New Testament
Acts 23:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The commanding officer dismissed the young man and instructed him, "Tell no one that you have reported this to me."
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So the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged him, See thou tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me.
What Acts 23:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a young man approaches a commanding officer with important information. The officer listens carefully and decides to let the young man go, but he gives a strict instruction: keep this information to yourself. This moment highlights the importance of discretion and the need to protect sensitive information. The officer understands the potential danger of the news and wants to ensure that it does not cause unnecessary panic or trouble. By telling the young man to remain silent, he is acting wisely and responsibly. This situation reminds us that sometimes, keeping things private is crucial for safety and peace. It also shows the trust placed in the young man, as he is entrusted with a secret that could have serious implications. The officer's command emphasizes the weight of responsibility that comes with knowledge, urging us to think carefully about what we share and with whom. In a world where information spreads quickly, this lesson is more relevant than ever.
How to apply Acts 23:22 to your life
Consider the information you share with others. Are there times when keeping something private is more beneficial? Reflect on the importance of discretion in your own life, especially when it comes to sensitive matters. Choose wisely who you confide in and when to speak up or stay silent. Your words can have significant consequences, so think before you act.
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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Keep studying Acts 23:22
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 23:22 mean?
Acts 23:22 describes a young man who brings important information to a commanding officer. The officer dismisses him with a warning to keep the information confidential, highlighting the importance of discretion and the responsibility that comes with sensitive knowledge.
What is the significance of discretion in Acts 23:22?
In Acts 23:22, discretion is significant because the commanding officer understands the potential dangers of the information shared. By instructing the young man to remain silent, he prioritizes safety and prevents unnecessary panic.
What lesson can we learn from Acts 23:22?
Acts 23:22 teaches us the value of keeping sensitive information private. It reminds us to think carefully about what we share and with whom, as our words can have serious consequences.
Why did the officer tell the young man to be silent in Acts 23:22?
The officer told the young man to be silent in Acts 23:22 to protect the information from causing trouble or panic. This reflects a wise approach to handling sensitive matters.
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