Acts 14:8 (KJV)

What does Acts 14:8 mean?

Acts 14:8 describes a man in the city of Lystra who had been unable to use his feet since birth and had never walked. The verse sets the scene by introducing this man’s lifelong disability, highlighting that he was sitting there as Paul and Barnabas arrived.

The writer, Luke, is telling the story of Paul’s travels and ministry. This verse introduces a specific individual in Lystra, making it clear that his condition was not temporary or recent—he had never walked at all. This detail prepares the reader for the miracle that is about to happen, emphasizing the seriousness and permanence of the man’s disability.

The Greek behind Acts 14:8

• ἀδύνατος (adynatos, G102): Translated as "impotent," this word means powerless or unable. Here, it stresses that the man’s feet had no strength or ability to function.
• χωλός (chōlos, G5560): This word, translated as "cripple," specifically refers to someone who is lame or unable to walk. It highlights the nature of his disability.
• ἐκ κοιλίας μητρός (ek koilias mētros, G1537 G2836 G3384): This phrase means "from his mother’s womb," making it clear that the man’s condition was congenital, not the result of an accident or illness later in life.
• οὐδέποτε (oudepote, G3763): Translated as "never," this word underscores that the man had absolutely no experience of walking, which makes what follows even more remarkable.

Why Acts 14:8 matters

• Acts 14:8 clarifies that the man’s disability was lifelong, removing any doubt about the seriousness of his condition and setting up the significance of the coming miracle.
• The verse emphasizes the helplessness of the man, which draws attention to the power of God that will be displayed through Paul.
• By introducing this man in detail, the verse connects the reader to the wider story of Paul’s ministry, showing how the gospel reached people in desperate and visible need.