Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you.

ACTS 22:1KJV
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Acts 22:1 (KJV)

What does Acts 22:1 mean?

Acts 22:1 shows Paul respectfully addressing a crowd in Jerusalem, asking them to listen as he explains and defends his actions and beliefs. Paul appeals to his listeners as fellow Jews—calling them "men, brethren, and fathers"—and requests their attention for his defense.

Paul is speaking to a hostile Jewish audience after being arrested at the temple. By using respectful and familiar terms, Paul tries to connect with the crowd and calm tensions. This verse sets the stage for Paul’s speech, where he will explain his background and why he follows Jesus, hoping to clear up misunderstandings about his faith and actions.

The Greek behind Acts 22:1

  • ἀπολογία (apologia, G627): This word, translated "defence," means a reasoned explanation or formal answer to accusations. Paul is not just making excuses but giving a thoughtful, structured account of his actions and beliefs.
  • ἀδελφοί (adelphoi, G80): Translated "brethren," this term means "brothers" and emphasizes Paul's shared heritage and kinship with his listeners, showing he sees himself as one of them.
  • πατέρες (pateres, G3962): Translated "fathers," this respectful address refers to elders or leaders among the people, showing Paul's honor for their authority and experience.

Why Acts 22:1 matters

  • Acts 22:1 shows Paul’s strategy of building common ground with his audience, which is important for understanding how he communicates in tense situations.
  • The verse highlights the formal setting: Paul is not just speaking casually but making a legal-style defense, which frames the rest of his speech.
  • This introduction helps the reader see Paul’s respect for Jewish tradition and authority, even as he explains his faith in Jesus.

Where else these words appear

“defence” Greek G627 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 25:16 To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him.
  • 2 Corinthians 7:11 For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
  • Philippians 1:17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.

“now” Greek G3568 · used in 133 verses

  • Matthew 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
  • John 21:10 Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:2 I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: