16 And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him.

Other Translations of Acts 28:16

New International Version

16 When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.

English Standard Version

16 And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier that guarded him.

The Message

16 When we actually entered Rome, they let Paul live in his own private quarters with a soldier who had been assigned to guard him.

New King James Version

16 Now when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard; but Paul was permitted to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him.

New Living Translation

16 When we arrived in Rome, Paul was permitted to have his own private lodging, though he was guarded by a soldier.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 28:16

Commentary on Acts 28:11-16

(Read Acts 28:11-16)

The common events of travelling are seldom worthy of being told; but the comfort of communion with the saints, and kindness shown by friends, deserve particular mention. The Christians at Rome were so far from being ashamed of Paul, or afraid of owning him, because he was a prisoner, that they were the more careful to show him respect. He had great comfort in this. And if our friends are kind to us, God puts it into their hearts, and we must give him the glory. When we see those even in strange places, who bear Christ's name, fear God, and serve him, we should lift up our hearts to heaven in thanksgiving. How many great men have made their entry into Rome, crowned and in triumph, who really were plagues to the world! But here a good man makes his entry into Rome, chained as a poor captive, who was a greater blessing to the world than any other merely a man. Is not this enough to put us for ever out of conceit with worldly favour? This may encourage God's prisoners, that he can give them favour in the eyes of those that carry them captives. When God does not soon deliver his people out of bondage, yet makes it easy to them, or them easy under it, they have reason to be thankful.

20 For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.

Other Translations of Acts 28:20

New International Version

20 For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain."

English Standard Version

20 For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain."

The Message

20 I did it for Israel. I asked you to come and listen to me today to make it clear that I'm on Israel's side, not against her. I'm a hostage here for hope, not doom."

New King James Version

20 For this reason therefore I have called for you, to see you and speak with you, because for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain."

New Living Translation

20 I asked you to come here today so we could get acquainted and so I could explain to you that I am bound with this chain because I believe that the hope of Israel-the Messiah-has already come."

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 28:20

Commentary on Acts 28:17-22

(Read Acts 28:17-22)

It was for the honour of Paul that those who examined his case, acquitted him. In his appeal he sought not to accuse his nation, but only to clear himself. True Christianity settles what is of common concern to all mankind, and is not built upon narrow opinions and private interests. It aims at no worldly benefit or advantage, but all its gains are spiritual and eternal. It is, and always has been, the lot of Christ's holy religion, to be every where spoken against. Look through every town and village where Christ is exalted as the only Saviour of mankind, and where the people are called to follow him in newness of life, and we see those who give themselves up to Christ, still called a sect, a party, and reproached. And this is the treatment they are sure to receive, so long as there shall continue an ungodly man upon earth.