Acts 27:36
Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took some meat.
Original Language Analysis
γενόμενοι
were they
G1096
γενόμενοι
were they
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
3 of 8
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
αὐτοὶ
G846
αὐτοὶ
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
6 of 8
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
Ancient Mediterranean culture was highly observant of social cues and hierarchies. That a Jewish prisoner could influence Roman soldiers, Greek sailors, and a centurion shows extraordinary moral authority. The corporate shift from despair to cheerfulness validated Paul's prophetic word and demonstrated the gospel's power to transform even pagan hearts through observable faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- How does one person's visible faith in crisis encourage others toward hope and action?
- In what situations has God called you to lead spiritually despite lacking formal authority?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Then were they all of good cheer—Paul's example was contagious. The Greek euthumoi genomoi (became cheerful) indicates emotional transformation from despair to hope. One man's faith shifted an entire ship's atmosphere. They also took some meat shows practical result—courage enabled appetite. Fear had prevented eating (v. 33); now confidence restored normal function.
This verse demonstrates leadership's ripple effect. Paul, lowest in social status (prisoner), exercised highest spiritual influence. His calm trust, public thanksgiving, and confident eating gave 275 others courage to eat and hope to survive. True spiritual authority derives from God's presence, not human position. The scene anticipates Paul's later testimony before Caesar—a prisoner whose chains liberate.