Acts 19:39
What does Acts 19:39 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 19:39 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 19:39 means
For other matters, he says, it shall be settled in the regular assembly. The official distinguishes between judicial cases and broader civic concerns, insisting both proceed through proper channels. This reasserts constitutional order in Ephesus and denies the mob legitimacy as a decision-making body. The verse underscores a theme in Acts: the gospel is not advanced by disorder, and its messengers often find protection under lawful governance. By steering the city back to its institutions, the townclerk diffuses a situation that could have led to unjust violence against believers.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000But if ye seek anything about other matters, it shall be settled in the regular assembly.
KJV
King James Version · 1611But if ye enquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901But if ye seek anything about other matters, it shall be settled in the regular assembly.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949But if any other business is in question, let it be taken up in the regular meeting.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`And if ye seek after anything concerning other matters, in the legal assembly it shall be determined;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And if you inquire after any other matter, it may be decided in a lawful assembly.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But if ye inquire anything concerning other matters, it will be settled in the regular assembly.
Context
This procedural guidance follows the invitation to pursue legal charges in court if any exist. The next verse adds urgency: the city risks Roman accusation over the day’s riot, since there is no cause. Fear of imperial discipline becomes the final lever to disperse the crowd. The resolution will come with the clerk dismissing the assembly.
v.38If therefore Demetrius, and the craftsmen that are with him, have a matter against any man, the courts are open, and there are proconsuls: let them accuse one another.
v.39This passage
v.40For indeed we are in danger to be accused concerning this day’s riot, there being no cause for it: and as touching it we shall not be able to give account of this concourse.
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