Definition: And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul to morrow into the council, as though they would inquire somewhat of him more perfectly.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 23:20. It's a really important and slightly complex passage about forgiveness and understanding. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Paul is feeling incredibly frustrated with someone – likely a Jewish man named Aquila – who is arguing with him and trying to convince him to leave the church. He feels like Aquila is trying to trick him into something he doesn't want to do. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he said…” : This tells us Paul is speaking directly to someone. “…The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul to morrow into the council…” : This is the core of the message. "The Jews" refers to a group of people who are arguing with Paul, and they've agreed – meaning they’ve made a decision – to get him to meet with them in a specific location (the “council”). They want to talk to him about something. “Thou” is a formal way of addressing someone, implying a significant level of importance or authority. “…as though they would inquire somewhat of him more perfectly.” : This is the key part. Paul is interpreting their actions as if they are trying to understand him better. They're not just arguing; they’re subtly probing and trying to get to the bottom of his reasons for staying with them. So, what does this all mean practically? Paul is feeling like Aquila isn't truly listening to him or respecting his truth. He’s feeling that Aquila is manipulating the situation to pressure him into doing something he doesn’t want to do – likely to leave the church. The Significance: This verse highlights several important themes: Understanding over Argument: It shows that Paul isn't just reacting to arguments; he's trying to understand why people are arguing in the first place. Respecting Truth: It emphasizes that Paul values his own truth and doesn’t want to be manipulated. Forgiveness and Grace: It suggests a willingness to forgive someone who is being difficult, even if they aren't doing it out of good intentions. In short, this verse shows a moment where Paul felt deeply challenged and determined to protect his own beliefs and principles. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail (like its timing)?