Acts 16:38
And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.
Original Language Analysis
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
στρατηγοῖς
unto the magistrates
G4755
στρατηγοῖς
unto the magistrates
Strong's:
G4755
Word #:
4 of 15
a general, i.e., (by implication or analogy) a (military) governor (praetor), the chief (praefect) of the (levitical) temple-wardens
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ῥαβδοῦχοι
the serjeants
G4465
ῥαβδοῦχοι
the serjeants
Strong's:
G4465
Word #:
6 of 15
a rod- (the latin <i>fasces</i>) holder, i.e., a roman lictor (constable or executioner)
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ῥήματα
words
G4487
ῥήματα
words
Strong's:
G4487
Word #:
8 of 15
an utterance (individually, collectively or specially),; by implication, a matter or topic (especially of narration, command or dispute); with a negat
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐφοβήθησαν
they feared
G5399
ἐφοβήθησαν
they feared
Strong's:
G5399
Word #:
11 of 15
to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere
Historical Context
Roman officials who violated citizens' rights faced serious consequences, including loss of office. The magistrates' fear was well-founded - their illegal actions could bring imperial investigation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God use even unjust authorities' fear to protect His people?
- What does this teach about the rule of law and accountability?
- How can injustice toward Christians sometimes lead to greater protection?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
'The serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.' The magistrates' fear reveals their legal jeopardy - beating Roman citizens without trial could result in severe punishment from Rome. Their hasty injustice became political liability. This fear would restrain future persecution of Philippi's church.