Acts 19:30
And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.
Original Language Analysis
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Παύλου
Paul
G3972
Παύλου
Paul
Strong's:
G3972
Word #:
3 of 13
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
εἰς
in
G1519
εἰς
in
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
6 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτὸν
him
G846
αὐτὸν
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
11 of 13
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Historical Context
This restraint contrasts with Paul's later determination to go to Jerusalem despite prophetic warnings (Acts 21:4, 11-14). Here, Paul submitted to the community's judgment; later, he insisted on following the Spirit's leading despite opposition. The difference illustrates how discernment varies by circumstance—sometimes God calls us to avoid danger, sometimes to face it.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you discern between prudent retreat and faithless avoidance when facing opposition?
- When have godly friends restrained you from well-intentioned but potentially harmful actions?
Analysis & Commentary
When Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not—Paul's instinct was martyrological courage: enter the theatre and confront the mob directly. The Greek ἐβούλετο (ebouleto, 'would have') indicates Paul's determined intention, not casual consideration. Yet the disciples (μαθηταί, mathētai) physically prevented him—οὐκ εἴων αὐτόν (ouk eiōn auton, 'did not permit him').
This tension between apostolic boldness and prudent protection recurs throughout Acts. Paul's willingness to die for Christ was commendable, but wisdom sometimes requires strategic retreat to preserve ministry. The disciples' intervention shows corporate discernment can temper individual zeal—even apostolic zeal. Their restraint saved Paul for years of continued ministry, including writing much of the New Testament.