NOW it came to pass at Iconium, that they went together into the synagogue of the Jews, and spake in such a manner, as that a vast multitude both of the Jews and Greek proselytes believed.2But the unbelieving Jews stirred up, and maliciously prejudiced the spirits of the Gentiles against the brethren.3A long space therefore continued they there speaking boldly in the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, and granted signs and miracles to be wrought by their hands.4So the multitude was divided: some indeed were with the Jews, but others with the apostles.5And when there was a strong effort made both by the Gentiles and Jews with their rulers to ill-treat and stone them,6conscious of their danger, they fled unto the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra, and Derbe, and the circum-jacent country:7and there they preached the gospel.
8And there was a certain man at Lystra, who having lost the use of his feet was sitting, being lame from his mother’s womb, and who had never been able to walk:9this person heard Paul speaking; who fixing his eyes on him, and discovering that he had faith to be healed,10said with a loud voice, Stand up firm on thy feet! And he leaped and walked.11But when the multitudes beheld what Paul had done, they lifted up their voice, in the dialect of Lycaonia, saying, The gods in the form of mortals are come down to us.12And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercury, because he principally led the discourse.
13Then the priest of Jupiter, who was the presiding deity of their city, brought bulls and garlands unto the gates of the city, and intended to offer a sacrifice with the people.14But when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard it, they rent their garments, and rushed into the crowd, crying out,15and saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We too are mortals subject to the same infirmities with you; preaching to you the gospel, that ye should turn from these vain things unto the living God, who made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things which are therein:16who in the past generations hath suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.17Although indeed he left not himself untestified of, doing us good, giving us from heaven showers, and fruitful seasons, replenishing our hearts with food and gladness.18And thus speaking, scarce restrained they the multitudes from offering the sacrifice to them.
19Then came the Jews from Antioch and Iconium, and gaining over the multitudes, they stoned Paul, and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.20But as the disciples stood around him, he arose, and entered into the city: and on the morrow he departed with Barnabas for Derbe.21And after preaching the gospel in that city, and bringing many to become disciples, they returned to Lystra, and Iconium, and Antioch;22strengthening the souls of the brethren, exhorting them to abide firm in the faith, and that through many afflictions we must pass into the kingdom of heaven.23Then appointing them presbyters in every city, by prayer with fastings they commended them to the Lord, on whom they had believed.
24Then passing through Pisidia, they came unto Pamphylia.25And having spoken the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia:26and thence sailed for Antioch, from whence they had been commended to the grace of God for the service which they had performed.27So when they arrived they called the church together, and related what great things God had done by them, and that he had opened to the heathen the door of faith.
28And there they abode no inconsiderable time with the disciples.
AND certain persons coming down from Judea taught the brethren, That if ye are not circumcised according to the ordinances of Moses, ye cannot be saved.2There being therefore no small contention and dispute maintained by Paul and Barnabas against them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others of their body, should go up to the apostles and presbyters at Jerusalem, for the decision of this question.3They therefore being sent on their way by the church, passed through Phœnicia and Samaria, giving a particular narrative of the conversion of the Gentiles: and they gave great joy to all the brethren.4Then when they arrived at Jerusalem, they were cordially received by the church, and the apostles and presbyters, and they related how great things God had done by them.5But up rose some of the pharisaical sect, who professed the faith, insisting, That it was necessary to circumcise them, and to enjoin them to observe the law of Moses.6Then the apostles and presbyters were assembled to consider of this matter.7When after much dispute, Peter arose, and said unto them,
Men and brethren, ye know that a considerable time ago God chose among us, by my mouth, that the Gentiles should hear the gospel-word, and believe.8And God, who is the discerner of the heart, bore them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as to us;9and made no difference betwixt either us or them, purifying their hearts by faith.10Why then now tempt ye God, by imposing a yoke on the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?11But we believe that we shall be saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the same way as they.12Then the whole multitude kept silence, and listened to Barnabas and Paul, relating how great signs and miracles God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.
13Now when they ceased speaking, James replied, saying, Men and brethren, hear me:14Simon hath fully related, how at first God graciously looked uponthe Gentiles, to take from them a people for his name.15And in accord with this are the words of the prophets; as it is written,16“After this will I return, and build again the tabernacle of David, that is fallen; and re-edify what hath been dug up from the foundation, and will set it upright again:17that the residue of men may diligently seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles, among whom my name is invoked, even among them, saith the Lord, who doth all these things46.”18Known unto God from the beginning are all his works.19Therefore I am decided, that we give no unnecessary disquietude to those who from the heathen have turned to God:20but that we write to them, that they abstain from pollutions of idolsacrifices, and from whoredom, and from what is strangled, and from blood.21For Moses for ages past in every city hath those who preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath-day.
22Then it was determined by the apostles and presbyters with the whole church, to send select men from themselves unto Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren;23writing a letter by their hand, in these words:
The apostles and presbyters and the brethren, to the brethren from among the Gentiles which are at Antioch, and in Syria, and Cilicia, greeting:24Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain persons who went out from us have disturbed you with discourses, unsettling your minds, insisting, that you should be circumcised, and observe the law: to whom we gave no such charge:25it hath seemed fit to us, assembled unanimously, to send unto you select men with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,26men who have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.27We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, and they by word of mouth will tell you the same things.28For it hath seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us, to lay upon you no other burden except these things which are of absolute necessity;29that ye abstain from eating whatever is sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from what is strangled, and from whoredom: from which things carefully preserving yourselves, ye shall do well. Farewell.
30They then being thus dispatched, came to Antioch: and assembling the multitude, they delivered the letter:31and when they had read it, they rejoiced in the consolationof it.
32Then Judas and Silas, being also themselves prophets, exhorted the brethren, in many a discourse, and established them.33And having stayed their time, they were dismissed in peace from the brethren to the apostles.34However Silas thought proper to abide there.35Paul also and Barnabas abode at Antioch, teaching and preaching, with many others also, the word of the Lord.
36Then after certain days said Paul to Barnabas, Let us now return and visit our brethren in every city among whom we have preached the word of the Lord, that we may see how they hold on.37Now Barnabas had resolved to take with him John, whose surname is Mark.38But Paul did not think him a fit person to take with them, who had withdrawn from them from Pamphylia, and no longer went with them to the service.39So there grew up a sudden quarrel, insomuch that they separated from each other: and Barnabas, taking Mark with him, sailed away to Cyprus:40but Paul selecting Silas, departed, being commended by the brethren to the favour of God.41And he passed through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.
THEN he came to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold! a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a certain Jewish woman, who believed; but his father was a Greek:2who was highly spoken of by the brethren at Lystra and Iconium.3Him Paul resolved to take out with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places: for they all knew his father, that he was a Greek.4So as they passed through the cities, they delivered to them for their observance the ordinances decreed by the apostles and presbyters that were at Jerusalem.
5Then were the churches established truly in the faith, and increased in number daily.6So passing through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, being forbidden by the Holy Ghost to speak the word in Asia,7coming as far as Mysia, they made an effort to go unto Bythinia: but the Spirit permitted them not.8Whereupon passing by Mysia they went down to Troas.9And a vision by night appeared to Paul; a certain man, a Macedonian, stood by him, entreating him, and saying, Pass over into Macedonia, and help us.10But when he saw the vision, immediately we sought to go forth into Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach the gospel to them.11Therefore sailing from Troas, we came in a direct course to Samothrace, and the next day to Neapolis;12and from thence to Philippi, which is the first city in that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we abode in that city some days.
13And on the sabbath-day we went forth out of the city to the river side, where an oratory was by custom established; and sitting down, we spoke to the women who there assembled.14And a certain woman, Lydia by name, a seller of purple, from the city of Thyatira, a worshipper of God, hearkened: whose heart the Lord thoroughly opened, to attend to the words spoken by Paul.15So when she was baptised, and her house, she entreated, saying, Since ye have judged that I am faithful to the Lord, come and abide at my house. And she constrained us.
16Now it happened as we were going to the oratory, a certain damsel having a pythonic spirit met us, who produced for her masters much gain as a fortuneteller:17she following Paul and us, cried out, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, who preach to you the way of salvation.18And this she did for several days. Then Paul was wearied out, and turning, said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out that very hour.19But when her masters saw that the hope of their gain was gone, they laid hold on Paul and Silas, and dragged them into the forum before the chief rulers,20and presenting them to the magistrates, they said, These are the men that exceedingly disturb the peace of our city, being Jews,21and enjoin customs which it is not lawful for us to receive, or to practise, being Romans.22And the populace stood up together against them: and the magistrates, after having had their garments torn from their backs, commanded them to be beaten with rods.23And laying on them many stripes, cast them into prison, commanding the jailor to keep them in safe custody:24who, receiving such an injunction, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.25But about midnight Paul and Silas, after joining in prayer, sang hymns to God: and the prisoners heard them.26And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the very foundations of the prison were shaken: and instantly all the doors flew open, and every man’s chains were loosed.27Then the jailor being roused from sleep, and seeing the doors of the prison open, drew his sword, going to destroy himself, supposing the prisoners had escaped.28But Paul called out with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no injury: for we are all here.29Thereupon calling for a light, he rushed in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas;30and having first brought them out, said, Sirs! what must I do to be saved?31And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, thou, and thy house.32And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all who were in his house.33And taking them that same hour of the night, he washed their stripes; and was baptised, himself and all who belonged to him immediately.34And when he had brought them into his house, he spread the table, and greatly rejoiced with all his household, believing in God.
35But when it was day, the magistrates sent the lictors, saying, Set those men at large.36Then the jailor told these words to Paul, That the magistrates had sent to set them at liberty: now therefore,said he,get ye out, and pursue your journey in peace.37But Paul said to them, They have beaten us publicly, uncondemned, men that are Roman citizens, and have cast us into prison; and would they now clandestinely send us away? no, verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.38Then the lictors reported all these words to the magistrates: and they were terrified, when they heard they were Roman citizens.39So they came and spoke kindly to them, and fetching them out, besought them to depart from the city.40Then leaving the prison, they went unto Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and went their way.
SO journeying through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of Jews:2And Paul, according to his usual custom, went in to them, and for three sabbaths he reasoned with them from the scriptures,3opening them clearly, and laying it evidently down that the Messiah must suffer, and rise again from the dead; and that this man is the Messiah, even Jesus, whom I preach unto you.4And some of them believed, and associated themselves with Paul and Silas; and of the religious Greeks a vast multitude, and of the wives of the first people not a few.5But the unbelieving Jews, roused to a fit of zeal, and taking some of the lowest vulgar men of vile characters, and raising a mob, set the city in an uproar, and besetting the house of Jason, sought them to bring them unto the people.6But not finding them there, they dragged Jason and certain brethren to the city magistrates, roaring out, These are the men who are movers of sedition through the world, and are come in hither;7whom Jason has entertained in his house: and the practice of all these fellows is in direct opposition to all Cæsar’s ordinances, for they affirm that another is king, one Jesus.8And they greatly agitated the people and the city magistrates when they heard these things.9So after taking sufficient security from Jason and the rest, they dismissed them.
10Then the disciples immediately by night sent off both Paul and Silas to Berea; who were no sooner arrived, than they went into the synagogue of the Jews.11Now these were more liberally minded men than those of Thessalonica, for they received the word with all readiness of mind, daily, examining the Scriptures if these things were really so.12Then many of them truly believed: and of the Grecian proselyte women of respectability, and of the men not a few.
13But when the Jews of Thessalonica knew that at Berea also the word of God was preached by Paul, they came thither, and stirred up the populace.14Then immediately on this the brethren sent off Paul, to go as if by sea: but Silas and Timothy abode there still.15And those who conduced Paul brought him as far as Athens, and receiving an injunction for Silas and Timothy that they should come to him as speedily as possible, they departed.
16Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit within him was greatly grieved, beholding the city so devoted to idolatry.17Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews, and those who worshipped there, and in the forum every day with those he happened to meet.
18Then certain of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers attacked him: and some said, What will this chattering fellow say? but others, He seemeth to be a preacher of foreign deities, because he preached to them Jesus and the resurrection.19So they took him and led him to the hill of Mars, saying, May we know what this novel doctrine taught by thee is?20For thou bringest some strange stories to our ears; we wish therefore to know what these things mean.21Now all the Athenians and the strangers who come to sojourn there, take pleasure in spending their time in nothing else but in talking, or hearing of some novelty.
22Then Paul standing in the midst of the Areopagus said, Ye men of Athens, I observe that in all things ye are too much devoted to the worship of dæmons.23For as I walked about, and attentively viewed the objects of your worship, I found even an altar on which was this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore you in ignorance adore, him I preach unto you.24The God who created the world, and all things in it, he that is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples of man’s construction;25nor is he served by human hands, as if he needed any creature, himself imparting to all beings life, and breath, and all things.26And hath made from one man’s blood all the nations of mankind, to dwell upon the whole face of the earth, fixing the predetermined periods of their existence, and the boundaries of their several abodes;27that they should seek the Lord, if indeed they might haply grope him out, and find him, though truly he is not far from any individual of us:28for from him we derive life, and power of motion, and existence; as also some of your own poets have said, “For we are even his offspring.”29Being then the offspring of God, we ought not to imagine that the Divinity is like to gold, or silver, or stone sculptured by human art or contrivance.30These times indeed of ignorance God then overlooked; but he now commands all men in every place to repent:31because he hath fixed the day in which he will judge the whole world in righteousness by the man whom he hath appointed; affording evidence of this to all, by raising him from the dead.
32But when they heard of the resurrection from the dead, Some scoffed: and others said, We will hear thee again on this subject.33And so Paul departed from the midst of them.34But certain persons cleaving to him, believed: among whom was even Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
AND after these transactions, Paul departing from Athens, came to Corinth;2and finding a certain Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, lately arrived from Italy, with Priscilla his wife, (because Claudius had issued an order that all Jews should depart from Rome,) he turned in to them.3And as he was of the same occupation, he abode with them, and worked, (for by trade they were tent-makers:)4and he discoursed in the synagogue every sabbath-day, and persuaded both the Jews and the Greek proselytes.5And when Silas and Timothy were come from Macedonia, Paul felt a strong impulse on his spirit, and forcibly testified to the Jews, that Jesus was the Messiah.6But as they continued opposing and blaspheming, he shook his garments, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am pure from it: from this moment will I go to the Gentiles.7And departing thence, he came to the house of a person, called Justus, one who worshipped God, whose house was contiguous to the synagogue.8But Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord with all his house: and many of the Corinthians hearing, believed, and were baptised.9Then spake the Lord in a vision by night to Paul, Fear not, but speak; and hold not thy peace:10for I am with thee, and no man shall set himself against thee to do thee harm; because I have much people in this city.11And he sat down there a year and six months, teaching among them the word of God.
12But when Gallio was the proconsul of Achaia, the Jews, with one accord, rose up against Paul, and brought him to the judgment-seat,13saying, This is the fellow that earnestly persuades men to worship God contrary to the law.14Then Paul being about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews,15If indeed this was now a matter of injustice, or wicked knavery, with reason I should hear you patiently; but if it be merely a controversy about the word, and names, and a law peculiar to yourselves, settle it yourselves: for I will be no judge of these matters.16And he drove them from the judgment-seat.17Then all the Greeks laid hold on Sosthenes the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the tribunal. And Gallio paid no regard to any of these things.
18Then Paul abode there yet many days, and taking leave of the disciples, he set sail for Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having cut off his hair at Cenchrea: for he had a vow.19And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself went into the synagogue, and discoursed with the Jews.20But when they were importunate with him to prolong his stay among them, he consented not;21but took his leave of them, saying, I must by any means keep the approaching feast at Jerusalem: but I mean to return to you again, if God so please. So he sailed from Ephesus.22And landing at Cesarea, he went up, and having saluted the churchat Jerusalem, he went down to Antioch.23And after making some stay, he departed, passing in regular order through the Galatian district, and Phrygia, confirming all the disciples.
24Now a certain Jew named Apollos, an Alexandrian by birth, a man of eloquence, who was powerful in the Scriptures, had come to Ephesus.25He was instructed in the way of the Lord: and being fervent in spirit, he spake and taught very diligently the things concerning the Lord, though knowing only the baptism of John.26So this man began to speak with great boldness in the synagogue: but when Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him home with them, and more accurately expounded to him the way of the Lord.27And when he wished to pass over to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; who arriving, contributed much toconfirmthose who believed through grace.28For he strenuously argued with the Jews in public, demonstrating by the Scriptures that Jesus is the Messiah.
NOW it came to pass that during the time Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, after passing through the upper provinces, came to Ephesus; and finding certain disciples,2said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not even heard if the Holy Ghost isgiven.3And he asked them, Into what then were ye baptised? And they replied, Into John’s baptism.4Then said Paul, John indeed baptised with the baptism of repentance, saying to the people, That they should believe on him who was coming after him, that is, in Christ Jesus.5Now when they heard it, they were baptised into the name of the Lord Jesus.6And Paul laying on them his hands, the Holy Ghost came upon them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.7And the men were in all about twelve.8And entering into the synagogue, he spake boldly during three months, reasoning and persuading the things that concern the kingdom of God.9And when some were hardened, and infidel, speaking evil of the way before the people, he withdrew from them, and separated the disciples, discoursing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.10And this he did for two years; so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.11And God wrought by the hands of Paul extraordinary miracles;12so that even from his skin there were brought handkerchiefs and aprons unto the diseased, and their disorders were chased from them, and the evil spirits came out of them.
13Then certain of the Jews, who went about as exorcists, attempted to make mention of the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.14And they were seven sons of Sceva a Jew, a chief priest, who did this.15Then the evil spirit replied, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?16And the man sprang upon them, in whom was the evil spirit, and getting the mastery over them, prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.17And this was known to all, both Jews and Greeks, who dwelt at Ephesus: and fear fell on them all, and they magnified the name of the Lord.18And many of those who believed came, confessing and declaring their practices.19And many of those who practised magical arts brought the books, and burned them before all men; and they calculated the prices of them, and found them worth fifty thousand pieces of silver.20So mightily did the word of God increase and prevail.
21Now when these things were accomplished, Paul purposed by the Spirit, passing through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, That after I have been there, I must see Rome also.22Then he dispatched into Macedonia two of those who attended upon him, Timothy and Erastus; while he himself continued a while longer in Asia.23And there happened at that time no small disturbance about this way.24For a person named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made little temples in silver to represent that of Diana, brought to the artificers no small gain;25whom collecting together, with the workmen also of such trinkets, he said, Sirs, ye know that by this employment we make our advantageous livelihood:26and ye see and hear how not only at Ephesus, but almost through all Asia, this fellow Paul, by his persuasions, hath perverted a vast multitude, affirming that they are not gods which are made with hands:27so that not only is this our trade in danger of falling into contempt, but also that this temple of the great goddess Diana should be counted as nothing, and that henceforth also her magnificence should be utterly destroyed, whom all Asia and the whole world worshippeth.28On hearing this then, and being filled with rage, they cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.29And the whole city was filled with confusion; and they rushed unanimously into the theatre, dragging with them Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul’s travelling companions.30But though Paul wished to go in to the people, the disciples would not permit him.31And some of the Asiarchs also, who were his friends, sent unto him, admonishing him not to venture himself into the theatre.32So they were crying out some one thing and some another: for the assembly was a scene of confusion, and the greater part knew not on what account they were collected together.33Then out of the crowd they brought forward Alexander, the Jews pushing him on: and Alexander, waving his hand, would fain have addressed his apology to the people.34But when they knew he was a Jew, one shout burst from all, crying for about the space of two hours, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.
35Then the recorder having quieted the multitude, said, Men of Ephesus, who indeed is the man that doth not know that the city of the Ephesians is wholly devoted to the great goddess Diana, and to the image which fell down from Jupiter?36These things being then incontrovertible, it becomes you to be quiet, and to do nothing with precipitation.37For ye have brought hither these men, neither robbers of the temple, nor blasphemers of your goddess.38If then indeed Demetrius and the artificers that are with him have a charge against any man, the courts are held, and there are proconsuls: let them implead one another.39And if ye have any dispute about other matters, it shall be terminated in a lawful assembly,40For we are even in danger of being called to account for this day’s insurrection, there being no cause on account of which we can justify this tumultuary concourse:41and so saying, he dissolved the assembly.
THEN after the tumult was quieted, Paul called to him the disciples, and taking his leave, departed to go into Macedonia.2And passing through those parts, and having exhorted them with much discourse, he went into Greece.3And after three months stay, as the Jews were lying in wait for him, when he was just embarking for Syria, he determined to return through Macedonia.4And there accompanied him as far as Asia, Sopater a Berean; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and Tychicus and Trophimus, Asiatics.5These going before tarried for us at Troas.6And we sailed from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came to them to Troas after five days; where we stayed seven days.7And on the first day of the week, when the disciples were assembled to break bread, Paul preached unto them (ready to depart on the morrow), and extended his discourse until midnight.8Now there were many lamps in the upper room, where they were assembled.9And a certain youth named Eutytchus, who sat in the window, fell into a profound sleep: as Paul discoursed much longer than usual, quite overpowered with sleep, he fell down from a third story, and was taken up dead.10But Paul came down, and fell upon him, and taking him in his arms, said, Trouble not yourselves, for his life is yet in him.11And when he had gone up, and broken bread, and eaten, and conversed a long time, even to the break of day, he then departed.12And they brought the lad alive, and were comforted exceedingly.
13Then we going before to the ship, sailed for Assos, intending there to take in Paul: for so he had ordered, meaning himself to walk thither.14And when he met us at Assos, we took him up, and came to Mytelene.15And sailing from thence, on the following day we advanced over against Chios; and the next day we touched at Samos, and staying at Trogyllium, the day following we came to Miletus.16For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, that he might not spend the time in Asia: for he hastened on, if it was possible for him, to be at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost.17So he sent to Ephesus from Miletus, and called the presbyters of the church to attend him.18And when they were come unto him, he said unto them,
Ye know, from the very first day in which I entered into Asia, how I have been among you at every season,19serving the Lord with all humility, and with many tears and trials, which have befallen me through the lying in wait of the Jews:20and that I have suppressed nothing which could conduce to your profiting; not desisting from preaching to you, and teaching you in public, and from house to house,21repeatedly urging both on Jews and Greeks repentance towards God, and faith towards our Lord Jesus Christ.22And now behold I am going, bound by the Spirit, unto Jerusalem, not knowing what things shall there befal me:23only this, that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying, that bonds and tribulation await thee.24Yet I make no account of anysuffering, nor regard my life as of any value to myself, farther than as I may finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the Lord, to testify fully the Gospel of the grace of God.25And now behold, I know that ye shall see my face no more, even ye all, among whom I have gone in and out preaching the kingdom of God.26Wherefore I appeal to you this day as witnesses that I am pure from the blood of all men.27For I have concealed nothing, so as not repeatedly to declare to you the whole counsel of God.28Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Ghost hath made you bishops, to feed as shepherds the church of God, which he purchased with his own blood.29For this I know, that after my departure there will come among you grievous wolves, not sparing the flock:30Yea, from among yourselves shall men arise, speaking perverting doctrines, to draw away disciples after them.31Therefore watch, remembering that for three years, by night and by day, I have never ceased with tears to admonish every individual.32And now, brethren, I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to finish the superstructure, and to give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.33The silver, or gold, or apparel of no man have I coveted:34but ye yourselves know that these hands have by labour furnished necessaries for my own wants, and for those who were with me.35In all things I have set you the example, that so labouring hard ye ought to help the infirm, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, because he himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
36And when he had spoken these things, he fell on his knees, and prayed with them all.37And all of them shed floods of tears, and fell upon Paul’s neck, and kissed him again and again,38most peculiarly afflicted at that word which he had spoken, that they should see his face no more: and they accompanied him unto the ship.
AND tearing ourselves away from them, when we had set sail, we came in a direct course to Coos, and the day after to Rhodes, and from thence to Patara.2And finding a ship passing over to Phenice, we went on board and set sail:3and coming in sight of Cyprus, and leaving it on the left, we sailed unto Syria, and landed at Tyre; for there the ship was to discharge her cargo.4And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: and they said to Paul, by the Spirit, that he should not go up unto Jerusalem.5But when we had stayed out those days, we departed, and went on our journey, all of them attending us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and kneeling down on the sea shore, we joined in prayer;6and embracing one another, we went on ship-board, and they returned to their own homes,7So completing our voyage, we arrived from Tyre at Ptolemais, and saluting the brethren, tarried with them one day.8And on the morrow we who were Paul’s companions departed with him, and went to Cæsarea; and entering into the house of Philip the evangelist (who was one of the seven deacons), we abode with him.9Now this man had four maiden daughters endued with the gift of prophecy.10And as we tarried there several days, there came down a certain prophet from Judea named Agabus.11And coming to us, he took Paul’s girdle, and binding both his own hands and feet together, said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, The man, whose girdle this is, shall the Jews bind in like manner at Jerusalem, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.12Then when we heard these things, both we and all who were in the place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.13But Paul replied, Why do ye thus—weeping and breaking my heart? for I am ready not only to be bound, but to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.14And when he could not be persuaded, we desisted, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
15Then after those days, packing up our baggage, we went up to Jerusalem:16and there went also with us some disciples from Cæsarea, bringing one Mnason a Cyprian, an ancient disciple, at whose house we were to lodge.17And when we arrived at Jerusalem, the brethren received us with delight.18And on the morrow Paul went in with us unto James: and all the presbyters were present.19And after embracing them, he related every particular of the things which God had done among the Gentiles by his ministry.20And they, when they heard it, glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many myriads there are of Jews who have believed; and they are all zealots for the law:21And they have been informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews, who are among the Gentiles, apostacy from Moses, saying, That they should not circumcise the children, nor walk after the usual practices.22What then is to be done? The multitude must certainly be assembled; for they will hear that thou art come.23Do this therefore which we say to thee: we have four men, who have a vow upon themselves;24them take with thee, be purified with them, and be at the same expence as they, that they may shave their heads: and all men will know that there is no truth in the things reported of thee, but that thou thyself walkest orderly and observest the law.25Concerning the Gentiles who have believed, we have already written, deciding that they should observe no such thing, except that they should guard themselves from idol sacrifices, and blood, and what is strangled, and from whoredom.
26Then Paul took the men, and the following day being purified with them, he entered into the temple, declaring when the days of their purification would be completed, in order whereunto an oblation was to be offered for every one of them.27But as the seven days were now drawing to their period, some Jews from Asia seeing him in the temple, excited all the populace to tumult, and laid hands upon him,28crying out, Men of Israel, help! This is the man, who, by his preaching, sets all men everywhere against the people, and the law, and this place: yea and more still, hath brought Greeks into the temple, and defiled this holy place:29(for they had before seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, whom they imagined that Paul had introduced into the temple.)30And the whole city was in motion, and there was a concourse of people assembled: and laying hands on Paul, they dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut.31And as they were attempting to murder him, the report reached the military tribune of the band, that all Jerusalem was in confusion.32Who instantly taking soldiers and centurions ran down unto them: and when they saw the tribune and the soldiers, they left off beating Paul.
33Then the tribune approaching him, laid hold on him, and ordered him to be bound with two chains; and asked who he was, and what he had done.34Then some among the multitude bellowed out one thing, and some another: so unable to know the certainty of the case because of the tumult, he ordered him to be brought into the fortress.35But when he was on the stairs, it happened that he was borne up by the soldiers, because of the press of the crowd.36For a multitude of the people followed, crying, Away with him!37And when he was just ready to be carried into the fortress, Paul said to the military tribune, May I be permitted to speak a word to thee? And he said, Dost thou know Greek?38Art not thou certainly that Egyptian who some time since raised a sedition, and led out into the desert four thousand cutthroats?39But Paul replied, I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus, of Cilicia, a citizen of no contemptible city: and, I entreat thee, permit me to speak to the people.40So having his permission, Paul standing on the stairs, waved his hand to the people. And profound silence being obtained, he spake to them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,
MEN, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my apology which I now offer unto you.2Then when they heard that he spoke unto them in the Hebrew tongue, they kept the more silence: and he said,3I am indeed a Jewish man, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but educated in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, instructed accurately in the law of our fathers, being zealous for God, as ye all are this day:4so much so that I persecuted this way unto death, binding and delivering up to prisons both men and women.5As also the high-priest will bear me witness, and all the body of elders: from whom also having received letters unto the brethren, I went unto Damascus, to bring those who were there in chains unto Jerusalem, that they might be punished.6But as I went and drew nigh to Damascus, at noon-day, suddenly there shone a great light from heaven around me.7And I fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?8And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said to me, I am Jesus the Nazarean, whom thou persecutest.9Now they who were with me saw the light indeed, and were terrified; but the voice of him that spake to me heard they not.10Then I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said to me, Arise, go into Damascus; and there information shall be given thee of all things which are ordained for thee to do.
11Then as I could no longer see through the dazzling brightness of that light, led by the hand of those who were with me, I came to Damascus.12And one Ananias, a religious man according to the law, and in high repute with all the Jews dwelling there,13came to me, and standing by me, said, Brother Saul, recover sight. And the same hour I looked up at him.14And he said, The God of our fathers hath predestinated thee to know his will, and to see the Just One, and to hear a voice from his mouth.15For thou shalt be a witness for him to all men, of the things which thou hast seen and heard.16And now why delay? arise, to be baptised, and wash away thy sins, calling upon the name of the Lord.
17Now it came to pass, that, when I had returned to Jerusalem, and was praying in the temple, that I was in a trance;18and beheld him saying to me, Make haste, and depart quickly from Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony of me.19And I said, Lord, they know that I was imprisoning and scourging from synagogue to synagogue those who believe on thee:20and when the blood of Stephen thy martyr was shed, I myself even stood by, and took delight in his execution, and guarded the garments of those who slew him.21And he said to me, Go: for I will send thee forth to the Gentiles afar off.
22And they gave him audience to this sentence, and lifted up their voice, saying, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.23So when they began raising a vast clamour, and stripping off their garments, and casting dust into the air,24the military tribune commanded him to be brought into the fortress, ordering that he should be put to the question by scourging; that he might know for what cause they clamoured so loudly against him.25So as they were tying him up for the thongs, Paul said to the centurion standing by him, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman citizen, and uncondemned?26And when the centurion heard this, he came and told the military tribune, saying, Consider what you are going to do: for this man is a Roman citizen.27Then the tribune came, and said to him, Tell me, art thou a Roman citizen? And he said, Yes.28And the tribune replied, With a large sum of money I purchased this citizenship. And Paul said, But I enjoy it as my birthright.29Immediately then they who were about to put him to the question, withdrew from him: and indeed the tribune dreaded the consequences, when he knew that he was a Roman citizen, that he had even gone so far as to bind him.30So on the morrow, desirous to know of a certainty what it was of which he was accused by the Jews, he loosed him from the bonds, and commanded the high-priest and all the sanhedrim to appear, and bringing Paul down, set him before them.
THEN Paul, looking earnestly at the sanhedrim, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience unto God even to this day.
2Then the high-priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to smite him on the mouth.
3Then said Paul unto him, God is ready to smite thee, thou whited wall: for art thou sitting to judge me according to the law, and violating that law, commandest me to be smitten?
4Then they who stood by, said, Revilest thou God’s high-priest?5And Paul said, I had not observed, brethren, that he was high-priest: for it is written, “Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people47.”
6Now when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried in the sanhedrim, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: for the hope and resurrection of the dead am I brought to this bar.
7So when he had said this, a great dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.8For the Sadducees say indeed, that there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.9And a great clamour arose: and the scribes rising up who were of the party of the Pharisees, contended stoutly, saying, We find no fault in this man: but if a spirit have spoken to him, or an angel, let us not fight against God.10Then a great tumult arising, the tribune, apprehensive that Paul might be pulled in pieces by them, commanded the guard to go down, and take him by force from the midst of them, and bring him into the fortress.
11And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good courage, Paul: for as thou hast borne testimony of the things concerning me at Jerusalem, so must thou bear a testimony at Rome also.
12Then as soon as it was day, some of the Jews forming a conspiracy, bound themselves under the direst imprecation, declaring that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.13Now there were more than forty who had on oath formed this conspiracy.14So they came to the high-priests and elders, and said, We have bound ourselves by the direst imprecation, to taste nothing till we have killed Paul.15Now therefore do ye with the sanhedrim give notice to the military tribune, that to-morrow he bring him down to you, as if intending to make more accurate inquiries into the things concerning him: but we, ere he come nigh, are ready to kill him.
16Now Paul’s sister’s son having heard of their lying in wait, came, and entering into the fortress told Paul.17Then Paul calling to him one of the centurions, said, Carry this young man to the tribune: for he hath something to communicate to him.18Then he took him, and brought him to the tribune, and said, The prisoner Paul calling me to him, entreated me to bring this young man to thee, having something to say to thee.19Hereupon the tribune taking him by the hand, and leading him aside, inquired, What is it that thou hast to communicate to me?20And he said, The Jews have agreed together to entreat thee that to-morrow thou wouldest bring down Paul into the sanhedrim, as about to make some more accurate inquiry concerning him.21But do not thou consent to them: for more than forty men of them are lying in wait for him, who have bound themselves under an anathema, neither to eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now they are in readiness, waiting only to procure the promise from thee.
22Hereupon the tribune dismissed the youth, with an injunction, not to mention it to any body that thou hast discovered these things to me.23And calling to him two certain persons of the centurions, he said, Get ready two hundred soldiers to go to Cæsarea, and seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen, at the third hour of the night;24and provide beasts, that setting Paul thereon, you may convey him safely to Felix the governor.
25And he wrote a letter containing this form of words:
26Claudius Lysias to his excellence the governor Felix, greeting.
27This person had been seized by the Jews, and was ready to be slain by them: but coming on them with the guard, I rescued him out of their hands, having understood that he was a Roman citizen.28And desirous of knowing the crime of which they accused him, I brought him down into their sanhedrim29and found him accused of some disputed points of their law; but to have no charge laid against him worthy of death or of bonds.30But it being discovered to me that a design was forming against the man’slifeby the Jews, immediately I sent him to thee, commanding his accusers also to produce what they have against him before thee. Farewel.
31Hereupon then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him by night unto Antipatris.32And on the morrow, leaving the horsemen to go on with him, they returned to the fortress.33So when they came to Cæsarea, and had delivered the letter to the governor, they presented Paul also to him.34Then when the governor had read it, and asked of what province he was, and understood he was of Cilicia;35I will give thee a thorough hearing, said he, when thy accusers are also come hither. And he commanded them to be kept under guard in Herod’s prætorium.
SO after five days Ananias the high-priest went down with the elders, and a certain rhetorician, Tertullus, who made their appearance before the governor against Paul.2And he being summoned, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying,
Since by thee we enjoy so much peace, and such noble acts are happily performed for this nation by thy provident administration,3always and in all places we acknowledge it, most excellent Felix, with all gratitude.4Now that I may not be unnecessarily tedious to thee, I entreat thee to hear us briefly with thy wonted candour.5For we found this fellow a pestto society, and exciting sedition among all the Jews throughout the whole world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazareans:6who even attempted to profane the temple: we seized him therefore, and intended to judge him according to our own law.7But Lysias the tribune came, and with great violence took him out of our hands,8commanding his accusers to appear before thee: whereby thou mayest thyself be able after examination to know the certainty of those things whereof we accuse him.
9Then the Jews also joined in affirming, that these things were so.
10But Paul (the governor having made him a sign to speak) replied,
Knowing that for so many years thou hast been the judge of this nation, I with the more confidence offer my defence respecting the matters which concern me:11as thou mayest be ascertained, that it is not more than twelve days ago since I went up to worship in Jerusalem.12And neither in the temple found they me disputing with any man, nor raising any sedition among the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:13neither can they produce any proof of the facts of which they accuse me.14But this I confess to thee, that after the way which they call a sect, so worship I the God of our ancestors, believing all things that are written in the law, and in the prophets:15and having hope in God, the same which they also profess to look for, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and of the unjust.16For this cause indeed I exert my utmost care to keep my conscience ever unoffending towards God and towards man.17Now after many years absence I was returned bringing alms to my countrymen, and oblationsto the temple.18In the discharge of which offices certain Jews of Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with a multitude, nor with any tumult.19Who ought to have appeared before thee, and prefer their accusation, if they had any thing against me.20Or let the persons themselves here present say, if they found any thing criminal in me, when I stood before the sanhedrim,21except for this one sentence, which I uttered aloud when I was standing among them, For the resurrection of the dead am I this day judged by you.
22When Felix then heard these things he put them off, (for he knew very exactly all that related to that way,) saying, When Lysias the tribune is come down, I will inquire thoroughly into the matters between you.23And he commanded the centurion that Paul should be safe kept, yet have no close confinement, and not to hinder any of his friends from supplying his wants, or visiting him.
24Now after some days, Felix returning with Drusilla his wife, who was a Jewess, sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.25And as he discoursed of righteousness, and temperance, and the judgment which is ready to be revealed, Felix being greatly terrified, replied, Go, for the present, I will some time hence take another opportunity of calling for thee.26Indeed he had also entertained hope that money would be given him by Paul, in order to release him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and conversed with him.27But when two years were ended, Felix had Portius Festus appointed for his successor: and willing to curry favour with the Jews, Felix left Paul in chains.
WHEN Festus then was come into the province, after three days he went up to Jerusalem from Cæsarea.2And the high-priest and the principal persons among the Jews informed him against Paul, and entreated him,3begging it as a favour from him, that he would send him back to Jerusalem, lying in wait for him to kill him on the road.4Then Festus answered, that Paul should be kept in custody at Cæsarea, and that he himself was going thither shortly.5Let therefore, said he, those among you who are able, go down with me, and accuse him, if there be anything criminal in this man.
6And after staying with them more than ten days, he went down to Cæsarea; and on the morrow seated on the bench, commanded Paul to be brought.7And on his appearing, the Jews who came down from Jerusalem surrounded him, and laid many and heavy accusations against Paul, which they were not able to prove.8But he pleaded in his defence, That neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Cæsar, have I committed the least offence.
9Then Festus, desirous of ingratiating himself with the Jews, replying to Paul, said, Wilt thou go up unto Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?
10Then said Paul, I am standing before the tribunal of Cæsar, where I have a right to be judged: against the Jews I have committed no offence, as thou also clearly perceivest.11For indeed if I have committed any crime, or done aught worthy of death, I object not to be put to death: but if there is nothing in those things whereof they accuse me, no man dare gratify them by abandoning me to them.12I appeal unto Cæsar.
Then Festus, after conferring with the council, answered, Hast thou appealed to Cæsar? to Cæsar shalt thou go.
13Now when some days were passed, Agrippa and Bernice came to Cæsarea to salute Festus.14And as their stay there was extended to a considerable time, Festus communicated to the king Paul’s affairs, saying, There is a certain man left by Felix, a prisoner:15against whom when I was at Jerusalem, the high-priest and the elders of the Jews appeared, desiring judgment against him.16To whom I replied, That it was not customary for Romans to give up any man gratuitously to destruction, before that the person accused should have his accusers produced face to face, and be allowed opportunity to defend himself against the charge.17When therefore they were come here together, making no demur, the very next day I sat on the tribunal, and commanded the man to be brought.18Against whom his accusers standing forth, brought no charge of such things as I expected:19but only pleaded against him certain disputes about their own mode of religious worship, and about one Jesus, who was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.20But being in doubt respecting a question of this sort, I demanded if he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things.21But Paul appealing that he should be reserved for the cognizance of Augustus, I ordered him to be kept in custody until I should send him to Cæsar.
22Then Agrippa said to Festus, I wish also myself to hear the man. He said, To-morrow thou shalt hear him.
23On the morrow therefore, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with a very splendid retinue, and were entered into the place of audience, with the military tribunes, and the men of superior eminence in the city, then at the order of Festus Paul was produced.
24And Festus said, King Agrippa, and all you, sirs, who are present with us, behold the man, concerning whom the whole multitude of the Jews have set upon me, both at Jerusalem and in this place, clamouring that he ought not to live a moment longer.25But finding on inquiry that he had done nothing worthy of death, and he himself indeed having appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him.26Respecting whom I have nothing determinate to write to my sovereign. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and especially before thee, king Agrippa, that on a fresh examination taken, I might have something to write.27For it appears to me highly unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not also signify the charges against him.
THEN Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretching out his hand, began his defence:2I count myself happy, king Agrippa, that I am about to address my defence to thee this day concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews:3especially as thou art skilled both in all the customs, and questions which respect the Jews: wherefore I beg the favour of thee to hear me patiently.
4The manner of my life even from my youth, which from its beginning was spent amidst my own nation at Jerusalem, know indeed all the Jews;5who previously knew me a long while ago, (if they chose to bear testimony,) that according to the most precise sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.6And this moment for the hope of the promise made of God to our fathers am I standing here to be judged:7which promise our twelve tribes, with fervour night and day worshipping God, hope to attain. For which hope, king Agrippa, I am criminated by the Jews.
8What! is it judged a thing incredible by you, that God should raise the dead?
9I indeed then thought in myself, that I ought to do many things in opposition to the name of Jesus the Nazarean.10Which also I did at Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prisons, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were killed, I gave my vote against them.11And in every synagogue oftentimes punishing them, I compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly maddened with rage against them, I persecuted them even to the cities that are without.12In which pursuits, even as I was going to Damascus with authority and a commission from the chief priests,13at midday, O king, I saw on the road a light from heaven, beyond the splendour of the sun, shining around myself and those who were travelling with me.14And as we were all fallen prostrate on the earth, I heard a voice speaking to me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is difficult for thee to kick against the goads.15Then I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he replied, I am Jesus whom thou art persecuting.16Notwithstanding, arise, and stand on thy feet: for to this end have I appeared to thee, to ordain thee both a minister and a witness of the things which thou hast seen, and of those which I will shew thee;17delivering thee both from the people, and from the Gentiles, to whom now I send thee,18to open their eyes, to convert them from darkness to light, and from the dominion of Satan unto God, that they may receive remission of sins, and an inheritance with those who are sanctified by faith which is in me.19Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision:20but preached first to those at Damascus, and Jerusalem, and to all the region of Judea, and to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, practicing works worthy of repentance.
21Because of these things, the Jews seizing me in the temple, attempted to kill me on the spot.22Having however obtained help from God, unto this day, I stand witnessing both to small and great, saying nothing but what both the prophets and Moses said should come to pass:23that the Messiah should suffer,andthat he being the first who should rise from the dead, should display light to the people, and to the Gentiles.
24As thus he was proceeding in his defence, Festus with a loud voice said, Paul, thou art raving; much reading hath driven thee to madness.
25But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but utter words of truth and sobriety.26For the king is well acquainted with these things, before whom also I speak with the greatest freedom. For I am persuaded that none of these events have escaped his notice; for this thing was not done in a corner.27King Agrippa! believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.
28Then Agrippa said to Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.29And Paul replied, would to God, that not only thou, but also that all who are hearing me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these chains.
30So when he had thus spoken, the king arose, and the governor, and Bernice, and they who sat with him,31and retiring, conversed together, saying, This man hath done nothing worthy of death, or of chains.
32And Agrippa said to Festus, This man might have been discharged, if he had not appealed to Cæsar.