Acts 23:30

And when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent straightway to thee, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say before thee what [they had] against him. Farewell.

And {G1161} when it was told {G3377} me {G3427} how that {G5259} the Jews {G2453} laid wait {G1917}{G3195}{G1510} for {G1519} the man {G435}, I sent {G3992} straightway {G1824} to {G4314} thee {G4571}, and gave commandment {G3853} to his accusers {G2725} also {G2532} to say {G3004} before {G1909} thee {G4675} what they had against {G4314} him {G846}. Farewell {G4517}.

But when I was informed of a plot against the man, I immediately sent him to you and also ordered his accusers to state their case against him before you.

When I was informed that there was a plot against the man, I sent him to you at once. I also instructed his accusers to present their case against him before you.

And when it was shown to me that there would be a plot against the man, I sent him to thee forthwith, charging his accusers also to speak against him before thee.

Commentary

This verse is part of a crucial letter written by the Roman tribune, Claudius Lysias, to Governor Felix in Caesarea. It explains Lysias's decision to transfer the Apostle Paul from Jerusalem to Caesarea under heavy guard.

Context

Following Paul's arrest in Jerusalem and his appearance before the Sanhedrin, a dangerous plot was uncovered. More than forty Jewish men had sworn an oath to neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul (Acts 23:12-15 details this conspiracy). This verse reveals Lysias's immediate and decisive action upon learning of this ambush. To ensure Paul's safety and to allow for a proper legal hearing, Lysias sent Paul away from the hostile environment of Jerusalem, directing his accusers to present their case before Governor Felix.

Key Themes

  • Divine Providence and Protection: Even amidst intense opposition and a deadly plot, God's hand is evident in protecting Paul, ensuring his journey toward Rome and fulfilling his mission (as promised by the Lord in Acts 23:11).
  • Roman Law and Order: The Roman authorities, represented by Lysias, are shown upholding a form of due process, seeking to protect a Roman citizen (Paul) and ensure that accusations are heard fairly before the appropriate governor, rather than allowing mob rule or assassination.
  • Integrity in Reporting: Lysias's letter, though self-serving in parts (as seen in the preceding verses of Acts 23), demonstrates his intention to provide a clear account of the events and his reasons for transferring Paul.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "laid wait for the man" vividly conveys the treacherous nature of the Jewish plot. The Greek word for "laid wait" (enedran) emphasizes an ambush or lying in wait, highlighting the premeditated and violent intent. Lysias's response to this threat was "straightway" (eutheōs), indicating immediate and urgent action to safeguard Paul and transfer him to a more secure location and a higher authority.

Practical Application

This passage reminds us that even when facing grave dangers or injustice, God can use unexpected means and secular authorities to protect His servants and advance His purposes. It underscores the importance of legitimate authority in maintaining order and providing a forum for justice. For believers, it's a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people through trials, often orchestrating circumstances in ways we might not foresee, ensuring His will is accomplished even in hostile environments.

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Cross-References

  • Acts 23:20

    And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul to morrow into the council, as though they would enquire somewhat of him more perfectly.

  • Acts 25:5

    Let them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with [me], and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.

  • Acts 25:6

    And when he had tarried among them more than ten days, he went down unto Caesarea; and the next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded Paul to be brought.

  • Acts 24:6

    Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.

  • Acts 24:8

    Commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.

  • Acts 23:35

    I will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come. And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.

  • Acts 25:16

    To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him.
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