Acts 23:18

KJV

So he took him, and brought [him] to the chief captain, and said, Paul the prisoner called me unto [him], and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee, who hath something to say unto thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

So {G3767}{G3303} he took {G3880} him {G846}, and brought {G71} him to {G4314} the chief captain {G5506}, and {G2532} said {G5346}, Paul {G3972} the prisoner {G1198} called {G4341} me {G3165} unto him, and prayed me {G2065} to bring {G71} this {G5126} young man {G3494} unto {G4314} thee {G4571}, who hath {G2192} something {G5100} to say {G2980} unto thee {G4671}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So he took him and brought him to the commander and said, “The prisoner Sha’ul called me and asked me to bring this young man to you, because he has something to tell you.”

Berean Standard Bible

So the centurion took him to the commander and said, “Paul the prisoner sent and asked me to bring this young man to you. He has something to tell you.”

American Standard Version

So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and saith, Paul the prisoner called me unto him, and asked me to bring this young man unto thee, who hath something to say to thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 23:18 details a critical moment in the Apostle Paul's imprisonment in Jerusalem, specifically describing the centurion's swift and obedient action in escorting Paul's nephew to the Roman chief captain, Claudius Lysias. This verse conveys the centurion's report of Paul's urgent request for the young man to deliver a vital message, setting the stage for the thwarting of a deadly conspiracy against Paul's life and his subsequent transfer to Caesarea.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a direct continuation of the dramatic narrative unfolding in [Acts 21](/acts/21 "Acts 21 - Paul's Arrest in Jerusalem") through [Acts 23](/acts/23 "Acts 23 - Paul Before the Sanhedrin and the Plot Against Him"). Paul, having returned to Jerusalem, was falsely accused and nearly lynched by a mob before being rescued by Roman soldiers ([Acts 21:30-33](/acts/21-30-33 "Acts 21:30-33 - Paul's Rescue from the Mob")). Following a tumultuous hearing before the Sanhedrin, where Paul skillfully divided his accusers ([Acts 23:1-10](/acts/23-1-10 "Acts 23:1-10 - Paul Before the Sanhedrin")), a grave conspiracy by over forty Jewish men to ambush and murder Paul was uncovered ([Acts 23:12-15](/acts/23-12-15 "Acts 23:12-15 - The Plot Against Paul")). Paul's young nephew, overhearing this plot, immediately informed his uncle. Understanding the extreme danger, Paul then requested one of the centurions to bring his nephew to the chief captain so that the conspiracy could be revealed ([Acts 23:17](/acts/23-17 "Acts 23:17 - Paul's Request to the Centurion")). Acts 23:18 marks the successful execution of that request, demonstrating the Roman military's diligence and the immediate progression of events that would lead to Paul's safe transfer out of Jerusalem.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Jerusalem under Roman occupation. Roman military presence was significant, with a cohort stationed in the Antonia Fortress, adjacent to the Temple, to maintain order, especially during Jewish festivals when tensions ran high. The chief captain, Claudius Lysias, held considerable authority, responsible for public safety and the enforcement of Roman law. Jewish religious leaders, particularly the Sanhedrin, held judicial power in religious matters but were ultimately subject to Roman oversight. The plot against Paul, involving a sworn oath and a vow not to eat or drink until he was dead, reflects the intense religious fervor and animosity some Jewish factions held against those they considered apostates, particularly followers of Jesus. The Roman system, while often brutal, generally adhered to principles of due process and legal protection for Roman citizens like Paul, contrasting sharply with the unlawful and violent intentions of the conspirators. The willingness of a Roman officer to listen to a young Jewish boy underscores the Roman commitment to order and their investigative procedures when a potential breach of peace was reported.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Acts. Firstly, **Divine Providence and Protection** is central; the rapid unfolding of events—from the nephew's opportune overhearing of the plot to the centurion's prompt action—highlights God's active involvement in preserving Paul's life. This aligns with [God's earlier assurance to Paul](/acts/23-11 "Acts 23:11 - The Lord Stands by Paul") that he would testify in Rome, demonstrating how God uses both ordinary individuals and powerful authorities to achieve His purposes. Secondly, **Intercession and Advocacy** is powerfully illustrated by the young nephew, who serves as a crucial, brave, and unexpected intercessor, conveying vital information that ultimately saves Paul. His quick thinking and courage demonstrate how God can use seemingly insignificant individuals to fulfill His grand designs. Finally, the theme of **Roman Authority and Justice** is evident; the willingness of the centurion to facilitate this meeting and the chief captain's readiness to hear a young man's urgent message demonstrate the Roman commitment to order and due process, which, paradoxically, serves God's plan for Paul's continued ministry.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **prisoner (Greek, _désmios'_):** From the Greek word `desmon`, meaning "a captive (as bound)." This term highlights Paul's immediate status as one under Roman custody, emphasizing his physical confinement. However, for Paul, this state of being "in bonds" would later become a powerful identifier of his ministry, as he frequently referred to himself as a "prisoner of Christ Jesus" ([Ephesians 3:1](/ephesians/3-1 "Ephesians 3:1 - Paul, a Prisoner of Christ")) or "the prisoner of the Lord" ([Ephesians 4:1](/ephesians/4-1 "Ephesians 4:1 - Paul, the Prisoner of the Lord")). Here, it is a factual description, but for the reader, it foreshadows his enduring commitment despite his circumstances.
* **prayed (Greek, _erōtáō'_):** Apparently from `ereō` (to speak), this verb means "to interrogate; by implication, to request" or "beseech." The use of `erōtáō` indicates a respectful yet earnest request from Paul to the centurion. It wasn't a command, but a polite and urgent plea, reflecting the gravity of the situation and Paul's trust in the Roman officer's discretion and willingness to help.
* **young man (Greek, _neanías'_):** From a derivative of `neos` (new), this term refers to "a youth (up to about forty years)." The specific mention of "this young man" underscores the unexpected nature of the messenger. It emphasizes that this crucial information, which saved Paul's life, came not from a seasoned apostle or a high-ranking official, but from a relatively inexperienced and perhaps overlooked individual, highlighting God's ability to use anyone, regardless of age or status, to accomplish His will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So he took him, and brought [him] to the chief captain, and said,"**: This opening clause describes the immediate and obedient action of the centurion. Having received Paul's request in the previous verse ([Acts 23:17](/acts/23-17 "Acts 23:17 - Paul's Request to the Centurion")), the centurion promptly escorts Paul's nephew to Claudius Lysias, the chief captain (Greek: `chiliarchos`, commander of a thousand soldiers). The conjunction "So" (Greek: `oun`) indicates a direct consequence and efficient execution of Paul's request, demonstrating the centurion's professionalism and willingness to facilitate communication within the Roman chain of command.
* **"Paul the prisoner called me unto [him],"**: The centurion begins his report to the chief captain by identifying Paul and stating that Paul initiated the contact. The phrase "Paul the prisoner" is a factual statement of Paul's status under Roman custody. This introduction establishes the legitimacy of the centurion's action and the importance of the message, as it comes from a Roman citizen who is currently under their protection.
* **"and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee,"**: This clause conveys the specific request Paul made to the centurion. The centurion accurately reports Paul's earnest "prayer" or request (`erōtáō`) to bring his nephew to the chief captain. This highlights Paul's dependence on the Roman authorities for his safety and his strategic use of the established legal and military channels to avert the danger. It also emphasizes the young man's role as a direct messenger.
* **"who hath something to say unto thee."**: This final part of the centurion's statement provides the reason for the meeting: the young man possesses vital information for the chief captain. The phrase "something to say" (Greek: `ti laleō`) indicates that the message is significant and urgent, requiring the chief captain's direct attention. It builds suspense and justifies the interruption of the chief captain's duties, setting the stage for the revelation of the assassination plot.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Narrative Progression**, swiftly moving the plot forward from the discovery of the conspiracy to the critical act of informing the Roman authority. It is a pivotal moment that ensures Paul's escape. There is also an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as the Roman authorities, largely indifferent to Paul's theological disputes, become unwitting instruments of God's divine plan to protect His apostle and enable his future ministry. The simple, direct language used by the centurion in reporting Paul's request and the young man's purpose ("who hath something to say unto thee") creates a sense of **Urgency** and highlights the gravity of the hidden information, drawing the reader's attention to the impending revelation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 23:18 powerfully illustrates God's meticulous providence, demonstrating how He orchestrates seemingly disparate human actions—a nephew's eavesdropping, a centurion's obedience, a chief captain's due diligence—to fulfill His sovereign purposes. This passage reassures believers that even amidst grave danger and human malice, God remains actively engaged in protecting His servants and advancing His kingdom. It underscores that God often uses unexpected and seemingly ordinary individuals, like a "young man," to accomplish extraordinary feats, reminding us that no one is too insignificant to be an instrument in God's hands. The Roman authorities, despite their pagan context, become unwitting agents in God's protective plan, showcasing His ability to work through any means necessary to preserve His chosen vessels for His mission.

* [Psalm 91:1-4](/psalms/91-1-4 "Psalm 91:1-4 - God's Protection and Deliverance")
* [1 Corinthians 1:27-29](/1_corinthians/1-27-29 "1 Corinthians 1:27-29 - God Chooses the Weak and Lowly")
* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in the Lord's Hand")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 23:18 serves as a profound reminder of God's active involvement in the lives of His people, even in the most perilous circumstances. It calls us to cultivate a posture of vigilance and attentiveness, much like Paul's nephew, recognizing that God can use us in unexpected ways to protect others or advance His kingdom. It also encourages us to act with courage and obedience when called upon, just as the centurion did, trusting that even small acts of faithfulness can have monumental consequences in God's grand design. In our own lives, we may not face assassination plots, but we are called to be discerning, to speak truth when necessary, and to trust that God's protective hand is always at work, guiding events for His glory and the fulfillment of His promises, even when the path ahead seems uncertain or dangerous.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this passage encourage you to trust in God's providence, even when circumstances seem dire?**
* **In what ways might God be calling you to be vigilant and attentive to the needs or dangers facing those around you?**
* **What "small" acts of obedience or courage might God be asking of you today that could have significant impact?**
* **How does the cooperation of diverse individuals (Paul, nephew, centurion, chief captain) in this narrative speak to the body of Christ working together?**

### FAQ

**Who is "he" referring to at the beginning of the verse?**
Answer: The "he" refers to the centurion whom Paul had asked in the previous verse ([Acts 23:17](/acts/23-17 "Acts 23:17 - Paul's Request to the Centurion")) to take his nephew to the chief captain. This centurion promptly obeyed Paul's request, demonstrating the efficiency of the Roman military structure.

**Why was Paul referred to as "the prisoner"?**
Answer: Paul was referred to as "the prisoner" because he was currently under Roman custody. He had been arrested in Jerusalem after a riot in the Temple area ([Acts 21:27-36](/acts/21-27-36 "Acts 21:27-36 - Paul's Arrest in the Temple")). Although he was a Roman citizen and had not yet been formally charged or convicted, he was being held by the military authorities for his own protection and for investigation into the disturbances he was accused of causing. This status as a prisoner would become a recurring theme in Paul's life and ministry.

**What did the young man have "something to say" to the chief captain about?**
Answer: The young man had critical information about a deadly conspiracy against Paul's life. He had overheard over forty Jewish men conspiring and vowing to neither eat nor drink until they had ambushed and killed Paul ([Acts 23:12-15](/acts/23-12-15 "Acts 23:12-15 - The Plot Against Paul")). This urgent message was crucial for the chief captain to take action and ensure Paul's safety, leading to his transfer out of Jerusalem.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 23:18, while a narrative of human action and divine providence, subtly points to Christ in its portrayal of Paul's suffering and eventual preservation for the sake of the Gospel. Paul, identified as "the prisoner," foreshadows his later self-identification as a "prisoner of Christ Jesus" ([Ephesians 3:1](/ephesians/3-1 "Ephesians 3:1 - Paul, a Prisoner of Christ Jesus")), mirroring Christ's own path of suffering and rejection for the redemption of humanity. Just as Christ was delivered into the hands of authorities, ultimately for God's redemptive purposes ([John 19:11](/john/19-11 "John 19:11 - Jesus' Authority from Above")), Paul's imprisonment in Acts 23 is not a hindrance but a divinely ordained step in his journey to bear witness to Christ in Rome ([Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "Acts 23:11 - The Lord Stands by Paul")). The "young man" who bravely intercedes for Paul, conveying a message that saves his life, can be seen as a humble instrument in God's hands, much like the unexpected individuals God uses throughout salvation history to advance His plan, ultimately culminating in the ultimate intercession of Christ Himself, who advocates for His people before the Father ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")). Paul's preservation, despite the deadly plot, underscores the invincibility of God's purpose, a truth supremely demonstrated in Christ's resurrection, which guarantees the triumph of God's kingdom over all opposing forces ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")).

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

Ephesians 3:1

¶ For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,

Acts 28:17

¶ And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men [and] brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.

Philemon 1:9

Yet for love's sake I rather beseech [thee], being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 4:1

¶ I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

Genesis 40:14

But think on me when it shall be well with thee, and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house:

Genesis 40:15

For indeed I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon.

Acts 27:1

¶ And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto [one] named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.