Acts 23:15

KJV

Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now {G3568} therefore {G3767} ye {G5210} with {G4862} the council {G4892} signify {G1718} to the chief captain {G5506} that {G3704} he bring {G2609} him {G846} down {G2609} unto {G4314} you {G5209} to morrow {G839}, as {G5613} though ye would {G3195} enquire {G1231} something more perfectly {G197} concerning {G4012} him {G846}: and {G1161} we {G2249}, or ever {G4253} he {G846} come near {G1448}, are {G2070} ready {G2092} to kill {G337} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

What you are to do is make it appear to the commander that you and the Sanhedrin want to get more accurate information about Sha’ul’s case, so that he will bring him down to you; while we, for our part, are prepared to kill him before he ever gets here.”

Berean Standard Bible

Now then, you and the Sanhedrin petition the commander to bring him down to you on the pretext of examining his case more carefully. We are ready to kill him on the way.”

American Standard Version

Now therefore do ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you, as though ye would judge of his case more exactly: and we, before he comes near, are ready to slay him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 23:15 reveals the chilling details of a meticulously planned assassination attempt against the Apostle Paul by a zealous group of more than forty Jewish men. These conspirators, having sworn a solemn oath, instruct the Jewish council to deceive the Roman chief captain, Claudius Lysias, into bringing Paul back for a feigned "more perfect" inquiry. Their true intent, however, is to ambush and murder Paul before he even reaches the council chamber, highlighting the extreme animosity and treacherous lengths to which his opponents were willing to go.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic and chaotic scene before the Sanhedrin, where Paul's declaration of being a Pharisee and believing in the resurrection caused a violent division between the Pharisees and Sadducees, forcing the Roman chief captain, Claudius Lysias, to intervene and rescue Paul (see [Acts 23:6-10](/acts/23-6-10 "Acts 23:6-10 - Paul Before the Sanhedrin")). Exhausted but resolute, Paul receives a divine assurance from the Lord in [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "Acts 23:11 - The Lord's Encouragement to Paul"), promising he would bear witness in Rome. Unbeknownst to Paul, a deadly plot is then hatched by over forty Jewish men who bind themselves with a solemn oath not to eat or drink until they have killed him, as described in [Acts 23:12-14](/acts/23-12-14 "Acts 23:12-14 - The Conspiracy Against Paul"). Verse 15 details the specific method by which these conspirators intend to carry out their murderous plan, leveraging the very council that had just failed to condemn Paul.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Jerusalem, a city simmering with religious and political tensions under Roman occupation. The Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish judicial and legislative body, held significant authority in religious matters but was ultimately subservient to Roman rule, particularly the Roman tribune (chief captain) who commanded the garrison in Jerusalem. The conspirators' oath reflects a radical form of Jewish nationalism and religious zeal, where killing perceived enemies of God or the Law was considered a righteous act. Such oaths, known as *cherem* or anathema, were binding and taken with extreme seriousness, indicating the depth of their commitment to eliminate Paul, whom they likely viewed as a dangerous apostate or blasphemer. Their willingness to use deception against both Roman authorities and their own religious council underscores the moral decay that religious fanaticism can engender.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 23:15 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **intense opposition and persecution** faced by early Christians, particularly Paul, as they proclaimed the Gospel. This animosity is often rooted in religious misunderstanding and zealotry, as seen in the conspirators' conviction. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **divine protection and sovereignty**, even amidst grave danger. Though the plot is deadly serious, the broader narrative of Acts consistently shows God's hand preserving Paul for his ultimate mission to Rome, as explicitly promised in [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "Acts 23:11 - The Lord's Promise to Paul"). Thirdly, it underscores the theme of **deception and treachery**, revealing how spiritual and moral corruption can lead individuals to employ dishonest means, even under the guise of religious or legal proceedings, to achieve violent ends. This episode also implicitly contrasts the relative justice (albeit imperfect) of Roman law with the lawlessness of religious extremism.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **signify (Greek, _emphanízō_):** This verb, derived from a word meaning "to appear" or "to show forth," implies making something known clearly or formally. In this context, it suggests a deliberate and official communication from the council to the chief captain. The conspirators instruct the council to "signify" or "make known" their request for Paul, lending an air of legitimacy to their deceptive scheme.
* **enquire (Greek, _diaginṓskō_):** Composed of "through" (dia) and "to know" (ginosko), this word means "to know thoroughly," "to ascertain exactly," or "to discern fully." The conspirators' pretense is that they desire a more precise and comprehensive examination of Paul's case, feigning a commitment to legal thoroughness. This word starkly contrasts their stated intention with their true, murderous purpose.
* **ready (Greek, _hétoimos_):** This adjective signifies being "prepared," "adjusted," or "fit for use." Coupled with the infinitive "to kill," it emphasizes the immediate and unwavering preparedness of the conspirators. They are not merely contemplating the act; they are fully poised and equipped to execute it the moment Paul comes into range. This highlights the premeditated and determined nature of their plot.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow":** This clause reveals the conspirators' strategic instruction to the Jewish council. They urge the council members to formally request Paul's presence from the Roman chief captain, Claudius Lysias, for a supposed continuation of his hearing the following day. This demonstrates their understanding of the procedural relationship between the Jewish religious authority and the Roman military command.
* **"as though ye would enquire something more perfectly concerning him":** This phrase exposes the heart of the deception. The request for Paul's return is to be presented under the guise of needing to "enquire something more perfectly" about his case. This implies a desire for greater accuracy, precision, or thoroughness in their legal examination, a plausible reason for a second hearing, thus masking their true, violent intentions.
* **"and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him":** This final, chilling declaration reveals the conspirators' deadly resolve. "We" refers to the more than forty men who swore the oath. "Or ever he come near" underscores the ambush nature of their plan—they intend to strike Paul down before he can reach the safety or formality of the council chamber. The phrase "are ready to kill him" conveys their immediate preparedness and murderous intent, highlighting the premeditated and unwavering nature of their plot.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful **literary devices**. **Irony** is prominent, as the conspirators propose a "more perfect" inquiry, feigning a commitment to justice, while simultaneously planning a lawless murder. This stark contrast between appearance and reality underscores their moral depravity. There is also a strong element of **foreshadowing**, as this plot, though foiled, hints at the continuous and escalating opposition Paul will face throughout his ministry, ultimately leading to his imprisonment and journey to Rome, which God had already ordained. The conspirators' detailed plan also creates **suspense**, building tension for the reader who knows Paul's ultimate destiny but is left to wonder how he will escape this immediate threat. Finally, the vivid description of their readiness to kill ("are ready to kill him") creates a sense of **immediacy and menace**, emphasizing the grave danger Paul is in.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 23:15 serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual warfare inherent in the advancement of God's kingdom. The intense, murderous hatred directed at Paul, a faithful servant of Christ, reflects the ongoing conflict between the forces of light and darkness. This passage underscores that opposition to the Gospel is not merely intellectual disagreement but can manifest as deeply rooted, violent animosity, often cloaked in religious zeal. Yet, even in the face of such grave threats, God's sovereign plan prevails, demonstrating His faithfulness to protect His chosen instruments and ensure His purposes are fulfilled, even through unexpected means. This narrative reinforces the truth that while human evil may devise elaborate schemes, it cannot ultimately thwart the divine will.

* [Psalm 37:32-33](/psalms/37-32-33 "Psalm 37:32-33 - The Wicked Plot Against the Righteous")
* [Matthew 10:16](/matthew/10-16 "Matthew 10:16 - Be Shrewd as Snakes and Innocent as Doves")
* [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godly Living")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 23:15 offers profound insights into the nature of spiritual opposition and the call to discernment for believers today. The conspirators' use of deception, cloaked in a veneer of legal propriety, reminds us that evil often operates subtly, masquerading as something legitimate or even righteous. Therefore, believers are called to cultivate spiritual discernment, not to be naive but to wisely evaluate intentions and proposals, especially when they touch upon matters of faith, truth, or the well-being of God's people. This passage also powerfully illustrates the danger of unchecked religious zeal, which, when untethered from truth, love, and humility, can lead to horrific and ungodly actions. It challenges us to examine our own passions and ensure they are purified by God's Spirit and aligned with His character, rather than becoming instruments of hatred or harm. Ultimately, Paul's deliverance, though not detailed in this specific verse, points to God's unfailing providence, encouraging us to trust in His sovereign protection and guidance even when facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles or malevolent intentions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this passage challenge my understanding of "religious zeal," and what are the dangers of zeal untempered by love and truth?**
* **In what ways might deception or manipulation manifest in spiritual or relational contexts today, and how can I cultivate greater discernment?**
* **When faced with opposition or perceived threats, how does Paul's experience here encourage me to trust in God's sovereign protection and plan for my life?**
* **What lessons can I draw from the conspirators' unwavering commitment (even to evil) about the importance of steadfastness in pursuing righteous goals?**

### FAQ
**Who were "ye" and "we" in this verse, and why were they so intent on killing Paul?**

Answer: In [Acts 23:15](/acts/23-15 "Acts 23:15 - The Conspirators' Plan"), "ye" refers to the members of the Jewish council (Sanhedrin) whom the conspirators are addressing. The conspirators are urging the council to make the official request to the chief captain. "We" refers to the group of more than forty Jewish men who had sworn a solemn oath in [Acts 23:12-14](/acts/23-12-14 "Acts 23:12-14 - The Oath Against Paul") not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul. Their intense desire to kill Paul stemmed from their belief that he was a dangerous apostate who was undermining the Mosaic Law, the temple, and Jewish traditions by preaching about Jesus as the Messiah and allowing Gentiles into the faith without requiring full conversion to Judaism. They viewed him as a blasphemer and a threat to their religious purity and national identity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 23:15, detailing a murderous plot against the Apostle Paul, powerfully echoes the pervasive opposition faced by God's messengers throughout history, ultimately culminating in the rejection and crucifixion of Jesus Christ Himself. Just as these conspirators sought to eliminate Paul under a deceptive guise of legal inquiry, so too did the religious authorities of Jesus' day conspire against Him, using false accusations and manipulating legal processes to secure His death (cf. [Matthew 26:59-66](/matthew/26-59-66 "Matthew 26:59-66 - Jesus Before the Sanhedrin")). The zeal that drove Paul's enemies, though misguided, mirrors the fervent, yet ultimately unrighteous, passion that led many to cry out, "[Crucify him!](/luke/23-21 "Luke 23:21 - Crucify Him!")" (cf. [Luke 23:21](/luke/23-21 "Luke 23:21 - Crucify Him!")). Yet, in both cases, human malice, however meticulously planned, was ultimately subservient to God's sovereign will. Paul's deliverance from this plot foreshadows the ultimate triumph of Christ over death and sin, ensuring that His mission, and the mission of His church, would not be thwarted by human opposition (cf. [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). The Lord's promise to Paul in [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "Acts 23:11 - The Lord's Promise to Paul") – that he must bear witness in Rome – reflects the divine certainty of Christ's kingdom advancing despite all resistance, a truth beautifully captured in Jesus' own words about the gates of hell not prevailing against His church (cf. [Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church")). Thus, this passage, while grim in its depiction of human evil, ultimately points to the unwavering power and faithfulness of Christ, who ensures His purposes are fulfilled and His Gospel proclaimed to the ends of the earth.

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

Isaiah 59:7

Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts [are] thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction [are] in their paths.

Psalms 37:32

The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him.

Psalms 37:33

The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.

Proverbs 1:16

For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood.

Proverbs 1:11

If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:

Proverbs 1:12

Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit:

Acts 22:30

On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from [his] bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.