Acts 27:32
What does Acts 27:32 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 27:32 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 27:32 means
The soldiers promptly cut the ropes of the boat and let it fall away. This drastic action eliminates the possibility of desertion and commits everyone to a single outcome. It also removes a safety option, intensifying dependence on God’s promise and on the ship’s final run to shore. The verse underscores the centurion’s growing trust in Paul’s judgment. Swift, courageous decisions are sometimes needed to preserve unity and prevent panic. With the boat gone, there is no turning back; the company must face the beaching together, strengthened by the hope Paul has announced.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Then the armed men, cutting the cords of the boat, let her go.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862then the soldiers did cut off the ropes of the boat, and suffered it to fall off.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat and let her fall off.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat and let her fall.
Context
After Paul’s warning, decisive action secures the integrity of the group: the lifeboat is sacrificed to prevent escape. With unity enforced, attention can turn to immediate needs. The next verses show Paul urging everyone to eat for strength, giving thanks to God, and the company taking food and courage. These preparations will enable them to act vigorously when daylight reveals a possible landing place.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Philippians 3:7
Howbeit what things were gain to me, these have I counted loss for Christ.
- Luke 16:8
And his lord commended the unrighteous steward because he had done wisely: for the sons of this world are for their own generation wiser than the sons of the light.
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