ἀνὴρ εὐλαβὴς κατὰ τὸν νόμον1

Ananias was very serious about following Gods law.

227422:12e7uwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμαρτυρούμενος ὑπὸ πάντων τῶν κατοικούντων Ἰουδαίων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Jews who lived there spoke well of him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

227522:13un4gΣαοὺλ, ἀδελφέ1

Here “Brother” is a polite way to address someone. Alternate translation: “My friend Saul”

227622:13x3kcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀνάβλεψον1

The word”sight” can be translated with the verb “see.” Alternate translation: “see again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

227722:13se47rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomαὐτῇ τῇ ὥρᾳ1

This was a customary way of saying something happened immediately. Alternate translation: “At that instant” or “Instantly” or “Immediately” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

227822:14v2i70

The word “he” refers to Ananias (Acts 22:12).

227922:14k3ck0

Paul finishes telling what had happened to him in Damascus. He quotes what Ananias said to him. This is still part of his speech to the crowd in Jerusalem.

228022:14k417τὸ θέλημα αὐτοῦ1

“what God is planning and will cause to happen”

228122:14dg8qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἀκοῦσαι φωνὴν ἐκ τοῦ στόματος αὐτοῦ1

Both “voice” and “mouth” refer to the one speaking. Alternate translation: “to hear him speak directly to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

228222:15i5q8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsπρὸς πάντας ἀνθρώπους1

Here “men” means all people whether male or female. Alternate translation: “to all people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

228322:16bhg9νῦν1

Here “now” does not mean “at this moment,” but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

228422:16mmx9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί μέλλεις1

This question was asked to exhort Paul to be baptized. Alternate translation: “Do not wait!” or “Do not delay!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

228522:16lt2irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveβάπτισαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “let me baptize you” or “receive baptism” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

228622:16zr5prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀπόλουσαι τὰς ἁμαρτίας σου1

As washing ones body removes dirt, calling on the name of Jesus for forgiveness cleanses ones inner being from sin. Alternate translation: “ask forgiveness for your sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

228722:16g5dqἐπικαλεσάμενος τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ1

Here “name” refers to the Lord. Alternate translation: “calling on the Lord” or “trusting in the Lord”

228822:17znq60

Paul begins to tell the crowd about his vision of Jesus.

228922:17its2ἐγένετο δέ1

This phrase is used here to mark where the action starts. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

229022:17yr9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγενέσθαι με ἐν ἐκστάσει1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I had a vision” or “God gave me a vision” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

229122:18jy2cἰδεῖν αὐτὸν λέγοντά μοι1

“I saw Jesus as he said to me”

229222:18qul6οὐ παραδέξονταί σου μαρτυρίαν περὶ ἐμοῦ1

“those who live in Jerusalem will not believe what you tell them about me”

229322:19q5cl0

Here the word “they” refers to the non-believing Jews in Jerusalem.

229422:19p7gz0

This ends what Paul was able to say to the crowd of Jewish people by the fortress.

229522:19im4nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsαὐτοὶ ἐπίστανται1

The word “themselves” is used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

229622:19da1eκατὰ τὰς συναγωγὰς1

Paul went to synagogues to find Jews who believed in Jesus.

229722:20y7t1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐξεχύννετο τὸ αἷμα Στεφάνου τοῦ μάρτυρός σου1

Here “blood” stands for Stephens life. To spill blood means to kill. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they killed Stephen who testified about you” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

229822:22fj9x0

Here the words “him” and the first two words “he” refer to Paul. The word “He” and the last “he” refer to the chief captain.

229922:22ta8zαἶρε ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς τὸν τοιοῦτον1

The phrase “from the earth” adds emphasis to “Away with such a fellow.” Alternate translation: “Kill him”

230022:23ylr7κραυγαζόντων1

“While they were.” The phrase “As they were” is used to mark two events that are happening at the same time.

230122:23b6a7rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionῥιπτούντων τὰ ἱμάτια, καὶ κονιορτὸν βαλλόντων εἰς τὸν ἀέρα1

These actions show that the Jews there are outraged because they feel Paul has spoken against God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

230222:24x7zvχιλίαρχος1

a Roman military officer or leader of about 600 soldiers

230322:24h6gprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκέλευσεν & εἰσάγεσθαι αὐτὸν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “ordered his soldiers to bring Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

230422:24sth6τὴν παρεμβολήν1

This fortress was connected to the outer temple court. See how you translated this in Acts 21:34.

230522:24pz47rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεἴπας μάστιξιν ἀνετάζεσθαι αὐτὸν1

The commander wants Paul tortured by whipping him to ensure he tells the truth. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He ordered his soldiers to whip Paul to force him to tell the truth” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

230622:25ar630

Here the word “they” refers to the soldiers.

230722:25st4kτοῖς ἱμᾶσιν1

These were strips of leather or animal hide.

230822:25yjw3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionεἰ ἄνθρωπον Ῥωμαῖον καὶ ἀκατάκριτον, ἔξεστιν ὑμῖν μαστίζειν1

Paul uses this question to make the centurion check the validity of having his soldiers whip Paul. Alternate translation: “It is not lawful for you to whip a man who is a Roman and who was not given his legal right to a trial!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

230922:26pca7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί μέλλεις ποιεῖν1

This question is used to urge the commander to reconsider his plan to whip Paul. Alternate translation: “You should not do this!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

231022:27pe310

Here the word “him” refers to Paul.

231122:27e69yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goπροσελθὼν & ὁ χιλίαρχος1

Here “came” can be translated as “went.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

231222:28dr2wἐγὼ πολλοῦ κεφαλαίου τὴν πολιτείαν ταύτην ἐκτησάμην1

“It was only after I paid a lot of money to the Roman authorities.” The captain makes this statement because he knows how hard it is to become a Roman citizen, and he suspects Paul is not telling truth.

231322:28r79crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐγὼ & τὴν πολιτείαν & ἐκτησάμην1

“I got citizenship.” The word “citizenship” is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “I became a citizen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

231422:28rly1ἐγὼ δὲ & γεγέννημαι1

If the father is a Roman citizen, then his children become Roman citizens automatically when they are born.

231522:29ii8pοἱ μέλλοντες & ἀνετάζειν1

“the men who planned to question” or “the men who were preparing to question”

231622:30g33i0

Here the word “he” refers to the chief captain.

231722:30kx58rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἔλυσεν αὐτόν1

Possibly the “chief officer” stands for the chief officers soldiers. Alternate translation: “So the chief captain ordered his soldiers to untie Pauls bonds” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

231822:30c5iaκαταγαγὼν τὸν Παῦλον1

From the fortress, there is a stairway going down to the temple courts.

231923:introgbw50

Acts 23 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted material in 23:5.

Special concepts in this chapter

Resurrection of the dead

The Pharisees believed that after people died, they would become alive again and God would either reward them or punish them. The Sadducees believed that once people died, they stayed dead and would never become alive again. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/other/raise]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])

“Called a curse”

Some Jews promised God that they would not eat or drink until they killed Paul, and they asked God to punish them if they did not do what they had promised to do.

Roman citizenship

The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. The “chief captain” could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way he would treat a non-citizen.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Whitewash

This is a common metaphor in Scripture for appearing to be good or clean or righteous when one is evil or unclean or unrighteous. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

232023:1z2sq0

Paul stands before the chief priests and the council members (Acts 22:30).

232123:1jru4ἀδελφοί1

Here this means “Fellow Jews.”

232223:1nn2qἐγὼ πάσῃ συνειδήσει ἀγαθῇ πεπολίτευμαι τῷ Θεῷ ἄχρι ταύτης τῆς ἡμέρας1

“I know that even to this day I have done what God has wanted me to do”

232323:2yz4nrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἉνανίας1

This is the name of a man. Though this is the same name, this not the same Ananias as in Acts 5:1 nor the same Ananias as in Acts 9:10. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

232423:3igq4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτοῖχε κεκονιαμένε1

This refers to a wall that was painted white to make it look clean. Paul told Ananias that just as a wall can be painted to look clean so Ananias appeared to look morally clean, but he was really full of evil intent. Alternate translation: “whitepainted wall” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

232523:3un7grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionσὺ κάθῃ κρίνων με κατὰ τὸν νόμον, καὶ παρανομῶν κελεύεις με τύπτεσθαι1

Paul uses a question to point out Ananias hypocrisy. Alternate translation: “You sit there to judge … against the law.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

232623:3m6nbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκελεύεις με τύπτεσθαι1

This can be stated in active form. You can use the same word for “strike” as you did in the phrase “God will strike you.” Alternate translation: “command people to strike me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

232723:4lkh8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτὸν ἀρχιερέα τοῦ Θεοῦ λοιδορεῖς1

The men use this question to scold Paul for what he has said in Acts 23:3. Alternate translation: “Do not insult Gods high priest!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

232823:5e8lgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitγέγραπται γὰρ1

Paul is about to quote what Moses wrote in the law. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “For Moses wrote in the law” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

232923:6pbe1ἀδελφοί1

Here “Brothers” means “Fellow Jews”

233023:6as3fυἱὸς Φαρισαίων1

Here “son” means he is the literal son of a Pharisee and also the descendant of Pharisees. Alternate translation: “and my father and forefathers were Pharisees”

233123:6iz18rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀναστάσεως νεκρῶν1

The word “resurrection” can be stated as “come back to life.” The word “dead” can be stated as “those who have died.” Alternate translation: “those who have died will come back to life, I” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

233223:6ys5krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐγὼ κρίνομαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you are judging me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

233323:7abs3ἐσχίσθη τὸ πλῆθος1

“the people in the crowd strongly disagreed with one another”

233423:8gl1src://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundΣαδδουκαῖοι & γὰρ & Φαρισαῖοι δὲ1

This is background information about the Sadducees and Pharisees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

233523:9eaf1ἐγένετο δὲ κραυγὴ μεγάλη1

“So they began shouting loudly at one another.” The word “so” marks an event that happened because of something else that happened previously. In this case, the previous event is Pauls stating his belief in the resurrection.

233623:9ayr8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoεἰ & πνεῦμα ἐλάλησεν αὐτῷ, ἢ ἄγγελος1

The Pharisees are rebuking the Sadducees by affirming that spirits and angels do exist and can speak to people. Alternate translation: “Maybe a spirit or an angel has spoken with him!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

233723:10dr1drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsπολλῆς δὲ γινομένης στάσεως1

The words “a great argument” can be re-stated as “argue violently.” Alternate translation: “When they began to argue violently” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

233823:10s65iχιλίαρχος1

a Roman military officer or leader of about 600 soldiers

233923:10f568rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιασπασθῇ ὁ Παῦλος ὑπ’ αὐτῶν1

This can be stated in active form. The phrase “be torn to pieces” might be an exaggeration of how the people might harm Paul. Alternate translation: “they might tear Paul to pieces” or “they would cause Paul great physical harm” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

234023:10man3ἁρπάσαι αὐτὸν1

“use physical force to take him away”

234123:10ap3cεἰς τὴν παρεμβολήν1

This fortress was connected to the outer temple court. See how you translated this in Acts 21:34.

234223:11i9w5τῇ & ἐπιούσῃ νυκτὶ1

This means the night after the day Paul went before the council. Alternate translation: “That night”

234323:11r4q4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisεἰς Ῥώμην μαρτυρῆσαι1

The words “about me” are understood. Alternate translation: “bear witness about me in Rome” or “testify about me in Rome” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

234423:12fm3y0

While Paul was in the prison at the fortress, the disbelieving religious Jews vow to kill him.

234523:12klb4ποιήσαντες συστροφὴν1

“organized a group with a shared purpose” here, to kill Paul.

234623:12g3sjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀνεθεμάτισαν ἑαυτοὺς1

The noun “curse” can be translated as a verb. It can also be made explicit what would cause them to be cursed. Alternate translation: “asked God to curse them if they did not do what they promised” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

234723:13f1u2rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersτεσσεράκοντα οἱ1

“40 men” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

234823:13u5s5ταύτην τὴν συνωμοσίαν ποιησάμενοι1

“who made this plan” or “who planned to kill Paul”

234923:14zb6wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “They” refers to the forty Jews in Acts 23:13. Here “you” is plural and refers to the chief priests and elders. Both “us” and “we” refer to the forty Jews who planned to kill Paul. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

235023:14ur73rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀναθέματι ἀνεθεματίσαμεν ἑαυτοὺς, μηδενὸς γεύσασθαι ἕως οὗ ἀποκτείνωμεν τὸν Παῦλον1

To make a vow and to ask God to curse them if they do not fulfill their vow is spoken of as if the curse were an object that they carry on their shoulders. Alternate translation: “We have sworn to eat nothing until we have killed Paul. We asked God to curse us if we do not do what we promised to do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

235123:15w418νῦν οὖν1

“Because what we have just said is true” or “Because we have put ourselves under this curse”

235223:15q9e6νῦν1

This does not mean “at this moment,” but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

235323:15q9mbκαταγάγῃ αὐτὸν εἰς ὑμᾶς1

“bring Paul from the fortress to meet with you”

235423:15m133ὡς μέλλοντας διαγινώσκειν ἀκριβέστερον τὰ περὶ αὐτοῦ1

“as though you want to learn more about what Paul has done”

235523:16d7cy0

Here the word “he” refers to Pauls nephew. The word “him” refers to the chief captain.

235623:16w6feυἱὸς τῆς ἀδελφῆς Παύλου1

“the son of Pauls sister” or “Pauls nephew”

235723:16pj5hτὴν ἐνέδραν1

“they were ready to ambush Paul” or “they were waiting to kill Paul”

235823:16a5hxτὴν παρεμβολὴν1

This fortress was connected to the outer temple court. See how you translated this in Acts 21:34.

235923:18abd0ὁ μὲν οὖν παραλαβὼν αὐτὸν, ἤγαγεν1

“So taking the young man, the centurion brought him”

236023:18lzf3ὁ δέσμιος, Παῦλος, προσκαλεσάμενός με1

“Paul the prisoner asked me to come talk with him”

236123:18ju2bτοῦτον τὸν νεανίαν1

Since the chief captain calls him a young man, this suggests Pauls nephew may have been 12 to 15 years old.

236223:19yp12ἐπιλαβόμενος & τῆς χειρὸς αὐτοῦ ὁ χιλίαρχος1

Since the chief captain took the young man by the hand and calls him a young man (verse 18), this suggests Pauls nephew may have been 12 to 15 years old.

236323:20uv6rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι συνέθεντο1

This does not mean all Jews, but all of the group that was there. Alternate translation: “Some of the Jews have agreed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

236423:20wp5dΠαῦλον καταγάγῃς1

“to bring Paul down from the fortress”

236523:20fev5μέλλων τι ἀκριβέστερον πυνθάνεσθαι περὶ αὐτοῦ.1

“they want to learn more about what Paul has done”

236623:21vdr5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersἄνδρες & τεσσεράκοντα1

“40 men” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

236723:21i2k9ἐνεδρεύουσιν & αὐτὸν1

“ready to ambush Paul” or “ready to kill Paul”

236823:21r695οἵτινες ἀνεθεμάτισαν ἑαυτοὺς μήτε φαγεῖν μήτε πιεῖν, ἕως οὗ ἀνέλωσιν αὐτόν1

“They have sworn to eat or drink nothing until they have killed Paul. And they asked God to curse them if they do not do what they promised to do”

236923:22av3g0

Here the word “he” refers the chief captain.

237023:22av3h0

Felix, who resided at Caesarea, was the roman governor of the area.

237123:23wk7kπροσκαλεσάμενός1

“he called to himself”

237223:23q741rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersδύο τῶν ἑκατονταρχῶν1

“2 of the centurions” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

237323:23b7z3rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersἱππεῖς ἑβδομήκοντα1

“70 horsemen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

237423:23mgi9rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersδεξιολάβους διακοσίους1

“200 soldiers that are armed with spears” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

237523:23kg8sτρίτης ὥρας τῆς νυκτός1

This was about 9:00 p.m. at night.

237623:25vg8x0

The chief captain writes a letter to Governor Felix about the arrest of Paul.

237723:25vg8yrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

Claudius Lysias is the name of the chief captain. Governor Felix was the Roman governor over the whole region. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

237823:26zf93rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personΚλαύδιος Λυσίας, τῷ κρατίστῳ ἡγεμόνι Φήλικι, χαίρειν1

This is a formal introduction to the letter. The chief captain begins by referring to himself. You can translate it in the first person. The words “am writing” are understood. Alternate translation: “I, Claudius Lysias, am writing to you, the most excellent Governor Felix. Greetings to you” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-123person]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

237923:26u2ihτῷ κρατίστῳ ἡγεμόνι Φήλικι1

“to Governor Felix who deserves greatest honors”

238023:27zr7lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheτὸν ἄνδρα τοῦτον συνλημφθέντα ὑπὸ τῶν Ἰουδαίων1

Here “Jews” means “some of the Jews.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Some of the Jews arrested this man” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

238123:27ha13rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμέλλοντα ἀναιρεῖσθαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they were ready to kill Paul” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

238223:27v78tἐπιστὰς σὺν τῷ στρατεύματι1

“I with my soldiers arrived at the place where Paul and these Jews were”

238323:28lb1a0

Here the word “I” refers to Claudius Lysias, the chief captain.

238423:28lb1b0

The word “they” refers to the group of Jews who accused Paul.

238523:28lb1crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

The word “you” is singular and refers to Governor Felix. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

238623:28pmq70

The chief captain ends his letter to Governor Felix.

238723:29zt4frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὃν εὗρον ἐνκαλούμενον περὶ ζητημάτων τοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that they were accusing him of questions about” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

238823:29wsh2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsμηδὲν δὲ ἄξιον θανάτου ἢ δεσμῶν ἔχοντα ἔγκλημα1

The abstract nouns “accusation,” “death,” and “imprisonment” can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: “but nobody accused him of anything that should cause Roman authorities to kill him or to send him to prison” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

238923:30i2jirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμηνυθείσης δέ μοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Later I learned” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

239023:31ifs1rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

Here the first word “him” refers to Paul; the second use of the word “him” refers to Governor Felix. Antipatris was a city built by Herod in honor of his father, Antipater. It stood at a site located today in central Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

239123:31s9rf0

This ends Pauls time under arrest in Jerusalem and begins his time of arrest in Caesarea with Governor Felix.

239223:31ny4kοἱ & οὖν στρατιῶται κατὰ τὸ διατεταγμένον αὐτοῖς1

The word “so” marks an event that happened because of something else that happened previously. In this case, the previous event is the chief captains commanding the soldiers to escort Paul.

239323:31ptv4ἀναλαβόντες τὸν Παῦλον, ἤγαγον διὰ νυκτὸς1

Here “brought” can be translated as “took.” Alternate translation: “They got Paul and took him at night”

239423:32abd1ἐάσαντες & ὑπέστρεψαν1

Here both instances of they refer to the foot soldiers who left the horsemen and returned to their fortress.

239523:33abx1εἰσελθόντες1

Here they refers to the horsemen who took Paul all the way to Caesarea.

239623:34u44w0

Here the first and second words “he” refer to Governor Felix, the third word “he” and the word “him” refer to Paul, and the last word “he” refers to Governor Felix. The words “you” and your” refer to Paul.

239723:34abd2ἀναγνοὺς & ἐπερωτήσας & πυθόμενος1

All of these actions are things the governor did.

239823:34dtx1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotationsἐπερωτήσας ἐκ ποίας ἐπαρχείας ἐστὶν1

This can be stated as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “he asked Paul, What province are you from? When” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

239923:35dwv2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotationsἔφη1

This sentence, which begins with the words “When he learned” in verse 43, can be stated as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “Paul said, I am from Cilicia. Then the governor said” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

240023:35uji1διακούσομαί σου1

“I will listen to all you have to say”

240123:35mga2κελεύσας & φυλάσσεσθαι αὐτόν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he commanded soldiers to keep him” or “commanded soldiers to restrain him”

240224:introj74u0

Acts 24 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul told the governor that he had not done what the Jews were accusing him of doing and that the governor should not punish him for what he did do.

Special concepts in this chapter

Respect

Both the Jewish leaders (Acts 24:2-4) and Paul (Acts 24:10) began their speeches with words that show respect to the governor.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Governmental leaders

The words “governor,” “commander,” and “centurion” may be difficult to translate into some languages. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

240324:1qw1rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “you” refers to Felix, the governor. Here “we” refers to the citizens under Felix. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

240424:1bc8k0

Paul is on trial in Caesarea. Tertullus presents Governor Felix with the charges against Paul.

240524:1e8rpμετὰ δὲ πέντε ἡμέρας1

“five days after the Roman soldiers took Paul to Caesarea”

240624:1n9gurc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἉνανίας1

This is the name of a man. This is not the same Ananias as in Acts 5:1 nor the same Ananias as in Acts 9:10. See how you translated this in Acts 23:1. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

240724:1f3vxῥήτορος1

“a lawyer.” Tertullus was an expert in Roman law who was there to accuse Paul in court.

240824:1xm6crc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΤερτύλλου1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

240924:1q7wjκατέβη1

“went to Caesarea where Paul was”

241024:1nq9xτῷ ἡγεμόνι1

“in the presence of the governor who was judge in the court”

241124:1zm5eἐνεφάνισαν & κατὰ τοῦ Παύλου1

“began to argue the case before the governor that Paul had broken the law.”

241224:2e6zgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveπολλῆς εἰρήνης τυγχάνοντες1

Here “we” refers to the citizens under Felix. Alternate translation: “we, the people that you govern, have great peace” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

241324:2sv8cκαὶ διορθωμάτων γινομένων τῷ ἔθνει τούτῳ διὰ τῆς σῆς προνοίας1

“and your planning has greatly improved our nation”

241424:3r5jlμετὰ πάσης εὐχαριστίας1

The word “thankfulness” is an abstract noun. It can be stated as an adjective or verb. Alternate translation: “so we are very thankful and we welcome everything that you do” or “so we thank you very much and welcome everything that you do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

241524:3q3fjκράτιστε Φῆλιξ1

“Governor Felix who deserves greatest honor” Felix was the roman governor over the whole region. See how you translated a similar phrase in Acts 23:25.

241624:4tyq8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The word “we” refers to Ananias, certain elders, and Tertullus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

241724:4jww2ἵνα δὲ μὴ ἐπὶ πλεῖον σε ἐνκόπτω1

Possible meanings are (1) “so that I will not take up too much of your time” or (2) “so that I will not tire you”

241824:4xfm5ἀκοῦσαί & ἡμῶν συντόμως, τῇ σῇ ἐπιεικείᾳ1

“kindly listen to my short speech”

241924:5i1qsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸν ἄνδρα τοῦτον λοιμὸν1

This speaks of Paul as if he were a plague that spreads from one person to another. Alternate translation: “this man to be a trouble maker” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

242024:5k1v1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπᾶσι τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις τοῖς κατὰ τὴν οἰκουμένην1

The word “all” here is probably an exaggeration used to strengthen their accusation against Paul. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

242124:5zg4arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπρωτοστάτην & τῆς τῶν Ναζωραίων αἱρέσεως1

The phrase “Nazarene sect” is another name for the Christians. Alternate translation: “He also leads the entire group whom people call the followers of the Nazarene” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

242224:5n6zbαἱρέσεως1

This is a smaller group of people within a larger group. Tertullus considers the Christians to be a small group within Judaism.

242324:7ujn8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “you” is singular and refers to Governor Felix. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

242424:7xkr40

Tertullus finishes presenting the charges against Paul before Governor Felix.

242524:8e26aἐπιγνῶναι ὧν ἡμεῖς κατηγοροῦμεν αὐτοῦ1

“to learn whether or not these charges that we bring against him are true” or “to learn whether or not he is guilty of the things we accuse him of”

242624:9rq5frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1

This refers to the Jewish leaders who were there at Pauls trial. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

242724:10my1c0

Here the word “they” refers to the Jews who were accusing Paul.

242824:10ict80

Paul responds to Governor Felix about the charges brought against him.

242924:10s92aνεύσαντος & τοῦ ἡγεμόνος1

“the governor gestured”

243024:10uu7arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκριτὴν τῷ ἔθνει τούτῳ1

Here “nation” refers to the people of the Jewish nation. Alternate translation: “a judge for the people of the Jewish nation” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

243124:10sr5tἐμαυτοῦ ἀπολογοῦμαι1

“explain my situation”

243224:11dr4urc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersἡμέραι δώδεκα, ἀφ’ ἧς1

“12 days since” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

243324:12wbf6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἢ ἐπίστασιν ποιοῦντα ὄχλου1

“Stir up” here is a metaphor for agitating people into unrest, just as stirring a liquid agitates it. Alternate translation: “I did not provoke the crowd” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

243424:13m3ykκατηγοροῦσίν1

“the blames for wrongdoings” or “the charges for crimes”

243524:14c5xaὁμολογῶ & τοῦτό σοι1

“I acknowledge this to you”

243624:14k79pὅτι κατὰ τὴν Ὁδὸν1

The phrase “the Way” was a title used for Christianity during Pauls time.

243724:14rqu3λέγουσιν αἵρεσιν1

This is a smaller group of people within a larger group. Tertullus considers the Christians to be a small group within Judaism. See how you translated “sect” in Acts 24:5.

243824:14cg73οὕτως λατρεύω τῷ πατρῴῳ Θεῷ1

Paul uses the phrase “in that same way” to mean that he, as a believer in Jesus, serves God the same way as their Jewish ancestors did. He is not leading a “sect” or teaching something new that is opposed to their ancient religion.

243924:15nv5aκαὶ αὐτοὶ1

“as these men have.” Here “these men” refers to the Jews who are accusing Paul in court.

244024:15qza8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀνάστασιν μέλλειν ἔσεσθαι, δικαίων τε καὶ ἀδίκων1

The abstract noun “resurrection” can be stated with the verb “resurrect.” Alternate translation: “that God will resurrect all who have died, both the righteous and the unrighteous” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

244124:15x1ydrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjδικαίων & καὶ ἀδίκων1

These nominal adjectives refer to righteous people and wicked people. AT “righteous people and wicked people” or “those who have done what is right and those who have done what is evil” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

244224:16sfw4αὐτὸς ἀσκῶ & διὰ παντός1

“I always work hard” or “I do my best”

244324:16kcg8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἀπρόσκοπον συνείδησιν ἔχειν πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν1

Here “conscience” refers to a persons inner morality that chooses between right and wrong. Alternate translation: “to be blameless” or “to always do what is right” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

244424:16va3bπρὸς τὸν Θεὸν1

“in the presence of God”

244524:17p92mδὲ1

This word marks a shift in Pauls argument. Here he explains the situation in Jerusalem when some of the Jews arrested him.

244624:17py9vδι’ ἐτῶν & πλειόνων1

“after many years away from Jerusalem”

244724:17ryk6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἐλεημοσύνας ποιήσων εἰς τὸ ἔθνος μου, παρεγενόμην καὶ προσφοράς1

Here “I came” can be translated as “I went.” Alternate translation: “I went to help my people by bringing them money as a gift” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

244824:18pk2mἡγνισμένον ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ1

“in the temple after I had finished a ceremony to purify myself”

244924:18x6iyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὐ μετὰ ὄχλου, οὐδὲ μετὰ θορύβου1

This can be stated as a separate new sentence. Alternate translation: “I had not gathered a crowd nor was I trying to start a riot” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

245024:19s528τινὲς1

“The Jews from Asia”

245124:19ntg3εἴ τι ἔχοιεν1

“if they have anything to say”

245224:20npt50

Paul finishes responding to Governor Felix about the charges brought against him.

245324:20ag5dαὐτοὶ1

This refers to the members of the council who were present in Jerusalem at Pauls trial.

245424:20hnt9εἰπάτωσαν, τί εὗρον ἀδίκημα & μου1

“should say the wrong thing I did that they were able to prove”

245524:21ds1src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsπερὶ ἀναστάσεως νεκρῶν1

The abstract noun “resurrection” can be stated as “God brings back to life.” Alternate translation: “It is because I believe that God will bring back to life those who have died” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

245624:21d2lmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐγὼ κρίνομαι σήμερον ἐφ’ ὑμῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you are judging me today” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

245724:22w1tnrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

Felix is the Roman governor of the area who resides at Caesarea. See how you translated this name in Acts 23:24. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

245824:22a87fτῆς Ὁδοῦ1

This is a title for Christianity. See how you translated this in Acts 9:2.

245924:22y3pgὅταν Λυσίας ὁ χιλίαρχος καταβῇ1

“when Lysias the commander comes down” or “at the time Lysias the commander comes down”

246024:22k1f7Λυσίας1

This is the name of the chief captain. See how you translated this name in Acts 23:26.

246124:22z5f9καταβῇ1

Jerusalem was higher than Caesarea so it was normal for them to speak of coming down from Jerusalem.

246224:22ldi8διαγνώσομαι τὰ καθ’ ὑμᾶς1

“I will make a decision concerning these accusations against you” or “I will judge whether you are guilty”

246324:23sxy2ἔχειν & ἄνεσιν1

“grant Paul some freedom not otherwise granted to prisoners”

246424:24wus4μετὰ δὲ ἡμέρας τινὰς1

“After several days”

246524:24qy9yrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΔρουσίλλῃ, τῇ & γυναικὶ1

Drusilla is a womans name. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

246624:24xmq5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἸουδαίᾳ1

This means a female Jew. Alternate translation: “who was a Jew” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

246724:25b8v1ἔμφοβος γενόμενος, ὁ Φῆλιξ1

Felix may have felt conviction of his sins.

246824:25p8yiτὸ νῦν ἔχον1

“for the present time”

246924:26h4v7χρήματα δοθήσεται αὐτῷ ὑπὸ τοῦ Παύλου1

Felix was hoping Paul would offer him a bribe to set him free.

247024:26n45pδιὸ καὶ πυκνότερον αὐτὸν μεταπεμπόμενος, ὡμίλει αὐτῷ1

“so Felix often sent for Paul and spoke with Paul”

247124:27ur2yrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesὁ & Πόρκιον Φῆστον1

This was the new roman Governor who replaced Felix. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

247224:27p59crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheθέλων & χάριτα καταθέσθαι τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1

Here “the Jews” refers to the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “wanted the Jewish leaders to like him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

247324:27gln6ὁ Φῆλιξ & κατέλιπε τὸν Παῦλον δεδεμένον1

“he left Paul in prison”

247425:introb6uk0

Acts 25 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Favor

This word is used in two different ways in this chapter. When the Jewish leaders asked Festus for a favor, they were asking him to do something special for them on that day. They wanted him to do for them something that he would not usually do. When Festus “wanted to gain the favor of the Jews,” he wanted them to like him and be willing to obey him in the months and years to come. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/favor]])

Roman citizenship

The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. Roman officials could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way they would treat a non-citizen.

247525:1c84u0

Festus becomes the governor of Caesarea. See how you translated this name in Acts 24:27.

247625:1tj760

Paul continues to be a prisoner in Caesarea.

247725:1w8h3οὖν1

This word marks the beginning of a new event in the story.

247825:1i7t9Φῆστος & ἐπιβὰς τῇ ἐπαρχείᾳ1

Possible meanings are (1) Festus arrived in the area to begin his rule or (2) Festus simply arrived in the area.

247925:1zz4lἀνέβη εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα ἀπὸ Καισαρείας1

The phrase “went up” is used here because Jerusalem is higher in elevation than Caesarea.

248025:2qnc8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐνεφάνισάν & οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς καὶ οἱ πρῶτοι τῶν Ἰουδαίων κατὰ τοῦ Παύλου1

This speaks about accusations as if they were an object that a person could bring to someone else. Alternate translation: “The chief priest and the important Jews accused Paul to Festus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

248125:2uj5pπαρεκάλουν αὐτὸν1

Here the word “him” refers to Festus.

248225:3w8umχάριν κατ’ αὐτοῦ1

Here the word “him” refers to Paul.

248325:3qz46ὅπως μεταπέμψηται αὐτὸν εἰς Ἰερουσαλήμ1

This means that Festus would order his soldiers to bring Paul to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “that he might order his soldiers to bring Paul to Jerusalem”

248425:3pg8xἀνελεῖν αὐτὸν κατὰ τὴν ὁδόν1

They were going to ambush Paul.

248525:4p3ttrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “us” refers to Festus and the Romans traveling with him, but not to his audience. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

248625:4v5f9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotationsΦῆστος ἀπεκρίθη, τηρεῖσθαι τὸν Παῦλον εἰς Καισάρειαν, ἑαυτὸν δὲ μέλλειν ἐν τάχει ἐκπορεύεσθαι1

This can be stated as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “But Festus said, Paul is being held prisoner in Caesarea, and I myself will soon return there.’” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

248725:5a54hrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotationsοἱ οὖν & φησίν, δυνατοὶ συνκαταβάντες1

The phrase “he said” can be moved to the beginning of the sentence. Alternate translation: “Then he said, Therefore, those who are able to go to Caesarea should go there with us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

248825:5iz98εἴ τί ἐστιν ἐν τῷ ἀνδρὶ ἄτοπον1

“If Paul has done something wrong”

248925:5nei6κατηγορείτωσαν αὐτοῦ1

“you should accuse him of violating laws” or “you should bring charges against him”

249025:6fi270

Here the first three times the word “he” is used as well as the word “him,” the words refer to Festus. The fourth word “he” refers to Paul. The word “they” refers to the Jews who came from Jerusalem.

249125:6s69cκαταβὰς εἰς Καισάρειαν1

Jerusalem is higher geographically than Caesarea. It was common to speak of coming down from Jerusalem.

249225:6qv24rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκαθίσας ἐπὶ τοῦ βήματος1

Here “judgment seat” refers to Festus ruling as judge over Pauls trial. Alternate translation: “sat upon the seat where he acted as judge” or “he sat down as judge” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

249325:6j7c5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὸν Παῦλον ἀχθῆναι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “his soldiers bring Paul to him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

249425:7v4v8παραγενομένου δὲ αὐτοῦ1

“When he came and stood before Festus”

249525:7e7g2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπολλὰ & βαρέα αἰτιώματα καταφέροντες1

Charging a person with a crime is spoken of as if it were an object that a person could bring to court. Alternate translation: “they spoke against Paul many serious things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

249625:8hc3wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheεἰς τὸ ἱερὸν1

Paul says he did not break any rules about who could enter the Jerusalem temple. Alternate translation: “against the entry rules of the temple” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

249725:9m49r0

Paul asks to be taken before Caesar for judgment.

249825:9b49xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheθέλων τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις χάριν καταθέσθαι1

Here “the Jews” means the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “wanted to please the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

249925:9qe8hεἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα ἀναβὰς1

Jerusalem was higher geographically than Caesarea. It was common to speak of going up to Jerusalem.

250025:9wi2drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκεῖ περὶ τούτων κριθῆναι ἐπ’ ἐμοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “where I will judge you with regard to these charges” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

250125:10u1efrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπὶ τοῦ βήματος Καίσαρος ἑστώς εἰμι, οὗ με δεῖ κρίνεσθαι1

The “judgment seat” refers to Caesars authority to judge Paul. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I ask to go before Caesar, so he can judge me” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

250225:11el9drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoοὖν ἀδικῶ καὶ ἄξιον θανάτου πέπραχά τι, οὐ παραιτοῦμαι τὸ ἀποθανεῖν; εἰ δὲ οὐδέν ἐστιν ὧν οὗτοι κατηγοροῦσίν μου, οὐδείς με δύναται αὐτοῖς χαρίσασθαι1

Paul is stating a hypothetical situation. If he were guilty, he would accept the punishment, but he knows that he is not guilty. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

250325:11ta55εἰ & ἄξιον θανάτου πέπραχά τι1

“if I have done some wrong that deserves the death penalty”

250425:11hxr1οὐδέν ἐστιν ὧν οὗτοι κατηγοροῦσίν1

“if the charges against me are not true”

250525:11hr23οὐδείς με δύναται αὐτοῖς χαρίσασθαι1

Possible meanings are (1) Festus does not have the legal authority to hand Paul over to these false accusers or (2) Paul was saying that if he has done nothing wrong, the governor should not give into the request of the Jews.

250625:11b1bfΚαίσαρα ἐπικαλοῦμαι1

“I ask that I go before Caesar so he can judge me”

250725:12t96zμετὰ τοῦ συμβουλίου1

This is not the Sanhedrin that is referred to as “council” throughout Acts. This is a political council in the Roman government. Alternate translation: “with his own government advisors”

250825:13izu8rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants0

King Agrippa and Bernice are new people in the story. Though he ruled over only a few territories, King Agrippa is the current reigning king in Palestine. Bernice is Agrippas sister.(See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-participants]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

250925:13ge5h0

Festus explains Pauls case to King Agrippa.

251025:13c3gcδὲ1

This word marks the beginning of a new event in the story.

251125:13ukd3ἀσπασάμενοι τὸν Φῆστον1

“to visit Festus concerning official matters”

251225:14x8jfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀνήρ τὶς ἐστιν καταλελειμμένος ὑπὸ Φήλικος δέσμιος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When Felix left office, he left a man in prison here” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

251325:14z7ywΦήλικος1

Felix was the Roman governor of the area who resided in Caesarea. See how you translated this name in Acts 23:24.

251425:15b6hxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπερὶ οὗ & ἐνεφάνισαν1

To charge someone in court is spoken of as if it were an object that a person brings to court. Alternate translation: “spoke to me against this man” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

251525:15hyp5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsαἰτούμενοι κατ’ αὐτοῦ καταδίκην1

The abstract nouns “sentence” and “condemnation” can be expressed as verbs. The phrase “a sentence of condemnation” implies that they were requesting that Paul be executed. Alternate translation: “they asked me to sentence him to death” or “they asked me to condemn him to death” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

251625:16e4tkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorχαρίζεσθαί τινα ἄνθρωπον1

Here “hand over” represents sending someone to people who will punish or kill him. Alternate translation: “let someone punish anyone” or “to condemn anyone to death” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

251725:16xjb4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomπρὶν ἢ ὁ κατηγορούμενος, κατὰ πρόσωπον & τοὺς κατηγόρους1

Here “faced his accusers” is an idiom that means to meet with the people who accuse him. Alternate translation: “before the person whom others have accused of a crime had met directly with those who accused him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

251825:17z6g2οὖν1

“Because what I have just said is true.” Fetus had just said that an accused man should be able to face his accusers and make his defense.

251925:17rm5zσυνελθόντων & ἐνθάδε1

“when the Jewish leaders came to meet with me here”

252025:17efe2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκαθίσας ἐπὶ τοῦ βήματος1

Here “judgment seat” refers to Festus ruling over Pauls trial as judge. Alternate translation: “I sat upon the seat to act as judge” or “I sat down as judge” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

252125:17hm6grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκέλευσα ἀχθῆναι τὸν ἄνδρα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I ordered the soldiers to bring Paul before me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

252225:19d1qmτῆς ἰδίας δεισιδαιμονίας1

Here “religion” means the belief system people have toward life and the supernatural.

252325:20y9bvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomκἀκεῖ κρίνεσθαι περὶ τούτων1

To “stand trial” is an idiom meaning to speak to a judge so the judge can decide if a person is right or wrong. Alternate translation: “to go to trial about these charges” or “for a judge to decide if these charges against him are true or not” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

252425:21yli30

Festus finishes explaining Pauls case to King Agrippa.

252525:21ie7xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῦ δὲ Παύλου ἐπικαλεσαμένου τηρηθῆναι αὐτὸν εἰς τὴν τοῦ Σεβαστοῦ διάγνωσιν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But when Paul insisted that he stay under Roman guard until the time when the emperor could decide his case” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

252625:21ceq2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐκέλευσα τηρεῖσθαι αὐτὸν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I ordered the soldiers to keep him in custody” or “I told the soldiers to guard him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

252725:22t322rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotationsαὔριον, φησίν, ἀκούσῃ αὐτοῦ1

The phrase “Festus said” can be moved to the beginning of the sentence. Alternate translation: “Festus said, I will arrange for you to listen to Paul tomorrow.’” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

252825:23y1yj0

Though he ruled over only a few territories, Agrippa was the current reigning king in Palestine. Bernice was his sister. See how you translated these names in Acts 25:13.

252925:23qlm50

Festus again gives information about Pauls case to King Agrippa.

253025:23yw76μετὰ πολλῆς φαντασίας1

“with a great ceremony to honor them”

253125:23ldb7τὸ ἀκροατήριον1

This was a large room where people gathered for ceremonies, trials, and other events.

253225:23at4trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἤχθη ὁ Παῦλος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the soldiers brought Paul to appear before them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

253325:24n8qjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleἅπαν τὸ πλῆθος τῶν Ἰουδαίων1

The word “all” is an exaggeration used to emphasize that a great number of Jews wanted Paul to die. Alternate translation: “a great number of the Jews” or “many of the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

253425:24ae3vβοῶντες1

“they spoke very strongly to me”

253525:24yv2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesμὴ δεῖν αὐτὸν ζῆν μηκέτι1

This statement is made in the negative to emphasize the positive equivalent. Alternate translation: “he should die immediately” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

253625:25fe2nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the first “you” is plural; the second “you” is singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

253725:25f6hyδὲ τούτου ἐπικαλεσαμένου τὸν Σεβαστὸν1

“because he said that he wanted the emperor to judge him”

253825:25g856τὸν Σεβαστὸν1

The emperor was the ruler of the Roman empire. He ruled over many countries and provinces.

253925:26jcq2προήγαγον αὐτὸν ἐφ’ ὑμῶν, καὶ μάλιστα ἐπὶ σοῦ, Βασιλεῦ Ἀγρίππα1

“I have brought Paul to all of you, but especially to you, King Agrippa.”

254025:26rhy2ὅπως & σχῶ τι γράψω1

“so that I will have something else to write” or “so that I will know what I should write”

254125:27txs6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesἄλογον & μοι δοκεῖ πέμποντα δέσμιον, μὴ καὶ & σημᾶναι1

The negative words “unreasonable” and “to not” can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “it seems reasonable to me that if I send a prisoner then I should also state” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

254225:27xm65τὰς κατ’ αὐτοῦ αἰτίας1

Possible meanings are (1) the accusations that the Jewish leaders have brought against him or (2) the charges under Roman law that apply to Pauls case.

254326:introe2q60

Acts 26 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the third account of Pauls conversion in the book of Acts. Because this is such an important event in the early church, there are three accounts of Pauls conversion. (See: Acts 9 and Acts 22)

Paul told the King Agrippa why he had done what he had done and that the governor should not punish him for that.

Special concepts in this chapter

Light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

254426:1b34d0

Festus has brought Paul before King Agrippa. In verse 2, Paul gives his defense to King Agrippa.

254526:1gz9fἈγρίππας1

Agrippa was the current reigning king in Palestine, though he ruled over only a few territories. See how you translated this name in Acts 25:13.

254626:1wme6ἐκτείνας τὴν χεῖρα1

“held out his hand” or “gestured with his hand”

254726:1vni8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀπελογεῖτο1

The abstract noun “defense” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “began to defend himself against those who were accusing him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

254826:2ha47ἥγημαι ἐμαυτὸν μακάριον1

Paul was happy because he considered his appearance before Agrippa to be an opportunity to speak about the gospel.

254926:2xhz1ἀπολογεῖσθαι1

This phrase means to describe ones situation, so that those in court can discuss and make a decision about it. Alternate translation: “to defend myself”

255026:2mdq2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsπερὶ πάντων ὧν ἐνκαλοῦμαι ὑπὸ Ἰουδαίων1

The abstract noun “accusations” can be stated as the verb “accuse.” Alternate translation: “against all the Jews who are accusing me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

255126:2cbr3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἸουδαίων1

This does not mean all the Jews. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

255226:3kns2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitζητημάτων1

You can make explicit what kinds of questions this means. Alternate translation: “questions about religious matters” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

255326:4t8bgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντες οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1

This is a generalization. Possible meanings are (1) this refers to Jews in general who knew about Paul. Alternate translation: “the Jews” or (2) this refers to Pharisees who knew Paul. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

255426:4x96hἐν τῷ ἔθνει μου1

Possible meanings are (1) among his own people, not necessarily in the geographical land of Israel or (2) in the land of Israel.

255526:5y9a1τὴν ἀκριβεστάτην αἵρεσιν τῆς ἡμετέρας θρησκείας1

“a group within Judaism who live by very strict rules”

255626:6xkp9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here “you” is plural and refers to the people who were listening to Paul. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

255726:6s9krνῦν1

This word marks a shift from Paul discussing his past to talking about himself in the present.

255826:6i9y5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἕστηκα κρινόμενος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I am here, where they are putting me on trial” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

255926:6r42grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπ’ ἐλπίδι τῆς εἰς τοὺς πατέρας ἡμῶν ἐπαγγελίας, γενομένης ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This speaks about a promise as if it were something a person could look for and see. Alternate translation: “I am waiting expectantly for God to do what he promised our forefathers he would do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

256026:7hnf1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyεἰς ἣν τὸ δωδεκάφυλον ἡμῶν & ἐλπίζει καταντῆσαι1

The phrase “our twelve tribes” stands for the people in those tribes. Alternate translation: “This is also what our fellow Jews in the twelve tribes were waiting for” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

256126:7apf2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰς ἣν & ἐλπίζει καταντῆσαι1

This speaks about a promise as if it were an object that can be received. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

256226:7kzg4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismνύκτα καὶ ἡμέραν λατρεῦον1

The extremes “night” and “day” mean they “worshiped God continually.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

256326:7c4lmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheὑπὸ Ἰουδαίων1

This does not mean all the Jews. Alternate translation: “that the leaders of the Jews” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

256426:8de83rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί ἄπιστον κρίνεται παρ’ ὑμῖν, εἰ ὁ Θεὸς νεκροὺς ἐγείρει1

Paul uses a question to challenge the Jews present. They believe God can raise the dead but do not think God brought Jesus back to life. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “None of you think it is unbelievable that God raises the dead.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

256526:8ukk6νεκροὺς ἐγείρει1

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “makes dead people come alive again”

256626:9hm33μὲν οὖν1

Paul uses this phrase to mark another shift in his defense. He is now beginning to describe how he formerly persecuted Jesus people.

256726:9r4dfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπρὸς τὸ ὄνομα Ἰησοῦ & ἐναντία1

The word “name” here stands for the teaching about the person. Alternate translation: “to stop people from teaching about Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

256826:10nys7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀναιρουμένων & αὐτῶν, κατήνεγκα ψῆφον1

The phrase “were killed” can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I voted in agreement with the other Jewish leaders to condemn believers to die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

256926:11rri6πολλάκις τιμωρῶν αὐτοὺς1

Possible meanings are (1) Paul punished some believers many times or (2) Paul punished many different believers.

257026:12p55i0

While talking to King Agrippa, Paul tells about when the Lord spoke with him.

257126:12us8dἐν οἷς1

Paul uses this phrase to mark another shift in his defense. He is now telling about when he saw Jesus and became his disciple.

257226:12h3icἐν οἷς1

This word is used to mark two events that are happening at the same time. In this case, Paul went to Damascus during the time when he persecuted Christians.

257326:12ajp6μετ’ ἐξουσίας καὶ ἐπιτροπῆς1

Paul had written letters from the Jewish leaders, granting him authority to persecute the Jewish believers.

257426:14sip5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἤκουσα φωνὴν, λέγουσαν πρός με1

Here “voice” stands for the person speaking. Alternate translation: “I heard someone speaking to me who said” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

257526:14du3tΣαοὺλ, Σαούλ, τί με διώκεις1

This is a rhetorical question. The speaker is alerting Saul to what Saul is doing to him, and implying that Saul should not do that. Alternate translation: “Saul, Saul, you are persecuting me.” or “Saul, Saul, stop persecuting me.” (See: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion)

257626:14zsi2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσκληρόν σοι πρὸς κέντρα λακτίζειν1

For Paul to resist Jesus and to persecute believers is spoken of as if he were an ox kicking at the sharp stick that a person uses to prod (or “goad”) the animal. It means that Paul is only harming himself. Alternate translation: “You will only harm yourself like an ox kicking a goad” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

257726:15h2ws0

Paul continues giving his defense to King Agrippa. In these verses he continues quoting his conversation with the Lord.

257826:18fk1krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀνοῖξαι ὀφθαλμοὺς αὐτῶν1

Helping people to understand the truth is spoken of as if a person were literally helping someone to open his eyes. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

257926:18gw8frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπιστρέψαι ἀπὸ σκότους εἰς φῶς1

Helping someone to stop doing what is evil and to start trusting and obeying God is spoken of as if the person is literally leading someone out of a dark place into a place of light. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

258026:18q3h8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπιστρέψαι ἀπὸ & τῆς ἐξουσίας τοῦ Σατανᾶ1

Helping someone to stop obeying Satan and to start obeying God is spoken of as if a person were literally turning a person and taking them from the place where Satan rules and leading him to the place where God rules. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

258126:18m65irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτοῦ λαβεῖν αὐτοὺς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν1

The abstract noun “forgiveness” can be stated as the verb “forgive.” Alternate translation: “God may forgive their sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

258226:18m9verc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκλῆρον1

The blessings that Jesus gives to those who believe in him are spoken of as if they were an inheritance that children receive from their father. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

258326:18c5ijrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτοῖς ἡγιασμένοις πίστει τῇ εἰς ἐμέ1

Jesus choosing some people to belong to him is spoken of as if he literally set them apart from other people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

258426:18bgc5πίστει τῇ εἰς ἐμέ1

“because they believe in me.” Here Paul finishes quoting the Lord.

258526:19ljx2ὅθεν1

“Because what I have just said is true.” Paul had just explained what the Lord had commanded him in his vision.

258626:19zv2urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesοὐκ ἐγενόμην1

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “I obeyed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

258726:19sn4hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῇ οὐρανίῳ ὀπτασίᾳ1

This refers to what the person in the vision told Paul. Alternate translation: “what the person from heaven told me in the vision” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

258826:20fei4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπιστρέφειν ἐπὶ τὸν Θεόν1

To start trusting God is spoken of as if a person turns to start walking toward God. Alternate translation: “trust in God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

258926:20h1v2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἄξια τῆς μετανοίας ἔργα πράσσοντας1

The abstract noun “repentance” can be stated as the verb “repented.” Alternate translation: “and start doing good deeds to show they truly have repented” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

259026:21tl6trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἸουδαῖοι1

This does not mean all of the Jews. Alternate translation: “some Jews” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

259126:22n5hn0

Paul finishes giving his defense to King Agrippa.

259226:22t8f4μικρῷ τε καὶ μεγάλῳ, οὐδὲν1

Here “common people” and “great ones” are used together to mean “all people.” Alternate translation: “to all people, whether common or great, about nothing” (See: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism)

259326:22f6pyοὐδὲν ἐκτὸς & ὧν1

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “about the exact thing that”

259426:22i9kiὧν τε οἱ προφῆται1

Paul is referring to the collective writings of the Old Testament prophets.

259526:23pe9hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitεἰ παθητὸς ὁ Χριστός1

You can make explicit that Christ must also die. Alternate translation: “that Christ must suffer and die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

259626:23p9t8ἐξ ἀναστάσεως1

to come back to life

259726:23sc5fνεκρῶν1

The phrase “the dead” refers to the spirits of people who have died. To rise from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

259826:23z2msrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorφῶς μέλλει καταγγέλλειν1

“he would proclaim the message about the light.” To tell people about how God saves people is spoken of as if a person were speaking about the light. Alternate translation: “he would proclaim the message about how God saves people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

259926:24h5b90

Paul and King Agrippa continue to talk together.

260026:24dvn2μαίνῃ1

“you are speaking nonsense” or “you are crazy”

260126:24tk27τὰ πολλά σε γράμματα εἰς μανίαν περιτρέπει1

“you have learned so much that you are now crazy”

260226:25dur9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesοὐ μαίνομαι & ἀλλὰ1

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “I am sane … and” or “I am able to think well … and” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

260326:25a6pbκράτιστε Φῆστε1

“Festus, who deserves highest honors”

260426:26ed7yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personγὰρ & ὁ βασιλεύς, πρὸς ὃν & αὐτὸν1

Paul is still speaking to King Agrippa, but he is referring to him in the third person. Alternate translation: “For you … to you … from you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

260526:26cs7bπαρρησιαζόμενος λαλῶ1

Paul was not afraid to speak to the king about Christ. Alternate translation: “I speak boldly”

260626:26svn9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπείθομαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I am sure” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

260726:26tta8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveλανθάνειν & αὐτὸν τι τούτων οὐ1

This can be stated in active and positive form. Alternate translation: “that he is aware of this” or “that you are aware of this” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

260826:26v1uurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐ & ἐστιν ἐν γωνίᾳ πεπραγμένον τοῦτο1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “has not happened in a corner” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

260926:26i5wgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐν γωνίᾳ1

This means doing something in secret as if a person went and did something in the corner of a room where no one can see him. Alternate translation: “in a dark place” or “in secret” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

261026:27a4a2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionπιστεύεις, Βασιλεῦ Ἀγρίππα, τοῖς προφήταις1

Paul asks this question to remind Agrippa that Agrippa already believes what the prophets said about Jesus. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “You already believe what the Jewish prophets said, King Agrippa.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

261126:28y8qqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἐν ὀλίγῳ με πείθεις Χριστιανὸν ποιῆσαι1

Agrippa asks this question to show Paul that he cannot convince Agrippa so easily without more proof. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “Surely you do not think you can convince me so easily to believe in Jesus!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

261226:29k7kqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπαρεκτὸς τῶν δεσμῶν τούτων1

Here “prison chains” stands for being a prisoner. Alternate translation: “but, of course, I do no want you to be a prisoner like I am” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

261326:30k7jh0

Bernice was the sister of King Agrippa (Acts 25:13).

261426:30gaq50

This ends Pauls time before King Agrippa.

261526:30u8vlἀνέστη τε ὁ βασιλεὺς καὶ ὁ ἡγεμὼν1

“Then King Agrippa stood up, and Governor Festus”

261626:31blz8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsοὐδὲν θανάτου ἢ δεσμῶν ἄξιον τι πράσσει ὁ ἄνθρωπος οὗτος1

The abstract noun “death” can be stated as the verb “die.” Here “bonds” stands for being in prison. Alternate translation: “This man does not deserve to die or to be in prison” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

261726:32n293rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀπολελύσθαι ἐδύνατο ὁ ἄνθρωπος οὗτος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “This man could have gone free” or “I could have freed this man” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

261827:intror82x0

Acts 27 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Sailing

People who lived near the sea traveled by boat powered by the wind. During some months of the year, the wind would blow in the wrong direction or so hard that sailing was impossible.

Trust

Paul trusted God to bring him safely to land. He told the sailers and soldiers to trust that God would also keep them alive. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])

Paul breaks bread

Luke uses almost the same words here to describe Paul taking bread, thanking God, breaking it, and eating it that he used to describe the last supper Jesus ate with his disciples. However, your translation should not make your reader think that Paul was leading a religious celebration here.

261927:1efe4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Adramyttium was a city possibly located on the west coast of modern-day Turkey. The word “we” includes the author of Acts, Paul, and the others traveling with Paul, but not the reader. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

262027:1dyf50

Paul, as a prisoner, begins his journey to Rome.

262127:1b2yzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὡς & ἐκρίθη1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When the king and the governor decided” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

262227:1yv84ἀποπλεῖν & εἰς τὴν Ἰταλίαν1

Italy is the name of the province Rome was in. See how you translated “Italy” in Acts 18:2.

262327:1s6nyπαρεδίδουν τόν τε Παῦλον καί τινας ἑτέρους δεσμώτας, ἑκατοντάρχῃ ὀνόματι Ἰουλίῳ, σπείρης Σεβαστῆς1

“they put a centurion named Julius, of the Imperial Regiment, in charge of Paul and some other prisoners”

262427:1k52uπαρεδίδουν τόν τε Παῦλον καί τινας ἑτέρους δεσμώτας1

Possible meanings are that (1) “they” refers to the governor and the king or (2) “they” refers to other Roman officials.

262527:1un2src://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἑκατοντάρχῃ ὀνόματι Ἰουλίῳ1

Julius is a mans name. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

262627:1d22frc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesσπείρης Σεβαστῆς1

This was the name of the battalion or army from which the centurion came. Some versions translate this as “the Augustan Regiment.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

262727:2dnr9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐπιβάντες & πλοίῳ & μέλλοντι πλεῖν1

Here “ship … which was about to sail” stands for the crew that will sail the ship. Alternate translation: “We boarded a ship … which a crew was about to sail” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

262827:2fqy2πλοίῳ Ἀδραμυντηνῷ1

Possible meanings are (1) a ship that had come from Adramyttium or (2) a ship that was registered or licensed in Adramyttium.

262927:2f8pfμέλλοντι πλεῖν1

“soon going to sail” or “would depart soon”

263027:2m3psἀνήχθημεν1

“began our journey on the sea”

263127:2h3uyἈριστάρχου1

Aristarchus came from Macedonia but had been working with Paul in Ephesus. See how you translated his name in Acts 19:29.

263227:3r71erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to the writer, Paul, and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

263327:3u6ltφιλανθρώπως & ὁ Ἰούλιος τῷ Παύλῳ χρησάμενος1

“Julius treated Paul with a friendly concern.” See how you translated “Julius” in Acts 27:1.

263427:3rp73rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsπρὸς τοὺς φίλους πορευθέντι, ἐπιμελείας τυχεῖν1

The abstract noun “care” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “go to his friends so they could care for him” or “go to his friends so they could help him with whatever he needed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

263527:4d4hgἀναχθέντες, ὑπεπλεύσαμεν1

“we started sailing and went”

263627:4mjt8ὑπεπλεύσαμεν τὴν Κύπρον1

“the lee of Cyprus” is the side of that island that blocks the strong wind, so sailing vessels are not forced off their course.

263727:5g1t7Παμφυλίαν1

This was a province in Asia Minor. See how you translated this in Acts 2:10.

263827:5y6m6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκατήλθαμεν εἰς Μύρρα τῆς Λυκίας1

You can make explicit that they got off of the ship in Myra. Alternate translation: “came to Myra, a city of Lycia, where we got off the ship” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

263927:5ni2xrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesκατήλθαμεν εἰς Μύρρα1

Myra is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

264027:5uaf4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesτῆς Λυκίας1

Lycia was a Roman province, located on the southwestern coast of modern-day Turkey. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

264127:6j4cfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitεὑρὼν & πλοῖον Ἀλεξανδρῖνον, πλέον εἰς τὴν Ἰταλίαν1

It is implied that a crew would sail the ship to Italy. Alternate translation: “found a ship that a crew had sailed from Alexandria and was about to sail to Italy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

264227:6fdq2rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἈλεξανδρῖνον1

This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

264327:7zzw1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδὲ & βραδυπλοοῦντες καὶ μόλις, γενόμενοι1

You can make explicit that the reason they were sailing slowly and with difficulty was because the wind was blowing against them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

264427:7pye5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesκατὰ τὴν Κνίδον1

This is an ancient settlement located in modern-day Turkey. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

264527:7hhf1μὴ προσεῶντος ἡμᾶς τοῦ ἀνέμου1

“we could no longer go that way because of the strong wind”

264627:7b746ὑπεπλεύσαμεν τὴν Κρήτην1

“so we sailed along the side of Crete where there was less wind”

264727:7mq4nrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesκατὰ Σαλμώνην1

This is a coastal city in Crete. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

264827:8p4rirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμόλις & παραλεγόμενοι αὐτὴν1

You can make explicit that even though the winds were not as strong as before, they were still strong enough to make sailing difficult. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

264927:8a64yrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΚαλοὺς Λιμένας1

This was a port near Lasea, located on the south coast of Crete. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

265027:8n7rerc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἐγγὺς πόλις ἦν Λασαία1

This is a coastal city in Crete. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

265127:9ea4lἱκανοῦ & χρόνου διαγενομένου1

Because of the direction the wind was blowing, the journey from Caesarea to Fair Havens had taken more time than planned.

265227:9vlu4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveδιαγενομένου1

The writer includes himself, Paul, and those who were traveling with them, but not the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

265327:9u6x5καὶ ὄντος ἤδη ἐπισφαλοῦς τοῦ πλοὸς, διὰ τὸ καὶ τὴν νηστείαν ἤδη παρεληλυθέναι1

This fast took place on the Day of Atonement, which was usually either in the last part of September or the first part of October according to Western calendars. After this time, there was a higher risk of seasonal storms.

265427:10p29vθεωρῶ ὅτι μετὰ ὕβρεως καὶ πολλῆς ζημίας & μέλλειν ἔσεσθαι τὸν πλοῦν1

“if we travel now, we will suffer much injury and loss”

265527:10nx9cζημίας, οὐ μόνον τοῦ φορτίου καὶ τοῦ πλοίου, ἀλλὰ καὶ τῶν ψυχῶν ἡμῶν1

Here “loss” means destruction when referring to things and death when referring to people.

265627:10q9xtοὐ μόνον τοῦ φορτίου καὶ τοῦ πλοίου1

Cargo is something that a person transports from one place to another by boat. Alternate translation: “not only the ship and the goods on the ship”

265727:11b1kzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὑπὸ Παύλου λεγομένοις1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that Paul said” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

265827:12l2n4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀνευθέτου & τοῦ λιμένος ὑπάρχοντος πρὸς παραχειμασίαν1

You can make explicit why it was not easy to stay in the harbor. Alternate translation: “harbor did not sufficiently protect docked ships during winter storms” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

265927:12jmi3λιμένος1

a place near land that is usually safe for ships

266027:12k2tirc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΦοίνικα1

Phoenix is a city port on the south coast of Crete. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

266127:12z1lfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπαραχειμάσαι1

This speaks about the season of winter as if it were a commodity that someone can spend. Alternate translation: “to stay there for the cold season” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

266227:12x6vlβλέποντα κατὰ λίβα καὶ κατὰ χῶρον1

Here “faces northwest and southwest” means the opening of the harbor was toward those directions. Alternate translation: “it opened to the northwest and southwest”

266327:12gyd2λίβα καὶ & χῶρον1

These directions are based on the rising and setting sun. Northeast is a little to the left of the rising sun. Southeast is a little to the right of the rising sun. Some versions say “northeast and southeast.”

266427:13xx67ἄραντες1

Here “weighed” means to pull out of the water. An anchor is a heavy object attached to a rope that is secured to the boat. The anchor is tossed into the water and sinks to the bottom of the sea keeping the ship from drifting about.

266527:14hv8h0

Paul and those traveling on the boat encounter a fierce storm.

266627:14m2xeμετ’ οὐ πολὺ1

“after a little while”

266727:14fs4zἄνεμος τυφωνικὸς1

“a very strong, dangerous wind”

266827:14g1ekrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterateκαλούμενος Εὐρακύλων1

“called a strong wind from the northeast.’” The word for “the northeaster” in the original language is “Euroclydon.” You can transliterate this word for your language. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])

266927:14tz2kἔβαλεν κατ’ αὐτῆς1

“came in from the island of Crete, and it blew strongly against our ship”

267027:15fxp1συναρπασθέντος δὲ τοῦ πλοίου, καὶ μὴ δυναμένου ἀντοφθαλμεῖν τῷ ἀνέμῳ1

“When the wind blew so strongly against the front of the ship that we could not sail against it”

267127:15w1hlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπιδόντες ἐφερόμεθα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “we stopped trying to sail forward, and we let the wind push us whichever way it blew” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

267227:16c4cgνησίον & τι ὑποδραμόντες1

“We sailed on the side of the island where the wind was not so strong”

267327:16aq56rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesνησίον & τι ὑποδραμόντες1

This island was located on the south coast of Crete. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

267427:16h9z2σκάφης1

This is a smaller boat that is sometimes pulled behind the ship, and sometimes it was brought onto the ship and tied down. The smaller boat was used for various reasons, including escaping from a sinking ship.

267527:17v9agἣν ἄραντες1

“they had lifted up the lifeboat” or “they had pulled the lifeboat aboard the ship”

267627:17tx1fβοηθείαις ἐχρῶντο, ὑποζωννύντες τὸ πλοῖον1

The “hull” is the body of the ship. They tied ropes around it so that the ship would not come apart during the storm.

267727:17dvv4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesτὴν Σύρτιν1

Sandbars are very shallow areas in the sea where ships can get stuck in the sand. Syrtis is located on the coast of Libya, northern Africa. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

267827:17l8klχαλάσαντες τὸ σκεῦος1

They put the ships anchor in the water in order to slow down where the wind would blow them.

267927:17v6dnσκεῦος1

An anchor is a heavy object attached to a rope that is secured to the boat. The anchor is tossed into the water and sinks to the bottom of the sea keeping the ship from drifting about. See how you translated this in Acts 27:13.

268027:17g7rwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐφέροντο1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “had to go in whatever direction the wind blew us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

268127:18fx4mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveσφοδρῶς & χειμαζομένων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The wind blew us roughly back and forth that all of us were badly battered and bruised by the storm” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

268227:18nd5hἐκβολὴν ἐποιοῦντο1

“they” is the sailors. This is done to lighten the weight of the ship in an effort to prevent the ship from sinking.

268327:18ny6kἐκβολὴν1

Cargo is something that a person transports from one place to another by boat. See how you translated this in Acts 27:10. Alternate translation: “goods on the ship”

268427:19vm2kαὐτόχειρες τὴν σκευὴν τοῦ πλοίου ἔριψαν1

Here “equipment” refers to the sailors equipment needed to sail the ship: tackle, hoists, beams of wood, block and tackle, ropes, lines, sails, and the like. This indicates how desperate the situation was.

268527:20if7aμήτε δὲ ἡλίου μήτε ἄστρων ἐπιφαινόντων ἐπὶ πλείονας ἡμέρας1

They could not see the sun and stars because of the dark storm clouds. Sailors needed to see the sun and stars in order to know where they were and what direction they were headed.

268627:20p2wdχειμῶνός & οὐκ ὀλίγου ἐπικειμένου1

“the terrible storm still blew us roughly back and forth”

268727:20mnj5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπεριῃρεῖτο ἐλπὶς πᾶσα, τοῦ σῴζεσθαι ἡμᾶς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “everyone stopped hoping we would survive” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

268827:21mmb20

Paul speaks to the sailors on the ship.

268927:21d1lerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπολλῆς τε ἀσιτίας ὑπαρχούσης1

Here “they” refers to the sailors. It is implied that Luke, Paul, and those with them had not eaten either. Alternate translation: “When we had gone a long time without food” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

269027:21zns2μέσῳ αὐτῶν1

“among the men”

269127:21bc1xκερδῆσαί τε τὴν ὕβριν ταύτην, καὶ τὴν ζημίαν1

“and as a result suffer this harm and loss”

269227:22d95rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀποβολὴ & ψυχῆς οὐδεμία ἔσται ἐξ ὑμῶν1

Paul is speaking to the sailors. It is implied that Paul also means that he and those with him will not die either. Alternate translation: “none of us will die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

269327:22djh4πλὴν τοῦ πλοίου1

Here “loss” is used in the sense of destroy. Alternate translation: “but the storm will destroy only the ship”

269427:24z1j8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyΚαίσαρί σε δεῖ παραστῆναι1

The phrase “stand before Caesar” refers to Pauls going to court and letting Caesar judge him. Alternate translation: “You must stand before Caesar so he can judge you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

269527:24s3wvκεχάρισταί σοι & πάντας τοὺς πλέοντας μετὰ σοῦ1

“has decided to allow all those who are sailing with you to live”

269627:25r9t8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαθ’ ὃν τρόπον λελάληταί μοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “just as the angel told me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

269727:26vmp6εἰς νῆσον & τινα, δεῖ ἡμᾶς ἐκπεσεῖν1

“we must steer our boat so that it wrecks on some island”

269827:27im340

The fierce storm continues.

269927:27rrm5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinalὡς δὲ τεσσαρεσκαιδεκάτη νὺξ ἐγένετο1

The ordinal number “fourteenth” can be translated as “fourteen” or “14.” Alternate translation: “After 14 days since the storm started, that night” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

270027:27la7urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιαφερομένων ἡμῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “as the wind blew us back and forth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

270127:27afs6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesτῷ Ἀδρίᾳ1

This is the sea between Italy and Greece. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

270227:28ruj1βολίσαντες1

“They measured the depth of the sea water.” They measured the depth of water by dropping a line with a weight tied to the end of it into the water.

270327:28tq53rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersεὗρον ὀργυιὰς εἴκοσι1

“found 20 fathoms.” A “fathom” is a unit of measurement for measuring the depth of water. One fathom is about two meters. Alternate translation: “found 40 meters” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

270427:28ig3mrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersεὗρον ὀργυιὰς δεκαπέντε1

“found 15 fathoms.” A “fathom” is a unit of measurement for measuring the depth of water. One fathom is about two meters. Alternate translation: “found 30 meters” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

270527:29b1qcἀγκύρας1

An anchor is a heavy object attached to a rope that is secured to the boat. The anchor is tossed into the water and sinks to the bottom of the sea, keeping the ship from drifting about. See how you translated this in Acts 27:13.

270627:29q4amἐκ πρύμνης1

“from the back of the ship”

270727:30br71rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

Here the word “you” is plural and refers to the centurion and the Roman soldiers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

270827:30b4wvτὴν σκάφην1

This is a smaller boat that is sometimes pulled behind the ship and sometime it was brought onto the ship and tied down. The smaller boat was used for various reasons, including escaping from a sinking ship. See how you translated this in Acts 27:16.

270927:30rr89ἐκ πρῴρης1

“from the front of the ship”

271027:31ez5crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesἐὰν μὴ οὗτοι μείνωσιν ἐν τῷ πλοίῳ, ὑμεῖς σωθῆναι οὐ δύνασθε1

The negative words “Unless” and “cannot” can be stated in positive form. The passive phrase “be saved” can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “These men must stay in the ship in order for you to survive” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

271127:33q3y8ἄχρι δὲ οὗ ἡμέρα ἤμελλεν γίνεσθαι1

“When it was almost sunrise”

271227:33j5ygrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinalτεσσαρεσκαιδεκάτην σήμερον ἡμέραν1

The ordinal number “fourteenth” can be stated as “fourteen.” Alternate translation: “For 14 days” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

271327:34j3qxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomοὐδενὸς & ὑμῶν θρὶξ ἀπὸ τῆς κεφαλῆς ἀπολεῖται1

This was a customary way of saying no harm would come upon them. Alternate translation: “every one of you will survive this disaster unharmed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

271427:35yh7yκλάσας1

“tore the bread” or “tore off a piece from the loaf of bread”

271527:36zt9qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεὔθυμοι δὲ γενόμενοι πάντες1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “This encouraged all of them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

271627:37ynq3rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersἤμεθα δὲ αἱ πᾶσαι ψυχαὶ ἐν τῷ πλοίῳ, διακόσιαι ἑβδομήκοντα ἕξ1

“We were two hundred and seventy-six people in the ship.” This is background information. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

271727:39vdk2κόλπον1

a large area of water partly surrounded by land

271827:39r1bxτὴν γῆν οὐκ ἐπεγίνωσκον1

“saw land but could not recognize it as any place they knew”

271927:40k66vτὰς ἀγκύρας περιελόντες, εἴων1

“cut the ropes and left the anchors behind”

272027:40ntr9πηδαλίων1

large oars or pieces of wood at the back of the ship used for steering

272127:40cn2wτὸν ἀρτέμωνα1

“the sail at the front of the ship.” The sail was a large piece of cloth that catches the wind to move the ship.

272227:40pa1kκατεῖχον εἰς τὸν αἰγιαλόν1

“they steered the ship toward the beach”

272327:41y22nπεριπεσόντες & εἰς τόπον διθάλασσον1

A current is water flowing in one continuous direction. Sometimes more than one water current can flow across another. This may cause the sand under the water to pile up making the water more shallow.

272427:41cpu5πρῷρα1

“The front of the ship”

272527:41v35zἡ & πρύμνα1

“the back of the ship”

272627:42qul7τῶν & στρατιωτῶν, βουλὴ ἐγένετο1

“The soldiers were planning”

272727:43s2szἐκώλυσεν αὐτοὺς τοῦ βουλήματος1

“so he stopped them from doing what they planned to do”

272827:43br8uἀπορίψαντας1

“jump off the ship into the water”

272927:44hw7pοὓς & ἐπὶ σανίσιν1

“some on wooden boards”

273028:introw8yn0

Acts 28 General Notes

Structure and formatting

No one knows for sure why Luke ends his history without telling what happened to Paul after he had been in Rome for two years.

Special concepts in this chapter

“Letters” and “brothers”

The Jewish leaders were surprised that Paul wanted to speak with them, because they had received no letters from the high priest in Jerusalem telling them that Paul was coming.

When the Jewish leaders spoke of “brothers,” they were referring to fellow Jews, not to Christians.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“He was a god”

The native people believed that Paul was a god, but they did not believe that he was the one true God. We do not know why Paul did not tell the native people that he was not a god.

273128:1p1bdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to Paul, the writer, and those who traveled with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

273228:1twx80

After the shipwreck, people on the island of Malta helped Paul and everyone on the ship. They stay there for 3 months.

273328:1j1yfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαὶ διασωθέντες1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When we arrived safely” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

273428:1tt1irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἐπέγνωμεν1

Paul and Luke learned the name of the island. Alternate translation: “we learned from the people” or “we found out from the residents” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

273528:1f8y4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΜελίτη ἡ νῆσος καλεῖται1

Malta is an island located south of the modern-day island of Sicily. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

273628:2e7w6οἵ & βάρβαροι1

“The local people”

273728:2v8yhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπαρεῖχαν οὐ τὴν τυχοῦσαν φιλανθρωπίαν ἡμῖν1

Being kind to someone is spoken of as if it were an object that someone offers. Alternate translation: “were not only very kind to us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

273828:2r7jyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ τὴν τυχοῦσαν φιλανθρωπίαν1

This phrase is used to emphasize the opposite of what is said. Alternate translation: “a great deal of kindness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

273928:2z9cpἅψαντες & πυρὰν1

“they put together twigs and branches and burned them”

274028:2itw2προσελάβοντο πάντας ἡμᾶς1

Possible meanings are (1) “welcomed all of the people from the ship” or (2) “welcomed Paul and all his companions.”

274128:3g4adἔχιδνα ἀπὸ τῆς θέρμης ἐξελθοῦσα1

“a poisonous snake came out of the bundle of sticks”

274228:3xmx4καθῆψε τῆς χειρὸς αὐτοῦ1

“bit Pauls hand and did not let go”

274328:4ye7hπάντως φονεύς ἐστιν ὁ ἄνθρωπος οὗτος1

“For sure, this man is a murderer” or “This man is truly a murderer”

274428:4ma1brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἡ δίκη & εἴασεν1

The word “justice” refers to the name of a god that they worshiped. Alternate translation: “the god called Justice” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

274528:5q5i3ἀποτινάξας τὸ θηρίον εἰς τὸ πῦρ1

“shook his hand so that the snake fell from his hand into the fire”

274628:5asr8ἔπαθεν οὐδὲν κακόν1

“Paul was not hurt at all”

274728:6m11iπίμπρασθαι1

Possible meanings are (1) his body would swell because of the snake venom or (2) he would become very hot with fever.

274828:6i6i6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesμηδὲν ἄτοπον εἰς αὐτὸν γινόμενον1

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “everything about him was as it should be” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

274928:6u81urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμεταβαλόμενοι1

To think differently about a situation is spoken of as if a person is changing his mind. Alternate translation: “they thought again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

275028:6cfe9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotationsἔλεγον αὐτὸν εἶναι θεόν1

This can be stated as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “said, This man must be a god.’” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

275128:6d1rjἔλεγον αὐτὸν εἶναι θεόν1

Perhaps there was a belief that someone who lived after a poisonous snake bite was divine or a god.

275228:7f4sarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the words “us” and we” refer to Paul, Luke, and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

275328:7r95rἐν δὲ τοῖς περὶ τὸν τόπον ἐκεῖνον1

“Now” is used to introduce a new person or event in the account.

275428:7wx6tπρώτῳ τῆς νήσου1

Possible meanings are (1) the main leader of the people or (2) someone who was the most important person on the island, perhaps because of his wealth.

275528:7wh2drc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesὀνόματι Ποπλίῳ1

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

275628:8g12trc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundἐγένετο δὲ, τὸν πατέρα τοῦ Ποπλίου πυρετοῖς καὶ δυσεντερίῳ συνεχόμενον κατακεῖσθαι1

This is background information about Publius father that is important to understanding the story. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

275728:8m154rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveσυνεχόμενον κατακεῖσθαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “was ill” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

275828:8fr46πυρετοῖς καὶ δυσεντερίῳ συνεχόμενον κατακεῖσθαι1

Dysentery is an infectious intestinal disease.

275928:8pwk5ἐπιθεὶς τὰς χεῖρας αὐτῷ1

“touched him with his hands”

276028:9yk6urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐθεραπεύοντο1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he healed them too” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

276128:10ydg4πολλαῖς τιμαῖς ἐτίμησαν ἡμᾶς1

Probably they honored Paul and those with him by giving them gifts.

276228:11jc5trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

The Twin Brothers refers to Castor and Pollux, the twin sons of Zeus, a Greek god. They were thought to be protectors of ships. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

276328:11be1c0

Pauls journey to Rome continues.

276428:11qi6eπαρακεχειμακότι ἐν τῇ νήσῳ1

“that the crew left at the island for the cold season”

276528:11cm2tἈλεξανδρίνῳ1

Possible meanings are this refers to (1) a ship that came from Alexandria, or (2) a ship that was registered or licensed in Alexandria.

276628:11em5pΔιοσκούροις1

On the bow of the ship, there was a carving of the two idols called “the twin gods.” Their names were Castor and Pollux.

276728:12w5c6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΣυρακούσας1

Syracuse is a city on the southeast coast of the modern-day island of Sicily, just southwest of Italy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

276828:13se8vrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

The Market of Appius and The Three Taverns was a popular market and inn on the main highway called the Appian Way, about 50 kilometers south of the city of Rome. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

276928:13z2u4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesῬήγιον1

This is the port city located at the southwestern tip of Italy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

277028:13p633ἐπιγενομένου νότου1

“the wind began to blow from the south”

277128:13tz4hrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΠοτιόλους1

Puteoli is located in modern-day Naples on the west coast of Italy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

277228:14m1isοὗ εὑρόντες1

“There we met”

277328:14n3twrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοὺς1

These were followers of Jesus, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “fellow believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

277428:14a2c5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπαρεκλήθημεν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they invited us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

277528:14bc3jκαὶ οὕτως εἰς τὴν Ῥώμην ἤλθαμεν1

Once Paul reached Puteoli, the rest of the journey to Rome was on land. Alternate translation: “And after we stayed seven days with them, we went to Rome”

277628:15k754ἀκούσαντες, τὰ περὶ ἡμῶν1

“after they heard we were coming”

277728:15m9tzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεὐχαριστήσας τῷ Θεῷ, ἔλαβε θάρσος1

Taking courage is spoken of as if it were an object that a person could take. Alternate translation: “this encouraged him, and he thanked God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

277828:16fib2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the word “we” refers to the writer, Paul, and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

277928:16hf2t0

Paul arrives in Rome as a prisoner but with the freedom to stay in his own place. He calls the local Jews together to explain what has happened to him.

278028:16te8vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὅτε δὲ εἰσήλθομεν εἰς Ῥώμην1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “After we had arrived in Rome, the Roman authorities gave Paul permission to” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

278128:17vf7rἐγένετο δὲ1

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

278228:17d77zτῶν Ἰουδαίων πρώτους1

These are the Jewish civil or religious leaders present in Rome.

278328:17e1ddἀδελφοί1

Here this means “Fellow Jews.”

278428:17g55iἐναντίον & τῷ λαῷ1

“against our people” or “against the Jews”

278528:17hgk4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδέσμιος ἐξ Ἱεροσολύμων παρεδόθην εἰς τὰς χεῖρας τῶν Ῥωμαίων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “some of the Jews arrested me in Jerusalem and placed me in the custody of the Roman authorities” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

278628:17x3r2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyεἰς τὰς χεῖρας τῶν Ῥωμαίων1

Here “hands” stands for power or control. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

278728:18fed7τὸ μηδεμίαν αἰτίαν θανάτου ὑπάρχειν ἐν ἐμοί1

“I had done nothing to cause them to execute me”

278828:19lr96rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheτῶν Ἰουδαίων1

This does not mean all of the Jews. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

278928:19zk8fἀντιλεγόντων1

“complained about what the Roman authorities wanted to do”

279028:19n6vfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἠναγκάσθην ἐπικαλέσασθαι Καίσαρα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I had to ask for Caesar to judge me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

279128:19e7grrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐχ ὡς τοῦ ἔθνους μου ἔχων τι κατηγορεῖν1

The abstract noun “accusation” can be stated as the verb “accuse.” Here “nation” stands for the people. Alternate translation: “but it was not because I wanted to accuse the people of my nation before Caesar” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

279228:20b1fdτῆς ἐλπίδος τοῦ Ἰσραὴλ1

Possible meanings are (1) the people of Israel confidently expect the Messiah to come or (2) the people of Israel confidently expect God to bring those who have died back to life.

279328:20n3s7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτοῦ Ἰσραὴλ1

Here “Israel” stands for the people. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel” or “the Jews” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

279428:20pgr8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὴν ἅλυσιν ταύτην περίκειμαι1

Here “bound with this chain” stands for being a prisoner. Alternate translation: “that I am a prisoner” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

279528:21x5d5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

Here the words “We,” “we,” and “us” refer to the Jewish leaders in Rome. (See: Acts 28:17 and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

279628:21biz70

The Jewish leaders respond to Paul.

279728:21y4bxοὔτε παραγενόμενός τις τῶν ἀδελφῶν1

Here “brothers” stands for fellow Jews. Alternate translation: “nor did any of our fellow Jews”

279828:22kw1dφρονεῖς, περὶ & τῆς αἱρέσεως ταύτης1

A sect is a smaller group within a larger group. Here it refers to those who believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “you think about this group to which you belong”

279928:22gy8trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγὰρ & γνωστὸν ἡμῖν ἐστι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because we know” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

280028:22j12vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐστιν & πανταχοῦ ἀντιλέγεται1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “many Jews all over the Roman Empire are saying bad things about it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

280128:23u7pc0

Here the word “they” refers to the Jewish leaders in Rome. The words “him,” “his,” and “He” and refer to Paul (Acts 28:17).

280228:23q4ivταξάμενοι & αὐτῷ ἡμέραν1

“had chosen a time for him to speak to them”

280328:23dg5frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδιαμαρτυρόμενος τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Here “kingdom of God” stands for Gods rule as king. Alternate translation: “told them about Gods rule as king” or “told them how God would show himself as king” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

280428:23peu1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῶν προφητῶν1

Here “the prophets” refers to what they wrote. Alternate translation: “from what the prophets wrote” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

280528:24pmd6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαὶ οἱ μὲν ἐπείθοντο τοῖς λεγομένοις1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Paul was able to convince some of them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

280628:25t5dq0

Here the word “they” refers to the Jewish leaders in Rome (Acts 28:17). The word “your” refers to the people to whom Paul had been speaking. In verse 26, Paul begins to quote the prophet Isaiah.

280728:25i5xz0

As the Jewish leaders were ready to leave, Paul quotes the Old Testament scriptures that were appropriate for this time.

280828:25n7pmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyεἰπόντος τοῦ Παύλου ῥῆμα ἓν1

Here “word” stands for a message or statement. Alternate translation: “after Paul had said one more thing” or “after Paul had made this statement” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

280928:25b11nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotesκαλῶς τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον ἐλάλησεν διὰ Ἠσαΐου τοῦ προφήτου πρὸς τοὺς πατέρας ὑμῶν1

This sentence contains quotations within quotations. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

281028:26qj7qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotesλέγων, πορεύθητι πρὸς τὸν λαὸν τοῦτον & εἰπόν, ἀκοῇ ἀκούσετε, καὶ οὐ μὴ συνῆτε; καὶ βλέποντες βλέψετε, καὶ οὐ μὴ ἴδητε1

This is the end of the sentence that begins with the words “The Holy Spirit spoke” in verse 25 and that contains quotations within quotations. You can translate one of the inner quotations as an indirect quotation, or you can translate two of the inner quotations as indirect quotations. “The Holy Spirit spoke well through Isaiah the prophet to your forefathers when the Spirit told Isaiah to go tell them that they will hear but will not understand and they will see but they will not perceive” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

281128:26pax8ἀκοῇ ἀκούσετ & βλέποντες βλέψετε1

The words “hear” and “see” are repeated for emphasis. “You will listen carefully … and you will look intently”

281228:26s1tirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismκαὶ οὐ μὴ συνῆτε; & καὶ οὐ μὴ ἴδητε1

Both of these phrases mean basically the same thing. They emphasize that the Jewish people will not understand Gods plan. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

281328:27fz420

Translate Pauls quotation of Isaiah as a direct quotation or indirect quotation according to how you translated it in Acts 28:25-26.

281428:27qu6t0

Paul finishes quoting Isaiah the prophet.

281528:27ts5arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπαχύνθη γὰρ ἡ καρδία τοῦ λαοῦ τούτου1

People who stubbornly refuse to understand what God is saying or doing are spoken of as if their heart is dull. Here “heart” is a metonym for the mind. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

281628:27f5m4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτοῖς ὠσὶν βαρέως ἤκουσαν, καὶ τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς αὐτῶν ἐκάμμυσαν1

People who stubbornly refuse to understand what God is saying or doing are spoken of as if they are unable to hear and are shutting their eyes so that they will see. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

281728:27lr99rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῇ καρδίᾳ συνῶσιν1

Here “heart” stands for the mind. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

281828:27q8c2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπιστρέψωσιν1

To start obeying God is spoken of as though the person were physically turning toward God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

281928:27vb9fἰάσομαι αὐτούς1

This does not mean God will only heal them physically. He will also heal them spiritually by forgiving their sins.

282028:28c5750

Paul finishes speaking to the Jewish leaders in Rome.

282128:28b2zarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτοῖς ἔθνεσιν ἀπεστάλη τοῦτο τὸ σωτήριον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Gods message about how he saves people is spoken of as if it were an object that is sent. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God is sending his messengers to the Gentiles to tell them about how he will save them” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

282228:28d18nαὐτοὶ & ἀκούσονται1

“some of them will listen.” This response of the Gentiles is in contrast to the way the Jews of that time responded.

282328:30c56erc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory0

Luke ends the story of Paul in the book of Acts. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

282428:31wv1lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκηρύσσων τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Here “kingdom of God” refers to Gods rule as king. Alternate translation: “He was preaching about Gods rule as king” or “He was preaching about how God will show himself as king” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])