Silas, also known as Silvanus, was a leading member of the early church and a trusted companion of the Apostle Paul. He first appears in Acts 15, where he is described as one of the “chief men among the brethren” in the Jerusalem church (Acts 15:22). He was chosen to accompany Paul and Barnabas in delivering the letter from the Jerusalem Council to the Gentile believers in Antioch, clarifying that salvation was by grace through faith and not by the works of the Law (Acts 15:23–27).
After Paul and Barnabas parted ways over their disagreement concerning John Mark, Paul chose Silas to accompany him on his second missionary journey (Acts 15:40). Together, they traveled through Syria, Cilicia, and into Macedonia, preaching the Gospel and strengthening the churches.
In Philippi, Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned for casting out a spirit of divination from a slave girl (Acts 16:16–24). Despite their suffering, they prayed and sang hymns at midnight. A great earthquake opened the prison doors, and the jailer, fearing the prisoners had escaped, was about to kill himself. Paul stopped him, and the jailer asked, “What must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:30–31). The jailer and his household believed and were baptized that night (Acts 16:33).
Silas continued to minister with Paul in Thessalonica and Berea (Acts 17:1–10), and later in Corinth (Acts 18:5). He is also mentioned in Paul’s letters, including 2 Corinthians 1:19 and 1 Thessalonians 1:1, showing he remained a vital part of Paul’s ministry.
Peter also refers to him in 1 Peter 5:12, calling him a “faithful brother,” indicating his broader role in the early church beyond his work with Paul.
Silas’s life reflects steadfastness, courage, and faithful partnership in ministry. He endured hardship with joy, boldly proclaimed the Gospel, and supported the apostles in the foundational years of the church. His example encourages believers to remain faithful and joyful even in trial.