Definition: And when the governor had read [the letter], he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that [he was] of Cilicia;

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Acts 23:34. It’s a really interesting and somewhat surprising part of Paul’s story! Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Paul was being arrested and charged with a serious crime – he was accused of inciting a riot and threatening the Jewish community. The governor, who was the leader of the city, had read him a letter (a formal document) that detailed his actions. What Happened Next: The governor, after reading the letter, asked Paul, "And when he understood that you were of Cilicia?" He wasn’t asking why he was in Cilicia – he was trying to figure out where he came from and why he was there. Meaning & Significance: This is a crucial part of the story because it reveals a significant detail about Paul’s identity: Paul was actually Jewish! He had been traveling throughout the Roman Empire, and the letter was based on a previous conversation he had with a Jewish man named Onesimus. Why It Matters: It changes everything: The governor's question highlights that Paul wasn’t just a traveler; he was Jewish . This was a significant point of contention and a challenge to his authority. It shows his faith: Paul's response – "I am a Jew" – demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his Jewish roots, which was a key part of his identity as a follower of Jesus. In short, this verse tells us that Paul wasn’t just a Roman citizen; he was also a Jewish man, and this detail is important because it reveals his faith and background. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Paul's journey?