More than 200 prisoners escaped from a jail in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, following an earthquake. Thousands of inmates broke down doors and the locks of their cells and shattered windows after they felt tremors shake the walls at Malir Jail in Karachi. (BBC, 3 June 2025)
Prison in Philippi: Paul and Silas had a similar experience in the city of Philippi. (Acts 16:16-24) Both were accused of inciting riots in the city. They were beaten and put on the stocks, stretching their legs apart, which could sometimes dislocate the joints.
Praises and songs: Paul and Silas chose to praise and pray, instead of weeping and lamenting.
Prayer from Psalms: Paul was a trained rabbi under a great Jewish teacher, Gamaliel. He had memorized large portions of the Old Testament. “Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me, I do not forget your law. At midnight I rise to praise you, because of your righteous rules.” (Psalm 119:61-62) Though the wicked were ensnaring them, they woke up at midnight to praise Him.
Answer by earthquake: God answered their prayers by sending an earthquake. God answered Elijah by sending fire. (I Kings 18:38-39) All who were chained were freed.
Suicide attempt: The Jailer, or Inspector General of Prisons, was terrified. Roman Law requires the jailer to be executed if prisoners escape. Unwilling to face the ignominy of trial in Rome before Caesar and being executed, the jailer wanted to kill himself.
Paul’s intervention: Understanding the plight of the jailer, Paul cried out, stating that they are not running away. Though they were innocent, and could interpret the earthquake as God’s answer to their prayers and escape. But they did not do so.
Jailer’s transformation: The jailer wondered who these men were. Connecting their behavior with the worship songs, praises, and reciting of Scripture, the Jailer understood they were spiritual men. So, he sought the way of salvation. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you and your family will be saved. Their non-escape helped Jailer and family escape from the wrath of God.
Do I teach others to escape the wrath of God?