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Book of Acts - Chapter 23 - Verse 16

23:16
And when Paul's sister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Acts, we learn about Paul's nephew who takes a bold and courageous step to protect his uncle from a group of conspirators. The verse highlights the strong family ties that existed in ancient times, where family members would go to great lengths to protect and support one another. Paul's nephew demonstrates his loyalty and bravery by risking his own safety to warn Paul of the plot against him. This act of courage ultimately plays a crucial role in ensuring Paul's safety and ability to continue his mission. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of family bonds and the willingness to stand up for what is right, even in the face of danger.

Theological Overview

In this particular verse from the book of Acts, we see Paul's nephew playing a crucial role in alerting Paul to a plot against his life. The mention of Paul's sister's son is significant in that it highlights the familial ties within the early Christian community. This verse also underscores the theme of divine protection and intervention throughout Paul's ministry. The theological interpretation emphasizes the providence of God in using even unexpected sources to deliver his servants from harm. The word "castle" in this context refers to the Roman barracks where Paul was being kept under guard. The fact that Paul's nephew was able to gain access to the castle and warn him of the danger demonstrates the intricate ways in which God orchestrates events for the good of his people. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant and discerning in the face of opposition, as well as a testament to the power of prayer and divine guidance in times of trouble.

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