Acts 20:23
Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.
Original Language Analysis
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
2 of 16
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πνεῦμα
Ghost
G4151
πνεῦμα
Ghost
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
4 of 16
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἅγιον
the Holy
G40
ἅγιον
the Holy
Strong's:
G40
Word #:
6 of 16
sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)
κατὰ
in every
G2596
κατὰ
in every
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
7 of 16
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
διαμαρτύρεταί
witnesseth
G1263
διαμαρτύρεταί
witnesseth
Strong's:
G1263
Word #:
9 of 16
to attest or protest earnestly, or (by implication) hortatively
λέγον
saying
G3004
λέγον
saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
10 of 16
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
11 of 16
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
δεσμὰ
bonds
G1199
δεσμὰ
bonds
Strong's:
G1199
Word #:
12 of 16
a band, i.e., ligament (of the body) or shackle (of a prisoner); figuratively, an impediment or disability
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
14 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Acts 9:16For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.Acts 21:4And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.1 Thessalonians 3:3That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.Acts 21:33Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.Acts 14:22Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.Acts 21:11And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.2 Timothy 2:12If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
Historical Context
Multiple prophetic warnings (Acts 21:4, 11) confirmed what Paul experienced in every city. The Spirit's witness prepared without deterring Paul's obedience.
Questions for Reflection
- How does foreknowledge of suffering affect your willingness to obey God?
- What does consistent prophetic warning accomplish for those receiving it?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
'Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.' The Spirit's consistent message prepared Paul for suffering. 'Bonds and afflictions' - specific warnings of imprisonment and persecution.