King James Version
What Does Acts 23:25 Mean?
“And he wrote a letter after this manner:”
Acts 23:25 · KJV
Context
23
And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night;
24
And provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.
25
And he wrote a letter after this manner:
26
Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.
27
This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd he wrote a letter after this manner (Greek grapsas epistolen, γράψας ἐπιστολὴν) introduces Claudius Lysias' official correspondence to Felix. Luke's inclusion of this letter (vv. 26-30) provides rare documentary evidence within Acts' narrative. Roman military reports followed standardized formats—sender, recipient, greeting, body, closing. This administrative detail demonstrates Luke's historical precision and provides legal documentation of Paul's innocence from Roman perspective. The letter becomes part of Paul's judicial record supporting his appeals.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Roman officials communicated through formal letters (litterae) that accompanied prisoners transferred between jurisdictions. Such documents established legal continuity and protected officials from liability for improper procedures.
Reflection Questions
- How does careful documentation and due process reflect God's character of justice?
- Why might Luke include such administrative details in his theological narrative?
Original Language Analysis
Greek · 6 wordsτύπον5 of 6
“manner”
G5179a die (as struck), i.e., (by implication) a stamp or scar; by analogy, a shape, i.e., a statue, (figuratively) style or resemblance; specially, a samp
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Acts 23:25 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.