Acts 18:9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking; do not be silent.

◄ Acts 18:9 ►

New International Version
One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.

New Living Translation
One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and told him, “Don’t be afraid! Speak out! Don’t be silent!

English Standard Version
And the Lord said to Paul one night in a vision, “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent,

Berean Standard Bible
One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking; do not be silent.

Berean Literal Bible
Now the Lord said to Paul through a vision in the night, "Do not fear, but continue speaking, and do not be silent,

King James Bible
Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

New King James Version
Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;

New American Standard Bible
And the Lord said to Paul by a vision at night, “Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent;

NASB 1995
And the Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent;

NASB 1977
And the Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent;

Legacy Standard Bible
And the Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent;

Amplified Bible
One night the Lord said to Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid anymore, but go on speaking and do not be silent;

Christian Standard Bible
The Lord said to Paul in a night vision, “Don’t be afraid, but keep on speaking and don’t be silent.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Then the Lord said to Paul in a night vision, “Don’t be afraid, but keep on speaking and don’t be silent.

American Standard Version
And the Lord said unto Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak and hold not thy peace:

Contemporary English Version
One night, Paul had a vision, and in it the Lord said, "Don't be afraid to keep on preaching. Don't stop!

English Revised Version
And the Lord said unto Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

GOD'S WORD® Translation
One night the Lord said to Paul in a vision, "Don't be afraid to speak out! Don't be silent!

Good News Translation
One night Paul had a vision in which the Lord said to him, "Do not be afraid, but keep on speaking and do not give up,

International Standard Version
One night, the Lord told Paul in a vision, "Stop being afraid to speak out! Don't remain silent!

Majority Standard Bible
One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: ?Do not be afraid; keep on speaking; do not be silent.

NET Bible
The Lord said to Paul by a vision in the night, "Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent,

New Heart English Bible
The Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent;

Webster's Bible Translation
Then the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

Weymouth New Testament
And, in a vision by night, the Lord said to Paul, "Dismiss your fears: go on speaking, and do not give up.

World English Bible
The Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, “Don’t be afraid, but speak and don’t be silent;

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
And the LORD said through a vision in the night to Paul, “Do not be afraid, but be speaking and you may not be silent;

Berean Literal Bible
Now the Lord said to Paul through a vision in the night, "Do not fear, but continue speaking, and do not be silent,

Young's Literal Translation
And the Lord said through a vision in the night to Paul, 'Be not afraid, but be speaking and thou mayest be not silent;

Smith's Literal Translation
And the Lord said through a vision by night to Paul, Fear not, but speak, and thou shouldest not be silent:

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
And the Lord said to Paul in the nights, by a vision: Do not fear, but speak; and hold not thy peace,

Catholic Public Domain Version
Then the Lord said to Paul, through a vision in the night: “Do not be afraid. Instead, speak out and do not be silent.

New American Bible
One night in a vision the Lord said to Paul, “Do not be afraid. Go on speaking, and do not be silent,

New Revised Standard Version
One night the Lord said to Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent;

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
Then the LORD spoke to Paul in a vision, Be not afraid, but speak and be not silent.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
And THE LORD JEHOVAH said in a vision to Paulus, “Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent,

NT Translations

Anderson New Testament
And the Lord spoke to Paul by a vision in the night: Fear not; but speak, and be not silent;

Godbey New Testament
And the Lord spoke to Paul in the night through a vision, Fear not, but speak, and be not silent:

Haweis New Testament
Then spake the Lord in a vision by night to Paul, Fear not, but speak; and hold not thy peace:

Mace New Testament
then the Lord said to Paul in a vision by night, "be not afraid, but speak, and be not silenc'd:

Weymouth New Testament
And, in a vision by night, the Lord said to Paul, "Dismiss your fears: go on speaking, and do not give up.

Worrell New Testament
And the Lord said to Paul, through a vision by night, "Fear not, but speak, and be not silent;

Worsley New Testament
And the Lord said to Paul by a vision in the night, "Fear not, but speak: and be not silent:

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

Paul's Ministry in Corinth
…8Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his whole household believed in the Lord. And many of the Corinthians who heard the message believed and were baptized. 9One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking; do not be silent. 10For I am with you and no one will lay a hand on you, because I have many people in this city.”…

Berean Standard Bible · Download

Cross References

Matthew 28:19-20
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, / and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Isaiah 41:10
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Jeremiah 1:8
Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you,” declares the LORD.

Matthew 10:19-20
But when they hand you over, do not worry about how to respond or what to say. In that hour you will be given what to say. / For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.

Isaiah 43:5
Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east and gather you from the west.

2 Timothy 4:17
But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message would be fully proclaimed, and all the Gentiles would hear it. So I was delivered from the mouth of the lion.

Ezekiel 2:6
But you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words. Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns surround you, and you dwell among scorpions. Do not be afraid of their words or dismayed by their presence, though they are a rebellious house.

Jeremiah 1:17
Get yourself ready. Stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not be intimidated by them, or I will terrify you before them.

Matthew 28:10
“Do not be afraid,” said Jesus. “Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee. There they will see Me.”

Isaiah 51:12
“I, even I, am He who comforts you. Why should you be afraid of mortal man, of a son of man who withers like grass?

Luke 12:11-12
When you are brought before synagogues, rulers, and authorities, do not worry about how to defend yourselves or what to say. / For at that time the Holy Spirit will teach you what you should say.”

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.

Isaiah 44:8
Do not tremble or fear. Have I not told you and declared it long ago? You are My witnesses! Is there any God but Me? There is no other Rock; I know not one.”

Treasury of Scripture

Then spoke the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not your peace:

spake.

Acts 16:9
And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.

Acts 22:18
And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.

Acts 23:11
And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.

Be.

Isaiah 58:1
Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.

Jeremiah 1:17
Thou therefore gird up thy loins, and arise, and speak unto them all that I command thee: be not dismayed at their faces, lest I confound thee before them.

Ezekiel 2:6-8
And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house…

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Acts 18

1. Paul labors with his hands, and preaches at Corinth to the Gentiles.
9. The Lord encourages him in a vision.
12. He is accused before Gallio the deputy, but is dismissed.
18. Afterwards passing from city to city, he strengthens the disciples.
24. Apollos, being instructed by Aquila and Priscilla, preaches Christ boldly.

Berean Study Bible

One night
This phrase sets the scene for a divine encounter, emphasizing the timing and setting of God's intervention. In biblical narratives, nighttime often symbolizes a period of vulnerability or uncertainty, yet it is also a time when God reveals His will, as seen in other scriptural accounts like Jacob's dream (Genesis 28:12). The use of "night" here underscores the personal and intimate nature of God's communication with Paul, suggesting that even in moments of darkness or doubt, God is present and active.

the Lord spoke
The phrase indicates direct divine communication, a hallmark of prophetic experiences in the Bible. The Greek word for "spoke" (λαλέω, laleó) implies a verbal, clear, and authoritative message. This is not a mere impression or feeling but a distinct and unmistakable word from the Lord, affirming the authority and certainty of the message Paul receives. It highlights the personal relationship between God and His servants, where God actively guides and instructs.

to Paul
This personal address signifies the specific calling and mission of Paul as an apostle to the Gentiles. Paul's background as a former persecutor of Christians and his dramatic conversion (Acts 9) make him a unique vessel for God's work. The direct communication to Paul underscores his pivotal role in the early Church and the spread of the Gospel. It also serves as a reminder that God equips and encourages those He calls, regardless of their past.

in a vision
Visions are a common means of divine revelation in Scripture, often used to convey God's plans or encouragement. The Greek word for "vision" (ὅραμα, horama) suggests a supernatural sight or experience beyond ordinary perception. This method of communication assures Paul of the reality and urgency of God's message. Visions in the Bible often serve to strengthen faith and provide direction, as seen in the experiences of prophets like Daniel and Ezekiel.

Do not be afraid
This command is a frequent divine reassurance found throughout Scripture, from God's words to Abraham (Genesis 15:1) to Jesus' encouragement to His disciples (John 14:27). The Greek phrase (μὴ φοβοῦ, mē phobou) is an imperative, urging Paul to reject fear and embrace faith. It acknowledges the natural human tendency towards fear, especially in the face of opposition, and counters it with divine assurance. This encouragement is vital for Paul, who faced significant challenges and persecution in his ministry.

keep on speaking
The instruction to "keep on speaking" emphasizes the importance of perseverance in proclaiming the Gospel. The Greek verb (λαλεῖν, lalein) is in the present active imperative, indicating continuous action. Paul is encouraged to persist in his mission despite obstacles. This directive highlights the power and necessity of the spoken word in spreading the Christian message and the role of the apostle as a herald of truth.

do not be silent
This phrase reinforces the previous command, underscoring the urgency and importance of vocal witness. The Greek word for "silent" (σιωπήσῃς, siopēsēs) suggests a cessation of speech, which Paul is explicitly told to avoid. In the context of Corinth, where Paul was ministering, this command is particularly poignant, as the city was known for its diverse and often contentious environment. The call to not be silent is a reminder of the transformative power of the Gospel and the necessity of its proclamation in all circumstances.

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(9) Then spake the Lord to Paul.--We note the recurrence of these visions at each great crisis of the Apostle's life. He had seen the Lord at his conversion (Acts 9:4-6), he had heard the same voice and seen the same form in his trance in the Temple at Jerusalem (Acts 22:17). Now he saw and heard them once more. "In visions of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men," he passed from the strife of tongues into the presence of the Divine Friend. The words "Be not afraid" imply that he too was subject to fear and depression, and felt keenly the trial of seeming failure and comparative isolation. His converts came chiefly from the slave or freed-man class, and those of a culture like his own, whether Greeks or Jews, were slow to accept his preaching (1Corinthians 1:26-27). And then, too, he carried, as it were, his life in his hands. The reviling of the Jews might any hour burst into furious violence or deliberate plots of assassination. No wonder that he needed the gracious words, "Be not afraid." The temptation of such a moment of human weakness was to fall back, when words seem fruitless, into the safety of silence, and therefore the command followed, "Speak, and hold not thy peace." We are reminded of the like passing mood of discouragement in one great crisis of Elijah's life (1Kings 19:4-14), yet more, perhaps, of its frequent recurrence in Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:6-8; Jeremiah 15:15-21). . . .

Pulpit Commentary

Verse 9. - And the Lord said unto for then spake the Lord to, A.V. A vision (ὅραμα); literally, a thing seen, but always used of a wonderful "sight:" Matthew 17:9 of the Transfiguration, Acts 7:31 of the burning bush. But more commonly of a "vision," as in Acts 9:10, 12; Acts 10:3, 17, 19; Acts 11:5; Acts 12:9; Acts 16:9. So in the LXX. (Genesis 46:2, etc.). St. Paul received a similar gracious token of the Lord's watchful care of him soon after his conversion (Acts 22:17-21). He tells us that then he was in an "ecstasy," or trance. The ἔκστασις describes the mental condition of the person who sees an ὅραμαα.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Greek

One
δὲ (de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.

night
νυκτὶ (nykti)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3571: The night, night-time. A primary word; 'night'.

the
ὁ (ho)
Article - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

Lord
Κύριος (Kyrios)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2962: Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.

spoke
Εἶπεν (Eipen)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2036: Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.

to Paul
Παύλῳ (Paulō)
Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3972: Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle.

in
δι’ (di’)
Preposition
Strong's 1223: A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.

a vision:
ὁράματος (horamatos)
Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 3705: A spectacle, vision, that which is seen. From horao; something gazed at, i.e. A spectacle.

“{Do} not
Μὴ (Mē)
Adverb
Strong's 3361: Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.

be afraid;
φοβοῦ (phobou)
Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 5399: From phobos; to frighten, i.e. to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. Revere.

keep on speaking;
λάλει (lalei)
Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 2980: A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words.

{do} not
μὴ (mē)
Adverb
Strong's 3361: Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.

be silent.
σιωπήσῃς (siōpēsēs)
Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 4623: To keep silence, be silent, either voluntarily or involuntarily. From siope; to be dumb; figuratively, to be calm.

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NT Apostles: Acts 18:9 The Lord said to Paul (Acts of the Apostles Ac)