Acts 23:21
But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.
Acts 23:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in Acts 23:21, depicts a plot to assassinate the apostle Paul by more than forty individuals who have taken a vow not to eat or drink until they have succeeded in killing him. The passage serves as a warning for Paul to be vigilant and not give in to their demands, as they are determined to carry out their plan. The verse underscores the treacherous nature of Paul's enemies and their unwavering commitment to eliminate him. It also highlights the urgency of the situation, as the conspirators are waiting for a response from the authorities to proceed with their deadly scheme. Ultimately, this verse conveys the gravity of the threats faced by Paul and emphasizes the importance of relying on God's protection and guidance in the face of adversity.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of this verse, we see a clear example of the theme of persecution for one's faith. Here, we witness the Apostle Paul being warned about a plot by his enemies to kill him. The mention of forty men who have bound themselves with an oath to refrain from eating or drinking until they have carried out their plan illustrates the seriousness of their intentions. This verse serves as a reminder of the lengths to which some individuals may go to oppose the message of God and the perseverance required by believers in the face of such opposition. It also highlights the importance of discernment and seeking divine guidance in navigating dangerous situations. Furthermore, this verse can prompt reflection on the concept of divine protection and the fulfillment of God's promises in the midst of challenges and threats. Overall, this verse provides valuable insights into the complexities of faith and the spiritual warfare that believers may encounter in their journeys.
Acts 23:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
Do not thou therefore yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, who have bound themselves under a curse, neither to eat nor to drink till they have slain him: and now are they ready, looking for the promise from thee.
World English Bible
Therefore don’t yield to them, for more than forty men lie in wait for him, who have bound themselves under a curse neither to eat nor to drink until they have killed him. Now they are ready, looking for the promise from you.”
Douay-Rheims
But do not thou give credit to them: for there lie in wait for him more than forty men of them, who have bound themselves by oath neither to eat nor to drink, till they have killed him. And they are now ready, looking for a promise from thee.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But let them not perswade thee: for there lie in waite for him of them, more then fourtie men, which haue bound themselues with a curse, that they will neither eate nor drinke, till they haue killed him: and nowe are they readie, and waite for thy promise.