Acts 16:29
Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,
Original Language Analysis
φῶτα
for a light
G5457
φῶτα
for a light
Strong's:
G5457
Word #:
3 of 13
luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
γενόμενος
came
G1096
γενόμενος
came
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
7 of 13
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
προσέπεσεν
and fell down before
G4363
προσέπεσεν
and fell down before
Strong's:
G4363
Word #:
8 of 13
to fall towards, i.e., (gently) prostrate oneself (in supplication or homage), or (violently) to rush upon (in storm)
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Παύλῳ
Paul
G3972
Παύλῳ
Paul
Strong's:
G3972
Word #:
10 of 13
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
11 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
The jailor's transformation from harsh guard to humble seeker happened in moments. The earthquake, prisoners' presence, and Paul's mercy combined to produce spiritual crisis and openness.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God use circumstances to produce spiritual hunger?
- What does genuine conviction of sin look like?
- How should we respond when God opens someone's heart to the gospel?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
'Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas.' The literal light parallels spiritual illumination. His 'trembling' and falling before them shows conviction of sin and recognition of divine power. The proud jailor becomes a humble seeker. God's power in the earthquake opened both prison doors and his heart.