Acts 16:19-26 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas… I. THE PRAYER (ver. 25). It is night. All are buried in slumber. A dark building — a lodging for the night, a prison. But light is in one of the cells — internal light, the light of faith. Therefore prayer and praise. II. THE SHOCK (vers. 26-28). Not only were the walls shaken, but the jailer's heart. Certainly at first a shock of anguish and despair. But eternal love watches and prevails. The comforting word. "We are all here." Hope returns; but he wishes to see his fortune and to grasp it with his hands (ver. 29). III. THE GREAT QUESTION (vers. 30-82). It is not entirely unpremeditated. Already the praying apostles have caused the presentiment of something higher to rise in him. Perhaps also earlier experiences in his dismal employment. The earthquake has ripened the slumbering seed. The apostles have not fled. How secure and happy they must be! What must I do that I may be the same? The great life question finds also a great life answer. There is one answer. Without Christ no one is saved; through Him all may be saved. IV. THE FIRST LOVE (vers. 33, 34). What is it? The attempt to make a return for what has been received — to do good to Christ in His servants. (Lisco.) Parallel Verses KJV: And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers, |
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