When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped.
The jailer would have killed himself to escape punishment, but God's purpose in opening those doors was not to free Paul and Silas then and there. He meant to display His power, seal their faith, and glorify Christ's name among witnesses. The deliverance came later, through a different means entirely.
AI summary
Paul and Silas felt the smart of the rods upon their backs and lay in stocks at midnight with reason to fear the axes next; yet they prayed and sang praises to God. Their persecutors meant to sicken them of the gospel, but found them heartier than ever.
AI summary
Commenting on Acts 16:25-34
The earthquake shook him awake, and seeing the doors open, he knew by law he must suffer the prisoners' fate himself. He drew his sword to kill himself rather than face the magistrates' punishment for their escape.
AI summary