New Testament

Acts 16:28

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this moment, Paul and Silas were imprisoned, and an earthquake suddenly shook the jail, opening the doors and loosening the chains of the prisoners.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 62
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

But Paul shouted loudly, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!"

KJVKing James Version

But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this moment, Paul and Silas were imprisoned, and an earthquake suddenly shook the jail, opening the doors and loosening the chains of the prisoners. The jailer, thinking everyone had escaped, was about to take his own life out of fear of punishment. Paul, realizing what was happening, shouted out to him, urging him not to harm himself. His words were filled with compassion and urgency, showing that they were still there and that he was not alone. This act of kindness not only saved the jailer’s life but also opened the door for a deeper connection. Paul’s response highlights the importance of valuing life and offering hope in desperate situations. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is a chance for redemption and support from others. Paul’s shout was not just a warning; it was a lifeline, demonstrating the power of community and compassion in times of crisis. This story encourages us to reach out and help others, especially when they feel lost or hopeless.

How to apply Acts 16:28 to your life

When you see someone in distress, remember the importance of reaching out. Your words can be a lifeline, just like Paul’s were for the jailer. Offer support and kindness to those who may feel hopeless. You never know how much your encouragement can change someone's life for the better. Be a source of hope in your community today.

Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Acts 16:28 mean?

Acts 16:28 shows Paul urging the jailer not to harm himself after an earthquake freed the prisoners. It highlights Paul's compassion and the importance of valuing life, even in desperate situations.

What is the significance of Paul shouting in Acts 16:28?

Paul's shout in Acts 16:28 was a crucial moment that prevented the jailer from taking his own life. It demonstrates the power of compassion and community support during crises.

How does Acts 16:28 relate to compassion?

Acts 16:28 illustrates compassion as Paul intervenes to save the jailer from harming himself. His actions reflect the importance of reaching out to others in their moments of despair.

What lesson can we learn from Acts 16:28?

From Acts 16:28, we learn the importance of offering support and hope to those in distress. Just as Paul reached out to the jailer, we should be ready to help others who may feel lost or hopeless.

The Book of Acts
Book Summary

The Book of Acts

Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias

Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.

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