23. They were whipped without mercy. Then they were thrown into prison. The jailer was commanded to guard them carefully.
24. When he received his orders, he put Paul and Silas deep inside the prison. He fastened their feet so they couldn't get away.
25. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying. They were also singing hymns to God. The other prisoners were listening to them.
26. Suddenly there was a powerful earthquake. It shook the prison from top to bottom. All at once the prison doors flew open. Everybody's chains came loose.
27. The jailer woke up. He saw that the prison doors were open. He pulled out his sword and was going to kill himself. He thought the prisoners had escaped.
28. "Don't harm yourself!" Paul shouted. "We are all here!"
29. The jailer called out for some lights. He rushed in, shaking with fear. He fell down in front of Paul and Silas.
30. Then he brought them out. He asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"
31. They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus. Then you and your family will be saved."