Definition: And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing [him] said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Acts 20:10. It's a really powerful and significant passage about how Paul approaches a situation. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Paul is facing a difficult and potentially dangerous situation – he’s being attacked or threatened. He immediately recognizes that the person he’s dealing with might be in danger, and he’s taking action to protect them. Let's unpack each part: “And Paul went down, and fell on him…” : This describes Paul’s immediate response – he’s physically vulnerable and is being attacked. “…and embracing [him] said…” : This is the crucial part. He embraces (or wraps his arms around) the person. It's a gesture of protection, of offering support. “said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.”” : This is the core message. Paul says, “Don’t worry about yourself! His life is secure with me.” What it means on a deeper level: This verse highlights several important ideas: Trust & Dependence: Paul is placing his trust and reliance entirely on the person he's dealing with. He isn't relying solely on himself, but on something else – God’s provision for him. God’s Protection: It emphasizes that God is actively working to protect someone, even when they seem vulnerable. Focus on the Source: It’s a reminder to not focus on our own worries and anxieties. Our security comes from God, not ourselves. In short, this verse is a powerful declaration of faith – that God's love and protection are available to us, even in difficult times. --- Does that explanation make sense? Would you like me to: Explain it further with examples? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Acts 20?