Acts 16:40

KJV

And they went out of the prison, and entered into [the house of] Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} they went {G1831} out of {G1537} the prison {G5438}, and entered {G1525} into {G1519} the house of Lydia {G3070}: and {G2532} when they had seen {G1492} the brethren {G80}, they comforted {G3870} them {G846}, and {G2532} departed {G1831}.

Complete Jewish Bible

From the prison they went to Lydia’s house, and after seeing and encouraging the brothers they departed.

Berean Standard Bible

After Paul and Silas came out of the prison, they went to Lydia’s house to see the brothers and encourage them. Then they left the city.

American Standard Version

And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 16:40 concludes the dramatic Philippian episode, depicting Paul and Silas's actions immediately following their miraculous release from prison. Instead of prioritizing their own safety, they first visited Lydia's home to encourage and strengthen the nascent Christian community, demonstrating profound pastoral care and unwavering commitment to the brethren before finally departing from the city.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate culmination of a series of extraordinary events in Philippi, initiated by Paul's exorcism of a spirit from a slave girl, which led to his and Silas's unjust arrest, severe beating, and imprisonment ([Acts 16:16-24](/acts/16-16-24 "Acts 16:16-24 - Paul and Silas Imprisoned")). The narrative then pivots to a divine intervention: a powerful earthquake that miraculously opened the prison doors and loosened their bonds ([Acts 16:25-26](/acts/16-25-26 "Acts 16:25-26 - Earthquake in Prison")). This seismic event, combined with Paul's quick thinking, led to the dramatic conversion of the Philippian jailer and his entire household ([Acts 16:27-34](/acts/16-27-34 "Acts 16:27-34 - The Philippian Jailer's Conversion")). The following morning, the magistrates, realizing their error and discovering Paul and Silas were Roman citizens, personally escorted them out of prison, urging them to leave the city ([Acts 16:35-39](/acts/16-35-39 "Acts 16:35-39 - Paul's Roman Citizenship and Release")). Acts 16:40 thus marks their final act in Philippi before continuing their missionary journey, emphasizing their commitment to the new believers over personal expediency.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Philippi was a Roman colony, a city granted special privileges, including self-governance under Roman law and the rights of Roman citizens for its inhabitants. This status made the magistrates' actions of beating and imprisoning Roman citizens without trial a grave offense, a fact Paul strategically leveraged to secure a more honorable departure ([Acts 16:37-39](/acts/16-37-39 "Acts 16:37-39 - Paul's Assertion of Roman Rights")). The concept of "the house of Lydia" is significant, as early Christian communities often met in private homes, a practice known as "house churches," due to the lack of dedicated public buildings and the need for discreet gathering places in a predominantly pagan society. Lydia, a wealthy businesswoman from Thyatira and the first convert in Philippi ([Acts 16:14-15](/acts/16-14-15 "Acts 16:14-15 - Lydia's Conversion")), likely offered her home as a central meeting point for the nascent Philippian church, making it the natural place for Paul and Silas to seek out the believers.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Acts and Paul's ministry. It underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**, as God orchestrates their miraculous release and uses even persecution to advance His kingdom. The immediate concern for "the brethren" highlights the paramount importance of **Christian Community and Fellowship** in the early church, where mutual support and encouragement were vital for survival and growth amidst opposition. Furthermore, Paul and Silas's action of "comforting them" exemplifies **Pastoral Care and Discipleship**, demonstrating that true spiritual leadership involves nurturing and strengthening new believers, especially in times of vulnerability. Their departure, only after ensuring the well-being of the new converts, also speaks to the theme of **Missionary Diligence and Strategic Planning**, as they lay a firm foundation before moving on to new fields, a pattern seen throughout Paul's evangelistic journeys ([Acts 17](/acts/17 "Acts 17 - Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica and Berea")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **went out (Greek, _exérchomai'_):** Derived from `ek` (out of) and `erchomai` (to come/go), this verb signifies a literal departure or issuing forth. Its use here, "they went out of the prison," marks a clear transition from confinement to freedom, emphasizing the physical act of leaving a place of suffering. The repetition of this word later in the verse ("and departed") underscores the finality of their exit from Philippi, but only after fulfilling a crucial pastoral duty.
* **entered (Greek, _eisérchomai'_):** Formed from `eis` (into) and `erchomai` (to come/go), this word denotes movement into a specific place or condition. In contrast to "went out," "entered into" highlights their intentional movement towards a new location—Lydia's house—signifying not a random destination but a purposeful return to the heart of the Christian community they had helped establish, indicating their immediate priority.
* **comforted (Greek, _parakaléō'_):** From `para` (alongside) and `kaléō` (to call), this verb carries a rich semantic range encompassing calling near, inviting, imploring, exhorting, and consoling. It is far more than mere sympathy; it implies active encouragement, strengthening, and instruction. Paul and Silas didn't just offer kind words; they provided spiritual sustenance, reassurance, and perhaps a final charge to the believers, building them up in their faith in the face of recent persecution and their leaders' departure.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they went out of the prison":** This phrase marks the immediate consequence of the magistrates' command and Paul's assertion of his Roman citizenship. It signifies their physical release from unjust confinement, a direct result of divine intervention and strategic human action. The dramatic events of the earthquake and the jailer's conversion precede this literal step into freedom.
* **"and entered into [the house of] Lydia":** This highlights Paul and Silas's deliberate choice to prioritize the nascent Christian community over immediate flight. Lydia's house, likely the gathering place for the new believers, represents the spiritual home of the Philippian church. Their entry signifies a return to their spiritual family, demonstrating their commitment to pastoral care.
* **"and when they had seen the brethren":** This clause emphasizes the purpose of their visit: to connect directly with the fellow believers. The term "brethren" (ἀδελφός, _adelphós_) denotes a spiritual family bond, reflecting the deep fellowship and unity characteristic of the early church. Their desire to "see" them implies a personal encounter, an assessment of their well-being, and an opportunity for direct interaction.
* **"they comforted them":** This is the core action of the verse, revealing the apostles' pastoral heart. Despite their own recent ordeal of beating and imprisonment, Paul and Silas prioritized the spiritual and emotional needs of the new converts. The word "comforted" (παρεκάλεσαν, _parekalesan_) suggests active encouragement, exhortation, and strengthening, perhaps through prayer, teaching, and reminding them of God's faithfulness amidst adversity.
* **"and departed":** This final clause indicates their ultimate departure from Philippi. It shows that their mission in the city, for this leg of their journey, was complete, but only after they had ensured the well-being and spiritual stability of the new church. This departure sets the stage for their continued missionary efforts in other cities.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 16:40 effectively employs **Juxtaposition** and **Irony** to underscore the profound impact of the gospel. The immediate transition from "out of the prison" to "into the house of Lydia" juxtaposes the harshness of state persecution with the warmth and safety of Christian fellowship. This highlights the stark contrast between the world's hostility and the church's nurturing environment. Furthermore, there's a subtle **Irony** in the fact that Paul and Silas, having just endured severe suffering, are the ones who "comforted" others. This reversal of expectation emphasizes their selfless, Christ-like character and the spiritual strength that transcends physical pain. The narrative also employs **Conciseness** to convey a significant pastoral act, packing a powerful message of leadership and community care into a single, straightforward sentence, making the apostles' priorities abundantly clear.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 16:40 profoundly illustrates the early church's commitment to community and the unwavering pastoral heart of its leaders. Paul and Silas, despite having just endured a traumatic ordeal of unjust arrest, beating, and imprisonment, did not prioritize their own escape or recovery. Instead, their immediate concern was for the spiritual and emotional well-being of the nascent Philippian church. This act of "comforting" the brethren before departing underscores a foundational theological principle: the church is a family, called to mutual encouragement and support, especially in times of trial. It reflects the understanding that Christian leadership is fundamentally about serving and nurturing the flock, building them up in faith and resilience. This commitment to the body of Christ, even at personal cost, is a hallmark of genuine discipleship and effective ministry, ensuring the continuity and strength of the gospel's advance.

* [Romans 12:15](/romans/12-15 "Romans 12:15 - Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep")
* [2 Corinthians 1:3-4](/2_corinthians/1-3-4 "2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - God of all Comfort")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:11](/1_thessalonians/5-11 "1 Thessalonians 5:11 - Encourage one another")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 16:40 offers a compelling model for Christian living and leadership, challenging believers to re-evaluate their priorities in the face of adversity. Paul and Silas, having experienced profound injustice and suffering, could have understandably sought immediate rest or escape. Yet, their first impulse was to minister to others, demonstrating that true spiritual strength is found not in avoiding hardship but in leveraging it for the benefit of the community. This verse calls us to cultivate a selfless, other-centered perspective, recognizing that our personal trials can become platforms for comforting and strengthening those around us. It reminds us of the vital importance of Christian fellowship, urging us to actively participate in and contribute to the well-being of our spiritual family, offering encouragement and support even when we ourselves are in need. Ultimately, it teaches us that the work of God involves both bold proclamation and tender pastoral care, ensuring that the seeds of faith are not only sown but also nurtured to maturity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul and Silas's immediate concern for the "brethren" after their own suffering challenge my own priorities when I face personal difficulties?**
* **In what practical ways can I "comfort" or encourage fellow believers in my community, especially those who may be struggling or new in their faith?**
* **How does this verse highlight the importance of the local church community as a place of refuge and spiritual strengthening?**
* **What does it mean to "depart well" from a season or place of ministry, ensuring those left behind are supported and equipped?**

### FAQ
**Why did Paul and Silas go to Lydia's house specifically?**

Answer: Paul and Silas went to Lydia's house because it was likely the established meeting place for the nascent Christian community in Philippi. Lydia was the first recorded convert in Philippi ([Acts 16:14-15](/acts/16-14-15 "Acts 16:14-15 - Lydia's Conversion")), and her home would have naturally become the hub for the new believers, functioning as a "house church." Their visit was not merely social but strategic, allowing them to gather, comfort, and provide final instructions to the "brethren" before their departure, ensuring the continued strength and stability of the young church.

**What does "comforted them" imply about the state of the Philippian believers?**

Answer: The act of "comforting them" (Greek: _parakaléō_) suggests that the Philippian believers were likely distressed, fearful, or perhaps shaken by the recent persecution of Paul and Silas. Witnessing their leaders' unjust arrest, beating, and imprisonment could have caused significant anxiety and doubt among new converts. Paul and Silas's "comfort" was therefore not just sympathy but a robust act of exhortation, encouragement, and spiritual strengthening, perhaps reminding them of God's faithfulness, the power of the gospel, and the resilience of faith in the face of adversity. This pastoral care was crucial for solidifying their faith and preparing them for future challenges, as seen in Paul's later letter to the Philippians ([Philippians 1:3-7](/philippians/1-3-7 "Philippians 1:3-7 - Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer for the Philippians")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 16:40, while a narrative of apostolic courage and pastoral care, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul and Silas's selfless act of comforting the brethren, even after their own suffering, mirrors the very heart of Christ, who, though innocent, endured the ultimate suffering on the cross to provide comfort and salvation for humanity ([Isaiah 53:4-5](/isaiah/53-4-5 "Isaiah 53:4-5 - The Suffering Servant")). Just as Paul and Silas entered Lydia's house to strengthen a vulnerable community, Christ "entered" into human history through the incarnation, not to escape suffering, but to minister to a lost and broken world ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). His entire ministry was characterized by comforting the afflicted, healing the sick, and offering hope to the despairing, culminating in His promise of the Holy Spirit, the "Comforter" or "Advocate" (_Paraclete_) ([John 14:16-18](/john/14-16-18 "John 14:16-18 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")). The apostles' willingness to prioritize the spiritual well-being of others over their own immediate relief is a direct reflection of Christ's sacrificial love, who "did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Thus, Acts 16:40 is not merely a historical account but a profound echo of the Christ-like compassion that continues to build and sustain His church.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Thessalonians 3:2

And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:

1 Thessalonians 3:3

That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

Acts 16:14

And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard [us]: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

Acts 14:22

Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

2 Corinthians 1:3

¶ Blessed [be] God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;

2 Corinthians 1:7

¶ And our hope of you [is] stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so [shall ye be] also of the consolation.

2 Corinthians 4:16

For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day.