Acts 16:38

38 And the sergeants returned and told these words unto the magistrates; and they feared when they heard that they were Romans.

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 And the keeper of the prison made these words known unto Paul, The magistrates have sent to let you go; now therefore depart and go in peace.

37 But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out in secret? no indeed; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.

38 And the sergeants returned and told these words unto the magistrates; and they feared when they heard that they were Romans.

39 And they came and besought them, and bringing them out, asked them to depart out of the city.

40 And leaving the prison, they entered into the house of Lydia; and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them and departed.