Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another.
ACTS 19:38KJVWhat does Acts 19:38 mean?
Acts 19:38 means that if Demetrius and the craftsmen have a legal complaint against anyone, they should take their case to the proper public courts and officials, rather than causing a public disturbance. The verse points people toward lawful ways of settling disputes instead of resorting to mob action.
In this verse, a city official in Ephesus is addressing a crowd that has gathered in protest, stirred up by Demetrius, a silversmith, and other craftsmen who felt threatened by Paul's preaching. The official reminds them that there are legal procedures ("the law is open, and there are deputies") for handling grievances, urging them to use the courts rather than creating chaos in the streets.
The Greek behind Acts 19:38
- νόμος (nomos, "law") — The Greek word for "law" here refers to the established legal system of the city. The official is emphasizing that there are proper, recognized ways to resolve disputes.
- ἄγονται (agontai, "is open") — This word is often understood as "being held" or "in session," suggesting that the courts are currently available for use, not closed off or inaccessible.
- ἀνθύπατοι (anthypatoi, "deputies") — This term refers to Roman officials or proconsuls. Mentioning them shows that there are legitimate authorities present to hear cases, reinforcing the call for order.
- ἐγκαλεῖτωσαν (egkaleitosan, "let them implead") — This verb means to formally accuse or bring charges against someone in court. The official is urging the aggrieved parties to use the proper legal channels.
Why Acts 19:38 matters
- Acts 19:38 clears up that the city had an organized legal system, and people were expected to use it rather than take justice into their own hands.
- The verse highlights the difference between lawful action and mob violence, showing the importance of due process even in times of tension.
- This moment connects to the wider passage by showing how the early Christian movement sometimes caused social upheaval, but also how local authorities could act to maintain peace and fairness.