Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

ACTS 18:9KJV
Know the Bible

Acts 18:9 (KJV)

What does Acts 18:9 mean?

Acts 18:9 describes how the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision at night, telling him not to be afraid but to keep speaking and not to remain silent. The verse shows that Paul was given direct encouragement from God to continue his work boldly, even in the face of possible danger or opposition.

In this scene, Paul is in Corinth, a city where he faced both interest and hostility as he shared the message about Jesus. The Lord’s message comes to Paul during the night, specifically instructing him not to fear (implying there was reason for concern) and to keep speaking out rather than staying quiet. This moment highlights God’s personal guidance and reassurance to Paul during a challenging time in his ministry.

The Greek behind Acts 18:9

  • “Be not afraid” uses the Greek word φοβοῦ (phobou, from G5399), which means “do not fear.” The command is direct and personal, showing that Paul may have felt real anxiety or hesitation.
  • “Speak” is from the Greek word λάλει (lalei, from G2980), which means “keep on speaking” or “continue to speak.” The verb is present tense, suggesting ongoing action rather than a one-time event.
  • “Hold not thy peace” uses the Greek word σιωπήσῃς (siōpēsēs, from G4623), meaning “do not be silent” or “do not keep quiet.” The phrase emphasizes that Paul should not withdraw or stop sharing his message, even if he feels pressure to do so.

Why Acts 18:9 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that Paul always felt bold and unshakable; it shows he needed reassurance and support, just like anyone facing tough circumstances.
  • The emphasis on speaking and not being silent underlines the importance of continuing to share the message, even when it is difficult or risky.
  • Acts 18:9 connects to the wider story by showing how God’s direct encouragement helped Paul persevere in Corinth, leading to a significant period of ministry in that city.

Where else these words appear

“hold” Greek G4623 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 20:31 And the multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: but they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David.
  • Mark 4:39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
  • Mark 14:61 But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?

“vision” Greek G3705 · used in 12 verses

  • Matthew 17:9 And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.
  • Acts 9:12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.
  • Acts 11:5 I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:

“night” Greek G3571 · used in 62 verses

  • Matthew 2:14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:
  • Luke 21:37 And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the mount of Olives.
  • Acts 27:23 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve,

“Be” Greek G5399 · used in 90 verses

  • Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
  • Luke 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
  • Acts 13:16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.