10 Interesting Facts About Silas in the Bible

Silas was a faithful companion of the Apostle Paul and a bold preacher of the gospel in the early church. He is remembered for his courage, loyalty, and deep commitment to Christ. Though not as well-known as Paul or Peter, Silas played a vital role in the spread of Christianity.

1. Silas Was a Leader in the Jerusalem Church

Silas, also known as Silvanus, was a respected member of the early church in Jerusalem. He is described as one of the "leading men among the brothers."

Acts 15:22 (ESV) – “Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to choose men from among them and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They sent Judas called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brothers.”

2. He Was a Prophet

Silas had the spiritual gift of prophecy. Along with Judas (Barsabbas), he encouraged and strengthened believers in Antioch with his words.

Acts 15:32 (ESV) – “And Judas and Silas, who were themselves prophets, encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words.”

3. Silas Was Chosen to Deliver a Letter from the Jerusalem Council

When the early church debated whether Gentile believers needed to follow Jewish customs, Silas was trusted to carry the council’s letter to Antioch, a sign of his reliability.

Acts 15:27 (ESV) – “We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who themselves will tell you the same things by word of mouth.”

4. He Became Paul’s Missionary Companion

After Paul and Barnabas parted ways, Paul chose Silas as his new partner in ministry. They traveled through Syria, Cilicia, and beyond to preach the gospel.

Acts 15:40 (ESV) – “But Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord.”

5. Silas Was Imprisoned with Paul in Philippi

Silas is famously known for singing hymns with Paul at midnight while locked in prison. Their praise led to a miraculous earthquake that opened the prison doors.

Acts 16:25-26 (ESV) – “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God... and suddenly there was a great earthquake... and everyone's bonds were unfastened.”

6. He Witnessed the Conversion of the Philippian Jailer

After the earthquake in prison, Silas saw the jailer and his household come to faith in Jesus. This moment shows how suffering can lead to salvation for others.

Acts 16:31 (ESV) – “And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.’”

7. Silas Traveled to Thessalonica and Berea

Silas continued to travel with Paul, preaching in Thessalonica and Berea. Though they faced persecution, they helped many come to faith.

Acts 17:4 (ESV) – “And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a great many of the devout Greeks…”

8. He Later Rejoined Paul in Corinth

After staying behind in Berea, Silas reunited with Paul in Corinth. This reunion is mentioned in Paul’s letters and shows their ongoing partnership.

Acts 18:5 (ESV) – “When Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia, Paul was occupied with the word…”

9. Silas Co-Wrote Letters in the New Testament

Silas (Silvanus) is mentioned in the introductions of Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians, indicating he helped write or deliver them.

1 Thessalonians 1:1 (ESV) – “Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father…”

10. Peter Also Trusted Silas

The Apostle Peter refers to Silvanus (Silas) as a “faithful brother.” This suggests that Silas had a strong reputation across different church leaders.

1 Peter 5:12 (ESV) – “By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you…”

Summary Table: Silas in the Bible