Acts 28:19
What does Acts 28:19 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 28:19 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 28:19 means
Because some Jews opposed his release, Paul was constrained to appeal to Cæsar, though he has no charges to bring against his nation. This statement reveals both his realism and his love. He navigates the legal system to preserve his life and mission while refusing to malign Israel. Paul distinguishes between opponents and the people he still longs to see saved. His appeal secures a hearing at the highest level and ensures his path to Rome, as the Lord had promised. By maintaining respect and goodwill, he seeks to keep doors open for the gospel among the very people to whom the promises were first given.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Cæsar; not that I had aught whereof to accuse my nation.
KJV
King James Version · 1611But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Cesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Cæsar; not that I had aught whereof to accuse my nation.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949But when the Jews made protest against it, I had to put my cause into Caesar's hands; not because I have anything to say against my nation.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and the Jews having spoken against <FI>it<Fi> , I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar--not as having anything to accuse my nation of;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752But the Jews contradicting it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar: not that I had anything to accuse my nation of.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But the Jews speaking against it, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, not as having anything to accuse my nation of.
Context
Paul’s narrative continues: Roman willingness to release (v. 18), Jewish opposition forcing appeal (v. 19), and now, in verse 20, the spiritual center—he is in chains for the hope of Israel. This sets up the leaders’ response in verses 21–22, which clears the way for a formal appointment to hear him out (v. 23). The flow moves from legal explanation to theological proclamation.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 25:21
But when Paul had appealed to be kept for the decision of the emperor, I commanded him to be kept till I should send him to Cæsar.
- 1 Peter 2:22
who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
- Acts 25:10
But Paul said, I am standing before Cæsar’s judgment-seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou also very well knowest.
- Acts 26:32
And Agrippa said unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Cæsar.
- Acts 25:25
But I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death: and as he himself appealed to the emperor I determined to send him.
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