Acts 17:9
And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
λαβόντες
when they had taken
G2983
λαβόντες
when they had taken
Strong's:
G2983
Word #:
2 of 12
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἱκανὸν
security
G2425
ἱκανὸν
security
Strong's:
G2425
Word #:
4 of 12
competent (as if coming in season), i.e., ample (in amount) or fit (in character)
παρὰ
of
G3844
παρὰ
of
Strong's:
G3844
Word #:
5 of 12
properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
In Roman Macedonia (circa 50 AD), politarchs (city rulers) balanced maintaining order with Roman legal principles. Archaeological inscriptions confirm this unique title used in Thessalonian governance. The 'security' was likely a cash bond forfeited if Paul returned and caused further disturbances—a common Roman legal practice protecting public order while avoiding unjust imprisonment.
Questions for Reflection
- What has the gospel cost you in terms of risk, reputation, or resources, as it cost Jason his security?
- How does Paul's forced departure from Thessalonica (yet productive ministry elsewhere) illustrate God's sovereignty over both success and apparent setbacks?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And when they had taken security of Jason (λαβόντες τὸ ἱκανὸν παρὰ τοῦ Ἰάσονος)—literally 'having received the sufficient from Jason.' The Greek to hikanon refers to a bail bond or surety, likely a monetary pledge guaranteeing Paul and Silas would not return to disturb the peace. Jason became legally responsible for their conduct, placing his property and freedom at risk for the gospel.
They let them go (ἀπέλυσαν αὐτούς)—The politarchs released Paul's team without formal charges, recognizing the accusations lacked merit. Jason's financial guarantee satisfied Roman pragmatism: order was restored without punishing innocent men. This legal maneuver allowed the gospel to advance while protecting the fledgling church, though it forced Paul to leave Thessalonica prematurely (1 Thessalonians 2:17-18 suggests Paul desperately wanted to return).