Acts 23:25 (KJV)

What does Acts 23:25 mean?

Acts 23:25 describes how someone wrote a letter in a particular style or following a certain pattern. The verse sets up the content of the letter that is about to be shared in the following verses.

In this part of the story, the Roman commander (Claudius Lysias) is writing to the governor (Felix) about the apostle Paul. The commander wants to explain why Paul is being sent to the governor, so he writes an official letter. This verse simply introduces that letter, letting the reader know that what follows is the text of the message.

The Greek behind Acts 23:25

• "wrote" (ἔγραψεν, egrapsen): This word means to write, often in the sense of writing a formal document or letter, which fits the official nature of this communication.
• "letter" (ἐπιστολήν, epistolēn): This is the usual Greek word for a written message or letter, especially one sent to communicate important information.
• "after" (περιέχουσαν, periechousan): This word is often understood as "containing" or "in the following manner," indicating that what comes next is the content or style of the letter.
• "this" (ταύτην, tautēn): This points to the specific manner or form being described, signaling that the letter will follow the pattern about to be shown.
• "manner" (τύπον, typon): This word means a pattern, form, or example. Here, it refers to the style or format in which the letter was written, suggesting it follows a typical official format.

Why Acts 23:25 matters

• Acts 23:25 helps the reader understand that the following verses are not just a summary, but the actual text of an official Roman letter, giving historical context to Paul's situation.
• The verse highlights the formal and careful way the Roman authorities handled Paul's case, which is important for understanding the legal and political environment of the time.
• By introducing the letter in this way, Acts emphasizes the seriousness and official nature of the events, showing that Paul's case was significant enough to require written documentation to a higher authority.