Acts 23:24

KJV

And provide [them] beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring [him] safe unto Felix the governor.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G5037} provide {G3936} them beasts {G2934}, that {G2443} they may set {G1913} Paul {G3972} on {G1913}, and bring him safe {G1295} unto {G4314} Felix {G5344} the governor {G2232}.

Complete Jewish Bible

also provide replacements for Sha’ul’s horse when it gets tired; and bring him through safely to Felix the governor.”

Berean Standard Bible

Provide mounts for Paul to take him safely to Governor Felix.”

American Standard Version

and he bade them provide beasts, that they might set Paul thereon, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 23:24 describes the meticulous arrangements made by the Roman tribune Claudius Lysias to ensure the safe transfer of the Apostle Paul from Jerusalem to Caesarea, where he was to appear before Governor Felix. This verse highlights the practical provisions—specifically, the provision of riding animals—necessary for Paul's journey under heavy military escort, underscoring the Roman authorities' commitment to protecting a Roman citizen and preventing a Jewish assassination plot from succeeding. It serves as a pivotal moment in Paul's journey, redirecting him towards his eventual testimony in Rome.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 23:24 is situated within a dramatic and perilous sequence of events for the Apostle Paul. Following his arrest in the Jerusalem temple, Paul had faced intense hostility from various Jewish factions, culminating in a chaotic appearance before the Sanhedrin. The immediate preceding verses detail a specific and deadly conspiracy by more than forty Jewish men who vowed not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul [Acts 23:12-15](/acts/23-12-15 "The Plot Against Paul"). This plot was providentially uncovered by Paul's nephew, who reported it to the Roman tribune, Claudius Lysias. Lysias, recognizing the gravity of the threat and Paul's status as a Roman citizen, immediately took decisive action to safeguard him, assembling a substantial military escort of 200 soldiers, 70 horsemen, and 200 spearmen to transport Paul under the cover of night. Verse 24, therefore, specifies the final, crucial logistical detail for this urgent and highly protected transfer.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Acts 23 unfold in a volatile Judea under Roman occupation. Jerusalem was a hotbed of religious and political tension, and the Roman presence, though powerful, was often stretched thin in maintaining order. Roman citizenship, which Paul possessed, afforded significant legal protections, including the right to a fair trial and protection from arbitrary violence, especially from local mobs. Caesarea Maritima, the destination for Paul, served as the Roman administrative capital of Judea and the primary residence of the Roman governor (procurator). Travel between Jerusalem and Caesarea (approximately 60-70 miles) was typically by foot or animal, and providing "beasts" (riding animals) for a prisoner, especially one of Paul's importance and age, was a practical necessity for such a journey, particularly if it needed to be swift and secure. The Roman military's efficiency and hierarchical command structure are evident in Lysias's rapid and comprehensive response to the threat against Paul.

* **Key Themes:** This verse, while seemingly a logistical detail, powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Acts. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Providence and Protection**. Despite the grave danger and human schemes against Paul, God's sovereign hand is clearly at work, using even pagan Roman authorities to preserve His servant for His purposes. This aligns with God's earlier direct assurance to Paul in Jerusalem that he "must testify also at Rome" [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "God's Promise to Paul to Testify in Rome"). Secondly, it illustrates aspects of **Roman Justice (and its limitations)**. While Roman rule could be oppressive, it generally upheld the rights of its citizens and sought to maintain order, preventing mob rule. Lysias's actions, though perhaps motivated by a desire to avoid an investigation into the death of a Roman citizen under his watch, ultimately served to protect Paul's legal standing and ensure due process. Finally, this forced transfer to Caesarea, though an interruption, was a critical step in **Paul's Enduring Mission**. It moved him closer to his ultimate goal of reaching Rome and testifying before Caesar, fulfilling the divine mandate to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles, even to the highest echelons of imperial power, as foreshadowed throughout [the book of Acts](/acts/1 "The Book of Acts - The Spread of the Gospel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **provide (Greek, _parístēmi'_):** This verb, G3936, means "to stand beside, i.e. (transitively) to exhibit, proffer, (specially), recommend, (figuratively) substantiate; or (intransitively) to be at hand (or ready), aid." In this context, it signifies Lysias's active command to "present" or "furnish" the necessary animals. It's not merely a passive suggestion but an authoritative directive to ensure the resources are made available, reflecting the urgency and importance of Paul's transfer.
* **beasts (Greek, _ktēnos'_):** G2934 refers to "property, i.e. (specially) a domestic animal." This term is broad, encompassing any animal used for burden or riding, such as horses or mules. The plural "beasts" suggests that multiple animals were provided, not only for Paul but perhaps also for his escorts or baggage, indicating a well-resourced and prepared journey.
* **bring him safe (Greek, _diasṓzō'_):** G1295, a compound word from _dia_ (through) and _sōzō_ (to save), means "to save thoroughly, i.e. (by implication or analogy) to cure, preserve, rescue, etc." This word strongly emphasizes the tribune's explicit intent and the comprehensive nature of the protection. It was not enough for Paul to simply arrive; he had to arrive "safely," having been preserved "through" the danger posed by the assassination plot.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And provide [them] beasts,"**: This opening clause details the initial command from Claudius Lysias. The tribune, having learned of the plot against Paul, immediately orders the provision of riding animals. This highlights the practical and logistical planning involved in such a large-scale military escort, ensuring Paul's swift and secure transport out of Jerusalem. The use of "beasts" (riding animals) implies a journey of some distance and the need for efficiency, especially given the urgency of the situation.
* **"that they may set Paul on,"**: This clause states the explicit purpose for providing the animals: to enable Paul to ride. This is crucial for a prisoner, especially one who may have been weakened by recent events or who needed to travel quickly over a significant distance. It also subtly emphasizes Paul's status as a Roman citizen, for whom such provisions would be made, rather than forcing him to march on foot with the soldiers.
* **"and bring [him] safe unto Felix the governor."**: This final clause specifies the ultimate objective of the entire operation: Paul's secure delivery to Governor Felix in Caesarea. The phrase "bring him safe" (diasṓzō) is particularly significant, underscoring the tribune's paramount concern for Paul's well-being and the success of the mission to protect him from the Jewish conspirators. It signifies a complete and successful preservation through danger, ensuring Paul's arrival unharmed at the seat of Roman provincial authority for his legal proceedings.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Metonymy** by using "beasts" to represent the entire logistical preparation for Paul's journey, implying the comprehensive nature of the tribune's protective measures. There is also a strong sense of **Foreshadowing**, as this forced journey to Caesarea is a necessary step on Paul's divinely ordained path to Rome, where he is destined to bear witness before Caesar. Furthermore, the narrative subtly uses **Irony**: a pagan Roman official, primarily concerned with Roman law and order, becomes an unwitting instrument of God's providence, protecting His chosen apostle from the very people who claimed to serve God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 23:24 serves as a powerful testament to God's meticulous providence, demonstrating His ability to work through unexpected means and individuals, even those outside the community of faith, to accomplish His divine purposes. Despite the intense human animosity and elaborate plots against Paul's life, God's plan for His servant's ministry remained unthwarted. The detailed instructions for Paul's safe transport underscore that God's protection is not merely abstract but often manifests through concrete, practical provisions and the actions of secular authorities. This event reminds us that God is sovereign over all circumstances, orchestrating events and even using the systems of the world to advance His kingdom and protect His people until their appointed task is complete.

* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "All Things Work Together for Good")
* [Philippians 1:12](/philippians/1-12 "Paul's Imprisonment Advances the Gospel")
* [Psalm 34:7](/psalms/34-7 "The Angel of the Lord Encamps Around Those Who Fear Him")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 23:24 offers profound encouragement for believers facing adversity, reminding us that our safety and ultimate purpose are held securely in God's sovereign hands. Just as Paul's life was preserved amidst a deadly conspiracy, we can trust that God is faithful to protect and provide for us, even when the threats seem overwhelming or the path uncertain. This verse challenges us to look beyond immediate dangers and recognize God's larger, unfolding plan, even when it involves unexpected detours or the intervention of unlikely allies. It calls us to persevere in our God-given callings, knowing that if God wills us to accomplish a task, He will provide the means and the protection necessary for its fulfillment. Our faith is not in the absence of danger, but in the presence of a faithful God who works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways have you experienced God's unexpected provision or protection in your life, perhaps through unlikely people or circumstances?**
* **How does the detailed nature of Lysias's protection for Paul encourage your trust in God's specific and practical care for you?**
* **When facing opposition or uncertainty, how can the knowledge of God's sovereign plan, as seen in Paul's journey, strengthen your perseverance?**

### FAQ
**Who was Felix and why was Paul sent to him?**

Answer: Felix (Marcus Antonius Felix) was the Roman procurator (governor) of Judea from approximately A.D. 52-58. He was a freedman appointed by Emperor Claudius, known for his corrupt and oppressive rule. Paul was sent to Felix because, as a Roman citizen, he had the right to be tried by a higher Roman authority, especially given the serious accusations against him and the uncovered assassination plot. The tribune Claudius Lysias, fearing for Paul's life and recognizing his Roman citizenship, transferred him from the volatile environment of Jerusalem to Caesarea, the Roman administrative capital, where Felix resided and where a more formal and secure legal process could take place. Paul's appearance before Felix is detailed in [Acts 24](/acts/24 "Paul Before Felix").

**What was the significance of providing 'beasts' for Paul's journey?**

Answer: The provision of "beasts" (riding animals) was highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it indicated the urgency and importance of Paul's transfer. Traveling approximately 60-70 miles from Jerusalem to Caesarea on foot would have been slow and arduous, especially for Paul, who had just endured significant physical and emotional strain. Riding animals ensured a quicker and more efficient journey. Secondly, it underscored Paul's status as a Roman citizen. Roman citizens, even when under arrest, were typically afforded certain dignities and provisions not extended to ordinary prisoners. Providing a riding animal was a practical measure to ensure his well-being and safe arrival, preventing exhaustion or injury that might complicate his legal proceedings. Finally, it was a crucial logistical detail for the success of the mission to protect Paul from the more than forty conspirators who had sworn to kill him [Acts 23:12](/acts/23-12 "The Plot Against Paul"). The swift, mounted escort provided a layer of security that would have been impossible on foot.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 23:24, while detailing a specific logistical event in Paul's life, profoundly resonates with the broader narrative of Christ's sovereignty and His ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Paul's miraculous preservation and safe passage, orchestrated by a pagan Roman official, serve as a powerful testament to the truth that all earthly powers and circumstances are ultimately subservient to Christ's divine will. Just as Paul was "brought safe" through peril to fulfill his mission of testifying about Christ, so too is the Church, the body of Christ, preserved and propelled forward by the Lord of glory, despite relentless opposition. This event foreshadows Christ's ultimate victory over all hostile forces, demonstrating that no human conspiracy or earthly power can thwart the purposes of God for His people or His kingdom. The very "beasts" and military might, intended for earthly control, become instruments in the hand of the ascended Christ to advance His Gospel, echoing the truth that "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" [Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "The Great Commission"). Paul's journey to Felix, and ultimately to Caesar, prefigures the global reach of the Gospel, which, empowered by Christ, transcends all human barriers and opposition, ensuring that His saving message will be proclaimed to the ends of the earth [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "The Holy Spirit and Witnessing"). In Christ, we find the ultimate fulfillment of divine protection and purpose, for He is the one who "will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ" [1 Corinthians 1:8](/1_corinthians/1-8 "God's Faithfulness to Preserve Believers").

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

Acts 23:26

Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix [sendeth] greeting.

Acts 24:10

¶ Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:

Acts 25:14

And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:

Acts 23:33

Who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him.

Acts 24:3

We accept [it] always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

Acts 24:22

¶ And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of [that] way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.

Acts 24:27

But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.