New Testament
Acts 23:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"So now, you and the council should notify the commanding officer to bring him down to you tomorrow, as though you intended to examine his case more thoroughly. And we will be ready to kill him before he even gets near."
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Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him.
What Acts 23:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a group of people is plotting to kill someone before he can reach the council. They are pretending to want to investigate him further, but their true intention is to ambush him. This shows how deceitful and dangerous people can be when they feel threatened. The conspirators are willing to go to extreme lengths to eliminate their enemy. Their plan is to manipulate the situation to their advantage, demonstrating a lack of integrity and morality. This moment highlights the tension and conflict present in the story, as well as the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their interests. It serves as a reminder of the darker aspects of human nature and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger. The passage invites readers to reflect on their own choices and the impact of deceitful actions on others, urging them to choose honesty and integrity instead of manipulation and harm. Ultimately, it challenges us to consider how we respond to conflict and adversity.
How to apply Acts 23:15 to your life
When faced with conflict, it's easy to resort to deceitful tactics to achieve our goals. However, this passage reminds us of the importance of honesty and integrity. Instead of plotting against others, we should seek peaceful resolutions and stand up for what is right, even when it's difficult. Choosing integrity can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Reflect on your actions and strive to be truthful in your dealings.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: A Plot and a Nephew (Acts 23:12–35)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 23:15 mean?
Acts 23:15 describes a plot by a group of people who intend to kill someone before he can reach the council. They are pretending to want more information, but their true goal is to ambush him, highlighting themes of deceit and danger.
What is the significance of the council's plan in Acts 23:15?
The council's plan in Acts 23:15 reveals their willingness to resort to murder to eliminate a perceived threat. It illustrates the lengths to which individuals may go when they feel threatened, emphasizing the darker aspects of human nature.
What does the phrase 'ready to kill him' in Acts 23:15 imply?
The phrase 'ready to kill him' in Acts 23:15 implies a premeditated intent to commit murder. It shows the conspirators' determination to eliminate their enemy by any means necessary, reflecting their moral corruption.
How does Acts 23:15 relate to themes of integrity?
Acts 23:15 contrasts deceitful behavior with the concept of integrity. The conspirators' manipulation and dishonesty serve as a warning about the consequences of choosing harmful tactics over honest and ethical actions.
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