Acts 22:27
What does Acts 22:27 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 22:27 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 22:27 means
The chief captain approaches and asks directly, “Tell me, art thou a Roman?” Paul answers, “Yea.” This simple exchange carries weighty implications. A verbal affirmation, in this context, is enough to halt proceedings pending verification. Paul’s straightforward reply avoids drama and asserts a fact with profound legal force. The commander recognizes that the situation has shifted from routine discipline to a matter requiring caution. Paul’s identity as a Roman citizen will open doors to appeal and to bear witness at higher levels, ultimately carrying the gospel into Rome’s heart.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And the chief captain came and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a Roman? And he said, Yea.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Then the chief captain came, and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a Roman? He said, Yea.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And the chief captain came and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a Roman? And he said, Yea.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And the chief captain came to him and said, Give me an answer, are you a Roman? And he said, Yes.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and the chief captain having come near, said to him, `Tell me, art thou a Roman?' and he said, `Yes;'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And the tribune coming, said to him: Tell me. Art thou a Roman? But he said: Yea.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And the chiliarch coming up said to him, Tell me, Art thou a Roman? And he said, Yes.
Context
This verse is the formal inquiry sparked by the centurion’s report. It leads into verse 28’s discussion about the cost of obtaining citizenship versus being born into it. The narrative is tightening around legal status, replacing mob accusations with judicial prudence. The outcome in verse 29—fear and withdrawal—prepares for the commander’s next step in verse 30: assembling the Jewish council to clarify the charges without violating Roman law.
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