Acts 16:38

38 The officers reported these words to the judges, who became frightened when they heard that Sha'ul and Sila were Roman citizens.

Acts 16:38 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 16:38

And the sergeants told these words unto the magistrates,
&c.] They returned to them, and acquainted them with what the prisoners said:

and they feared when they heard that they were Romans;
they were not concerned for the injury they had done them; nor for the injustice and cruelty they had been guilty of; nor did they fear the wrath of God, and a future judgment; but they were put into a panic, when they found the men they had so ill used were Romans; lest they should be called to an account by the Roman senate, and be found guilty, and have their places taken away from them, and their persons punished.

Acts 16:38 In-Context

36 The jailer told Sha'ul, "The judges have sent word to release both of you. So come out, and go on your way in peace."

37 But Sha'ul said to the officers, "After flogging us in public when we hadn't been convicted of any crime and are Roman citizens, they threw us in prison. Now they want to get rid of us secretly? Oh, no! Let them come and escort us out themselves!"

38 The officers reported these words to the judges, who became frightened when they heard that Sha'ul and Sila were Roman citizens.

39 They came and apologized to them; then, after escorting them out, requested them to leave the city.

40 From the prison they went to Lydia's house, and after seeing and encouraging the brothers they departed.