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The Philippian Jailer

Matthew Riley
08/15/21 - Sunday Bible Study

Series: Activities of the Apostles

Bible Reference: Acts 16:25-40

Thought Questions:

1. What were Paul and Silas doing in the inner prison and about what time were they doing this?
    
2. Why would this seem like odd behavior? What had happened to them earlier that evening?
    
3. In verse 25, the KIng James Version says, "and the prisoners heard them," while the NASB, ASV, NKJV, and ESV all translate this as, "The prisoners were listening to them." Is there a difference here?  Could this be an explanation for the prisoners' condition in verse 28?
    
4. Witnessing what the jailer did, what was his reasoning for almost taking his own life?  After bringing Paul and Silas, "out," what was his next question?
    
5. Notice the response was, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved." Is this a proof text for the, "Belief Only/Faith Only," doctrine?  Is that what this scripture is reaching? How do we know there is more involved using this immediate context?
    
6. Please note in verses 31, 33, and 34 it refers to his, "household," "all his household," and "whole household."  Is this a proof text for infant baptism?  How would we argue against that premise in this immediate context?
    
7. Describe the series of events from verse 31 through verse 34.  Is there more represented here than simple belief?  Do we see behaviors here that suggest other hallmarks from the plan of salvation?
    
8. Paul's response in verse 37 shows us some important things.  Do you think it was Paul's anger or embarrassment that led to this response?  Or do you think this response was necessary for the health and morale of the Lord's church in that area?