@ -1111,7 +1111,7 @@ Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNo
1SA 24 21 lj2i 0 you will not cut off my descendants after me “you will not kill my sons and their families.” It was common for a new king who was not from the previous family line to kill off all the children of the former king to prevent any of them from challenging him for the throne.
1SA 24 21 hr5u figs-metonymy 0 you will not destroy my name out of my father’s house It is important for each family in Israel to have descendants from generation to generation carrying on the family name and land inheritance. Alternate translation: “you will not destroy my family and descendants” or “you will allow my family to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 24 22 yhv6 0 David and his men “David and his army”
1SA 25 intro abcp 0 # 1 Samuel 25 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Revenge<br>When David decides to kill all of the men in Nabal’s household, Abigail convinces David not to avenge himself but to leave revenge to God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]])<br>
1SA 25 intro abcp 0 # 1 Samuel 25 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Revenge<br>When David decides to kill all of the men in Nabal’s household, Abigail convinces David not to avenge himself but to leave revenge to God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]])
1SA 25 1 nvn1 figs-hyperbole 0 All Israel gathered together and mourned for him This is likely a generalization. A large number of the people of Israel were probably there, but some were probably unable to attend. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 25 1 xdb3 0 gathered together “met together”
1SA 25 1 n1il 0 buried him in his house at Ramah Possible meanings are that they buried Samuel (1) in his home town of Ramah or (2) on his family’s land in Ramah but not physically in the house or (3) in his house in Ramah.
1
Book
Chapter
Verse
ID
SupportReference
OrigQuote
Occurrence
GLQuote
OccurrenceNote
1111
1SA
24
21
lj2i
0
you will not cut off my descendants after me
“you will not kill my sons and their families.” It was common for a new king who was not from the previous family line to kill off all the children of the former king to prevent any of them from challenging him for the throne.
1112
1SA
24
21
hr5u
figs-metonymy
0
you will not destroy my name out of my father’s house
It is important for each family in Israel to have descendants from generation to generation carrying on the family name and land inheritance. Alternate translation: “you will not destroy my family and descendants” or “you will allow my family to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1113
1SA
24
22
yhv6
0
David and his men
“David and his army”
1114
1SA
25
intro
abcp
0
# 1 Samuel 25 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Revenge<br>When David decides to kill all of the men in Nabal’s household, Abigail convinces David not to avenge himself but to leave revenge to God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]])<br># 1 Samuel 25 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Revenge<br>When David decides to kill all of the men in Nabal’s household, Abigail convinces David not to avenge himself but to leave revenge to God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]])
1115
1SA
25
1
nvn1
figs-hyperbole
0
All Israel gathered together and mourned for him
This is likely a generalization. A large number of the people of Israel were probably there, but some were probably unable to attend. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1116
1SA
25
1
xdb3
0
gathered together
“met together”
1117
1SA
25
1
n1il
0
buried him in his house at Ramah
Possible meanings are that they buried Samuel (1) in his home town of Ramah or (2) on his family’s land in Ramah but not physically in the house or (3) in his house in Ramah.
@ -338,7 +338,7 @@ PSA 14 6 ysx7 figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh is his refuge This speaks of the protectio
PSA 14 7 uji3 figs-exclamations 0 Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion! This is an exclamation. The writer is saying what he wishes or longs for God to do. Alternate translation: “I wish so much that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
PSA 14 7 xxx6 figs-metonymy 0 Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion! Here “the salvation of Israel” is a metonym for Yahweh, the one who saves Israel. Alternate translation: “Oh, that Yahweh would come from Zion and save Israel!” or “I wish that Yahweh would come from Zion and rescue his people Israel!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PSA 14 7 h25q figs-parallelism 0 then Jacob will rejoice and Israel will be glad These two phrases mean the same thing. Here both “Jacob” and “Israel” represent the people of Israel. The two phrases can be combined in the translation. Alternate translation: “then all the people of Israel will rejoice greatly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
PSA 15 intro j6s2 0 # Psalm 015 General Notes<br>## Type of psalm<br><br>Psalm 15 is a wisdom psalm telling how people who honor God should live. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/life]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Godliness<br>This psalm outlines a person who is godly and sees others from a godly perspective. There are several good actions mentioned. Such a person treats his neighbor right, does not slander him, does not take a bribe or interest from him, and keeps his promises even when it is difficult to do so. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/good]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]])<br><br>### Moral Conditions for Worship<br><br>Scholars have noted that this psalm contains a list of ten different conditions for those who want to participate in worship at the temple. The list consists of three positives in verse 2, 3 negatives in verse 3, two positives in verse 4, followed by two negatives in verse 5. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]])<br>
PSA 15 intro j6s2 0 # Psalm 015 General Notes<br>## Type of psalm<br><br>Psalm 15 is a wisdom psalm telling how people who honor God should live. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/life]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Godliness<br>This psalm outlines a person who is godly and sees others from a godly perspective. There are several good actions mentioned. Such a person treats his neighbor right, does not slander him, does not take a bribe or interest from him, and keeps his promises even when it is difficult to do so. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/good]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]])<br><br>### Moral Conditions for Worship<br><br>Scholars have noted that this psalm contains a list of ten different conditions for those who want to participate in worship at the temple. The list consists of three positives in verse 2, 3 negatives in verse 3, two positives in verse 4, followed by two negatives in verse 5. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]])
PSA 15 1 u6j8 writing-poetry 0 General Information: Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
PSA 15 1 sql5 figs-metonymy 0 Who may live on your holy hill? God’s “holy hill” represents God’s temple, which was on Mount Zion. Alternate translation: “Who may live in your holy place?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PSA 15 2 jg77 0 speaks truth from his heart “speaks honestly”
Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote
ACT front intro mw28 0 # Introduction to Acts<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of Acts<br><br>1. The beginning of the church and its mission (1:1–2:41)<br>1. The early church in Jerusalem (2:42–6:7)<br>1. Increasing opposition and the martyrdom of Steven (6:8–7:60)<br>1. The persecution of the church and Philip’s ministry (8:1–40)<br>1. Paul becomes an apostle (9:1–31)<br>1. The ministry of Peter and the first Gentile converts (9:32–12:24)<br>1. Paul, the apostle to Gentiles, the Jewish law, and council of church leaders at Jerusalem (12:25–16:5)<br>1. The expansion of the church into the middle Mediterranean area and Asia Minor (16:6–19:20)<br>1. Paul travels to Jerusalem and becomes a prisoner in Rome (19:21–28:31)<br><br>### What is the Book of Acts about?<br><br>The Book of Acts tells the story of the early church as more and more people became believers. It shows the power of the Holy Spirit helping the early Christians. The events in this book began when Jesus went back to heaven and ended about thirty years later.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “The Acts of the Apostles.” Or translators may choose a title that may be clearer, for example, “The Acts of the Holy Spirit through the Apostles.”<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of Acts?<br><br>This book does not give the name of the author. However, it is addressed to Theophilus, the same person to whom the Gospel of Luke is addressed. Also, in parts of the book, the author uses the word “we.” This indicates that the author traveled with Paul. Most scholars think that Luke was this person traveling with Paul. Therefore, since early Christian times, most Christians have thought Luke is the author of the Book of Acts as well as the Gospel of Luke.<br><br>Luke was a medical doctor. His way of writing shows that he was an educated man. He was probably a Gentile. He saw many of the events described in the Book of Acts.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What is the Church?<br><br>The Church is the group of people who believe in Christ. The Church includes both Jew and Gentile believers. The events in this book show God helping the Church. He empowered believers to live righteous lives through his Holy Spirit.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Acts?<br><br>These are the most significant textual issues in Acts:<br><br>The following verses are found in older versions of the Bible, but they are not in the best ancient copies of the Bible. Some modern versions put the verses in square brackets ([]). The ULT and UST put them in a footnote.<br><br>* “Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may be baptized.’ The Ethiopian answered, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God’” (Acts 8:37).<br>* “But it seemed good to Silas to remain there.” (Acts 15:34)<br>* “And we wanted to judge him according to our law. But Lysias, the officer, came and forcibly took him out of our hands, sending him to you.” (Acts 24:6b-8a)<br>* “When he had said these things, the Jews departed, having a great dispute among themselves.” (Acts 28:29)<br><br>In the following verses, it is uncertain what the original text said. Translators will need to choose which reading to translate. The ULT has the first readings but include the second readings in footnotes.<br>* “They returned from Jerusalem” (Acts 12:25). Some versions read, “They returned to Jerusalem (or to there).”<br>* “he put up with them” (Acts 13:18). Some versions read, “he cared for them.”<br>* “This is what the Lord says, who has done these things that have been known from ancient times.” (Acts 15:17-18). Some older versions read, “This is what the Lord says, to whom are known all his deeds from ancient times.”<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])<br>
ACT 1 intro vyg9 0 # Acts 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter records an event, commonly known as the “Ascension,” when Jesus returned to heaven after he became alive again. He will not come back until he returns at his “second coming.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/resurrection]])<br><br>The UST has set the words “Dear Theophilus” apart from the other words. This is because English speakers often start letters this way. You might want to start this book the way people start letters in your culture.<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the two quotes from Psalms in 1:20.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Baptize<br><br>The word “baptize” has two meanings in this chapter. It refers to the water baptism of John and to the baptism of the Holy Spirit ([Acts 1:5](../../act/01/05.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/baptize]])<br><br>### “He spoke about the kingdom of God”<br><br>Some scholars believe that when Jesus “spoke about the kingdom of God,” he explained to the disciples why the kingdom of God did not come before he died. Others believe that the kingdom of God did begin while Jesus was alive and that here Jesus was explaining that it was beginning in a new form.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### The twelve disciples<br><br>The following are the lists of the twelve disciples:<br><br>In Matthew:<br><br>Simon (Peter), Andrew, James son of Zebedee, John son of Zebedee, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot.<br><br>In Mark:<br><br>Simon (Peter), Andrew, James the son of Zebedee and John the son of Zebedee (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder), Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot.<br><br>In Luke:<br><br>Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon (who was called the Zealot), Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot.<br><br>Thaddaeus is probably the same person as Jude, the son of James.<br><br>### Akeldama<br><br>This is a phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic. Luke used Greek letters so his readers would know how it sounded, and then he told what it means. You should probably spell it the way it sounds in your language and then explain the meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])<br>
ACT front intro mw28 0 # Introduction to Acts<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of Acts<br><br>1. The beginning of the church and its mission (1:1–2:41)<br>1. The early church in Jerusalem (2:42–6:7)<br>1. Increasing opposition and the martyrdom of Steven (6:8–7:60)<br>1. The persecution of the church and Philip’s ministry (8:1–40)<br>1. Paul becomes an apostle (9:1–31)<br>1. The ministry of Peter and the first Gentile converts (9:32–12:24)<br>1. Paul, the apostle to Gentiles, the Jewish law, and council of church leaders at Jerusalem (12:25–16:5)<br>1. The expansion of the church into the middle Mediterranean area and Asia Minor (16:6–19:20)<br>1. Paul travels to Jerusalem and becomes a prisoner in Rome (19:21–28:31)<br><br>### What is the Book of Acts about?<br><br>The Book of Acts tells the story of the early church as more and more people became believers. It shows the power of the Holy Spirit helping the early Christians. The events in this book began when Jesus went back to heaven and ended about thirty years later.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “The Acts of the Apostles.” Or translators may choose a title that may be clearer, for example, “The Acts of the Holy Spirit through the Apostles.”<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of Acts?<br><br>This book does not give the name of the author. However, it is addressed to Theophilus, the same person to whom the Gospel of Luke is addressed. Also, in parts of the book, the author uses the word “we.” This indicates that the author traveled with Paul. Most scholars think that Luke was this person traveling with Paul. Therefore, since early Christian times, most Christians have thought Luke is the author of the Book of Acts as well as the Gospel of Luke.<br><br>Luke was a medical doctor. His way of writing shows that he was an educated man. He was probably a Gentile. He saw many of the events described in the Book of Acts.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What is the Church?<br><br>The Church is the group of people who believe in Christ. The Church includes both Jew and Gentile believers. The events in this book show God helping the Church. He empowered believers to live righteous lives through his Holy Spirit.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Acts?<br><br>These are the most significant textual issues in Acts:<br><br>The following verses are found in older versions of the Bible, but they are not in the best ancient copies of the Bible. Some modern versions put the verses in square brackets ([]). The ULT and UST put them in a footnote.<br><br>* “Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may be baptized.’ The Ethiopian answered, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God’” (Acts 8:37).<br>* “But it seemed good to Silas to remain there.” (Acts 15:34)<br>* “And we wanted to judge him according to our law. But Lysias, the officer, came and forcibly took him out of our hands, sending him to you.” (Acts 24:6b-8a)<br>* “When he had said these things, the Jews departed, having a great dispute among themselves.” (Acts 28:29)<br><br>In the following verses, it is uncertain what the original text said. Translators will need to choose which reading to translate. The ULT has the first readings but include the second readings in footnotes.<br>* “They returned from Jerusalem” (Acts 12:25). Some versions read, “They returned to Jerusalem (or to there).”<br>* “he put up with them” (Acts 13:18). Some versions read, “he cared for them.”<br>* “This is what the Lord says, who has done these things that have been known from ancient times.” (Acts 15:17-18). Some older versions read, “This is what the Lord says, to whom are known all his deeds from ancient times.”<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
ACT 1 intro vyg9 0 # Acts 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter records an event, commonly known as the “Ascension,” when Jesus returned to heaven after he became alive again. He will not come back until he returns at his “second coming.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/resurrection]])<br><br>The UST has set the words “Dear Theophilus” apart from the other words. This is because English speakers often start letters this way. You might want to start this book the way people start letters in your culture.<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the two quotes from Psalms in 1:20.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Baptize<br><br>The word “baptize” has two meanings in this chapter. It refers to the water baptism of John and to the baptism of the Holy Spirit ([Acts 1:5](../../act/01/05.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/baptize]])<br><br>### “He spoke about the kingdom of God”<br><br>Some scholars believe that when Jesus “spoke about the kingdom of God,” he explained to the disciples why the kingdom of God did not come before he died. Others believe that the kingdom of God did begin while Jesus was alive and that here Jesus was explaining that it was beginning in a new form.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### The twelve disciples<br><br>The following are the lists of the twelve disciples:<br><br>In Matthew:<br><br>Simon (Peter), Andrew, James son of Zebedee, John son of Zebedee, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot.<br><br>In Mark:<br><br>Simon (Peter), Andrew, James the son of Zebedee and John the son of Zebedee (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder), Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot.<br><br>In Luke:<br><br>Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon (who was called the Zealot), Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot.<br><br>Thaddaeus is probably the same person as Jude, the son of James.<br><br>### Akeldama<br><br>This is a phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic. Luke used Greek letters so his readers would know how it sounded, and then he told what it means. You should probably spell it the way it sounds in your language and then explain the meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])
ACT 1 1 q9ep τὸν μὲν πρῶτον λόγον ἐποιησάμην 1 The former book I wrote The former book is the Gospel of Luke.
ACT 1 1 ryj5 translate-names ὦ Θεόφιλε 1 Theophilus Luke wrote this book to a man named Theophilus. Some translations follow their own culture’s way of addressing a letter and write “Dear Theophilus” at the beginning of the sentence. Theophilus means “friend of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
ACT 1 2 n435 figs-activepassive ἄχρι ἧς ἡμέρας…ἀνελήμφθη 1 until the day that he was taken up This refers to Jesus’ ascension into heaven. Alternate translation: “until the day on which God took him up to heaven” or “until the day that he ascended into heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 1 26 r84c ἔδωκαν κλήρους αὐτοῖς 1 They cast lots for them The apostles cast lots to decide between Joseph and Matthias.
ACT 1 26 w4ph ἔπεσεν ὁ κλῆρος ἐπὶ Μαθθίαν 1 the lot fell to Matthias The lot indicated that Matthias was the one to replace Judas.
ACT 1 26 fk4x figs-activepassive συνκατεψηφίσθη μετὰ τῶν ἕνδεκα ἀποστόλων 1 he was numbered with the eleven apostles This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the believers considered him to be an apostle with the other eleven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 2 intro x8fr 1 # Acts 02 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 2:17-21, 25-28, and 34-35.<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted material in 2:31.<br><br>The events described in this chapter are commonly called “Pentecost.” Many people believe that the church began to exist when the Holy Spirit came to live inside believers in this chapter.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Tongues<br><br>The word “tongues” has two meanings in this chapter. Luke describes what came down from heaven ([Acts 2:3](../../act/02/03.md)) as tongues that looked like fire. This is different from “a tongue of flame,” which is a fire that looks like a tongue. Luke also uses the word “tongues” to describe the languages that the people spoke after the Holy Spirit filled them ([Acts 2:4](../02/04.md)).<br><br>### Last days<br><br>No one knows for sure when the “last days” ([Acts 2:17](../../act/02/17.md)) began. Your translation should not say more than the ULT does about this. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])<br><br>### Baptize<br><br>The word “baptize” in this chapter refers to Christian baptism ([Acts 2:38-41](../02/38.md)). Though the event described in [Acts 2:1-11](./01.md) is the baptism of the Holy Spirit that Jesus promised in [Acts 1:5](../../act/01/05.md), the word “baptize” here does not refer to that event. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/baptize]])<br><br>### The prophecy of Joel<br><br>Many of the things that Joel said would happen did happen on the day of Pentecost ([Acts 2:17-18](../02/17.md)), but some things Joel spoke of did not happen ([Acts 2:19-20](../02/19.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])<br><br>### Wonders and signs<br><br>These words refer to things that only God could do that showed that Jesus is who the disciples said he is.<br>
ACT 2 intro x8fr 1 # Acts 02 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 2:17-21, 25-28, and 34-35.<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted material in 2:31.<br><br>The events described in this chapter are commonly called “Pentecost.” Many people believe that the church began to exist when the Holy Spirit came to live inside believers in this chapter.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Tongues<br><br>The word “tongues” has two meanings in this chapter. Luke describes what came down from heaven ([Acts 2:3](../../act/02/03.md)) as tongues that looked like fire. This is different from “a tongue of flame,” which is a fire that looks like a tongue. Luke also uses the word “tongues” to describe the languages that the people spoke after the Holy Spirit filled them ([Acts 2:4](../02/04.md)).<br><br>### Last days<br><br>No one knows for sure when the “last days” ([Acts 2:17](../../act/02/17.md)) began. Your translation should not say more than the ULT does about this. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])<br><br>### Baptize<br><br>The word “baptize” in this chapter refers to Christian baptism ([Acts 2:38-41](../02/38.md)). Though the event described in [Acts 2:1-11](./01.md) is the baptism of the Holy Spirit that Jesus promised in [Acts 1:5](../../act/01/05.md), the word “baptize” here does not refer to that event. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/baptize]])<br><br>### The prophecy of Joel<br><br>Many of the things that Joel said would happen did happen on the day of Pentecost ([Acts 2:17-18](../02/17.md)), but some things Joel spoke of did not happen ([Acts 2:19-20](../02/19.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])<br><br>### Wonders and signs<br><br>These words refer to things that only God could do that showed that Jesus is who the disciples said he is.
ACT 2 1 i4sa 0 General Information: This is a new event; it is now the Day of Pentecost, 50 days after Passover.
ACT 2 1 i4sb 0 General Information: Here the word “they” refers to the apostles and the other 120 believers that Luke mentions in [Acts 1:15](../01/15.md).
ACT 2 2 jc1w ἄφνω 1 Suddenly This word refers to an event that happens unexpectedly.
ACT 2 46 i2yk figs-metonymy ἐν ἀγαλλιάσει καὶ ἀφελότητι καρδίας 1 with glad and humble hearts Here “heart” is a metonym for a person’s emotions. Alternate translation: “joyfully and humbly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ACT 2 47 z6ig αἰνοῦντες τὸν Θεὸν καὶ ἔχοντες χάριν πρὸς ὅλον τὸν λαόν 1 praising God and having favor with all the people “praising God. All the people approved of them”
ACT 2 47 kc42 figs-activepassive τοὺς σῳζομένους 1 those who were being saved This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those whom the Lord saved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 3 intro hpd9 0 # Acts 03 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The covenant God made with Abraham<br><br>This chapter explains that Jesus came to the Jews because God was fulfilling part of the covenant he had made with Abraham. Peter thought that the Jews were the ones who were truly guilty of killing Jesus, but he<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “You delivered up”<br><br>The Romans were the ones who killed Jesus, but they killed him because the Jews captured him, brought him to the Romans, and told the Romans to kill him. For this reason Peter thought that they were the ones who were truly guilty of killing Jesus. But he tells them that they are also the first ones to whom God has sent Jesus’ followers to invite them to repent ([Luke 3:26](../../luk/03/26.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])<br>
ACT 3 intro hpd9 0 # Acts 03 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The covenant God made with Abraham<br><br>This chapter explains that Jesus came to the Jews because God was fulfilling part of the covenant he had made with Abraham. Peter thought that the Jews were the ones who were truly guilty of killing Jesus, but he<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “You delivered up”<br><br>The Romans were the ones who killed Jesus, but they killed him because the Jews captured him, brought him to the Romans, and told the Romans to kill him. For this reason Peter thought that they were the ones who were truly guilty of killing Jesus. But he tells them that they are also the first ones to whom God has sent Jesus’ followers to invite them to repent ([Luke 3:26](../../luk/03/26.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])
ACT 3 1 u6nu writing-background 0 General Information: Verse 2 gives background information about the lame man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 3 1 b5rm 0 Connecting Statement: One day Peter and John go to the temple.
ACT 3 1 br7i εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν 1 into the temple They did not go into the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate translation: “to the temple courtyard” or “into the temple area”
ACT 3 26 b7tz ἀναστήσας ὁ Θεὸς τὸν παῖδα αὐτοῦ 1 After God raised up his servant “After God caused Jesus to become his servant and made him famous”
ACT 3 26 z5q6 τὸν παῖδα αὐτοῦ 1 his servant This refers to the Messiah, Jesus.
ACT 3 26 x8ss figs-metaphor τῷ ἀποστρέφειν ἕκαστον ἀπὸ τῶν πονηριῶν ὑμῶν 1 turning every one of you from your wickedness Here “turning…from” is a metaphor for causing someone stop doing something. Alternate translation: “causing every one of you to stop doing wicked things” or “causing every one of you to repent from your wickedness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ACT 4 intro pv3a 0 # Acts 04 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 4:25-26.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Unity<br><br>The first Christians wanted very much to be united. They wanted to believe the same things and share everything they owned and help those who needed help.<br><br>### “Signs and wonders”<br><br>This phrase refers to things that only God can do. The Christians wanted God to do what only he can do so that people would believe that what they said about Jesus was true.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Cornerstone<br><br>The cornerstone was the first piece of stone that people put down when they were building a building. This is a metaphor for the most important part of something, the part on which everything depends. To say that Jesus is the cornerstone of the church is to say that nothing in the church is more important than Jesus and that everything about the church depends on Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Name<br><br>“There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” ([Acts 4:12](../../act/04/12.md)). With these words Peter was saying that no other person who has ever been on the earth or will ever be on earth can save people.<br>
ACT 4 intro pv3a 0 # Acts 04 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 4:25-26.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Unity<br><br>The first Christians wanted very much to be united. They wanted to believe the same things and share everything they owned and help those who needed help.<br><br>### “Signs and wonders”<br><br>This phrase refers to things that only God can do. The Christians wanted God to do what only he can do so that people would believe that what they said about Jesus was true.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Cornerstone<br><br>The cornerstone was the first piece of stone that people put down when they were building a building. This is a metaphor for the most important part of something, the part on which everything depends. To say that Jesus is the cornerstone of the church is to say that nothing in the church is more important than Jesus and that everything about the church depends on Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Name<br><br>“There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” ([Acts 4:12](../../act/04/12.md)). With these words Peter was saying that no other person who has ever been on the earth or will ever be on earth can save people.
ACT 4 1 ew3l 0 Connecting Statement: The religious leaders arrest Peter and John after Peter’s having healed the man who was born lame.
ACT 4 1 abc4 λαλούντων…αὐτῶν 1 As they were speaking “As Peter and John were speaking”
ACT 4 1 d3tv ἐπέστησαν αὐτοῖς 1 came upon them “approached them” or “came to them”
ACT 4 36 uc2a writing-participants 0 General Information: Luke introduces Barnabas into the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
ACT 4 36 nr4v figs-idiom υἱὸς παρακλήσεως 1 Son of Encouragement The apostles used this name to show that Joseph was a person who encouraged others. “Son of” is an idiom used to describe a person’s behavior or character. Alternate translation: “Encourager” or “one who encourages” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ACT 4 37 gtv5 figs-idiom ἔθηκεν παρὰ τοὺς πόδας τῶν ἀποστόλων 1 laid it at the apostles’ feet This means that they presented to money to the apostles. See how you translated this in [Acts 4:35](../04/35.md). Alternate translation: “presented it to the apostles” or “gave it to the apostles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ACT 5 intro k2uh 0 # Acts 05 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit”<br><br>No one knows for sure if Ananias and Sapphira were truly Christians when they decided to lie about the land that they sold ([Acts 5:1-10](../05/01.md)), because Luke does not say. However, Peter knew that they lied to the believers, and he knew that they had listened to and obeyed Satan.<br><br>When they lied to the believers, they also lied to the Holy Spirit. This is because the Holy Spirit lives inside believers.<br><br>
ACT 5 intro k2uh 0 # Acts 05 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit”<br><br>No one knows for sure if Ananias and Sapphira were truly Christians when they decided to lie about the land that they sold ([Acts 5:1-10](../05/01.md)), because Luke does not say. However, Peter knew that they lied to the believers, and he knew that they had listened to and obeyed Satan.<br><br>When they lied to the believers, they also lied to the Holy Spirit. This is because the Holy Spirit lives inside believers.<br>
ACT 5 1 v27a writing-background 0 Continuing the story of how the new Christians shared their belongings with other believers, Luke tells about two believers, Ananias and Sapphria. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
ACT 5 1 ysl9 δέ 1 Now This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line to tell a new part of the story.
ACT 5 2 xm1t συνειδυίης καὶ τῆς γυναικός 1 his wife also knew it “his wife also knew that he kept back part of the sale money”
ACT 5 41 lk82 figs-metonymy ὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματος 1 for the Name Here “the Name” refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: “for Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ACT 5 42 jj94 πᾶσάν τε ἡμέραν 1 Thereafter every day “After that day, every day.” This phrase marks what the apostles did every day through the following days.
ACT 5 42 kyp6 figs-explicit ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ καὶ κατ’ οἶκον 1 in the temple and from house to house They did not go into the temple building where only the priests went. Alternate translation: “in the temple courtyard and in different people’s houses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ACT 6 intro z5r5 0 # Acts 06 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The distribution to the widows<br><br>The believers in Jerusalem gave food every day to women whose husbands had died. All of them had been raised as Jews, but some of them had lived in Judea and spoke Hebrew, and others had lived in Gentile areas and spoke Greek. Those who gave out the food gave it to the Hebrew-speaking widows but not to the Greek-speaking widows. To please God, the church leaders appointed Greek-speaking men to make sure the Greek-speaking widows received their share of the food. One of these Greek-speaking men was Stephen.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “His face was like the face of an angel”<br><br>No one knows for sure what it was about Stephen’s face that was like the face of an angel, because Luke does not tell us. It is best for the translation to say only what the ULT says about this.<br>
ACT 6 intro z5r5 0 # Acts 06 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The distribution to the widows<br><br>The believers in Jerusalem gave food every day to women whose husbands had died. All of them had been raised as Jews, but some of them had lived in Judea and spoke Hebrew, and others had lived in Gentile areas and spoke Greek. Those who gave out the food gave it to the Hebrew-speaking widows but not to the Greek-speaking widows. To please God, the church leaders appointed Greek-speaking men to make sure the Greek-speaking widows received their share of the food. One of these Greek-speaking men was Stephen.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “His face was like the face of an angel”<br><br>No one knows for sure what it was about Stephen’s face that was like the face of an angel, because Luke does not tell us. It is best for the translation to say only what the ULT says about this.
ACT 6 1 ky47 writing-background 0 General Information: This is the beginning of a new part of the story. Luke gives important background information to understand the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 6 1 f8br writing-newevent ἐν δὲ ταῖς ἡμέραις ταύταις 1 Now in these days Consider how new parts of a story are introduced in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
@ -496,7 +496,7 @@ ACT 6 13 zv6s οὐ παύεται λαλῶν 1 does not stop speaking “cont
ACT 6 14 vak4 figs-idiom παρέδωκεν ἡμῖν 1 handed down to us The phrase “handed down” means “passed on.” Alternate translation: “taught our ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ACT 6 15 gf7e figs-idiom ἀτενίσαντες εἰς αὐτὸν 1 fixed their eyes on him This is an idiom that means they looked intently at him. Here “eyes” is a metonym for sight. Alternate translation: “looked intently at him” or “stared at him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ACT 6 15 k8rw figs-simile ὡσεὶ πρόσωπον ἀγγέλου 1 was like the face of an angel This phrase compares his face to that of an angel but does not say specifically what they have in common. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ACT 7 intro p9h4 0 # Acts 07 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 7:42-43 and 49-50.<br><br>It appears that 8:1 is part of the narrative of this chapter.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “Stephen said”<br><br>Stephen told the history of Israel very briefly. He paid special attention to the times that the Israelites had rejected the people God had chosen to lead them. At the end of the story, he said that the Jewish leaders he was talking to had rejected Jesus just as the evil Israelites had always rejected the leaders God had appointed for them.<br><br>### “Full of the Holy Spirit”<br><br>The Holy Spirit completely controlled Stephen so that he said only and all of what God wanted him to say.<br><br>### Foreshadowing<br><br>When an author speaks of something that is not important at that time but will be important later in the story, this is called foreshadowing. Luke mentions Saul, also known as Paul, here, even though he is not an important person in this part of the story. This is because Paul is an important person in the rest of the Book of Acts.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Implied information<br><br>Stephen was talking to Jews who knew the law of Moses well, so he did not explain things that his hearers already knew. But you may need to explain some of these things so that your readers will be able to understand what Stephen was saying. For example, you may need to make explicit that when Joseph’s brothers “sold him into Egypt” ([Acts 7:9](../../act/07/09.md)), Joseph was going to be a slave in Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>### Metonymy<br><br>Stephen spoke of Joseph ruling “over Egypt” and over all of Pharaoh’s household. By this he meant that Joseph ruled over the people of Egypt and of the people and possessions in Pharaoh’s household. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Background knowledge<br><br>The Jewish leaders to whom Stephen spoke already knew much about the events he was telling them about. They knew what Moses had written in the Book of Genesis. If the Book of Genesis has not been translated into your language, it may be difficult for your readers to understand what Stephen said.<br>
ACT 7 intro p9h4 0 # Acts 07 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 7:42-43 and 49-50.<br><br>It appears that 8:1 is part of the narrative of this chapter.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “Stephen said”<br><br>Stephen told the history of Israel very briefly. He paid special attention to the times that the Israelites had rejected the people God had chosen to lead them. At the end of the story, he said that the Jewish leaders he was talking to had rejected Jesus just as the evil Israelites had always rejected the leaders God had appointed for them.<br><br>### “Full of the Holy Spirit”<br><br>The Holy Spirit completely controlled Stephen so that he said only and all of what God wanted him to say.<br><br>### Foreshadowing<br><br>When an author speaks of something that is not important at that time but will be important later in the story, this is called foreshadowing. Luke mentions Saul, also known as Paul, here, even though he is not an important person in this part of the story. This is because Paul is an important person in the rest of the Book of Acts.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Implied information<br><br>Stephen was talking to Jews who knew the law of Moses well, so he did not explain things that his hearers already knew. But you may need to explain some of these things so that your readers will be able to understand what Stephen was saying. For example, you may need to make explicit that when Joseph’s brothers “sold him into Egypt” ([Acts 7:9](../../act/07/09.md)), Joseph was going to be a slave in Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>### Metonymy<br><br>Stephen spoke of Joseph ruling “over Egypt” and over all of Pharaoh’s household. By this he meant that Joseph ruled over the people of Egypt and of the people and possessions in Pharaoh’s household. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Background knowledge<br><br>The Jewish leaders to whom Stephen spoke already knew much about the events he was telling them about. They knew what Moses had written in the Book of Genesis. If the Book of Genesis has not been translated into your language, it may be difficult for your readers to understand what Stephen said.
ACT 7 1 pt4h figs-you 0 General Information: The word “our” includes both Steven, the Jewish council to whom he spoke, and the entire audience. The word “your” is singular refers to Abraham. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
ACT 7 1 hy9r 0 Connecting Statement: The part of the story about Stephen, which began in [Acts 6:8](../06/08.md), continues. Stephen begins his response to the high priest and the council by talking about things that happened in Israel’s history. Most of this history comes from Moses’ writings.
ACT 7 2 abc7 ὁ δὲ ἔφη 1 Then he said Stephen is speaking.
ACT 7 60 u86q translate-symaction θεὶς δὲ τὰ γόνατα 1 He knelt down This is an act of submission to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
ACT 7 60 tvf8 figs-litotes μὴ στήσῃς αὐτοῖς ταύτην τὴν ἁμαρτίαν 1 do not hold this sin against them This can be stated in a positive way. Alternate translation: “forgive them for this sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
ACT 7 60 r9vi figs-euphemism ἐκοιμήθη 1 fell asleep Here to fall asleep is a euphemism for dying. Alternate translation: “died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
ACT 8 intro q9d9 0 # Acts 08 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 8:32-33.<br><br>The first sentence of verse 1 ends the description of the events in chapter 7. Luke begins a new part of his history with the words “So there began.”<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Receiving the Holy Spirit<br><br>In this chapter for the first time Luke speaks of people receiving the Holy Spirit ([Acts 8:15-19](../08/15.md)). The Holy Spirit had already enabled the believers to speak in tongues, to heal the sick, and to live as a community, and he had filled Stephen. But when the Jews started putting believers in prison, those believers who could leave Jerusalem did leave, and as they went, they told people about Jesus. When the people who heard about Jesus received the Holy Spirit, the church leaders knew that those people had truly become believers.<br><br>### Proclaimed<br><br>This chapter more than any other in the Book of Acts speaks of the believers proclaiming the word, proclaiming the good news, and proclaiming that Jesus is the Christ. The word “proclaim” translates a Greek word that means to tell good news about something.<br>
ACT 8 intro q9d9 0 # Acts 08 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 8:32-33.<br><br>The first sentence of verse 1 ends the description of the events in chapter 7. Luke begins a new part of his history with the words “So there began.”<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Receiving the Holy Spirit<br><br>In this chapter for the first time Luke speaks of people receiving the Holy Spirit ([Acts 8:15-19](../08/15.md)). The Holy Spirit had already enabled the believers to speak in tongues, to heal the sick, and to live as a community, and he had filled Stephen. But when the Jews started putting believers in prison, those believers who could leave Jerusalem did leave, and as they went, they told people about Jesus. When the people who heard about Jesus received the Holy Spirit, the church leaders knew that those people had truly become believers.<br><br>### Proclaimed<br><br>This chapter more than any other in the Book of Acts speaks of the believers proclaiming the word, proclaiming the good news, and proclaiming that Jesus is the Christ. The word “proclaim” translates a Greek word that means to tell good news about something.
ACT 8 1 tp9e translate-versebridge 0 General Information: It may be helpful to your audience to move these parts of the story about Stephen together by using a verse bridge as the UST does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge]])
ACT 8 1 a7uc 0 Connecting Statement: The story shifts from Stephen to Saul in these verses.
ACT 8 1 ez88 writing-background ἐγένετο…ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ, διωγμὸς μέγας ἐπὶ τὴν ἐκκλησίαν, τὴν ἐν Ἱεροσολύμοις. πάντες δὲ διεσπάρησαν κατὰ τὰς χώρας τῆς Ἰουδαίας καὶ Σαμαρείας, πλὴν τῶν ἀποστόλων 1 So there began…except the apostles This part of verse 1 is background information about the persecution that began after Stephen’s death. This explains why Saul was persecuting the believers in verse 3. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 8 40 r1x7 Φίλιππος…εὑρέθη εἰς Ἄζωτον 1 Philip appeared at Azotus There was no indication of Philip’s traveling between where he baptized the Ethiopian and Azotus. He just suddenly disappeared along the road to Gaza and reappeared at the town of Azotus.
ACT 8 40 arh5 διερχόμενος 1 that region This refers to the area around the town of Azotus.
ACT 8 40 zfn6 τὰς πόλεις πάσας 1 to all the cities “to all the cities in that region”
ACT 9 intro jm6x 0 # Acts 09 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “The Way”<br><br>No one knows for sure who first started calling believers “followers of the Way.” This is probably what the believers called themselves, because the Bible often speaks of a person living his life as if that person were walking on a path or “way.” If this is true, the believers were “following the way of the Lord” by living in a way that pleased God.<br><br>### “Letters for the synagogues in Damascus”<br><br>The “letters” Paul asked for were probably legal papers that permitted him to put Christians in prison. The synagogue leaders in Damascus would have obeyed the letter because it was written by the high priest. If the Romans had seen the letter, they also would have allowed Saul to persecute the Christians, because they permitted the Jews to do as they desired to people who broke their religious laws.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### What Saul saw when he met Jesus<br><br>It is clear that Saul saw a light and that it was because of this light that he “fell upon the ground.” Some people think that Saul knew that it was the Lord speaking to him without seeing a human form, because the Bible often speaks of God as being light and living in light. Other people think that later in his life he was able to say, “I have seen the Lord Jesus” because it was a human form that he saw here.<br>
ACT 9 intro jm6x 0 # Acts 09 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “The Way”<br><br>No one knows for sure who first started calling believers “followers of the Way.” This is probably what the believers called themselves, because the Bible often speaks of a person living his life as if that person were walking on a path or “way.” If this is true, the believers were “following the way of the Lord” by living in a way that pleased God.<br><br>### “Letters for the synagogues in Damascus”<br><br>The “letters” Paul asked for were probably legal papers that permitted him to put Christians in prison. The synagogue leaders in Damascus would have obeyed the letter because it was written by the high priest. If the Romans had seen the letter, they also would have allowed Saul to persecute the Christians, because they permitted the Jews to do as they desired to people who broke their religious laws.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### What Saul saw when he met Jesus<br><br>It is clear that Saul saw a light and that it was because of this light that he “fell upon the ground.” Some people think that Saul knew that it was the Lord speaking to him without seeing a human form, because the Bible often speaks of God as being light and living in light. Other people think that later in his life he was able to say, “I have seen the Lord Jesus” because it was a human form that he saw here.
ACT 9 1 r4n5 writing-background 0 General Information: These verses give background information telling us what Saul has been doing since the stoning of Stephen. Here the word “him” refers to the high priest and “he” refers to Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 9 1 yt9e 0 Connecting Statement: The story shifts back to Saul and his salvation.
ACT 9 1 anb6 figs-abstractnouns ἔτι ἐμπνέων ἀπειλῆς καὶ φόνου εἰς τοὺς μαθητὰς 1 still speaking threats even of murder against the disciples The noun “murder” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “still speaking threats, even to murder the disciples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ACT 9 42 fyz4 ἐπίστευσαν…ἐπὶ τὸν Κύριον 1 believed on the Lord “believed in the gospel of the Lord Jesus”
ACT 9 43 k9ik writing-newevent ἐγένετο 1 It happened that “It came about that.” This introduces the beginning of the next event in the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
ACT 9 43 qar2 Σίμωνι, βυρσεῖ 1 Simon, a tanner “a man named Simon who made leather from animal skins”
ACT 10 intro ym7z 0 # Acts 10 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Unclean<br><br>The Jews believed that they could become unclean in God’s sight if they visited or ate food with a Gentile. This was because the Pharisees had made a law against it because they wanted to keep people from eating foods that the law of Moses said were unclean. The law of Moses did say that some foods were unclean, but it did not say that God’s people could not visit or eat with Gentiles. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/clean]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])<br><br>### Baptism and the Holy Spirit<br><br>The Holy Spirit “fell on” those who were listening to Peter. This showed the Jewish believers that Gentiles could receive the word of God and receive the Holy Spirit just as the Jewish believers had. After that, the Gentiles were baptized.<br>
ACT 10 intro ym7z 0 # Acts 10 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Unclean<br><br>The Jews believed that they could become unclean in God’s sight if they visited or ate food with a Gentile. This was because the Pharisees had made a law against it because they wanted to keep people from eating foods that the law of Moses said were unclean. The law of Moses did say that some foods were unclean, but it did not say that God’s people could not visit or eat with Gentiles. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/clean]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])<br><br>### Baptism and the Holy Spirit<br><br>The Holy Spirit “fell on” those who were listening to Peter. This showed the Jewish believers that Gentiles could receive the word of God and receive the Holy Spirit just as the Jewish believers had. After that, the Gentiles were baptized.
ACT 10 1 m1vx writing-background 0 General Information: These verses give background information about Cornelius. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 10 1 nfy5 0 Connecting Statement: This is the beginning of the part of the story about Cornelius.
ACT 10 1 wtb9 writing-participants ἀνὴρ δέ τις 1 Now there was a certain man This was a way of introducing a new person to this part of the historical account. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
ACT 10 47 u5d5 figs-rquestion μήτι τὸ ὕδωρ δύναται κωλῦσαί τις τοῦ μὴ βαπτισθῆναι τούτους, οἵτινες τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον ἔλαβον, ὡς καὶ ἡμεῖς 1 Can anyone keep water from these people so they should not be baptized, these people who have received…we? Peter uses this question to convince the Jewish Christians that the Gentile believers should be baptized. Alternate translation: “No one should keep water from these people! We should baptize them because they have received…we!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 10 48 t2y9 figs-explicit προσέταξεν…αὐτοὺς…βαπτισθῆναι 1 he commanded them to be baptized It is implied that the Jewish Christians were the ones who would baptize them. Alternate translation: “Peter commanded the Gentile believers to allow the Jewish Christians to baptize them” or “Peter commanded the Jewish Christians to baptize them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 10 48 ax6x figs-metonymy ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ βαπτισθῆναι 1 be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ Here “in the name of Jesus Christ” expresses that the reason for their baptism was that they believed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “be baptized as believers in Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ACT 11 intro hva5 0 # Acts 11 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “The Gentiles also had received the word of God”<br><br>Almost all of the first believers were Jewish. Luke writes in this chapter that many Gentiles started to believe in Jesus. They believed that the message about Jesus was true and so began to “receive the word of God.” Some of the believers in Jerusalem did not believe that Gentiles could truly follow Jesus, so Peter went to them and told them what had happened to him and how he had seen the Gentiles receive the Word of God and receive the Holy Spirit.<br>
ACT 11 intro hva5 0 # Acts 11 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “The Gentiles also had received the word of God”<br><br>Almost all of the first believers were Jewish. Luke writes in this chapter that many Gentiles started to believe in Jesus. They believed that the message about Jesus was true and so began to “receive the word of God.” Some of the believers in Jerusalem did not believe that Gentiles could truly follow Jesus, so Peter went to them and told them what had happened to him and how he had seen the Gentiles receive the Word of God and receive the Holy Spirit.
ACT 11 1 uw5m 0 General Information: This is the beginning of a new event in the story.
ACT 11 1 j7f7 0 Connecting Statement: Peter arrives in Jerusalem and begins talking to the Jews there.
ACT 11 1 ab75 writing-newevent δὲ 1 Now This marks a new part of the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
@ -1064,7 +1064,7 @@ ACT 11 29 de92 δὲ 1 So This word means marks an event that happened because
ACT 11 29 rk9z καθὼς εὐπορεῖτό τις 1 as each one was able The richer people sent more; the poorer people sent less.
ACT 11 29 up7a ἐν τῇ Ἰουδαίᾳ ἀδελφοῖς 1 the brothers in Judea “the believers in Judea”
ACT 11 30 l8i8 figs-idiom διὰ χειρὸς Βαρναβᾶ καὶ Σαύλου 1 by the hand of Barnabas and Saul The hand is a synecdoche for the action of the whole person. Alternate translation: “by having Barnabas and Saul take to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ACT 12 intro f66j 0 # Acts 12 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Chapter 12 tells what happened to King Herod while Barnabas was bringing Saul back from Tarsus and they were delivering money from Antioch Jerusalem (11:25-30). He killed many of the leaders of the church, and he put Peter in prison. After God helped Peter escape the prison, Herod killed the prison guards, and then God killed Herod. In the last verse of the chapter, Luke tells how Barnabas and Saul return to Antioch.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Personification<br><br>The “word of God” is spoken of as if it were a living thing that could grow and become many. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wordofgod]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])<br>
ACT 12 intro f66j 0 # Acts 12 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Chapter 12 tells what happened to King Herod while Barnabas was bringing Saul back from Tarsus and they were delivering money from Antioch Jerusalem (11:25-30). He killed many of the leaders of the church, and he put Peter in prison. After God helped Peter escape the prison, Herod killed the prison guards, and then God killed Herod. In the last verse of the chapter, Luke tells how Barnabas and Saul return to Antioch.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Personification<br><br>The “word of God” is spoken of as if it were a living thing that could grow and become many. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wordofgod]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ACT 12 1 u4w7 writing-background 0 General Information: This is background information about Herod’s killing James. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 12 1 ua9p 0 Connecting Statement: This begins the new persecution, first of James’ death and then of Peter’s imprisonment and then release.
ACT 12 1 ti1y writing-newevent δὲ 1 Now This begins a new part of the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
ACT 12 24 wn8m ὁ…λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the word of God “the message God sent about Jesus”
ACT 12 25 pv6a figs-explicit πληρώσαντες τὴν διακονίαν 1 completed their mission This refers back to when they brought money from the believers at Antioch in [Acts 11:29-30](../11/29.md). Alternate translation: “delivered the money to the church leaders in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ACT 12 25 t7d8 figs-explicit ὑπέστρεψαν εἰς Ἰερουσαλὴμ 1 they returned from Jerusalem They went back to Antioch from Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “Barnabas and Saul returned to Antioch” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ACT 13 intro rlh6 0 # Acts 13 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the three quotes from Psalms in 13:33-35.<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 13:41.<br><br>The chapter is where the second half of the Book of Acts begins. Luke writes more about Paul than about Peter, and it describes how it is the Gentiles and not the Jews to whom the believers tell the message about Jesus.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### A light for the Gentiles<br><br>The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. The Jews considered all Gentiles as walking in darkness, but Paul and Barnabas spoke of telling the Gentiles about Jesus as if they were going to bring them physical light. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])<br>
ACT 13 intro rlh6 0 # Acts 13 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the three quotes from Psalms in 13:33-35.<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 13:41.<br><br>The chapter is where the second half of the Book of Acts begins. Luke writes more about Paul than about Peter, and it describes how it is the Gentiles and not the Jews to whom the believers tell the message about Jesus.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### A light for the Gentiles<br><br>The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. The Jews considered all Gentiles as walking in darkness, but Paul and Barnabas spoke of telling the Gentiles about Jesus as if they were going to bring them physical light. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])
ACT 13 1 ce7s writing-background 0 General Information: Verse 1 gives background information about the people in the church at Antioch. Here the first word “they” probably refers to these five leaders but may also include the other believers. The next words “they” and “their” probably refer to the other three leaders not including Barnabas and Saul but could include other believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 13 1 qa2i 0 Connecting Statement: Luke begins to tell about the mission trips on which the church at Antioch send Barnabas and Saul.
ACT 13 1 rej8 δὲ ἐν Ἀντιοχείᾳ κατὰ τὴν οὖσαν ἐκκλησίαν 1 Now in the church in Antioch “At that time in the church at Antioch”
ACT 13 51 abco οἱ δὲ, ἐκτιναξάμενοι 1 But they shook off “But Paul and Silas shook off”
ACT 13 51 xi1z writing-symlanguage ἐκτιναξάμενοι τὸν κονιορτὸν τῶν ποδῶν ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς 1 shook off the dust from their feet against them This was a symbolic act to indicate to the unbelieving people that God had rejected them and would punish them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-symlanguage]])
ACT 13 52 dp5k οἵ…μαθηταὶ 1 the disciples This probably refers to the new believers in the Antioch of Pisidia that Paul and Silas just left.
ACT 14 intro rsg2 0 # Acts 14 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “The message of his grace”<br><br>The message of Jesus is the message that God will show grace to those who believe in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])<br><br>### Zeus and Hermes<br><br>The Gentiles in the Roman Empire worshiped many different false gods who do not really exist. Paul and Barnabas told them to believe in the “living God.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “We must enter into the kingdom of God through many sufferings.”<br><br>Jesus told his followers before he died that everyone who followed him would suffer persecution. Paul is saying the same thing using different words.<br>
ACT 14 intro rsg2 0 # Acts 14 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “The message of his grace”<br><br>The message of Jesus is the message that God will show grace to those who believe in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])<br><br>### Zeus and Hermes<br><br>The Gentiles in the Roman Empire worshiped many different false gods who do not really exist. Paul and Barnabas told them to believe in the “living God.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “We must enter into the kingdom of God through many sufferings.”<br><br>Jesus told his followers before he died that everyone who followed him would suffer persecution. Paul is saying the same thing using different words.
ACT 14 1 vh8u 0 General Information: The story of Paul and Barnabas in Iconium continues.
ACT 14 1 abcp εἰσελθεῖν αὐτοὺς 1 they entered
ACT 14 1 hk1z ἐγένετο δὲ, ἐν Ἰκονίῳ 1 It came about in Iconium that “Paul and Barnabas entered”
@ -1446,7 +1446,7 @@ ACT 14 27 vcd3 0 General Information: Here the words “they,” “them,” a
ACT 14 27 i9dv συναγαγόντες τὴν ἐκκλησίαν 1 gathered the church together “called the local believers to meet together”
ACT 14 27 b4id figs-metaphor ἤνοιξεν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν θύραν πίστεως 1 he had opened a door of faith for the Gentiles God’s enabling the Gentiles to believe is spoken of as if he had opened a door that had prevented them from entering into faith. Alternate translation: “God had made it possible for the Gentiles to believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ACT 14 28 abcq figs-litotes χρόνον οὐκ ὀλίγον 1 for not a little time This phrase is a litotes. The words **not** and **a little** together mean ‘a lot.’ Alternate translation: “for a long time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
ACT 15 intro h917 0 # Acts 15 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 15:16-17.<br><br>The meeting that Luke describes in this chapter is commonly called the “Jerusalem Council.” This was a time when many church leaders got together to decide if believers needed to obey the whole law of Moses.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Brothers<br><br>In this chapter Luke begins to use the word “brothers” to refer to fellow Christians instead of fellow Jews.<br><br>### Obeying the law of Moses<br><br>Some believers wanted the Gentiles to be circumcised because God had told Abraham and Moses that everyone who wanted to belong to him had to be circumcised and that this was a law that would always exist. But Paul and Barnabas had seen God give uncircumcised Gentiles the gift of the Holy Spirit, so they did not want the Gentiles to be circumcised. Both groups went to Jerusalem to have the church leaders decide what they should do.<br><br>### “Abstain from things sacrificed to idols, blood, things strangled, and from sexual immorality”<br><br>It is possible that the church leaders decided on these laws so that Jews and Gentiles could not only live together but eat the same foods together.<br>
ACT 15 intro h917 0 # Acts 15 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 15:16-17.<br><br>The meeting that Luke describes in this chapter is commonly called the “Jerusalem Council.” This was a time when many church leaders got together to decide if believers needed to obey the whole law of Moses.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Brothers<br><br>In this chapter Luke begins to use the word “brothers” to refer to fellow Christians instead of fellow Jews.<br><br>### Obeying the law of Moses<br><br>Some believers wanted the Gentiles to be circumcised because God had told Abraham and Moses that everyone who wanted to belong to him had to be circumcised and that this was a law that would always exist. But Paul and Barnabas had seen God give uncircumcised Gentiles the gift of the Holy Spirit, so they did not want the Gentiles to be circumcised. Both groups went to Jerusalem to have the church leaders decide what they should do.<br><br>### “Abstain from things sacrificed to idols, blood, things strangled, and from sexual immorality”<br><br>It is possible that the church leaders decided on these laws so that Jews and Gentiles could not only live together but eat the same foods together.
ACT 15 1 qck6 0 Connecting Statement: Paul and Barnabas are still in Antioch when there is a dispute about the Gentiles and circumcision.
ACT 15 1 su66 figs-explicit τινες 1 Some men “Some men.” You can make explicit that these men were Jews who believed in Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ACT 15 1 p3k9 κατελθόντες ἀπὸ τῆς Ἰουδαίας 1 came down from Judea The phrase “came down” is used here because Judea is higher in elevation than Antioch.
ACT 15 41 e3ym figs-explicit διήρχετο 1 he went The previous sentence implies that Silas was with Paul. Alternate translation: “they went” or “Paul and Silas went” or “Paul took Silas and went” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ACT 15 41 t81z διήρχετο…τὴν Συρίαν καὶ τὴν Κιλικίαν 1 went through Syria and Cilicia These are provinces or areas in Asia Minor, near the island of Cyprus.
ACT 15 41 tbv3 figs-metaphor ἐπιστηρίζων τὰς ἐκκλησίας 1 strengthening the churches Encouraging the believers in the churches is spoken of as though Paul and Silas were making the believers physically stronger. The word “churches” refers to the groups of believers in Syria and Cilicia. Alternate translation: “encouraging the believers in the churches” or “helping the community of believers to depend even more in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ACT 16 intro e7z2 0 # Acts 16 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Timothy’s circumcision<br><br>Paul circumcised Timothy because they were telling the message of Jesus to Jews and Gentiles. Paul wanted the Jews to know that he respected the law of Moses even though the church leaders in Jerusalem had decided that Christians did not need to be circumcised..<br><br>### The woman who had a spirit of divination<br><br>Most people want very much to know the future, but the law of Moses said that speaking with the spirits of dead people to learn about the future is a sin. This woman seems to have been able to tell the future very well. She was a slave, and her masters made much money from her work. Paul wanted her to stop sinning, so he told the spirit to leave her. Luke does not say that she began to follow Jesus or tell us anything more about her.<br>
ACT 16 intro e7z2 0 # Acts 16 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Timothy’s circumcision<br><br>Paul circumcised Timothy because they were telling the message of Jesus to Jews and Gentiles. Paul wanted the Jews to know that he respected the law of Moses even though the church leaders in Jerusalem had decided that Christians did not need to be circumcised..<br><br>### The woman who had a spirit of divination<br><br>Most people want very much to know the future, but the law of Moses said that speaking with the spirits of dead people to learn about the future is a sin. This woman seems to have been able to tell the future very well. She was a slave, and her masters made much money from her work. Paul wanted her to stop sinning, so he told the spirit to leave her. Luke does not say that she began to follow Jesus or tell us anything more about her.
ACT 16 1 l2b1 0 General Information: The first, third, and fourth instances of the word “him” refer to Timothy. The second “him” refers to Paul.
ACT 16 1 f49m writing-background 0 This continues the missionary journeys of Paul with Silas. Timothy is introduced into the story and joins Paul and Silas. Verses 1 and 2 give background information about Timothy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 16 1 km5q figs-go κατήντησεν…καὶ 1 Paul also came Here “came” can be translated as “went.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
@ -1677,7 +1677,7 @@ ACT 16 40 y14i writing-endofstory 0 This is the end of Paul and Silas’ time
ACT 16 40 t1pf figs-go εἰσῆλθον πρὸς τὴν Λυδίαν 1 came to the house Here “came” can be translated as “went.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
ACT 16 40 ylk9 τὴν Λυδίαν 1 the house of Lydia “the home of Lydia”
ACT 16 40 ntc9 figs-gendernotations ἰδόντες 1 saw the brothers Here “brothers” refers to believers whether male or female. Alternate translation: “saw the believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
ACT 17 intro gj4c 0 # Acts 17 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Misunderstandings about the Messiah<br><br>The Jews expected the Christ or Messiah to be a powerful king because the Old Testament says so many times. But it also says many times that the Messiah would suffer, and that was what Paul was telling the Jews. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])<br><br>### The religion of Athens<br><br>Paul said that the Athenians were “religious,” but they did not worship the true God. They worshiped many different false gods. In the past they had conquered other peoples and begun to worship the gods of the people they had conquered. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])<br><br>In this chapter Luke describes for the first time how Paul told the message of Christ to people who knew nothing of the Old Testament.<br>
ACT 17 intro gj4c 0 # Acts 17 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Misunderstandings about the Messiah<br><br>The Jews expected the Christ or Messiah to be a powerful king because the Old Testament says so many times. But it also says many times that the Messiah would suffer, and that was what Paul was telling the Jews. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])<br><br>### The religion of Athens<br><br>Paul said that the Athenians were “religious,” but they did not worship the true God. They worshiped many different false gods. In the past they had conquered other peoples and begun to worship the gods of the people they had conquered. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])<br><br>In this chapter Luke describes for the first time how Paul told the message of Christ to people who knew nothing of the Old Testament.
ACT 17 1 q9x4 0 General Information: Here the word “they” refers to Paul and Silas. Compare [Acts 16:40](../16/40.md). The word “them” refers to the Jews at the synagogue in Thessalonica.
ACT 17 1 r3qb 0 Connecting Statement: This continues the story of Paul, Silas, and Timothy’s missionary trip. They arrive in Thessalonica, apparently without Luke, since he says “they” and not “we.”
ACT 17 1 e4w5 δὲ 1 Now This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke, the author, starts to tell a new part of the story.
@ -1799,7 +1799,7 @@ ACT 17 32 jlm5 ἀκούσαντες 1 when they heard of These are the people
ACT 17 32 sn6j οἱ μὲν ἐχλεύαζον 1 some mocked Paul “some ridiculed Paul” or “some laughed at Paul.” These did not believe it was possible for someone to die and then return to life.
ACT 17 34 psh8 translate-names Διονύσιος ὁ Ἀρεοπαγίτης 1 Dionysius the Areopagite Dionysius is a man’s name. Areopagite implies that Dionysius was one of the judges at the council of Areopagus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
ACT 17 34 hsz3 translate-names Δάμαρις 1 Damaris This is the name of a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
ACT 18 intro rky6 0 # Acts 18 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The baptism of John<br><br>Some Jews who lived far away from Jerusalem and Judea had heard of John the Baptist and followed his teachings. They had not yet heard about Jesus. One of these Jews was Apollos. He followed John the Baptist, but he did not know that the Messiah had come. John had baptized people to show that they were sorry for their sins, but this baptism was different from Christian baptism. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])<br>
ACT 18 intro rky6 0 # Acts 18 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The baptism of John<br><br>Some Jews who lived far away from Jerusalem and Judea had heard of John the Baptist and followed his teachings. They had not yet heard about Jesus. One of these Jews was Apollos. He followed John the Baptist, but he did not know that the Messiah had come. John had baptized people to show that they were sorry for their sins, but this baptism was different from Christian baptism. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])
ACT 18 1 jat1 writing-background 0 General Information: Aquila and Priscilla are introduced to the story and verses 2 and 3 give background information about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
ACT 18 1 qa9b 0 Connecting Statement: This is another part of the story of Paul’s travels as he goes to Corinth.
ACT 18 1 fky7 μετὰ ταῦτα 1 After these things “After these events took place in Athens”
@ -1882,7 +1882,7 @@ ACT 18 27 q5f2 ἔγραψαν τοῖς μαθηταῖς 1 wrote to the disci
ACT 18 27 f99p τοῖς πεπιστευκόσιν διὰ τῆς χάριτος 1 those who believed by grace “those who had believed in salvation by grace” or “those who by God’s grace believed in Jesus”
ACT 18 28 l2zt εὐτόνως…τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις διακατηλέγχετο δημοσίᾳ 1 Apollos powerfully refuted the Jews in public debate “In public debate Apollos powerfully showed that the Jews were wrong”
ACT 18 28 v4sx ἐπιδεικνὺς διὰ τῶν Γραφῶν εἶναι τὸν Χριστὸν, Ἰησοῦν 1 showing by the scriptures that Jesus is the Christ “as he showed them by the scriptures that Jesus is the Christ”
ACT 19 intro g38y 0 # Acts 19 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Baptism<br><br>John baptized people to show that they were sorry for their sins. Jesus’ followers baptized people who wanted to follow Jesus.<br><br>### Temple of Diana<br><br>The temple of Diana was an important place in the city of Ephesus. Many people came to Ephesus to see this temple, and they bought statues of the goddess Diana while they were there. The people who sold statues of Diana were afraid that if people did not believe Diana was a real goddess, they would stop giving the sellers money for statues.<br>
ACT 19 intro g38y 0 # Acts 19 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Baptism<br><br>John baptized people to show that they were sorry for their sins. Jesus’ followers baptized people who wanted to follow Jesus.<br><br>### Temple of Diana<br><br>The temple of Diana was an important place in the city of Ephesus. Many people came to Ephesus to see this temple, and they bought statues of the goddess Diana while they were there. The people who sold statues of Diana were afraid that if people did not believe Diana was a real goddess, they would stop giving the sellers money for statues.
ACT 19 1 rhv1 0 General Information: The “upper country” was an area of Asia which today is part of modern-day Turkey to the north of Ephesus. Paul must have traveled by land around the top of the Aegean sea in order to come to Ephesus (also in Turkey today) which is directly east of Corinth by sea.
ACT 19 1 wu6p 0 Connecting Statement: Paul travels to Ephesus.
ACT 19 1 lp23 ἐγένετο δὲ 1 It came about that This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
ACT 19 39 wga5 figs-activepassive ἐν τῇ ἐννόμῳ ἐκκλησίᾳ ἐπιλυθήσεται 1 it shall be settled in the regular assembly This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “let us settle it in the regular assembly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 19 39 et5j τῇ ἐννόμῳ ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 the regular assembly This refers to a public gathering of citizens over which the county clerk presided.
ACT 19 40 sds7 figs-activepassive κινδυνεύομεν ἐνκαλεῖσθαι στάσεως περὶ τῆς σήμερον 1 in danger of being accused concerning this day’s riot This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “in danger of the Roman authorities accusing us of starting this riot today” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 20 intro u91c 0 # Acts 20 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>In this chapter Luke describes Paul’s last visits to believers in the provinces of Macedonia and Asia before he went to Jerusalem.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Race<br><br>Paul spoke of living for Jesus as if he were running in a race. By this he meant that he needed to keep working hard even when things were difficult and he wanted to quit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/discipline]])<br><br>### “Compelled by the Spirit”<br><br>Paul thought that the Holy Spirit wanted him to go to Jerusalem even if Paul did not want to go there. The same Holy Spirit told other people that when Paul arrived in Jerusalem, people would try to harm him.<br>
ACT 20 intro u91c 0 # Acts 20 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>In this chapter Luke describes Paul’s last visits to believers in the provinces of Macedonia and Asia before he went to Jerusalem.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Race<br><br>Paul spoke of living for Jesus as if he were running in a race. By this he meant that he needed to keep working hard even when things were difficult and he wanted to quit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/discipline]])<br><br>### “Compelled by the Spirit”<br><br>Paul thought that the Holy Spirit wanted him to go to Jerusalem even if Paul did not want to go there. The same Holy Spirit told other people that when Paul arrived in Jerusalem, people would try to harm him.
ACT 20 1 cwq7 0 Connecting Statement: Paul leaves Ephesus and continues his travels.
ACT 20 1 y5cq μετὰ δὲ τὸ παύσασθαι 1 After the uproar “After the riot” or “Following the riot”
ACT 20 1 hr32 ἀσπασάμενος 1 he said farewell “he said goodbye”
ACT 20 37 pb4r ἐπιπεσόντες ἐπὶ τὸν τράχηλον τοῦ Παύλου 1 embraced Paul “hugged him closely” or “put their arms around him”
ACT 20 37 sze4 κατεφίλουν αὐτόν 1 kissed him Kissing someone on the cheek is an expression of brotherly or friendly love in the Middle East.
ACT 20 38 bs3s figs-synecdoche οὐκέτι μέλλουσιν τὸ πρόσωπον αὐτοῦ θεωρεῖν 1 they would never see his face again The word “face” here represents Paul’s physical body. Alternate translation: “will not see me anymore on this earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ACT 21 intro gh1j 0 # Acts 21 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Acts 21:1-19 describes Paul’s journey to Jerusalem. After he arrived in Jerusalem, the believers there told him that the Jews wanted to harm him and what he should do so they would not harm him (verses 20-26). Even though Paul did what the believers told him to do, the Jews tried to kill him. The Romans rescued him and gave him a chance to speak to the Jews.<br><br>The last verse of the chapter ends with an incomplete sentence. Most translations leave the sentence incomplete, as the ULT does.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “They are all determined to keep the law”<br><br>The Jews in Jerusalem were following the law of Moses. Even those who were following Jesus still kept the law. Both groups thought that Paul had been telling Jews in Greece not to keep the law. But it was only the Gentiles to whom Paul was saying that.<br><br>### Nazarite vow<br>The vow that Paul and his three friends made was probably a Nazarite vow, because they shaved their heads ([Acts 21:23](../../act/21/23.md)).<br><br>### Gentiles in the temple<br><br>The Jews accused Paul of bringing a Gentile man into a part of the temple into which God only allowed Jews to go. They thought that God wanted them to punish Paul by killing him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])<br><br>### Roman citizenship<br><br>The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens.<br>
ACT 21 intro gh1j 0 # Acts 21 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Acts 21:1-19 describes Paul’s journey to Jerusalem. After he arrived in Jerusalem, the believers there told him that the Jews wanted to harm him and what he should do so they would not harm him (verses 20-26). Even though Paul did what the believers told him to do, the Jews tried to kill him. The Romans rescued him and gave him a chance to speak to the Jews.<br><br>The last verse of the chapter ends with an incomplete sentence. Most translations leave the sentence incomplete, as the ULT does.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “They are all determined to keep the law”<br><br>The Jews in Jerusalem were following the law of Moses. Even those who were following Jesus still kept the law. Both groups thought that Paul had been telling Jews in Greece not to keep the law. But it was only the Gentiles to whom Paul was saying that.<br><br>### Nazarite vow<br>The vow that Paul and his three friends made was probably a Nazarite vow, because they shaved their heads ([Acts 21:23](../../act/21/23.md)).<br><br>### Gentiles in the temple<br><br>The Jews accused Paul of bringing a Gentile man into a part of the temple into which God only allowed Jews to go. They thought that God wanted them to punish Paul by killing him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])<br><br>### Roman citizenship<br><br>The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens.
ACT 21 1 s3h3 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: Here the word “we” refers to Luke, Paul, and those traveling with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
ACT 21 1 i6f8 0 Connecting Statement: The writer Luke, Paul, and his companions continue their travels.
ACT 21 1 zz5h εὐθυδρομήσαντες ἤλθομεν εἰς τὴν Κῶ 1 we took a straight course to the city of Cos “we went straight to the city of Cos” or “we went directly to the city of Cos”
ACT 21 40 a4y2 ὁ Παῦλος ἑστὼς ἐπὶ τῶν ἀναβαθμῶν 1 Paul stood on the steps The word “steps” here refers to the steps on the stairway to the fortress.
ACT 21 40 rk1y figs-explicit κατέσεισε τῇ χειρὶ τῷ λαῷ 1 motioned with the hand to the people It can be stated explicitly why Paul motioned with the hand. Alternate translation: “motioned with his hand for the people to be quiet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ACT 21 40 xj6i πολλῆς δὲ σιγῆς γενομένης 1 When there was a deep silence “When the people were completely silent”
ACT 22 intro gq5g 0 # Acts 22 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the second account of Paul’s conversion in the book of Acts. Because this is such an important event in the early church, there are three accounts of Paul’s conversion. (See: [Acts 9](../09/01.md) and [Acts 26](../26/01.md))<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “In the Hebrew language”<br><br>Most Jews at this time spoke Aramaic and Greek. Most of the people who spoke Hebrew were educated Jewish scholars. This is why the people paid attention when Paul started speaking in Hebrew.<br><br>### “The Way”<br><br>No one knows for sure who first started calling believers “followers of the Way.” This is probably what the believers called themselves, because the Bible often speaks of a person living his life as if that person were walking on a path or “way.” If this is true, the believers were “following the way of the Lord” by living in a way that pleased God.<br><br>### Roman citizenship<br><br>The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. The “chief captain” could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way he would treat a non-citizen.<br>
ACT 22 intro gq5g 0 # Acts 22 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the second account of Paul’s conversion in the book of Acts. Because this is such an important event in the early church, there are three accounts of Paul’s conversion. (See: [Acts 9](../09/01.md) and [Acts 26](../26/01.md))<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “In the Hebrew language”<br><br>Most Jews at this time spoke Aramaic and Greek. Most of the people who spoke Hebrew were educated Jewish scholars. This is why the people paid attention when Paul started speaking in Hebrew.<br><br>### “The Way”<br><br>No one knows for sure who first started calling believers “followers of the Way.” This is probably what the believers called themselves, because the Bible often speaks of a person living his life as if that person were walking on a path or “way.” If this is true, the believers were “following the way of the Lord” by living in a way that pleased God.<br><br>### Roman citizenship<br><br>The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. The “chief captain” could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way he would treat a non-citizen.
ACT 22 1 a8ir 0 Connecting Statement: Paul speaks to the Jewish crowd in Jerusalem.
ACT 22 1 xe46 ἀδελφοὶ καὶ πατέρες 1 Brothers and fathers This is a polite way of addressing men who are Paul’s age as well as the older men in the audience.
@ -2316,7 +2316,7 @@ ACT 22 29 ii8p οἱ μέλλοντες…ἀνετάζειν 1 the men who wer
ACT 22 30 g33i 0 General Information: Here the word “he” refers to the chief captain.
ACT 22 30 kx58 figs-metonymy ἔλυσεν αὐτόν 1 So he untied his bonds Possibly the “chief officer” stands for the chief officers’ soldiers. Alternate translation: “So the chief captain ordered his soldiers to untie Paul’s bonds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ACT 22 30 c5ia καταγαγὼν τὸν Παῦλον 1 he brought Paul down From the fortress, there is a stairway going down to the temple courts.
ACT 23 intro gbw5 0 # Acts 23 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted material in 23:5.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Resurrection of the dead<br><br>The Pharisees believed that after people died, they would become alive again and God would either reward them or punish them. The Sadducees believed that once people died, they stayed dead and would never become alive again. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/raise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])<br><br>### “Called a curse”<br><br>Some Jews promised God that they would not eat or drink until they killed Paul, and they asked God to punish them if they did not do what they had promised to do.<br><br>### Roman citizenship<br><br>The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. The “chief captain” could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way he would treat a non-citizen.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Whitewash<br><br>This is a common metaphor in Scripture for appearing to be good or clean or righteous when one is evil or unclean or unrighteous. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
ACT 23 intro gbw5 0 # Acts 23 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted material in 23:5.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Resurrection of the dead<br><br>The Pharisees believed that after people died, they would become alive again and God would either reward them or punish them. The Sadducees believed that once people died, they stayed dead and would never become alive again. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/raise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])<br><br>### “Called a curse”<br><br>Some Jews promised God that they would not eat or drink until they killed Paul, and they asked God to punish them if they did not do what they had promised to do.<br><br>### Roman citizenship<br><br>The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. The “chief captain” could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way he would treat a non-citizen.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Whitewash<br><br>This is a common metaphor in Scripture for appearing to be good or clean or righteous when one is evil or unclean or unrighteous. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ACT 23 1 z2sq 0 Connecting Statement: Paul stands before the chief priests and the council members ([Acts 22:30](../22/30.md)).
ACT 23 1 jru4 ἀδελφοί 1 Brothers Here this means “Fellow Jews.”
ACT 23 1 nn2q ἐγὼ πάσῃ συνειδήσει ἀγαθῇ πεπολίτευμαι τῷ Θεῷ ἄχρι ταύτης τῆς ἡμέρας 1 I have lived before God in all good conscience until this day “I know that even to this day I have done what God has wanted me to do”
ACT 23 35 dwv2 figs-quotations ἔφη 1 he said This sentence, which begins with the words “When he learned” in verse 43, can be stated as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “Paul said, ‘I am from Cilicia.’ Then the governor said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
ACT 23 35 uji1 διακούσομαί σου 1 I will hear you fully “I will listen to all you have to say”
ACT 23 35 mga2 κελεύσας…φυλάσσεσθαι αὐτόν 1 he commanded him to be kept This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he commanded soldiers to keep him” or “commanded soldiers to restrain him”
ACT 24 intro j74u 0 # Acts 24 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul told the governor that he had not done what the Jews were accusing him of doing and that the governor should not punish him for what he did do.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Respect<br><br>Both the Jewish leaders ([Acts 24:2-4](./02.md)) and Paul ([Acts 24:10](../../act/24/10.md)) began their speeches with words that show respect to the governor.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Governmental leaders<br><br>The words “governor,” “commander,” and “centurion” may be difficult to translate into some languages. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])<br>
ACT 24 intro j74u 0 # Acts 24 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul told the governor that he had not done what the Jews were accusing him of doing and that the governor should not punish him for what he did do.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Respect<br><br>Both the Jewish leaders ([Acts 24:2-4](./02.md)) and Paul ([Acts 24:10](../../act/24/10.md)) began their speeches with words that show respect to the governor.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Governmental leaders<br><br>The words “governor,” “commander,” and “centurion” may be difficult to translate into some languages. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
ACT 24 1 qw1r figs-you 0 General Information: Here the word “you” refers to Felix, the governor. Here “we” refers to the citizens under Felix. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
ACT 24 1 bc8k 0 Connecting Statement: Paul is on trial in Caesarea. Tertullus presents Governor Felix with the charges against Paul.
ACT 24 1 e8rp μετὰ δὲ πέντε ἡμέρας 1 After five days “five days after the Roman soldiers took Paul to Caesarea”
ACT 24 27 ur2y translate-names ὁ…Πόρκιον Φῆστον 1 Porcius Festus This was the new roman Governor who replaced Felix. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
ACT 24 27 p59c figs-synecdoche θέλων…χάριτα καταθέσθαι τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις 1 wanted to gain favor with the Jews Here “the Jews” refers to the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “wanted the Jewish leaders to like him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ACT 24 27 gln6 ὁ Φῆλιξ…κατέλιπε τὸν Παῦλον δεδεμένον 1 he left Paul to continue under guard “he left Paul in prison”
ACT 25 intro b6uk 0 # Acts 25 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Favor<br><br>This word is used in two different ways in this chapter. When the Jewish leaders asked Festus for a favor, they were asking him to do something special for them on that day. They wanted him to do for them something that he would not usually do. When Festus “wanted to gain the favor of the Jews,” he wanted them to like him and be willing to obey him in the months and years to come. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/favor]])<br><br>### Roman citizenship<br><br>The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. Roman officials could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way they would treat a non-citizen.<br><br>
ACT 25 intro b6uk 0 # Acts 25 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Favor<br><br>This word is used in two different ways in this chapter. When the Jewish leaders asked Festus for a favor, they were asking him to do something special for them on that day. They wanted him to do for them something that he would not usually do. When Festus “wanted to gain the favor of the Jews,” he wanted them to like him and be willing to obey him in the months and years to come. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/favor]])<br><br>### Roman citizenship<br><br>The Romans thought that they needed to treat only Roman citizens justly. They could do as they desired with people who were not Roman citizens, but they had to obey the law with other Romans. Some people were born Roman citizens, and others gave money to the Roman government so they could become Roman citizens. Roman officials could have been punished for treating a Roman citizen the same way they would treat a non-citizen.<br>
ACT 25 1 c84u 0 General Information: Festus becomes the governor of Caesarea. See how you translated this name in [Acts 24:27](../24/27.md).
ACT 25 1 tj76 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to be a prisoner in Caesarea.
ACT 25 1 w8h3 οὖν 1 Now This word marks the beginning of a new event in the story.
ACT 25 26 rhy2 ὅπως…σχῶ τι γράψω 1 so that I might have something more to write “so that I will have something else to write” or “so that I will know what I should write”
ACT 25 27 txs6 figs-doublenegatives ἄλογον…μοι δοκεῖ πέμποντα δέσμιον, μὴ καὶ…σημᾶναι 1 it seems unreasonable for me to send a prisoner and to not also state The negative words “unreasonable” and “to not” can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “it seems reasonable to me that if I send a prisoner then I should also state” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
ACT 25 27 xm65 τὰς κατ’ αὐτοῦ αἰτίας 1 the charges against him Possible meanings are (1) the accusations that the Jewish leaders have brought against him or (2) the charges under Roman law that apply to Paul’s case.
ACT 26 intro e2q6 0 # Acts 26 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the third account of Paul’s conversion in the book of Acts. Because this is such an important event in the early church, there are three accounts of Paul’s conversion. (See: [Acts 9](../09/01.md) and [Acts 22](../22/01.md))<br><br>Paul told the King Agrippa why he had done what he had done and that the governor should not punish him for that.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Light and darkness<br><br>The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])<br>
ACT 26 intro e2q6 0 # Acts 26 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the third account of Paul’s conversion in the book of Acts. Because this is such an important event in the early church, there are three accounts of Paul’s conversion. (See: [Acts 9](../09/01.md) and [Acts 22](../22/01.md))<br><br>Paul told the King Agrippa why he had done what he had done and that the governor should not punish him for that.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Light and darkness<br><br>The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])
ACT 26 1 b34d 0 Connecting Statement: Festus has brought Paul before King Agrippa. In verse 2, Paul gives his defense to King Agrippa.
ACT 26 1 gz9f Ἀγρίππας 1 Agrippa Agrippa was the current reigning king in Palestine, though he ruled over only a few territories. See how you translated this name in [Acts 25:13](../25/13.md).
ACT 26 1 wme6 ἐκτείνας τὴν χεῖρα 1 stretched out his hand “held out his hand” or “gestured with his hand”
@ -2615,7 +2615,7 @@ ACT 26 30 gaq5 0 Connecting Statement: This ends Paul’s time before King Agr
ACT 26 30 u8vl ἀνέστη τε ὁ βασιλεὺς καὶ ὁ ἡγεμὼν 1 Then the king stood up, and the governor “Then King Agrippa stood up, and Governor Festus”
ACT 26 31 blz8 figs-abstractnouns οὐδὲν θανάτου ἢ δεσμῶν ἄξιον τι πράσσει ὁ ἄνθρωπος οὗτος 1 This man does nothing worthy of death or of bonds The abstract noun “death” can be stated as the verb “die.” Here “bonds” stands for being in prison. Alternate translation: “This man does not deserve to die or to be in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ACT 26 32 n293 figs-activepassive ἀπολελύσθαι ἐδύνατο ὁ ἄνθρωπος οὗτος 1 This man could have been freed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “This man could have gone free” or “I could have freed this man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 27 intro r82x 0 # Acts 27 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Sailing<br><br>People who lived near the sea traveled by boat powered by the wind. During some months of the year, the wind would blow in the wrong direction or so hard that sailing was impossible.<br><br>### Trust<br><br>Paul trusted God to bring him safely to land. He told the sailers and soldiers to trust that God would also keep them alive. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])<br><br>### Paul breaks bread<br><br>Luke uses almost the same words here to describe Paul taking bread, thanking God, breaking it, and eating it that he used to describe the last supper Jesus ate with his disciples. However, your translation should not make your reader think that Paul was leading a religious celebration here.<br>
ACT 27 intro r82x 0 # Acts 27 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Sailing<br><br>People who lived near the sea traveled by boat powered by the wind. During some months of the year, the wind would blow in the wrong direction or so hard that sailing was impossible.<br><br>### Trust<br><br>Paul trusted God to bring him safely to land. He told the sailers and soldiers to trust that God would also keep them alive. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])<br><br>### Paul breaks bread<br><br>Luke uses almost the same words here to describe Paul taking bread, thanking God, breaking it, and eating it that he used to describe the last supper Jesus ate with his disciples. However, your translation should not make your reader think that Paul was leading a religious celebration here.
ACT 27 1 efe4 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: Adramyttium was a city possibly located on the west coast of modern-day Turkey. The word “we” includes the author of Acts, Paul, and the others traveling with Paul, but not the reader. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
ACT 27 1 dyf5 0 Connecting Statement: Paul, as a prisoner, begins his journey to Rome.
ACT 27 1 b2yz figs-activepassive ὡς…ἐκρίθη 1 When it was decided This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When the king and the governor decided” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ACT 27 43 s2sz ἐκώλυσεν αὐτοὺς τοῦ βουλήματος 1 so he stopped their plan “so he stopped them from doing what they planned to do”
ACT 27 43 br8u ἀπορίψαντας 1 jump overboard “jump off the ship into the water”
ACT 27 44 hw7p οὓς…ἐπὶ σανίσιν 1 some on planks “some on wooden boards”
ACT 28 intro w8yn 0 # Acts 28 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>No one knows for sure why Luke ends his history without telling what happened to Paul after he had been in Rome for two years.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “Letters” and “brothers”<br><br>The Jewish leaders were surprised that Paul wanted to speak with them, because they had received no letters from the high priest in Jerusalem telling them that Paul was coming.<br><br>When the Jewish leaders spoke of “brothers,” they were referring to fellow Jews, not to Christians.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “He was a god”<br><br>The native people believed that Paul was a god, but they did not believe that he was the one true God. We do not know why Paul did not tell the native people that he was not a god.<br>
ACT 28 intro w8yn 0 # Acts 28 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>No one knows for sure why Luke ends his history without telling what happened to Paul after he had been in Rome for two years.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “Letters” and “brothers”<br><br>The Jewish leaders were surprised that Paul wanted to speak with them, because they had received no letters from the high priest in Jerusalem telling them that Paul was coming.<br><br>When the Jewish leaders spoke of “brothers,” they were referring to fellow Jews, not to Christians.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “He was a god”<br><br>The native people believed that Paul was a god, but they did not believe that he was the one true God. We do not know why Paul did not tell the native people that he was not a god.
ACT 28 1 p1bd figs-exclusive 0 General Information: Here the word “we” refers to Paul, the writer, and those who traveled with them, but not to the reader. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
ACT 28 1 twx8 0 Connecting Statement: After the shipwreck, people on the island of Malta helped Paul and everyone on the ship. They stay there for 3 months.
ACT 28 1 j1yf figs-activepassive καὶ διασωθέντες 1 When we were brought safely through This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When we arrived safely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote
JAS front intro exs3 0 # Introduction to James<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of James<br><br>1. Greetings (1:1)<br>1. Testing and maturity (1:2-18)<br>1. Hearing and doing the Word of God (1:19-27)<br>1. True faith seen in works<br>- Word of God (1:19-27)<br>- Royal law of love (2:1-13)<br>- Works (2:14-26)<br>1. Difficulties in community<br>- Dangers of the tongue (3:1-12)<br>- Wisdom from above (3:13-18)<br>- Worldly desires (4:1-12)<br>1. God’s perspective on your decisions<br>- Boasting about tomorrow (4:13-17)<br>- Warning about riches (5:1-6)<br>- Suffering with patience (5:7-11)<br>1. Closing exhortations<br>- Oaths (5:12)<br>- Prayer and healing (5:13-18)<br>- Care for one another (5:19-20)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of James?<br><br>The author identifies himself as James. This was probably James, the half-brother of Jesus. James was a leader in the early church and was part of the Jerusalem council. The Apostle Paul also called him a “pillar” of the church.<br><br>This is not the same man as the Apostle James. The Apostle James was killed before this letter was written.<br><br>### What is the Book of James about?<br><br>In this letter, James encouraged believers who were suffering. He told them know that God uses their suffering to help them become mature Christians. James also told them of the need for believers to do good deeds. He wrote much in this letter about how believers should live and treat one another. For example, he commanded them to treat one another fairly, to not fight with one another, and to use riches wisely.<br><br>James taught his readers by using many examples from nature such as in 1:6, 11 and 3:1-12. Also, many parts of this letter are similar to what Jesus wrote in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5-7).<br><br>### Who were the “twelve tribes in the dispersion”?<br><br>James said he was writing to the “twelve tribes in the dispersion” (1:1). Some scholars think that James was writing to Jewish Christians. Other scholars think that James was writing to all Christians in general. This letter is known as one of the “General Epistles” since it was not written to a specific church or individual.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “James.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “A Letter from James” or “The Letter James Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Did James disagree with Paul about how a person is justified before God?<br><br>Paul taught in Romans that Christians are justified by faith and not by works. James seems to teach that Christians are justified by works. This can be confusing. But a better understanding of what Paul and James taught shows that they agree with one another. Both of them taught that a person needs faith in order to be justified. And they both taught that true faith will cause a person to do good works. Paul and James taught about these things in different ways because they had different audiences who needed to know different things about being justified. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How should the translator signal transitions between topics in the Book of James?<br><br>The letter quickly changes topics. Sometimes James does not tell the readers that he is about to change topics. It is acceptable to allow the verses to appear disconnected from each other. It may make sense to set the passages apart by starting a new line or putting a space between topics.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of James?<br><br>* “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is useless?” (2:20). The ULT, UST, and modern versions read this way. Some older versions read, “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])<br>
JAS 1 intro pz2q 0 # James 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>James formally introduces this letter in verse 1. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Testing and temptation<br><br>These two words occur together in ([James 1:12-13](./12.md)). Both words speak of a person who is able to choose between doing something good and doing something evil. The difference between them is important. God is testing the person and wants him to do what is good. Satan is tempting the person and wants him to do what is evil.<br><br>### Crowns<br><br>The crown that a man who passes the test receives is a reward, something that people who do something especially good receive. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James uses many metaphors in this chapter, and you will need to understand the material on the metaphor page before you can translate them well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “To the twelve tribes in the dispersion”<br><br>It is not clear to whom James wrote this letter. He calls himself a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, so he was probably writing to Christians. But he calls his readers “the twelve tribes in the dispersion,” words which usually refer to Jews. It is possible that he is using the words as a metaphor for “all people whom God has chosen” or that he wrote the letter at a time when most Christians had grown up as Jews.<br>
JAS front intro exs3 0 # Introduction to James<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of James<br><br>1. Greetings (1:1)<br>1. Testing and maturity (1:2-18)<br>1. Hearing and doing the Word of God (1:19-27)<br>1. True faith seen in works<br>- Word of God (1:19-27)<br>- Royal law of love (2:1-13)<br>- Works (2:14-26)<br>1. Difficulties in community<br>- Dangers of the tongue (3:1-12)<br>- Wisdom from above (3:13-18)<br>- Worldly desires (4:1-12)<br>1. God’s perspective on your decisions<br>- Boasting about tomorrow (4:13-17)<br>- Warning about riches (5:1-6)<br>- Suffering with patience (5:7-11)<br>1. Closing exhortations<br>- Oaths (5:12)<br>- Prayer and healing (5:13-18)<br>- Care for one another (5:19-20)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of James?<br><br>The author identifies himself as James. This was probably James, the half-brother of Jesus. James was a leader in the early church and was part of the Jerusalem council. The Apostle Paul also called him a “pillar” of the church.<br><br>This is not the same man as the Apostle James. The Apostle James was killed before this letter was written.<br><br>### What is the Book of James about?<br><br>In this letter, James encouraged believers who were suffering. He told them know that God uses their suffering to help them become mature Christians. James also told them of the need for believers to do good deeds. He wrote much in this letter about how believers should live and treat one another. For example, he commanded them to treat one another fairly, to not fight with one another, and to use riches wisely.<br><br>James taught his readers by using many examples from nature such as in 1:6, 11 and 3:1-12. Also, many parts of this letter are similar to what Jesus wrote in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5-7).<br><br>### Who were the “twelve tribes in the dispersion”?<br><br>James said he was writing to the “twelve tribes in the dispersion” (1:1). Some scholars think that James was writing to Jewish Christians. Other scholars think that James was writing to all Christians in general. This letter is known as one of the “General Epistles” since it was not written to a specific church or individual.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “James.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “A Letter from James” or “The Letter James Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Did James disagree with Paul about how a person is justified before God?<br><br>Paul taught in Romans that Christians are justified by faith and not by works. James seems to teach that Christians are justified by works. This can be confusing. But a better understanding of what Paul and James taught shows that they agree with one another. Both of them taught that a person needs faith in order to be justified. And they both taught that true faith will cause a person to do good works. Paul and James taught about these things in different ways because they had different audiences who needed to know different things about being justified. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How should the translator signal transitions between topics in the Book of James?<br><br>The letter quickly changes topics. Sometimes James does not tell the readers that he is about to change topics. It is acceptable to allow the verses to appear disconnected from each other. It may make sense to set the passages apart by starting a new line or putting a space between topics.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of James?<br><br>* “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is useless?” (2:20). The ULT, UST, and modern versions read this way. Some older versions read, “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
JAS 1 intro pz2q 0 # James 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>James formally introduces this letter in verse 1. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Testing and temptation<br><br>These two words occur together in ([James 1:12-13](./12.md)). Both words speak of a person who is able to choose between doing something good and doing something evil. The difference between them is important. God is testing the person and wants him to do what is good. Satan is tempting the person and wants him to do what is evil.<br><br>### Crowns<br><br>The crown that a man who passes the test receives is a reward, something that people who do something especially good receive. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James uses many metaphors in this chapter, and you will need to understand the material on the metaphor page before you can translate them well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “To the twelve tribes in the dispersion”<br><br>It is not clear to whom James wrote this letter. He calls himself a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, so he was probably writing to Christians. But he calls his readers “the twelve tribes in the dispersion,” words which usually refer to Jews. It is possible that he is using the words as a metaphor for “all people whom God has chosen” or that he wrote the letter at a time when most Christians had grown up as Jews.
JAS 1 1 ssc8 0 General Information: The apostle James writes this letter to all the Christians. Many of them were Jews, and they lived in many different places.
JAS 1 1 pkt2 figs-explicit Ἰάκωβος, Θεοῦ καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, δοῦλος 1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ The phrase “this letter is from” is implied. Alternate translation: “This letter is from James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
JAS 1 1 l4i7 figs-synecdoche ταῖς δώδεκα φυλαῖς 1 to the twelve tribes Possible meanings are (1) this is a synecdoche for Jewish Christians, or (2) this is a metaphor for all Christians. Alternate translation: “to God’s faithful people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@ -79,7 +79,7 @@ JAS 1 27 skf4 figs-metaphor παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ καὶ Πατρί 1 before
JAS 1 27 iiv2 ὀρφανοὺς 1 the fatherless “the orphans”
JAS 1 27 r8nj ἐν τῇ θλίψει αὐτῶν 1 in their affliction The fatherless and widows are suffering because their fathers or husbands have died.
JAS 1 27 nmf7 figs-metaphor ἄσπιλον ἑαυτὸν τηρεῖν ἀπὸ τοῦ κόσμου 1 to keep oneself unstained by the world Sin in the world is spoken of as something dirty that can stain a person. Alternate translation: “to not allow the evil in the world to cause oneself to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
JAS 2 intro f5zd 0 # James 02 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Favoritism<br><br>Some of James’s readers treated rich and powerful people well and treated poor people badly. This is called favoritism, and James tells them that this is wrong. God wants his people to treat both rich people and poor people well.<br><br>### Justification<br><br>Justification is what happens when God makes a person righteous. James says here that God makes righteous or justifies people who do good works along with having faith. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Quotation marks<br><br>The words “Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by my works” are hard to understand. Some people think that they are what “someone may say,” like the words in the quotation marks. Most versions translate them as words that James is saying back to that “someone.”<br><br>### “You have…I have”<br><br>Some people think that the words “you” and “I” are metonyms for “some people” and “other people.” If they are correct, verse 18 could be translated, “Someone may say, ‘Some people have faith and other people have works. Not everyone has both.’” If the next sentence is also what “someone may say,” it could be translated “Some people show their faith without works, and other people show their faith by their works. Both have faith.” In both cases, the reader will understand only if you add the extra sentence. It is probably best to translate as the ULT does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
JAS 2 intro f5zd 0 # James 02 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Favoritism<br><br>Some of James’s readers treated rich and powerful people well and treated poor people badly. This is called favoritism, and James tells them that this is wrong. God wants his people to treat both rich people and poor people well.<br><br>### Justification<br><br>Justification is what happens when God makes a person righteous. James says here that God makes righteous or justifies people who do good works along with having faith. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Quotation marks<br><br>The words “Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by my works” are hard to understand. Some people think that they are what “someone may say,” like the words in the quotation marks. Most versions translate them as words that James is saying back to that “someone.”<br><br>### “You have…I have”<br><br>Some people think that the words “you” and “I” are metonyms for “some people” and “other people.” If they are correct, verse 18 could be translated, “Someone may say, ‘Some people have faith and other people have works. Not everyone has both.’” If the next sentence is also what “someone may say,” it could be translated “Some people show their faith without works, and other people show their faith by their works. Both have faith.” In both cases, the reader will understand only if you add the extra sentence. It is probably best to translate as the ULT does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
JAS 2 1 ici9 0 Connecting Statement: James continues to tell the scattered Jewish believers how to live by loving one another and reminds them not to favor rich people over poor brothers.
JAS 2 1 kab4 ἀδελφοί μου 1 My brothers James considers his audience to be Jewish believers. Alternate translation: “My fellow believers” or “My brothers and sisters in Christ”
JAS 2 1 qs2x figs-metaphor ἔχετε τὴν πίστιν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 hold to faith in our Lord Jesus Christ Believing in Jesus Christ is spoken of as if it were an object that one could hold onto. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@ -158,7 +158,7 @@ JAS 2 25 bx6i figs-metaphor ἐξ ἔργων ἐδικαιώθη 1 justified by
JAS 2 25 af9u ἀγγέλους 1 messengers people who bring news from another place
JAS 2 25 xm5m ἑτέρᾳ ὁδῷ ἐκβαλοῦσα 1 sent them away by another road “then helped them escape and leave the city”
JAS 2 26 uum8 figs-metaphor ὥσπερ γὰρ τὸ σῶμα χωρὶς πνεύματος νεκρόν ἐστιν, οὕτως καὶ ἡ πίστις χωρὶς ἔργων νεκρά ἐστιν 1 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, even so faith apart from works is dead James is speaking of faith without works as if it were a dead body without the spirit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
JAS 3 intro py3p 0 # James 03 General Notes<br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James teaches his readers that they should live to please God by reminding them of things that they know from everyday life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
JAS 3 intro py3p 0 # James 03 General Notes<br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James teaches his readers that they should live to please God by reminding them of things that they know from everyday life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
JAS 3 1 p4uu figs-genericnoun μὴ πολλοὶ 1 Not many of you James is making a generalized statement. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
JAS 3 1 c36b ἀδελφοί μου 1 my brothers “my fellow believers”
JAS 3 1 aw5f figs-explicit μεῖζον κρίμα λημψόμεθα. 1 we who teach will be judged more strictly This passage speaks of stricter judgment that will come from God on those who teach others about him. Alternate translation: “God will judge us who teach more severely because we know his word better than some people whom we have taught” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
JAS 3 17 by2l ἀνυπόκριτος 1 and sincere “and honest” or “and truthful”
JAS 3 18 md56 figs-metaphor καρπὸς…δικαιοσύνης ἐν εἰρήνῃ σπείρεται, τοῖς ποιοῦσιν εἰρήνην 1 The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace among those who make peace People making peace is spoken of as if they were sowing seeds, and righteousness is spoken of as if it were the fruit that grows up as a result of making peace. Alternate translation: “The result of making peace is righteousness” or “Those who work peacefully to help people live in peace produce righteousness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
JAS 3 18 htr1 figs-abstractnouns ποιοῦσιν εἰρήνην 1 make peace The abstract noun “peace” can be stated as “peacefully.” Alternate translation: “cause people to live peacefully” or “help people not to be angry with each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
JAS 4 intro r6vv 0 # James 04 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Adultery<br><br>Writers in the Bible often speak of adultery as a metaphor for people who say they love God but do things that God hates. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])<br><br>### Law<br><br>James probably uses this word in [James 4:11](../../jas/04/11.md) to refer to “the royal law” ([James 2:8](../../jas/02/08.md)).<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical Questions<br><br>James asks many questions because he wants his readers to think about how they are living. He wants to correct and teach them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Humble<br><br>This word probably usually refers to people who are not proud. James uses the word here to refer to people who are not proud and who also trust in Jesus and obey him.<br>
JAS 4 intro r6vv 0 # James 04 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Adultery<br><br>Writers in the Bible often speak of adultery as a metaphor for people who say they love God but do things that God hates. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])<br><br>### Law<br><br>James probably uses this word in [James 4:11](../../jas/04/11.md) to refer to “the royal law” ([James 2:8](../../jas/02/08.md)).<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical Questions<br><br>James asks many questions because he wants his readers to think about how they are living. He wants to correct and teach them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Humble<br><br>This word probably usually refers to people who are not proud. James uses the word here to refer to people who are not proud and who also trust in Jesus and obey him.
JAS 4 1 q3pd 0 General Information: In this section, the words “yourselves,” “your,” and “you” are plural and refer to the believers to whom James writes.
JAS 4 1 k21j 0 Connecting Statement: James rebukes these believers for their worldliness and their lack of humility. He again urges them to watch how they speak to and about each other.
JAS 4 1 ub82 figs-doublet πόθεν πόλεμοι καὶ πόθεν μάχαι ἐν ὑμῖν? 1 Where do quarrels and disputes among you come from? The abstract nouns “quarrels” and “disputes” mean basically the same thing and can be translated with verbs. Alternate translation: “Why do you quarrel and dispute among yourselves?” or “Why do you fight among yourselves?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
JAS 4 15 gj65 ἀντὶ τοῦ λέγειν ὑμᾶς 1 Instead, you should say “Instead, your attitude should be”
JAS 4 15 e1il ζήσομεν καὶ ποιήσομεν, τοῦτο ἢ ἐκεῖνο 1 we will live and do this or that “we will live long enough to do what we have planned to do.” The word “we” does not directly refer to James or his audience but is part of the example of how James’ audience should consider the future.
JAS 4 17 q84z εἰδότι οὖν καλὸν ποιεῖν, καὶ μὴ ποιοῦντι, ἁμαρτία αὐτῷ ἐστιν. 1 for anyone who knows to do good but does not do it, for him it is sin Anyone who fails to do the good he knows he should do is guilty of sin.
JAS 5 intro ud8q 0 # James 05 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Eternity<br>This chapter contrasts living for things of this world, which will not last, with living for things that will last for eternity. It is also important to live with the expectation that Jesus will return soon. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])<br><br>### Oaths<br>Scholars are divided over whether this passage teaches all oaths are wrong. Most scholars believe some oaths are permissible and James instead is teaching Christians to have integrity.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Elijah<br>This story will be difficult to understand if the books of 1 and 2 Kings and 1 and 2 Chronicles have not yet been translated.<br><br>### “Save his soul from death”<br>This probably teaches that the person who stops their sinful lifestyle will not be punished with physical death as a consequence of their sin. On the other hand, some scholars believe this passage teaches about eternal salvation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/death]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])<br>
JAS 5 intro ud8q 0 # James 05 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Eternity<br>This chapter contrasts living for things of this world, which will not last, with living for things that will last for eternity. It is also important to live with the expectation that Jesus will return soon. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])<br><br>### Oaths<br>Scholars are divided over whether this passage teaches all oaths are wrong. Most scholars believe some oaths are permissible and James instead is teaching Christians to have integrity.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Elijah<br>This story will be difficult to understand if the books of 1 and 2 Kings and 1 and 2 Chronicles have not yet been translated.<br><br>### “Save his soul from death”<br>This probably teaches that the person who stops their sinful lifestyle will not be punished with physical death as a consequence of their sin. On the other hand, some scholars believe this passage teaches about eternal salvation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/death]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])
JAS 5 1 phs3 0 Connecting Statement: James warns rich people about their focus on pleasure and riches.
JAS 5 1 gel9 figs-explicit οἱ πλούσιοι 1 you who are rich Possible meanings are (1) James is giving a strong warning to wealthy believers or (2) James is talking about wealthy unbelievers. Alternate translation: “you who are rich and say you honor God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
JAS 5 1 l3wd figs-abstractnouns ἐπὶ ταῖς ταλαιπωρίαις ὑμῶν ταῖς ἐπερχομέναις 1 because of the miseries coming on you James states that these people will suffer terribly in the future and writes as if their sufferings were objects that were coming toward them. The abstract noun “miseries” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “because you will suffer terribly in the future” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
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# Introduction to James<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of James<br><br>1. Greetings (1:1)<br>1. Testing and maturity (1:2-18)<br>1. Hearing and doing the Word of God (1:19-27)<br>1. True faith seen in works<br>- Word of God (1:19-27)<br>- Royal law of love (2:1-13)<br>- Works (2:14-26)<br>1. Difficulties in community<br>- Dangers of the tongue (3:1-12)<br>- Wisdom from above (3:13-18)<br>- Worldly desires (4:1-12)<br>1. God’s perspective on your decisions<br>- Boasting about tomorrow (4:13-17)<br>- Warning about riches (5:1-6)<br>- Suffering with patience (5:7-11)<br>1. Closing exhortations<br>- Oaths (5:12)<br>- Prayer and healing (5:13-18)<br>- Care for one another (5:19-20)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of James?<br><br>The author identifies himself as James. This was probably James, the half-brother of Jesus. James was a leader in the early church and was part of the Jerusalem council. The Apostle Paul also called him a “pillar” of the church.<br><br>This is not the same man as the Apostle James. The Apostle James was killed before this letter was written.<br><br>### What is the Book of James about?<br><br>In this letter, James encouraged believers who were suffering. He told them know that God uses their suffering to help them become mature Christians. James also told them of the need for believers to do good deeds. He wrote much in this letter about how believers should live and treat one another. For example, he commanded them to treat one another fairly, to not fight with one another, and to use riches wisely.<br><br>James taught his readers by using many examples from nature such as in 1:6, 11 and 3:1-12. Also, many parts of this letter are similar to what Jesus wrote in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5-7).<br><br>### Who were the “twelve tribes in the dispersion”?<br><br>James said he was writing to the “twelve tribes in the dispersion” (1:1). Some scholars think that James was writing to Jewish Christians. Other scholars think that James was writing to all Christians in general. This letter is known as one of the “General Epistles” since it was not written to a specific church or individual.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “James.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “A Letter from James” or “The Letter James Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Did James disagree with Paul about how a person is justified before God?<br><br>Paul taught in Romans that Christians are justified by faith and not by works. James seems to teach that Christians are justified by works. This can be confusing. But a better understanding of what Paul and James taught shows that they agree with one another. Both of them taught that a person needs faith in order to be justified. And they both taught that true faith will cause a person to do good works. Paul and James taught about these things in different ways because they had different audiences who needed to know different things about being justified. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How should the translator signal transitions between topics in the Book of James?<br><br>The letter quickly changes topics. Sometimes James does not tell the readers that he is about to change topics. It is acceptable to allow the verses to appear disconnected from each other. It may make sense to set the passages apart by starting a new line or putting a space between topics.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of James?<br><br>* “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is useless?” (2:20). The ULT, UST, and modern versions read this way. Some older versions read, “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])<br># Introduction to James<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of James<br><br>1. Greetings (1:1)<br>1. Testing and maturity (1:2-18)<br>1. Hearing and doing the Word of God (1:19-27)<br>1. True faith seen in works<br>- Word of God (1:19-27)<br>- Royal law of love (2:1-13)<br>- Works (2:14-26)<br>1. Difficulties in community<br>- Dangers of the tongue (3:1-12)<br>- Wisdom from above (3:13-18)<br>- Worldly desires (4:1-12)<br>1. God’s perspective on your decisions<br>- Boasting about tomorrow (4:13-17)<br>- Warning about riches (5:1-6)<br>- Suffering with patience (5:7-11)<br>1. Closing exhortations<br>- Oaths (5:12)<br>- Prayer and healing (5:13-18)<br>- Care for one another (5:19-20)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of James?<br><br>The author identifies himself as James. This was probably James, the half-brother of Jesus. James was a leader in the early church and was part of the Jerusalem council. The Apostle Paul also called him a “pillar” of the church.<br><br>This is not the same man as the Apostle James. The Apostle James was killed before this letter was written.<br><br>### What is the Book of James about?<br><br>In this letter, James encouraged believers who were suffering. He told them know that God uses their suffering to help them become mature Christians. James also told them of the need for believers to do good deeds. He wrote much in this letter about how believers should live and treat one another. For example, he commanded them to treat one another fairly, to not fight with one another, and to use riches wisely.<br><br>James taught his readers by using many examples from nature such as in 1:6, 11 and 3:1-12. Also, many parts of this letter are similar to what Jesus wrote in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5-7).<br><br>### Who were the “twelve tribes in the dispersion”?<br><br>James said he was writing to the “twelve tribes in the dispersion” (1:1). Some scholars think that James was writing to Jewish Christians. Other scholars think that James was writing to all Christians in general. This letter is known as one of the “General Epistles” since it was not written to a specific church or individual.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “James.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “A Letter from James” or “The Letter James Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Did James disagree with Paul about how a person is justified before God?<br><br>Paul taught in Romans that Christians are justified by faith and not by works. James seems to teach that Christians are justified by works. This can be confusing. But a better understanding of what Paul and James taught shows that they agree with one another. Both of them taught that a person needs faith in order to be justified. And they both taught that true faith will cause a person to do good works. Paul and James taught about these things in different ways because they had different audiences who needed to know different things about being justified. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How should the translator signal transitions between topics in the Book of James?<br><br>The letter quickly changes topics. Sometimes James does not tell the readers that he is about to change topics. It is acceptable to allow the verses to appear disconnected from each other. It may make sense to set the passages apart by starting a new line or putting a space between topics.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of James?<br><br>* “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is useless?” (2:20). The ULT, UST, and modern versions read this way. Some older versions read, “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
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intro
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0
# James 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>James formally introduces this letter in verse 1. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Testing and temptation<br><br>These two words occur together in ([James 1:12-13](./12.md)). Both words speak of a person who is able to choose between doing something good and doing something evil. The difference between them is important. God is testing the person and wants him to do what is good. Satan is tempting the person and wants him to do what is evil.<br><br>### Crowns<br><br>The crown that a man who passes the test receives is a reward, something that people who do something especially good receive. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James uses many metaphors in this chapter, and you will need to understand the material on the metaphor page before you can translate them well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “To the twelve tribes in the dispersion”<br><br>It is not clear to whom James wrote this letter. He calls himself a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, so he was probably writing to Christians. But he calls his readers “the twelve tribes in the dispersion,” words which usually refer to Jews. It is possible that he is using the words as a metaphor for “all people whom God has chosen” or that he wrote the letter at a time when most Christians had grown up as Jews.<br># James 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>James formally introduces this letter in verse 1. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Testing and temptation<br><br>These two words occur together in ([James 1:12-13](./12.md)). Both words speak of a person who is able to choose between doing something good and doing something evil. The difference between them is important. God is testing the person and wants him to do what is good. Satan is tempting the person and wants him to do what is evil.<br><br>### Crowns<br><br>The crown that a man who passes the test receives is a reward, something that people who do something especially good receive. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James uses many metaphors in this chapter, and you will need to understand the material on the metaphor page before you can translate them well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “To the twelve tribes in the dispersion”<br><br>It is not clear to whom James wrote this letter. He calls himself a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, so he was probably writing to Christians. But he calls his readers “the twelve tribes in the dispersion,” words which usually refer to Jews. It is possible that he is using the words as a metaphor for “all people whom God has chosen” or that he wrote the letter at a time when most Christians had grown up as Jews.
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ssc8
0
General Information:
The apostle James writes this letter to all the Christians. Many of them were Jews, and they lived in many different places.
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1
pkt2
figs-explicit
Ἰάκωβος, Θεοῦ καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, δοῦλος
1
James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ
The phrase “this letter is from” is implied. Alternate translation: “This letter is from James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
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1
l4i7
figs-synecdoche
ταῖς δώδεκα φυλαῖς
1
to the twelve tribes
Possible meanings are (1) this is a synecdoche for Jewish Christians, or (2) this is a metaphor for all Christians. Alternate translation: “to God’s faithful people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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27
iiv2
ὀρφανοὺς
1
the fatherless
“the orphans”
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27
r8nj
ἐν τῇ θλίψει αὐτῶν
1
in their affliction
The fatherless and widows are suffering because their fathers or husbands have died.
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nmf7
figs-metaphor
ἄσπιλον ἑαυτὸν τηρεῖν ἀπὸ τοῦ κόσμου
1
to keep oneself unstained by the world
Sin in the world is spoken of as something dirty that can stain a person. Alternate translation: “to not allow the evil in the world to cause oneself to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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intro
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0
# James 02 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Favoritism<br><br>Some of James’s readers treated rich and powerful people well and treated poor people badly. This is called favoritism, and James tells them that this is wrong. God wants his people to treat both rich people and poor people well.<br><br>### Justification<br><br>Justification is what happens when God makes a person righteous. James says here that God makes righteous or justifies people who do good works along with having faith. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Quotation marks<br><br>The words “Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by my works” are hard to understand. Some people think that they are what “someone may say,” like the words in the quotation marks. Most versions translate them as words that James is saying back to that “someone.”<br><br>### “You have…I have”<br><br>Some people think that the words “you” and “I” are metonyms for “some people” and “other people.” If they are correct, verse 18 could be translated, “Someone may say, ‘Some people have faith and other people have works. Not everyone has both.’” If the next sentence is also what “someone may say,” it could be translated “Some people show their faith without works, and other people show their faith by their works. Both have faith.” In both cases, the reader will understand only if you add the extra sentence. It is probably best to translate as the ULT does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br># James 02 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Favoritism<br><br>Some of James’s readers treated rich and powerful people well and treated poor people badly. This is called favoritism, and James tells them that this is wrong. God wants his people to treat both rich people and poor people well.<br><br>### Justification<br><br>Justification is what happens when God makes a person righteous. James says here that God makes righteous or justifies people who do good works along with having faith. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Quotation marks<br><br>The words “Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by my works” are hard to understand. Some people think that they are what “someone may say,” like the words in the quotation marks. Most versions translate them as words that James is saying back to that “someone.”<br><br>### “You have…I have”<br><br>Some people think that the words “you” and “I” are metonyms for “some people” and “other people.” If they are correct, verse 18 could be translated, “Someone may say, ‘Some people have faith and other people have works. Not everyone has both.’” If the next sentence is also what “someone may say,” it could be translated “Some people show their faith without works, and other people show their faith by their works. Both have faith.” In both cases, the reader will understand only if you add the extra sentence. It is probably best to translate as the ULT does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
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ici9
0
Connecting Statement:
James continues to tell the scattered Jewish believers how to live by loving one another and reminds them not to favor rich people over poor brothers.
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kab4
ἀδελφοί μου
1
My brothers
James considers his audience to be Jewish believers. Alternate translation: “My fellow believers” or “My brothers and sisters in Christ”
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2
1
qs2x
figs-metaphor
ἔχετε τὴν πίστιν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ
1
hold to faith in our Lord Jesus Christ
Believing in Jesus Christ is spoken of as if it were an object that one could hold onto. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, even so faith apart from works is dead
James is speaking of faith without works as if it were a dead body without the spirit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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intro
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0
# James 03 General Notes<br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James teaches his readers that they should live to please God by reminding them of things that they know from everyday life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br># James 03 General Notes<br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James teaches his readers that they should live to please God by reminding them of things that they know from everyday life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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p4uu
figs-genericnoun
μὴ πολλοὶ
1
Not many of you
James is making a generalized statement. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
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1
c36b
ἀδελφοί μου
1
my brothers
“my fellow believers”
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1
aw5f
figs-explicit
μεῖζον κρίμα λημψόμεθα.
1
we who teach will be judged more strictly
This passage speaks of stricter judgment that will come from God on those who teach others about him. Alternate translation: “God will judge us who teach more severely because we know his word better than some people whom we have taught” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace among those who make peace
People making peace is spoken of as if they were sowing seeds, and righteousness is spoken of as if it were the fruit that grows up as a result of making peace. Alternate translation: “The result of making peace is righteousness” or “Those who work peacefully to help people live in peace produce righteousness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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htr1
figs-abstractnouns
ποιοῦσιν εἰρήνην
1
make peace
The abstract noun “peace” can be stated as “peacefully.” Alternate translation: “cause people to live peacefully” or “help people not to be angry with each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
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intro
r6vv
0
# James 04 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Adultery<br><br>Writers in the Bible often speak of adultery as a metaphor for people who say they love God but do things that God hates. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])<br><br>### Law<br><br>James probably uses this word in [James 4:11](../../jas/04/11.md) to refer to “the royal law” ([James 2:8](../../jas/02/08.md)).<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical Questions<br><br>James asks many questions because he wants his readers to think about how they are living. He wants to correct and teach them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Humble<br><br>This word probably usually refers to people who are not proud. James uses the word here to refer to people who are not proud and who also trust in Jesus and obey him.<br># James 04 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Adultery<br><br>Writers in the Bible often speak of adultery as a metaphor for people who say they love God but do things that God hates. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])<br><br>### Law<br><br>James probably uses this word in [James 4:11](../../jas/04/11.md) to refer to “the royal law” ([James 2:8](../../jas/02/08.md)).<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical Questions<br><br>James asks many questions because he wants his readers to think about how they are living. He wants to correct and teach them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Humble<br><br>This word probably usually refers to people who are not proud. James uses the word here to refer to people who are not proud and who also trust in Jesus and obey him.
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0
General Information:
In this section, the words “yourselves,” “your,” and “you” are plural and refer to the believers to whom James writes.
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0
Connecting Statement:
James rebukes these believers for their worldliness and their lack of humility. He again urges them to watch how they speak to and about each other.
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ub82
figs-doublet
πόθεν πόλεμοι καὶ πόθεν μάχαι ἐν ὑμῖν?
1
Where do quarrels and disputes among you come from?
The abstract nouns “quarrels” and “disputes” mean basically the same thing and can be translated with verbs. Alternate translation: “Why do you quarrel and dispute among yourselves?” or “Why do you fight among yourselves?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
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15
gj65
ἀντὶ τοῦ λέγειν ὑμᾶς
1
Instead, you should say
“Instead, your attitude should be”
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15
e1il
ζήσομεν καὶ ποιήσομεν, τοῦτο ἢ ἐκεῖνο
1
we will live and do this or that
“we will live long enough to do what we have planned to do.” The word “we” does not directly refer to James or his audience but is part of the example of how James’ audience should consider the future.
for anyone who knows to do good but does not do it, for him it is sin
Anyone who fails to do the good he knows he should do is guilty of sin.
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intro
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0
# James 05 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Eternity<br>This chapter contrasts living for things of this world, which will not last, with living for things that will last for eternity. It is also important to live with the expectation that Jesus will return soon. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])<br><br>### Oaths<br>Scholars are divided over whether this passage teaches all oaths are wrong. Most scholars believe some oaths are permissible and James instead is teaching Christians to have integrity.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Elijah<br>This story will be difficult to understand if the books of 1 and 2 Kings and 1 and 2 Chronicles have not yet been translated.<br><br>### “Save his soul from death”<br>This probably teaches that the person who stops their sinful lifestyle will not be punished with physical death as a consequence of their sin. On the other hand, some scholars believe this passage teaches about eternal salvation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/death]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])<br># James 05 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Eternity<br>This chapter contrasts living for things of this world, which will not last, with living for things that will last for eternity. It is also important to live with the expectation that Jesus will return soon. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])<br><br>### Oaths<br>Scholars are divided over whether this passage teaches all oaths are wrong. Most scholars believe some oaths are permissible and James instead is teaching Christians to have integrity.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Elijah<br>This story will be difficult to understand if the books of 1 and 2 Kings and 1 and 2 Chronicles have not yet been translated.<br><br>### “Save his soul from death”<br>This probably teaches that the person who stops their sinful lifestyle will not be punished with physical death as a consequence of their sin. On the other hand, some scholars believe this passage teaches about eternal salvation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/death]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])
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phs3
0
Connecting Statement:
James warns rich people about their focus on pleasure and riches.
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gel9
figs-explicit
οἱ πλούσιοι
1
you who are rich
Possible meanings are (1) James is giving a strong warning to wealthy believers or (2) James is talking about wealthy unbelievers. Alternate translation: “you who are rich and say you honor God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
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1
l3wd
figs-abstractnouns
ἐπὶ ταῖς ταλαιπωρίαις ὑμῶν ταῖς ἐπερχομέναις
1
because of the miseries coming on you
James states that these people will suffer terribly in the future and writes as if their sufferings were objects that were coming toward them. The abstract noun “miseries” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “because you will suffer terribly in the future” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
See in Reader
Larry Sallee
Gogs