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The commanding officer answered, "I bought my citizenship for a great price." Paul said, "But I was born a Roman."
Verse Takeaways
1
A Tale of Two Citizens
The Roman commander, Claudius Lysias, reveals he paid a "great sum" for his citizenship, a common practice that highlights its immense value. In a moment of dramatic contrast, Paul declares, "But I was born a citizen." Commentators explain this exchange underscores Paul's unexpectedly high social standing, which he inherited rather than purchased, immediately changing the power dynamic.
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7
18th Century
Presbyterian
With a great sum obtained I this freedom. The freedom mentioned is the privilege of Roman citizenship. From this, it would seem that the p…
With a great sum (πολλου κεφαλαιου). The use of κεφαλαιου (from κεφαλη, head) for sums of money (principal as distinct from intere…
19th Century
Anglican
With a great sum obtained I this freedom.—Better, this citizenship, the word expressing, not the transition from…
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At this time, Roman citizenship (GK 4486; also 4871) was a highly prized right conferred only on those of high social or governmental standing, tho…
16th Century
Protestant
With a great sum. The chief captain raises this objection to refute him, as if to say that freedom of the city is not so common and easily…
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
And the chief captain answered, with a great sum obtained I this freedom For, it seems, he was not a Roma…
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The Jews listened to Paul's account of his conversion, but the mention of his being sent to the Gentiles was so contrary to all their national prej…
