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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Acts 18:7–11. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here we are told,
I.That Paul changed his quarters.
Christ directed his disciples, when he sent them forth, not to go from house to house (Luk 10:7), but there might be occasion to do it, as Paul did here. He departed out of the synagogue, being driven out by the perverseness of the unbelieving Jews, and he entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, Act 18:7. It should seem, he went to this man's house, not to lodge, for he continued with Aquila and Priscilla, but to preach. When the Jews would not let him go on peaceably with his work in their meeting, this honest man opened his doors to him, and told him he should be welcome to preach there; and Paul accepted the proposal. It was not the first time that God's ark had taken up its lodging in a private house. When Paul could not have liberty to preach in the synagogue, he preached in a house, without any disparagement to his doctrine. But observe the account of this man and his house.
1.The man was next door to a Jew; he was one that worshipped God; he was not an idolater, though he was a Gentile, but was a worshipper of the God of Israel, and him only, as Cornelius. That Paul might give the less offence to the Jews, though he had abandoned them, he set up his meeting in this man's house. Even when he was under a necessity of breaking off from them to turn to the Gentiles, yet he would study to oblige them.
2.The house was next door to the synagogue, it joined close to it, which some perhaps might interpret as done with design to draw people from the synagogue to the meeting; but I rather think it was done in charity, to show that he would come as near to them as he could, and was ready to return to them if they were but willing to receive his message, and would not contradict and blaspheme as they had done.
II.That Paul presently saw the good fruit of his labours, both among Jews and Gentiles.
1.Crispus a Jew, an eminent one, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord Jesus, with all his house, Act 18:8. It was for the honour of the gospel that there were some rulers, and persons of the first rank both in church and state, that embraced it. This would leave the Jews inexcusable, that the ruler of their synagogue, who may be supposed to have excelled the rest in knowledge of the scriptures and zeal for their religion, believed the gospel, and yet they opposed and blasphemed it. Not only he, but his house, believed, and, probably, were baptized with him by Paul, Co1 1:14.
2.Many of the Corinthians, who were Gentiles (and some of them persons of bad character, as appears, Co1 6:11, such were some of you), hearing, believed, and were baptized. First, they heard, for faith comes by hearing. Some perhaps came to hear Paul under some convictions of conscience that the way they were in was not right; but it is probable that the most came only for curiosity, because it was a new doctrine that was preached; but, hearing, they believed, by the power of God working upon them; and, believing, they were baptized, and so fixed for Christ, took upon them the profession of Christianity, and became entitled to the privileges of Christians.
III.That Paul was encouraged by a vision to go on with his work at Corinth (Act 18:9):
The Lord Jesus spoke to Paul in the night by a vision; when he was musing on his work, communing with his own heart upon his bed, and considering whether he should continue here or no, what method he should take here, and what probability there was of doing good, then Christ appeared very seasonably to him, and in the multitude of his thoughts within him delighted his soul with divine consolations. 1. He renewed his commission and charge to preach the gospel: "Be not afraid of the Jews; though they are very outrageous, and perhaps the more enraged by the conversion of the chief ruler of their synagogue. Be not afraid of the magistrates of the city, for they have no power against thee but what is given them from above. It is the cause of heaven thou art pleading, do it boldly. Be not afraid of their words, nor dismayed at their looks; but speak, and hold not thy peace; let slip no opportunity of speaking to them; cry aloud, spare not. Do not hold thy peace from speaking for fear of them, nor hold thy peace in speaking" (if I may so say); "do not speak shyly and with caution, but plainly and fully and with courage. Speak out; use all the liberty of spirit that becomes an ambassador for Christ." 2. He assured him of his presence with him, which was sufficient to animate him, and put life and spirit into him: "Be not afraid, for I am with thee, to protect thee, and bear thee out, and to deliver thee from all thy fears; speak, and hold not thy peace, for I am with thee, to own what thou sayest, to work with thee, and to confirm the word by signs following." The same promise that ratified the general commission (Mat 28:19, Mat 28:20), Lo I am with you always, is here repeated. Those that have Christ with them need not to fear, and ought not to shrink. 3. He gave him a warrant of protection to save him harmless: "No man shall set on thee to hurt thee; thou shalt be delivered out of the hands of wicked and unreasonable men and shalt not be driven hence, as thou wast from other places, by persecution." He does not promise that no man should set on him (for the next news we hear is that he is set upon, and brought to the judgment-seat, Act 18:12), but, "No man shall set on thee to hurt thee; the remainder of their wrath shall be restrained; thou shalt not be beaten and imprisoned here, as thou wast at Philippi." Paul met with coarser treatment at first than he did afterwards, and was now comforted according to the time wherein he had been afflicted. Trials shall not last always, Psa 66:10-12. Or we may take it more generally: "No man shall set on thee, tou kakōsai se - to do evil to thee; whatever trouble they may give thee, there is no real evil in it. They may kill thee, but they cannot hurt thee; for I am with thee," Psa 23:4; Isa 41:10. 4. He gave him a prospect of success: "For I have much people in this city. Therefore no man shall prevail to obstruct thy work, therefore I will be with thee to own thy work, and therefore do thou go on vigorously and cheerfully in it; for there are many in this city that are to be effectually called by thy ministry, in whom thou shalt see of the travail of thy soul." Laos esti moi polus - There is to me a great people here. The Lord knows those that are his, yea, and those that shall be his; for it is by his work upon them that they become his, and known unto him are all his works. "I have them, though they yet know me not, though yet they are let captive by Satan at his will; for the Father has given them to me, to be a seed to serve me; I have them written in the book of life; I have their names down, and of all that were given me I will lose none; I have them, for I am sure to have them;" whom he did predestinate, those he called. In this city, though it be a very profane wicked city, full of impurity, and the more so for a temple of Venus there, to which there was a great resort, yet in this heap, that seems to be all chaff, there is wheat; in this ore, that seems to be all dross, there is gold. Let us not despair concerning any place, when even in Corinth Christ had much people.
IV.That upon this encouragement he made a long stay there (Act 18:11):
He continued at Corinth a year and six months, not to take his ease, but to follow his work, teaching the word of God among them; and, it being a city flocked to from all parts, he had opportunity there of preaching the gospel to strangers, and sending notice of it thence to other countries. He staid so long,
1.For the bringing in of those that were without. Christ had many people there, and by the power of his grace he could have had them all converted in one month or week, as at the first preaching of the gospel, when thousands were enclosed at one cast of the net; but God works variously. The people Christ has at Corinth must be called in by degrees, some by one sermon, others by another; we see not yet all things put under Christ. Let Christ's ministers go on in their duty, though their work be not done all at once; nay, though it be done but a little at a time.
2.For the building up of those that were within. Those that are converted have still need to be taught the word of God, and particular need at Corinth to be taught it by Paul himself; for no sooner was the good seed sown in that field than the enemy came and sowed tares, the false apostles, those deceitful workers, of whom Paul in his epistles to the Corinthians complains so much. When the hands of Jewish persecutors were tied, who were professed enemies to the gospel, Paul had a more vexatious trouble created him, and the church more mischievous damage done it, by the tongue of judaizing preachers, who, under colour of the Christian name, undermined the very foundations of Christianity. Soon after Paul came to Corinth, it is supposed, he wrote the first epistle to the Thessalonians, which in order of time was the first of all the epistles he wrote by divine inspiration; and the second epistle to the same church was written not long after. Ministers may be serving Christ, and promoting the great ends of their ministry, by writing good letters, as well as by preaching good sermons.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
"Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: for I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city." See by how many reasons He persuades him, and how He puts last the reason which of all others most prevailed with him, "I have much people in this city." Now even the number of the "much people" persuaded him, but Christ's claiming them for His own moved him more. Yet He says also, "Fear not": for the danger was become greater now, both because more believed, and also the ruler of the synagogue. This was enough to rouse him. Not that he was reproved as fearing; but that he should not suffer aught; "I am with thee, and none shall set upon thee to hurt thee." For He did not always permit them to suffer evil, that they might not become too weak. For nothing so grieved Paul, as men's unbelief and setting themselves against the Truth: this was worse than the dangers. Therefore it is that Christ appears to him now.
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Summary
Acts 18:10 records a pivotal divine assurance given to the Apostle Paul during his challenging ministry in Corinth, a bustling and often hostile city. In a night vision, the Lord declared His unwavering presence, guaranteed Paul's protection from fatal harm, and revealed His sovereign purpose to gather a great number of people for Himself within that very city. This profound revelation served to embolden Paul, reaffirming the divine backing for his evangelistic mission despite intense opposition.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is part of a crucial turning point in Paul's ministry in Corinth. Having arrived from Athens, where his philosophical approach yielded limited fruit (Acts 17:32-34), Paul initially worked as a tentmaker alongside Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:1-3). His ministry intensified when Silas and Timothy joined him, allowing him to devote himself fully to preaching (Acts 18:5). However, this led to significant opposition from the Jewish community, who "opposed themselves, and blasphemed" (Acts 18:6). It was in this atmosphere of escalating hostility and potential discouragement that the Lord appeared to Paul in a vision, delivering the powerful words of encouragement found in Acts 18:9-10, commanding him to "be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace." The promise of divine presence and protection in verse 10 directly addresses Paul's apprehension and serves as the foundation for his continued, fruitful ministry in Corinth for a year and six months (Acts 18:11).
Historical & Cultural Context
Corinth was a prominent Roman provincial capital, a thriving commercial hub situated on a narrow isthmus connecting mainland Greece to the Peloponnese. Its strategic location made it a melting pot of cultures, religions, and trades, but also notorious for its moral laxity and idolatry, often epitomized by the worship of Aphrodite. The city's diverse population included a significant Jewish diaspora, who, as elsewhere, initially provided Paul with a platform for evangelism in the synagogue (Acts 18:4). However, their rejection of the Gospel often led to fierce opposition, sometimes escalating to violence, as seen in other cities like Thessalonica and Berea (Acts 17:5-13). Paul, having experienced such hostility previously, would have been acutely aware of the dangers inherent in preaching the Gospel in such a volatile environment. The Lord's vision directly addresses this context of potential physical harm and spiritual discouragement, providing the necessary divine mandate and assurance for Paul to persist in his mission within this challenging urban landscape.
Key Themes
Acts 18:10 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the Sovereignty of God in Missions. The declaration "I have much people in this city" reveals God's foreknowledge and active work in preparing hearts for the Gospel, demonstrating that the success of evangelism is ultimately God's work, not merely human effort. Secondly, it highlights Divine Presence and Protection for God's servants. The "I am with thee" echoes ancient covenant promises (Genesis 28:15, Isaiah 41:10), assuring Paul that he is not alone and will be divinely shielded for the completion of his specific task in Corinth. This theme is crucial throughout Acts, as apostles frequently face persecution but are providentially protected until their work is done (Acts 12:1-11). Finally, the verse reinforces the Necessity of Bold Proclamation despite opposition. Paul is commanded to "speak, and hold not thy peace" (Acts 18:9), and the divine assurance in verse 10 provides the courage to obey, illustrating that God's promises empower believers to overcome fear and faithfully declare the Gospel, even in the face of significant resistance.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Translated as "am" in "I am with thee." This is the first person singular present indicative of the verb "to be." In this context, it signifies God's absolute, active, and enduring presence with Paul. It's not merely a statement of location but an emphatic declaration of divine companionship and active support, echoing the divine self-identification "I AM" from the Old Testament (Exodus 3:14).
Translated as "shall set on" in "no man shall set on thee." This verb means "to impose," "to lay upon," or "to attack." It implies a hostile, aggressive act, suggesting a physical assault or an attempt to harm Paul. The Lord's promise directly addresses the threat of such violent opposition, assuring Paul that no one will succeed in inflicting harm that would impede his ministry.
Translated as "people" in "I have much people in this city." This term refers to "a people in general," distinguishing it from a specific populace or ethnic group. In this context, it signifies a large group of individuals, currently unsaved, whom God sovereignly intends to call to Himself through Paul's evangelistic efforts. It highlights God's pre-ordained plan for salvation and His active work in drawing people from all backgrounds into His kingdom.
Verse Breakdown
"For I am with thee"
This opening clause establishes the foundational promise of divine presence. It is a deeply personal and comforting assurance from the Lord to Paul, indicating that God is not a distant observer but an active, intimate companion in Paul's ministry. This presence implies divine support, strength, and enablement for the daunting task ahead.
"and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee"
Building upon the promise of presence, this clause provides a specific guarantee of protection. The phrase "no man" (G3762 oudeís) signifies an absolute negation – not a single individual will be able to successfully "set on" (attack or lay hands on) Paul with the intent to "hurt" (injure or vex) him in a way that would prevent him from fulfilling his mission in Corinth. This is a divinely ordained immunity for a specific purpose and duration.
"for I have much people in this city"
This final clause reveals the profound reason behind the divine presence and protection: God's sovereign salvific purpose. The Lord declares His foreknowledge and intention to bring a "much people" (a great multitude) in Corinth to faith. This statement underscores that Paul's safety is not an end in itself, but a means to an end – the effective proclamation of the Gospel to those whom God has chosen to save in that city. It provides the ultimate motivation for Paul's perseverance.
Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices. Divine Speech is central, as the words are a direct revelation from the Lord to Paul, imbuing them with absolute authority and truth. The use of Assurance is paramount, as the Lord's declarations ("I am with thee," "no man shall set on thee") are designed to instill courage and eliminate fear in Paul. This assurance is coupled with Motivation, as the divine purpose ("for I have much people in this city") provides a compelling reason for Paul to continue his difficult work. The phrase "no man shall set on thee" functions as a form of Hyperbole or Absolute Language, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God's protective shield, ensuring that no hostile action will succeed in thwarting Paul's divinely appointed mission in Corinth. This absolute promise serves to strengthen Paul's resolve and underscore the invincibility of God's plan.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Acts 18:10 profoundly illustrates God's active involvement in the unfolding of His redemptive plan, particularly through the evangelistic efforts of His chosen servants. It underscores the truth that Christian ministry is not merely human endeavor but a divine enterprise, undergirded by God's sovereign presence, protection, and purpose. The Lord's declaration "I am with thee" echoes the covenantal promise of Emmanuel, God with us, signifying that His presence is the ultimate source of strength and courage in the face of adversity. Furthermore, the assurance of protection, "no man shall set on thee to hurt thee," reveals God's commitment to preserving His instruments until His purposes are fulfilled, demonstrating that His protective hand is precise and purposeful. Most significantly, the reason given, "for I have much people in this city," unveils the divine foresight and election, emphasizing that God has a harvest of souls awaiting the Gospel in every place, thereby validating and motivating sustained evangelism. This verse reminds believers that their labor in the Lord is never in vain, for God is actively at work, drawing His elect to Himself through the faithful proclamation of His Word.
Reflection and Application
Acts 18:10 offers profound encouragement and practical guidance for believers navigating the challenges of faith and ministry in a hostile world. When fear threatens to paralyze us, or opposition seems insurmountable, this verse reminds us that the Lord's presence is not merely a theological concept but a living reality for those who walk in His will. Just as He was with Paul, empowering him to speak boldly despite threats, so too is He with us, enabling us to stand firm, share our faith, and live out our calling. We are not called to be fearless in our own strength, but to be courageous because of His abiding presence and protective hand. This divine assurance does not promise an absence of hardship, but rather a guarantee that no opposition will ultimately thwart God's purposes for our lives or His kingdom. The knowledge that God "has much people" in every city, workplace, and community should ignite within us a renewed passion for evangelism, transforming our perception of seemingly barren ground into fields ripe for harvest. Our faithfulness in sharing the Gospel becomes the very means through which God gathers His elect, making our efforts deeply significant and eternally impactful.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does God's promise "no man shall set on thee to hurt thee" mean that believers will never experience suffering or persecution?
No, this promise in Acts 18:10 should not be interpreted as a blanket guarantee against all suffering or persecution for believers. Paul himself, despite this promise, endured immense hardship, including beatings, shipwrecks, and imprisonment, as detailed in 2 Corinthians 11:23-28. The specific context of Acts 18:10 indicates a divine assurance of protection for Paul's ministry in Corinth, ensuring that no one would succeed in prematurely ending his work or fatally harming him in that specific city, because God had a specific purpose for him there ("I have much people in this city"). It was a promise of preservation for the accomplishment of a particular divine mission, not an exemption from all future trials or martyrdom. For believers today, it implies that God will protect His servants and their work until His purposes for them are fulfilled, even if it means enduring suffering that ultimately serves His greater plan.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Acts 18:10 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Lord's declaration, "For I am with thee," is a profound echo of the New Covenant promise of Emmanuel—"God with us" (Matthew 1:23). This promise of divine presence is not merely a temporary assurance to Paul, but a foundational truth for all who are in Christ, guaranteed by the indwelling Holy Spirit, whom Jesus promised to send as a Helper and Comforter (John 14:16-18). Christ's post-resurrection commission to His disciples, "Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world" (Matthew 28:20), directly fulfills this Old Testament and Acts-era promise, ensuring that His presence empowers His church for global evangelism. Furthermore, the protection promised to Paul—"no man shall set on thee to hurt thee"—foreshadows Christ's ultimate victory over all hostile powers. While believers may face persecution, Christ has disarmed principalities and powers through His cross (Colossians 2:15), and He promises that "the gates of hell shall not prevail against" His Church (Matthew 16:18). Finally, the reason for Paul's protection, "for I have much people in this city," points directly to Christ as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep and has "other sheep" He must bring into His fold (John 10:11, 16). The gathering of these "much people" in Corinth, and indeed throughout history, is the ongoing work of Christ through His Spirit, building His Church and fulfilling His redemptive purpose to draw people from every tribe and tongue to Himself (Revelation 7:9-10). Thus, Acts 18:10 is not just a historical anecdote but a living testament to Christ's sovereign power, abiding presence, and unwavering commitment to gather His elect until the consummation of His kingdom.