Acts 15:40
And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.
Original Language Analysis
Παῦλος
Paul
G3972
Παῦλος
Paul
Strong's:
G3972
Word #:
1 of 13
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
παραδοθεὶς
being recommended
G3860
παραδοθεὶς
being recommended
Strong's:
G3860
Word #:
6 of 13
to surrender, i.e yield up, entrust, transmit
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
χάριτι
unto the grace
G5485
χάριτι
unto the grace
Strong's:
G5485
Word #:
8 of 13
graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Θεοῦ
of God
G2316
Θεοῦ
of God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
10 of 13
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
ὑπὸ
by
G5259
ὑπὸ
by
Strong's:
G5259
Word #:
11 of 13
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
Cross References
Acts 14:26And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.Acts 15:22Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:Acts 11:23Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.1 Corinthians 15:10But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
Historical Context
Silas (Silvanus) had delivered the Jerusalem Council's letter to Antioch and remained there. His involvement in that crucial decision made him an ideal partner for Paul's continued Gentile mission.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God provide the right partners for ministry at the right time?
- What qualities should we look for in ministry companions?
- How does church commendation strengthen missionary work?
Analysis & Commentary
Paul 'chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.' Silas's selection as Paul's new companion proved strategic - as a Roman citizen (Acts 16:37) and prophet (Acts 15:32), he was well-qualified for Gentile ministry. The church's commendation shows their support despite the recent conflict.