Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

Who was Silas in the Bible?

Silas was an early Christian prophet and missionary companion of Paul the Apostle. He is known for his Role alongside Paul on the second missionary journey, particularly for the events in Philippi, where they were beaten and imprisoned but miraculously freed after praying and singing. Silas, also known as Silvanus, was a leading figure in the early congregations, chosen to deliver the Jerusalem Council's decree to Antioch.

Silas was known for his faithfulness, fearlessness in the face of persecution, and his gift of prophecy and encouragement. Like Paul, he was a Roman citizen, which offered legal protection during their travels.

Stand back and look at what we know Silas did; his record is impressive. He is an excellent example for modern-day missionaries and travelling overseers. He selflessly covered great distances at considerable cost to himself, not to gain material advantage or prestige, but to help others. He aimed to encourage them with wise and tactful counsel, well-prepared and warm discourses, and his zeal for field ministry. 

Silas's Role in the early congregation: 

Silas was a leader among the early believers and a prophet. The elders of the Jerusalem congregation chose him to accompany Paul and Barnabas to Antioch to deliver the decision from the Jerusalem Council.

Paul's coworker Silas was a source of encouragement. After the circumcision issue was settled around 49 C.E., the governing body in Jerusalem sent emissaries to deliver a letter to believers elsewhere. Silas, Judas, Barnabas, and Paul took it to Antioch. There, Silas and Judas "encouraged the brothers with many a discourse and strengthened them."​—Acts 15:32.

Paul and Silas were jailed in Philippi, but after an earthquake, they were able to give witness and see the jailer and his household become believers. Before leaving that city, Silas and Paul encouraged the brothers. (Acts 16:12, 40)

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Shirley H Supporter Wife, mother, veteran in the spiritual war we all face!

Silas, (Silvanus) was a leader in the Jerusalem church. He went to Antioch. See Acts 15:22-35.

Silas traveled with Paul in Acts 15:40,41.

He was jailed and released, Acts 16:25-40.

He is mentioned in 2 Corinthians 1:19: 1 Thessalonians 1:1;
2 Thessalonians 1:1; and 1 Peter 5:12.

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