Acts 18:9

9 Then the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

Acts 18:9 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 18:9

Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision
On a certain night as he was asleep, the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to him in a dream, and spake after this manner to him:

be not afraid;
it is very likely that after the baptism of Crispus and his family, and of many of the Corinthians, that both the Jews and the Gentiles were exasperated against the apostle; and his life might seem to be in danger, and he might be thinking of removing from hence for his preservation and safety; and might be advised to it by his friends, or at least that he should be incognito, and not be seen publicly: wherefore the Lord appears to him, and bids him not indulge any fears, or conceal himself and be silent,

but speak, and hold not thy peace;
preach freely and boldly the Gospel without fear of men; the fear of men should not stop the mouths of Christ's ministers.

Acts 18:9 In-Context

7 And he departed thence, and entered into the house of a certain man named Justus, [one] that worshiped God, whose house joined close to the synagogue.

8 And Crispus the chief ruler of the synagogue believed on the Lord with all his house: and many of the Corinthians hearing, believed, and were baptized.

9 Then the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

10 For I am with thee, and no man shall lay hands on thee, to hurt thee: for I have many people in this city.

11 And he continued [there] a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.