Acts 23:19

KJV

Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went [with him] aside privately, and asked [him], What is that thou hast to tell me?

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} the chief captain {G5506} took {G1949} him {G846} by the hand {G5495}, and {G2532} went with him aside {G402} privately {G2596}{G2398}, and asked {G4441} him, What {G5101} is {G2076} that {G3739} thou hast {G2192} to tell {G518} me {G3427}?

Complete Jewish Bible

The commander took him by the hand, led him aside privately and asked, “What is it you have to tell me?”

Berean Standard Bible

The commander took the young man by the hand, drew him aside, and asked, “What do you need to tell me?”

American Standard Version

And the chief captain took him by the hand, and going aside asked him privately, What is it that thou hast to tell me?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 23:19 records a crucial moment in the Apostle Paul's journey, illustrating the Roman chief captain Claudius Lysias's swift and discreet response to a reported assassination plot. After Paul's nephew bravely disclosed the conspiracy, Lysias took the young man aside privately to ascertain the full details of the threat, demonstrating his prudence and commitment to protecting a Roman citizen under his charge.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a highly dramatic and volatile section of Paul's ministry in Jerusalem. Paul had recently arrived in the city, leading to his controversial arrest by Roman soldiers amidst a riot in the Temple courts, where he was falsely accused by an angry mob ([Acts 21:27-36](/acts/21-27-36 "Paul's Arrest in Jerusalem")). His assertion of Roman citizenship prevented him from being flogged ([Acts 22:25](/acts/22-25 "Paul's Roman Citizenship")), prompting the chief captain to bring him before the Sanhedrin to understand the charges ([Acts 22:30](/acts/22-30 "Paul Before the Sanhedrin")). This hearing, however, quickly devolved into a violent dispute between the Pharisees and Sadducees, necessitating the chief captain's intervention to rescue Paul from being torn apart ([Acts 23:10](/acts/23-10 "Sanhedrin Dispute")). Following this, a group of over forty Jewish men swore an oath to kill Paul before they ate or drank ([Acts 23:12-15](/acts/23-12-15 "The Conspiracy Against Paul")). It is Paul's nephew who, overhearing this deadly plot, bravely brings the intelligence first to Paul and then to the chief captain ([Acts 23:16-18](/acts/23-16-18 "Paul's Nephew Warns Him")). Verse 19 details Lysias's immediate and careful reaction to this urgent information, setting the stage for Paul's transfer to Caesarea.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Roman presence in Judea was primarily for maintaining order and collecting taxes, often requiring a delicate balance with the local Jewish population, who resented foreign rule. Roman law, however, was strict in its protection of Roman citizens, wherever they might be. A Roman citizen, like Paul, had the right to a fair trial and could appeal to Caesar, a privilege that Lysias, as a tribune (chiliarchos, commander of a thousand), was obligated to uphold. Jerusalem, a city prone to religious and political unrest, often required a strong military presence. The chief captain's actions reflect not only his duty but also a practical understanding of the volatile environment. Taking someone "aside privately" was a common and prudent measure in the ancient world for discussing sensitive or dangerous information, avoiding public panic or alerting conspirators. This discretion was especially vital when dealing with a plot involving sworn assassins within a hostile city.
* **Key Themes:** This passage highlights several significant themes. Firstly, **Divine Providence and Protection** are evident, as God uses an unexpected and seemingly minor character—Paul's nephew—and a pagan Roman official to thwart a deadly plot and ensure Paul's safety, aligning with God's promise to Paul that he must testify in Rome ([Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "The Lord Encourages Paul")). Secondly, the **Prudence and Discretion** of the chief captain are emphasized. His immediate and private inquiry demonstrates wise leadership in a crisis, prioritizing the secure acquisition of critical intelligence over public display. Thirdly, the **Integrity of Roman Justice**, at least in principle, concerning its citizens. Lysias's actions confirm the Roman commitment to protecting Paul's rights, even when it meant defying local Jewish authorities and risking further unrest. Lastly, the **Importance of Communication** is paramount; the nephew's courage to speak and the chief captain's willingness to listen attentively and act decisively were instrumental in averting a tragedy, showcasing how God can work through human agency and timely information.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **took (Greek, _epilambánomai'_):** This verb (G1949) means "to seize" or "to lay hold upon," often with the implication of taking for help, attainment, or a specific purpose. In this context, it suggests a deliberate, perhaps even reassuring, grasp of the nephew's hand. It's more than a casual touch; it conveys the chief captain's serious attention and perhaps a gesture of guidance or protection for the young man who had just delivered such grave news.
* **privately (Greek, _ídios'_):** Derived from G2398, this word means "pertaining to self," or "one's own," and by implication, "private" or "separate." When combined with the preposition `katá` (G2596, "down" or "according to"), as `kat' idian` (literally "according to one's own"), it strongly emphasizes the confidential and secluded nature of the conversation. The chief captain ensures the discussion is away from prying ears, highlighting the sensitive and dangerous nature of the information being shared.
* **asked (Greek, _pynthánomai'_):** This verb (G4441) signifies "to question" or "to ascertain by inquiry," particularly as a matter of information. It differs from other Greek words for asking (like `erōtaō` for a request or `aitéō` for a demand) by focusing on the acquisition of knowledge through careful inquiry. Lysias wasn't making a request or a demand; he was seeking to understand the full scope of the plot, indicating a methodical and investigative approach to the intelligence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then the chief captain took him by the hand":** This opening clause immediately establishes the chief captain's direct and personal engagement with Paul's nephew. The act of "taking by the hand" (epilambánomai cheír) suggests a gesture of reassurance, a guiding action, or a sign of serious attention. It indicates that Lysias recognized the gravity of the nephew's message and treated the young man with respect and care, perhaps to put him at ease before hearing the full story.
* **"and went [with him] aside privately":** This phrase underscores the chief captain's prudence and discretion. By moving "aside privately" (kat' idian), Lysias ensured that the sensitive information about the assassination plot would be discussed in strict confidence, away from potential eavesdroppers or those who might inadvertently alert the conspirators. This action reveals his strategic thinking and his commitment to handling the intelligence with the utmost security.
* **"and asked [him], What is that thou hast to tell me?":** This final clause highlights Lysias's direct and purposeful inquiry. His question, "What is that thou hast to tell me?" (Ti estin ho echeis apangellai moi?), is a clear invitation for the nephew to disclose the full details of the plot. The use of `pynthánomai` ("to ascertain by inquiry") indicates a desire for precise information, demonstrating the chief captain's methodical approach to intelligence gathering and his resolve to understand the exact nature of the threat against Paul.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Characterization** to portray Claudius Lysias as a prudent and discerning leader. His actions—taking the nephew by the hand, moving aside privately, and directly inquiring—reveal a man who is not only dutiful in protecting a Roman citizen but also wise and discreet in handling sensitive information. The **Setting** of the private conversation is crucial; it emphasizes the gravity and secrecy of the reported plot, creating a sense of urgency and confidentiality. There is also a subtle **Irony** in this scene: a Roman pagan official, whose primary concern is Roman law and order, becomes an instrument of divine protection for Paul, a Jewish Christian apostle. This unexpected alliance underscores the theme of God's sovereign hand working through various means, even secular authorities, to fulfill His purposes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This pivotal moment in Acts 23:19 profoundly illustrates God's intricate providence, demonstrating how He orchestrates events and uses unexpected human agents to fulfill His divine purposes. The chief captain's decisive and discreet actions, prompted by the courageous intervention of Paul's nephew, reveal God's watchful care over His servants, even amidst deadly opposition. It underscores that God's plan for Paul to testify in Rome ([Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "The Lord Encourages Paul")) would not be thwarted by human malice. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that God's protection is not always miraculous intervention but often comes through the ordinary, yet divinely directed, actions of individuals and the established structures of society.

* [Psalm 37:23-24](/psalm/37-23-24 "The Lord Directs the Steps of the Righteous")
* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Wisdom in Counsel")
* [1 Peter 5:7](/1_peter/5-7 "Casting All Your Care Upon Him")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 23:19 offers timeless lessons for believers today. Firstly, it reassures us of God's meticulous and sovereign care over our lives. Just as Paul was divinely protected through a series of human actions, we can trust that God is at work in our circumstances, often using ordinary people and events to guide and protect us. This should cultivate a deep sense of peace and reliance on His providence, even when facing significant challenges or threats. Secondly, the chief captain's example teaches us the importance of prudence, discretion, and active listening. In a world often characterized by impulsive reactions and public display, his quiet, private inquiry serves as a model for handling sensitive situations with wisdom and discernment. We are called to be attentive to the needs and warnings of others, especially those who may be vulnerable or have crucial information. Finally, Paul's nephew's courage to speak up reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of age or status, to accomplish His will. Our willingness to act on conviction, even when it involves risk, can have profound impacts on God's unfolding plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this account of divine protection through human agency challenge or affirm your understanding of God's providence in your own life?**
* **In what situations might you need to emulate the chief captain's prudence and discretion when handling sensitive information or difficult conversations?**
* **What small, courageous act might God be calling you to undertake today that could have a significant impact for His kingdom?**

### FAQ
**Was the chief captain's primary motivation for protecting Paul religious or political?**

Answer: The chief captain's primary motivation was likely political and legal, rather than religious. As a Roman tribune, Claudius Lysias was bound by Roman law to protect Roman citizens, especially from unlawful harm or assassination. Paul's assertion of his Roman citizenship ([Acts 22:25](/acts/22-25 "Paul's Roman Citizenship")) placed him under Roman protection. Lysias's actions throughout this episode—from rescuing Paul from the mob ([Acts 21:31-32](/acts/21-31-32 "Lysias Rescues Paul")) to transferring him to Caesarea ([Acts 23:23-24](/acts/23-23-24 "Paul Sent to Caesarea"))—consistently demonstrate his commitment to upholding Roman legal protocol and ensuring the safety of a citizen under his jurisdiction. While God certainly used him for His divine purposes, Lysias's immediate concern was likely his duty to the Empire and the maintenance of order.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Acts 23:19 describes a specific historical event involving human agents, its underlying themes resonate deeply with the person and work of Jesus Christ. The divine protection afforded to Paul in this passage ultimately points to Christ as the ultimate Protector and the sovereign Lord over all circumstances. Just as Paul's life was preserved for the sake of the gospel, Christ's life was preserved until His appointed time for the ultimate sacrifice on the cross, a plan that no human conspiracy could thwart ([John 10:18](/john/10-18 "No One Takes My Life From Me")). Furthermore, the chief captain's careful and private inquiry into the truth foreshadows Christ, who, as the divine Word, perfectly discerns all things and reveals the deepest truths ([John 1:1-5](/john/1-1-5 "The Word Became Flesh")). The chief captain's role as a protector of a citizen under threat finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, who is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep and ensures that none can snatch them out of His hand or His Father's hand ([John 10:28-29](/john/10-28-29 "No One Can Snatch Them From My Hand")). Ultimately, the narrative of God's providential care for Paul, ensuring his journey to Rome to proclaim the gospel, mirrors the grander narrative of God's sovereign plan for the redemption of humanity through Christ, a plan that is unshakeable and perfectly executed ([Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "God Works All Things According to His Will")).

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

Mark 10:51

And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? The blind man said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight.

Mark 8:23

And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town; and when he had spit on his eyes, and put his hands upon him, he asked him if he saw ought.

Nehemiah 2:4

Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven.

Mark 9:27

But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.

Esther 9:12

And the king said unto Esther the queen, The Jews have slain and destroyed five hundred men in Shushan the palace, and the ten sons of Haman; what have they done in the rest of the king's provinces? now what [is] thy petition? and it shall be granted thee: or what [is] thy request further? and it shall be done.

Esther 7:2

And the king said again unto Esther on the second day at the banquet of wine, What [is] thy petition, queen Esther? and it shall be granted thee: and what [is] thy request? and it shall be performed, [even] to the half of the kingdom.

Esther 5:3

Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what [is] thy request? it shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom.