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Book of Acts - Chapter 23 - Verse 17

23:17
Then Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Acts, the apostle Paul is requesting for a young man to be brought to the chief captain. This young man has important information to share with him. This passage highlights the strategic nature of Paul's actions in order to ensure that the message is delivered to the appropriate authority. By involving the centurion and appealing to the chief captain, Paul is taking the necessary steps to address the situation at hand. This verse showcases the importance of proper communication and the role of intermediaries in conveying messages effectively. It also demonstrates Paul's ability to navigate complex situations and utilize the resources available to him. Overall, this passage from Acts emphasizes the importance of clear communication and strategic planning in achieving one's objectives.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Acts 23:17, we see Paul calling a centurion to bring a young man to the chief captain. This interaction reveals Paul's strategic thinking and his keen awareness of the proper authorities within the Roman system. A theological interpretation of this verse could highlight Paul's respect for the established order and his desire to handle matters in a way that aligns with the law. It also shows Paul's commitment to sharing his message and fulfilling his mission, even in the midst of challenges and opposition. A word study of this verse may focus on the Greek term used for "chief captain," which is "chiliarchos." This term refers to a commander of a thousand soldiers in the Roman army, emphasizing the hierarchical structure and organization of the military at that time. By examining the historical and cultural context of this verse, we can gain a deeper understanding of Paul's actions and the world in which he navigated as a missionary and apostle.

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