Acts 18:10

Commentary on Acts 18:10 (KJV)

Acts 18:10 records a powerful divine assurance given to the Apostle Paul during a challenging period of his ministry in Corinth. This verse, spoken by the Lord in a night vision, provided Paul with courage, protection, and a clear understanding of God's sovereign plan for the city.

Context

Paul arrived in Corinth after leaving Athens, where his philosophical approach had limited success (Acts 17:32-34). In Corinth, a bustling and morally complex Roman city, Paul faced significant opposition, particularly from the Jewish community who opposed and blasphemed his message. This hostility, combined with the city's notorious reputation, likely made Paul apprehensive or fearful. It was in this atmosphere that the Lord appeared to him, delivering the words of Acts 18:10, along with the command to "be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace" (Acts 18:9).

Key Themes

• Divine Presence and Assurance: The core promise, "For I am with thee," is a profound source of comfort and strength. It echoes similar divine assurances throughout Scripture, reminding believers that God's presence is constant and unwavering, especially in times of difficulty or fear. This promise means Paul was not alone in his daunting mission; the very Lord of the universe was his companion and strength, a truth that applies to all who follow Christ and preach His Gospel.
• Divine Protection: The declaration, "and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee," is a specific guarantee of physical safety and immunity from harm that would impede Paul's ministry. This was not a blanket promise against all suffering or persecution (Paul would endure much, as seen in 2 Corinthians 11:23-28), but a divine assurance that no one would succeed in prematurely ending his work in Corinth. God's protective hand ensured Paul could fulfill his calling in that city without fatal interruption.
• God's Sovereignty and Purpose in Evangelism: The reason given for Paul's protection is deeply significant: "for I have much people in this city." This reveals God's foreknowledge and sovereign plan for salvation. It implies that there were many individuals in Corinth, currently unsaved, whom God intended to draw to Himself through Paul's preaching. This divine foresight underscores the importance of Paul's perseverance and the ultimate success of the Gospel message, as God had a harvest of souls awaiting in Corinth, His "other sheep" yet to be gathered.

Linguistic Insight

The phrase "set on thee" is a translation of the Greek verb ἐπιθέσθαι (epithesthai), which literally means "to lay upon" or "to attack." It suggests a hostile, violent assault or attempt to seize and harm Paul, emphasizing the specific and direct nature of the protection promised by the Lord.

Practical Application

Acts 18:10 offers timeless encouragement for believers today, particularly those facing opposition or fear in their faith or ministry:

• Courage in Adversity: When fear threatens to silence us or discourage our efforts, we can remember that the Lord's presence is with us, just as He was with Paul. This divine companionship empowers us to speak and act boldly for Him.
• Trust in God's Protection: While not a guarantee against all hardship, this verse assures us that God protects His servants for the accomplishment of His purposes. We can trust that He will shield us from harm that would prevent us from fulfilling the work He has called us to do.
• Motivation for Evangelism: The knowledge that God "has much people" in various places should ignite our passion for sharing the Gospel. Our efforts are not in vain, for God is actively at work, drawing people to Himself, and He often chooses to use our faithfulness as the means to reach them. This encourages us to continue preaching the Word, even when it is difficult.