Acts 16:28
But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.
Original Language Analysis
ἐφώνησεν
cried
G5455
ἐφώνησεν
cried
Strong's:
G5455
Word #:
1 of 15
to emit a sound (animal, human or instrumental); by implication, to address in words or by name, also in imitation
φωνῇ
voice
G5456
φωνῇ
voice
Strong's:
G5456
Word #:
3 of 15
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
μεγάλῃ
with a loud
G3173
μεγάλῃ
with a loud
Strong's:
G3173
Word #:
4 of 15
big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Παῦλος
Paul
G3972
Παῦλος
Paul
Strong's:
G3972
Word #:
6 of 15
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
λέγων,
saying
G3004
λέγων,
saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
7 of 15
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
πράξῃς
Do
G4238
πράξῃς
Do
Strong's:
G4238
Word #:
9 of 15
to "practise", i.e., perform repeatedly or habitually (thus differing from g4160, which properly refers to a single act); by implication, to execute,
κακόν
harm
G2556
κακόν
harm
Strong's:
G2556
Word #:
11 of 15
worthless (intrinsically, such; whereas g4190 properly refers to effects), i.e., (subjectively) depraved, or (objectively) injurious
Cross References
1 Thessalonians 5:15See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.Luke 23:34Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.Ecclesiastes 7:17Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?Matthew 5:44But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Historical Context
Paul could have escaped but chose to remain, valuing the jailor's life and salvation over personal freedom. This extraordinary compassion after severe beating demonstrates supernatural grace.
Questions for Reflection
- How does loving our enemies demonstrate the gospel's power?
- What does it cost to value others' souls above our own comfort or freedom?
- How can we show compassion to those who have wronged us?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
'Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.' Paul's intervention saved the jailor's physical life before saving his soul. Despite unjust treatment, Paul showed compassion to his captor. This selfless concern demonstrated Christian love and prepared the jailor's heart for the gospel. Genuine faith produces love for enemies.