11:7. And I heard also a voice saying to me: Arise, Peter. Kill and eat.
11:8. And I said: Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath ever entered into my mouth.
11:9. And the voice answered again from heaven: What God hath made clean, do not thou call common.
11:10. And this was done three times. And all were taken up again into heaven.
11:11. And behold, immediately there were three men come to the house wherein I was, sent to me from Caesarea.
11:12. And the Spirit said to me that I should go with them, nothing doubting. And these six brethren went with me also: and we entered into the man's house.
11:13. And he told us how he had seen an angel in his house, standing and saying to him: Send to Joppe and call hither Simon, who is surnamed Peter,
11:14. Who shall speak to thee words whereby thou shalt be saved, and all thy house.
11:15. And when I had begun to speak, the Holy Ghost fell upon them, as upon us also in the beginning.
11:16. And I remembered the word of the Lord, how that he said: John indeed baptized with water but you shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.
11:17. If then God gave them the same grace as to us also who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ: who was I, that could withstand God?
11:18. Having heard these things, they held their peace and glorified God, saying: God then hath also to the Gentiles given repentance, unto life.
11:19. Now they who had been dispersed by the persecution that arose on occasion of Stephen went about as far as Phenice and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to none, but to the Jews only.
11:20. But some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they were entered into Antioch, spoke also to the Greeks, preaching the Lord Jesus.
11:21. And the hand of he Lord was with them: and a great number believing, were converted to the Lord.
11:22. And the tidings came to the ears of the church that was at Jerusalem, touching these things: and they sent Barnabas as far as Antioch.
11:23. Who, when he was come and had seen the grace of God, rejoiced. And he exhorted them all with purpose of heart to continue in the Lord.
11:24. For he was a good man and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith. And a great multitude was added to the Lord.
11:25. And Barnabas went to Tarsus to seek Saul: whom, when he had found, he brought to Antioch.
11:26. And they conversed there in the church a whole year: and they taught a great multitude, so that at Antioch the disciples were first named Christians.
11:27. And in these days there came prophets from Jerusalem to Antioch.
11:28. And one of them named Agabus, rising up, signified by the Spirit that there should be a great famine over the whole world, which came to pass under Claudius.
11:29. And the disciples, every man according to his ability, purposed to send relief to the brethren who dwelt in Judea.
11:30. Which also they did, sending it to the ancients, by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
Acts Chapter 12
Herod's persecution. Peter's deliverance by an angel. Herod's punishment.
12:1. And at the same time, Herod the king stretched forth his hands, to afflict some of the church.
12:2. And he killed James, the brother of John, With the sword.
12:3. And seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to take up Peter also. Now it was in the days of the Azymes.
Azymes… The festival of the unleavened bread, or the pasch, which answers to our Easter.
12:4. And when he had apprehended him, he cast him into prison, delivering him to four files of soldiers, to be kept, intending, after the pasch, to bring him forth to the people.
12:5. Peter therefore was kept in prison. But prayer was made without ceasing by the church unto God for him.
12:6. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.
12:7. And behold an angel of the Lord stood by him and a light shined in the room. And he, striking Peter on the side, raised him up, saying: Arise quickly. And the chains fell off from his hands.
12:8. And the angel said to him: Gird thyself and put on thy sandals. And he did so. And he said to him: Cast thy garment about thee and follow me,
12:9. And going out, he followed him. And he knew not that it was true which was done by the angel: but thought he saw a vision.
12:10. And passing through the first and the second ward, they came to the iron gate that leadeth to the city which of itself opened to them. And going out, they passed on through one street. And immediately the angel departed from him.
12:11. And Peter coming to himself, said: Now I know in very deed that the Lord hath sent his angel and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.
12:12. And considering, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, who was surnamed Mark, where many were gathered together and praying.
12:13. And when he knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken whose name was Rhode.
12:14. And as soon as she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for joy: but running in she told that Peter stood before the gate.
12:15. But they said to her: Thou art mad. But she affirmed that it was so. Then said they: It is his angel.
12:16. But Peter continued knocking. And when they had opened, they saw him and were astonished.
12:17. But he, beckoning to them with his hand to hold their peace, told how the Lord had brought him out of prison. And he said: Tell these things to James and to the brethren. And going out, he went into another place.
12:18. Now when day was come, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.
12:19. And when Herod had sought for him and found him not, having examined the keepers, he commanded they should be put to death. And going down from Judea to Caesarea, he abode there.
12:20. And he was angry with the Tyrians and the Sidonians. But they with one accord came to him: and, having gained Blastus who was the king's chamberlain, they desired peace, because their countries were nourished by him.
12:21. And upon a day appointed, Herod being arrayed in kingly apparel, sat in the judgment seat and made an oration to them.
12:22. And the people made acclamation, saying: It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.
12:23. And forthwith an angel of the Lord struck him, because he had not given the honour to God: and, being eaten up by worms, he gave up the ghost.
12:24. But the word of the Lord increased and multiplied.
12:25. And Barnabas and Saul, returned from Jerusalem, having fulfilled their ministry, taking with them John who was surnamed Mark.
Acts Chapter 13
Saul and Barnabas are sent forth by the Holy Ghost. They preach inCyprus and in Antioch of Pisidia.
13:1. Now there were in the church which was at Antioch prophets and doctors, among whom was Barnabas and Simon who was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene and Manahen who was the foster brother of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
13:2. And as they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Ghost said to them: Separate me Saul and Barnabas, for the work whereunto I have taken them.
13:3. Then they fasting and praying and imposing their hands upon them, sent them away.
13:4. So they, being sent by the Holy Ghost, went to Seleucia: and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
13:5. And when they were come to Salamina, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John also in the ministry.
13:6. And when they had gone through the whole island, as far as Paphos, they found a certain man, a magician, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-Jesu:
13:7. Who was with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, a prudent man. He, sending for Barnabas and Saul, desired to hear the word of God.
13:8. But Elymas the magician (for so his name is interpreted) withstood them, seeking to turn away the proconsul from the faith.
13:9. Then Saul, otherwise Paul, filled with the Holy Ghost, looking upon him,
13:10. Said: O full of all guile and of all deceit, child of the devil, enemy of all justice, thou ceases not to pervert the right ways of the Lord.
13:11. And now behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee: and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a time. And immediately there fell a mist and darkness upon him: and going about, he sought some one to lead him by the hand.
13:12. Then the proconsul, when he had seen what was done, believed, admiring at the doctrine of the Lord.
13:13. Now when Paul and they that were with him had sailed from Paphos, they came to Perge in Pamphylia. And John departing from them, returned to Jerusalem.
13:14. But they, passing through Perge, came to Antioch in Pisidia: and, entering into the Synagogue on the sabbath day, they sat down.
13:15. And after the reading of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying: Ye men, brethren, if you have any word of exhortation to make to the people, speak.
13:16. Then Paul rising up and with his hand bespeaking silence, said: Ye men of Israel and you that fear God, give ear.
13:17. The God of the people of Israel chose our fathers and exalted the people when they were sojourners in the land of Egypt: And with an high arm brought them out from thence:
13:18. And for the space of forty years endured their manners in the desert:
13:19. And, destroying seven nations in the land of Chaanan, divided their land among them by lot.
13:20. As it were, after four hundred and fifty years. And after these things, he gave unto them judges, until Samuel the prophet.
13:21. And after that they desired a king: and God gave them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, forty years.
13:22. And when he had removed him, he raised them up David to be king: to whom giving testimony, he said: I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man according to my own heart, who shall do all my wills.
13:23. Of this man's seed, God, according to his promise, hath raised up to Israel a Saviour Jesus:
13:24. John first preaching, before his coming, the baptism of penance to all the people of Israel.
13:25. And when John was fulfilling his course, he said: I am not he whom you think me to be. But behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.
13:26. Men, brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you fear God: to you the word of this salvation is sent.
13:27. For they that inhabited Jerusalem and the rulers thereof, not knowing him, nor the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath, judging him, have fulfilled them.
13:28. And finding no cause of death in him, they desired of Pilate that they might kill him.
13:29. And when they had fulfilled all things that were written of him, taking him down from the tree, they laid him in a sepulchre.
13:30. But God raised him up from the dead the third day.
13:31. Who was seen for many days by them who came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who to this present are his witnesses to the people.
13:32. And we declare unto you that the promise which was made to our fathers,
13:33. This same God hath fulfilled to our children, raising up Jesus, as in the second psalm also is written: Thou art my Son: this day have I begotten thee.
13:34. And to shew that he raised him up from the dead, not to return now any more to corruption, he said thus: I will give you the holy things of David, faithful.
I will give you the holy, etc… These are the words of the prophet Isaias, 55. 3. According to the Septuagint, the sense is: I will faithfully fulfil the promises I made to David.
13:35. And therefore, in another place also, he saith: Thou shalt not suffer thy holy one to see corruption.
13:36. For David, when he had served in his generation, according to the will of God, slept: and was laid unto his fathers and saw corruption.
13:37. But he whom God hath raised from the dead saw no corruption.
13:38. Be it known therefore to you, men, brethren, that through him forgiveness of sins is preached to you: and from all the things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
13:39. In him every one that believeth is justified.
13:40. Beware, therefore, lest that come upon you which is spoken in the prophets:
13:41. Behold, ye despisers, and wonder and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which you will not believe, if any man shall tell it you.
13:42. And as they went out, they desired them that on the next sabbath they would speak unto them these words.
13:43. And when the synagogue was broken up, many of the Jews and of the strangers who served God followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.
13:44. But the next sabbath day, the whole city almost came together, to hear the word of God.
13:45. And the Jews, seeing the multitudes, were filled with envy and contradicted those things which were said by Paul, blaspheming.
13:46. Then Paul and Barnabas said boldly: To you it behoved us first to speak the word of God: but because you reject it and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold we turn to the Gentiles.
13:47. For so the Lord hath commanded us: I have set thee to be the light of the Gentiles: that thou mayest be for salvation unto the utmost part of the earth.
13:48. And the Gentiles hearing it were glad and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to life everlasting believed.
13:49. And the word of the Lord was published throughout the whole country.
13:50. But the Jews stirred up religious and honourable women and the chief men of the city: and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas: and cast them out of their coasts.
13:51. But they, shaking off the dust of their feet against them, came to Iconium.
13:52. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Ghost.
Acts Chapter 14
Paul and Barnabas preach in Iconium and Lystra. Paul heals a cripple.They are taken for gods. Paul is stoned. They preach in Derbe and Perge.
14:1. And it came to pass in Iconium that they entered together into the synagogue of the Jews and so spoke that a very great multitude both of the Jews and of the Greeks did believe.
14:2. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up and incensed the minds of the Gentiles against the brethren.
14:3. A long time therefore they abode there, dealing confidently in the Lord, who gave testimony to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
14:4. And the multitude of the city was divided. And some of them indeed held with the Jews, but some with the apostles.
14:5. And when there was an assault made by the Gentiles and the Jews with their rulers, to use them contumeliously and to stone them:
14:6. They, understanding it, fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the whole country round about: and were there preaching the gospel.
14:7. And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked.
14:8. This same heard Paul speaking. Who looking upon him and seeing that he had faith to be healed,
14:9. Said with a loud voice: Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped up and walked.
14:10. And when the multitudes had seen what Paul had done, they lifted up their voice in the Lycaonian tongue, saying: The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.
14:11. And they called Barnabas, Jupiter: but Paul, Mercury: because he was chief speaker.
14:12. The priest also of Jupiter that was before the city, bringing oxen and garlands before the gate, would have offered sacrifice with the people.
14:13. Which, when the apostles Barnabas and Paul had heard, rending their clothes, they leaped out among the people, crying,
14:14. And saying: Ye men, why do ye these things? We also are mortals, men like unto you, preaching to you to be converted from these vain things to the living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all things that are in them:
14:15. Who in times past, suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.
14:16. Nevertheless he left not himself without testimony, doing good from heaven, giving rains and fruitful Seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.
14:17. And speaking these things, they scarce restrained the people from sacrificing to them.
14:18. Now there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium: and, persuading the multitude and stoning Paul, drew him out of the city, thinking him to be dead.
14:19. But as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up and entered into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.
14:20. And when they had preached the gospel to that city and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch:
14:21. Confirming the souls of the disciples and exhorting them to continue in the faith: and that through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God.
14:22. And when they had ordained to them priests in every church and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, in whom they believed.
14:23. And passing through Pisidia, they came into Pamphylia.
14:24. And having spoken the word of the Lord in Perge, they went down into Attalia.
14:25. And thence they sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been delivered to the grace of God, unto the work which they accomplished.
14:26. And when they were come and had assembled the church, they related what great things God had done with them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.
14:27. And they abode no small time with the disciples.
Acts Chapter 15
A dissension about circumcision. The decision and letter of the council of Jerusalem.
15:1. And some, coming down from Judea, taught the brethren: That, except you be circumcised after the manner of Moses, you cannot be saved.
15:2. And when Paul and Barnabas had no small contest with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of the other side should go up to the apostles and priests to Jerusalem, about this question.
15:3. They therefore, being brought on their way by the church, passed through Phenice and Samaria, relating the conversion of the Gentiles. And they caused great joy to all the brethren.
15:4. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and by the apostles and ancients, declaring how great things God had done with them.
15:5. But there arose of the sect of the Pharisees some that believed, saying: They must be circumcised and be commanded to observe the law of Moses.
15:6. And the apostles and ancients assembled to consider of this matter.
15:7. And when there had been much disputing, Peter, rising up, said to them: Men, brethren, you know that in former days God made choice among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe.
15:8. And God, who knoweth the hearts, gave testimony, giving unto them the Holy Ghost, as well as to us:
15:9. And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
15:10. Now therefore, why tempt you God to put a yoke upon the necks of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?
15:11. But by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we believe to be saved, in like manner as they also.
15:12. And all the multitude held their peace: and they heard Barnabas and Paul telling what great signs and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.
15:13. And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying: Men, brethren, hear me.
15:14. Simon hath related how God first visited to take to the Gentiles, a people to his name.
15:15. And to this agree the words of the prophets, as it is written:
15:16. After these things I will return and will rebuild the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down: and the ruins thereof I will rebuild. And I will set it up:
15:17. That the residue of men may seek after the Lord, and all nations upon whom my name is invoked, saith the Lord, who doth these things.
15:18. To the Lord was his own work known from the beginning of the world.
15:19. For which cause, judge that they who from among the Gentiles are converted to God are not to be disquieted:
15:20. But that we write unto them, that they refrain themselves from the pollutions of idols and from fornication and from things strangled and from blood.
15:21. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him in the synagogues, where he is read every sabbath.
15:22. Then it pleased the apostles and ancients, with the whole church, to choose men of their own company and to send to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas, who was surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren.
15:23. Writing by their hands: The apostles and ancients, brethren, to the brethren of the Gentiles that are at Antioch and in Syria and Cilicia, greeting.
15:24. Forasmuch as we have heard that some going out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, to whom we gave no commandment:
15:25. It hath seemed good to us, being assembled together, to choose out men and to send them unto you, with our well beloved Barnabas and Paul:
15:26. Men that have given their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
15:27. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who themselves also will, by word of mouth, tell you the same things.
15:28. For it hath seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us to lay no further burden upon you than these necessary things:
15:29. That you abstain from things sacrificed to idols and from blood and from things strangled and from fornication: from which things keeping yourselves, you shall do well. Fare ye well.
From blood, and from things strangled… The use of these things, though of their own nature indifferent, was here prohibited, to bring the Jews more easily to admit of the society of the Gentiles; and to exercise the latter in obedience. But this prohibition was but temporary, and has long since ceased to oblige; more especially in the western churches.
15:30. They therefore, being dismissed, went down to Antioch and, gathering together the multitude, delivered the epistle.
15:31. Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.
15:32. But Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, with many words comforted the brethren and confirmed them.
15:33. And after they had spent some time there, they were let go with peace by the brethren unto them that had sent them.
15:34. But it seemed good unto Silas to remain there: and Judas alone departed to Jerusalem.
15:35. And Paul and Barnabas continued at Antioch, teaching and preaching, with many others, the word of the Lord.
15:36. And after some days, Paul said to Barnabas: Let us return and visit our brethren in all the cities wherein we have preached the word of the Lord, to see how they do.
15:37. And Barnabas would have taken with them John also, that was surnamed Mark.
15:38. But Paul desired that he (as having departed from them out of Pamphylia and not gone with them to the work) might not be received.
15:39. And there arose a dissension so that they departed one from another. And Barnabas indeed, taking Mark, sailed to Cyprus.
15:40. But Paul, choosing Silas, departed, being delivered by the brethren to the grace of God.
15:41. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches, commanding them to keep the precepts of the apostles and the ancients.
Acts Chapter 16
Paul visits the churches. He is called to preach in Macedonia. He is scourged at Philippi.
16:1. And he came to Derbe and Lystra. And behold, there was a certain disciple there named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman that believed: but his father was a Gentile.
16:2. To this man the brethren that were in Lystra and Iconium gave a good testimony.
16:3. Him Paul would have to go along with him: and taking him, he circumcised him, because of the Jews who were in those places. For they all knew that his father was a Gentile.
16:4. And as they passed through the cities, they delivered unto them the decrees for to keep, that were decreed by the apostles and ancients who were at Jerusalem.
16:5. And the churches were confirmed in faith and increased in number daily.
16:6. And when they had passed through Phrygia and the country of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia.
16:7. And when they were come into Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia: and the Spirit of Jesus suffered them not.
16:8. And when they had passed through Mysia, they went down to Troas.
16:9. And a vision was shewed to Paul in the night, which was a man of Macedonia standing and beseeching him and saying: Pass over into Macedonia and help us.
16:10. And as soon as he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go into Macedonia: being assured that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
16:11. And sailing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the day following to Neapolis.
16:12. And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of part of Macedonia, a colony. And we were in this city some days conferring together.
16:13. And upon the Sabbath day, we went forth without the gate by a river side, where it seemed that there was prayer: and sitting down, we spoke to the women that were assembled.
16:14. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, one that worshipped God, did hear: whose heart the Lord opened to attend to those things which were said by Paul.
16:15. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying: If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house and abide there. And she constrained us.
16:16. And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain girl having a pythonical spirit met us, who brought to her masters much gain by divining.
A pythonical spirit… That is, a spirit pretending to divine, and tell fortunes.
16:17. This same following Paul and us, cried out, saying: These men are the servants of the Most High God, who preach unto you the way of salvation.
16:18. And this she did many days. But Paul being grieved, turned and said to the spirit: I command thee, in the name of Jesus Christ, to go from her. And he went out the same hour.
16:19. But her masters, seeing that the hope of their gain was gone, apprehending Paul and Silas, brought them into the market place to the rulers.
16:20. And presenting them to the magistrates, they said: These men disturb our city, being Jews:
16:21. And preach a fashion which it is not lawful for us to receive nor observe, being Romans.
16:22. And the people ran together against them: and the magistrates, rending off their clothes, commanded them to be beaten with rods.
16:23. And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the gaoler to keep them diligently.
16:24. Who having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison and made their feet fast in the stocks.
16:25. And at midnight, Paul and Silas, praying, praised God. And they that were in prison heard them.
16:26. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened and the bands of all were loosed.
16:27. And the keeper of the prison, awakening out of his sleep and seeing the doors of the prison open, drawing his sword, would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.
16:28. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying: Do thyself no harm, for we all are here.
16:29. Then calling for a light, he went in: and trembling, fell down at the feet of Paul and Silas.
16:30. And bringing them out, he said: Masters, what must I do, that I may be saved?
16:31. But they said: believe in the Lord Jesus: and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
16:32. And they preached the word of the Lord to him and to all that were in his house.
16:33. And he, taking them the same hour of the night, washed their stripes: and himself was baptized, and all his house immediately.
16:34. And when he had brought them into his own house, he laid the table for them: and rejoiced with all his house, believing God.
16:35. And when the day was come, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying: Let those men go.
16:36. And the keeper of the prison told these words to Paul: The magistrates have sent to let you go. Now therefore depart. And go in peace.
16:37. But Paul said to them: They have beaten us publicly, uncondemned, men that are Romans, and have cast us into prison. And now do they thrust us out privately? Not so: but let them come.
16:38. And let us out themselves. And the serjeants told these words to the magistrates. And they were afraid: hearing that they were Romans.
16:39. And coming, they besought them: and bringing them out, they desired them to depart out of the city.
16:40. And they went out of the prison and entered into the house of Lydia: and having seen the brethren, they comforted them and departed.
Acts Chapter 17
Paul preaches to the Thessalonians and Bereans. His discourse to theAthenians.
17:1. And when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews.
17:2. And Paul, according to his custom, went in unto them. And for three sabbath days he reasoned with them out of the scriptures:
17:3. Declaring and insinuating that the Christ was to suffer and to rise again from the dead; and that this is Jesus Christ, whom I preach to you.
17:4. And some of them believed and were associated to Paul and Silas: and of those that served God and of the Gentiles a great multitude: and of noble women not a few.
17:5. But the Jews, moved with envy and taking unto them some wicked men of the vulgar sort and making a tumult, set the city in an uproar: and besetting Jason's house, sought to bring them out unto the people.
17:6. And not finding them, they drew Jason and certain brethren to the rulers of the city, crying: They that set the city in an uproar are come hither also:
City. Urbem… In the Greek, the world.
17:7. Whom Jason hath received. And these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus.
17:8. And they stirred up the people: and the rulers of the city, hearing these things,
17:9. And having taken satisfaction of Jason and of the rest, they let them go.
17:10. But the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea. Who, when they were come thither, went into the synagogue of the Jews.
17:11. Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, who received the word with all eagerness, daily searching the scriptures, whether these things were so.
More noble… The Jews of Berea are justly commended, for their eagerly embracing the truth, and searching the scriptures, to find out the texts alleged by the apostle: which was a far more generous proceeding than that of their countrymen at Thessalonica, who persecuted the preachers of the gospel, without examining the grounds they alleged for what they taught.
17:12. And many indeed of them believed: and of honourable women that were Gentiles and of men, not a few.
17:13. And when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was also preached by Paul at Berea, they came thither also, stirring up and troubling the multitude.
17:14. And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul, to go unto the sea: but Silas and Timothy remained there.
17:15. And they that conducted Paul brought him as far as Athens: and receiving a commandment from him to Silas and Timothy, that they should come to him with all speed, they departed.
17:16. Now whilst Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred within him, seeing the city wholly given to idolatry.
17:17. He disputed, therefore, in the synagogue with the Jews and with them that served God: and in the market place, every day, with them that were there.
17:18. And certain philosophers of the Epicureans and of the Stoics disputed with him. And some said: What is it that this word sower would say? But others: He seemeth to be a setter forth of new gods. Because he preached to them Jesus and the resurrection.
17:19. And taking him, they brought him to the Areopagus, saying: May we know what this new doctrine is, which thou speakest of?
17:20. For thou bringest in certain new things to our ears. We would know therefore what these things mean.
17:21. (Now all the Athenians and strangers that were there employed themselves in nothing else, but either in telling or in hearing some new thing.)
17:22. But Paul, standing in the midst of the Areopagus, said: Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are too superstitious.
17:23. For passing by and seeing your idols, I found an altar also, on which was written: To the Unknown God. What therefore you worship without knowing it, that I preach to you:
17:24. God, who made the world and all things therein, he being Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands.
Dwelleth not in temples… God is not contained in temples; so as to need them for his dwelling, or any other uses, as the heathens imagined. Yet by his omnipresence, he is both there and everywhere.
17:25. Neither is he served with men's hands, as though he needed any thing: seeing it is he who giveth to all life and breath and all things:
17:26. And hath made of one, all mankind, to dwell upon the whole face of the earth, determining appointed times and the limits of their habitation.
17:27. That they should seek God, if haply they may feel after him or find him, although he be not far from every one of us.
17:28. For in him we live and move and are: as some also of your own poets said: For we are also his offspring.
17:29. Being therefore the offspring of God, we must not suppose the divinity to be like unto gold or silver or stone, the graving of art and device of man.
17:30. And God indeed having winked at the times of this ignorance, now declareth unto men that all should every where do penance.
17:31. Because he hath appointed a day wherein he will judge the world in equity, by the man whom he hath appointed: giving faith to all, by raising him up from the dead.
17:32. And when they had heard of the resurrection of the dead, some indeed mocked. But others said: We will hear thee again concerning this matter.
17:33. So Paul went out from among them.
17:34. But certain men, adhering to him, did believe: among whom was also Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them.
Acts Chapter 18
Paul founds the church of Corinth and preaches at Ephesus and in other places. Apollo goes to Corinth.
18:1. After these things, departing from Athens, he came to Corinth.
18:2. And finding a certain Jew, named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with Priscilla his wife (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome), he came to them.
18:3. And because he was of the same trade, he remained with them and wrought. (Now they were tentmakers by trade.)
18:4. And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, bringing in the name of the Lord Jesus. And he persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.
18:5. And when Silas and Timothy were come from Macedonia, Paul was earnest in preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.
18:6. But they gainsaying and blaspheming, he shook his garments and said to them: Your blood be upon your own heads: I am clean. From henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.
18:7. And departing thence, he entered into the house of a certain man, named Titus Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house was adjoining to the synagogue.
18:8. And Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord, with all his house. And many of the Corinthians hearing, believed and were baptized.
18:9. And the Lord said to Paul in the night, by a vision: Do not fear, but speak. And hold not thy peace,
18:10. Because I am with thee and no man shall set upon thee, to hurt thee. For I have much people in this city.
18:11. And he stayed there a year and six months, teaching among them the word of God.
18:12. But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat,
18:13. Saying: This man persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.
18:14. And when Paul was beginning to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews: If it were some matter of injustice or an heinous deed, O Jews, I should with reason bear with you.
18:15. But if they be questions of word and names and of your law, look you to it. I will not be judge of such things.
18:16. And he drove them from the judgment seat.
18:17. And all laying hold on Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.
18:18. But Paul, when he had stayed yet many days, taking his leave of the brethren, sailed thence into Syria (and with him Priscilla and Aquila), having shorn his head in Cenchrae. For he had a vow.
18:19. And he came to Ephesus and left them there. But he himself, entering into the synagogue, disputed with the Jews.
18:20. And when they desired him that he would tarry a longer time, he consented not:
18:21. But taking his leave and saying: I will return to you again, God willing, he departed from Ephesus.
18:22. And going down to Caesarea, he went up to Jerusalem and saluted the church: and so came down to Antioch.
18:23. And after he had spent some time there, he departed and went through the country of Galatia and Phrygia, in order, confirming all the disciples.
18:24. Now a certain Jew, named Apollo, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, came to Ephesus, one mighty in the scriptures.
18:25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord: and being fervent in spirit, spoke and taught diligently the things that are of Jesus, knowing only the baptism of John.
18:26. This man therefore began to speak boldly in the synagogue. Whom when Priscilla and Aquila had heard, they took him to them and expounded to him the way of the Lord more diligently.
18:27. And whereas he was desirous to go to Achaia, the brethren exhorting wrote to the disciples to receive him. Who, when he was come, helped them much who had believed.
18:28. For with much vigour he convinced the Jews openly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.
Acts Chapter 19
Paul establishes the church at Ephesus. The tumult of the silversmiths.
19:1. And it came to pass, while Apollo was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper coasts, came to Ephesus and found certain disciples.
19:2. And he said to them: Have you received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? But they said to him: We have not so much as heard whether there be a Holy Ghost.
19:3. And he said: In what then were you baptized? Who said: In John's baptism.
19:4. Then Paul said: John baptized the people with the baptism of penance saying: That they should believe in him, who was to come after him, that is to say, in Jesus.
19:5. Having heard these things, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
19:6. And when Paul had imposed his hands on them, the Holy Ghost came upon them: and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.
19:7. And all the men were about twelve.
19:8. And entering into the synagogue, he spoke boldly for the space of three months, disputing and exhorting concerning the kingdom of God.
19:9. But when some were hardened and believed not, speaking evil of the way of the Lord before the multitude, departing from them, he separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.
19:10. And this continued for the space of two years, so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Gentiles.
19:11. And God wrought by the hand of Paul more than common miracles.
19:12. So that even there were brought from his body to the sick, handkerchiefs and aprons: and the diseases departed from them: and the wicked spirits went out of them.
19:13. Now some also of the Jewish exorcists, who went about, attempted to invoke over them that had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying: I conjure you by Jesus, whom Paul preacheth.
19:14. And there were certain men, seven sons of Sceva, a Jew, a chief priest, that did this.
19:15. But the wicked spirit, answering, said to them: Jesus I know: and Paul I know. But who are you?
19:16. And the man in whom the wicked spirit was, leaping upon them and mastering them both, prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.
19:17. And this became known to all the Jews and the Gentiles that dwelt a Ephesus. And fear fell on them all: and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.
19:18. And many of them that believed came, confessing and declaring their deeds.
19:19. And many of them who had followed curious arts brought together their books and burnt them before all. And, counting the price of them, they found the money to be fifty thousand pieces of silver.
19:20. So mightily grew the word of God and was confirmed.
19:21. And when these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying: After I have been there, I must see Rome also.
19:22. And sending into Macedonia two of them that ministered to him, Timothy and Erastus, he himself remained for a time in Asia.
19:23. Now at that time there arose no small disturbance about the way of the Lord.
19:24. For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver temples for Diana, brought no small gain to the craftsmen.
19:25. Whom he calling together with the workmen of like occupation, said: Sirs, you know that our gain is by this trade.
19:26. And you see and hear that this Paul, by persuasion hath drawn away a great multitude, not only of Ephesus, but almost of all Asia, saying: they are not gods which are made by hands.
19:27. So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought, but also the temple of great Diana shall be reputed for nothing! Yea, and her majesty shall begin to be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.
19:28. Having heard these things, they were full of anger and cried out, saying: Great is Diana of the Ephesians!
19:29. And the whole city was filled with confusion. And having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.
19:30. And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.
19:31. And some also of the rulers of Asia, who were his friends, sent unto him, desiring that he would not venture himself into the theatre.
19:32. Now some cried one thing, some another. For the assembly was confused: and the greater part knew not for what cause they were come together.
19:33. And they drew forth Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews thrusting him forward. And Alexander, beckoning with his hand for silence, would have given the people satisfaction,
19:34. But as soon as they perceived him to be a Jew, all with one voice, for the space of about two, hours, cried out: Great is Diana of the Ephesians!
19:35. And when the town clerk had appeased the multitudes, he said: Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great Diana and of Jupiter's offspring?
19:36. For as much therefore as these things cannot be contradicted, you ought to be quiet and to do nothing rashly.
19:37. For you have brought hither these men, who are neither guilty of sacrilege nor of blasphemy against your goddess.
19:38. But if Demetrius and the craftsmen that are with him have a matter against any man, the courts of justice are open: and there are proconsuls. Let them accuse one another.
19:39. And if you inquire after any other matter, it may be decided in a lawful assembly.
19:40. For we are even in danger to be called in question for this day's uproar, there being no man guilty (of whom we may give account) of this concourse. And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly.
Acts Chapter 20
Paul passes through Macedonia and Greece. He raises a dead man to life at Troas. His discourse to the clergy of Ephesus.
20:1. And after the tumult was ceased, Paul calling to him the disciples and exhorting them, took his leave and set forward to go into Macedonia.
20:2. And when he had gone over those parts and had exhorted them with many words, he came into Greece:
20:3. Where, when he had spent three months, the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria. So he took a resolution to return through Macedonia.
20:4. And there accompanied him Sopater, the son of Pyrrhus, of Berea: and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus: and Gaius of Derbe and Timothy: and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
20:5. These, going before, stayed for us at Troas.
20:6. But we sailed from Philippi after the days of the azymes and came to them to Troas in five days, where we abode seven days.
20:7. And on the first day of the week, when we were assembled to break bread, Paul discoursed with them, being to depart on the morrow. And he continued his speech until midnight.
And on the first day of the week… Here St. Chrysostom and many other interpreters of the scripture explain, that the Christians even at this time, must have changed the sabbath into the first day of the week, (the Lord's day,) as all Christians now keep it. This change was undoubtedly made by the authority of the church; hence the exercise of the power, which Christ had given to her: for he is Lord of the sabbath.
20:8. And there were a great number of lamps in the upper chamber where we were assembled.
20:9. And a certain young man named Eutychus, sitting on the window, being oppressed with a deep sleep (as Paul was long preaching), by occasion of his sleep fell from the third loft down and was taken up dead.
20:10. To whom, when Paul had gone down, he laid himself upon him and, embracing him, said: Be not troubled, for his soul is in him.
20:11. Then going up and breaking bread and tasting and having talked a long time to them, until daylight, so he departed.
20:12. And they brought the youth alive and were not a little comforted.
20:13. But we going aboard the ship, sailed to Assos, being there to take in Paul. For so he had appointed, himself purposing to travel by land.
20:14. And when he had met with us at Assos, we took him in and came to Mitylene.
20:15. And sailing thence, the day following we came over against Chios: and the next day we arrived at Samos: and the day following we came to Miletus.
20:16. For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, lest he should be stayed any time in Asia. For he hasted, if it were possible for him, to keep the day of Pentecost at Jerusalem.
20:17. And sending from Miletus to Ephesus, he called the ancients of the church.
20:18. And when they were come to him and were together, he said to them: You know from the first day that I came into Asia, in what manner I have been with you, for all the time.
20:19. Serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and temptations which befell me by the conspiracies of the Jews:
20:20. How I have kept back nothing that was profitable to you, but have preached it to you, and taught you publicly, and from house to house,
20:21. Testifying both to Jews and Gentiles penance towards God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
20:22. And now, behold, being bound in the spirit, I go to Jerusalem: not knowing the things which shall befall me there:
20:23. Save that the Holy Ghost in every city witnesseth to me, saying: That bands and afflictions wait for me at Jerusalem.
20:24. But I fear none of these things, neither do I count my life more precious than myself, so that I may consummate my course and the ministry of the word which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
20:25. And now behold, I know that all you, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
20:26. Wherefore I take you to witness this day that I am clear from the blood of all men.
20:27. For I have not spread to declare unto you all, the counsel of God.
20:28. Take heed to yourselves and to the whole flock, wherein the Holy Ghost hath placed you bishops, to rule the Church of God which he hath purchased with his own blood.
20:29. I know that after my departure ravening wolves will enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
20:30. And of your own selves shall arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
20:31. Therefore watch, keeping in memory that for three years I ceased not with tears to admonish every one of you, night and day.
20:32. And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, who is able to build up and to give an inheritance among all the sanctified.
20:33. I have not coveted any man's silver, gold or apparel, as
20:34. You yourselves know. For such things as were needful for me and them that are with me, these hands have furnished.
20:35. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring you ought to support the weak and to remember the word of the Lord Jesus, how he said: It is a more blessed thing to give, rather than to receive.
20:36. And when he had said these things, kneeling down, he prayed with them all.
20:37. And there was much weeping among them all. And falling on the neck of Paul, they kissed him,
20:38. Being grieved most of all for the word which he had said, that they should see his face no more. And they brought him on his way to the ship.
Acts Chapter 21
Paul goes up to Jerusalem. He is apprehended by the Jews in the temple.
21:1. And when it came to pass that, being parted from them, we set sail, we came with a straight course to Coos, and the day following to Rhodes: and from thence to Patara.
21:2. And when we had found a ship sailing over to Phenice, we went aboard and set forth.
21:3. And when we had discovered Cyprus, leaving it on the left hand, we sailed into Syria, and came to Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.
21:4. And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul, through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
21:5. And the days being expired, departing we went forward, they all bringing us on our way, with their wives and children, till we were out of the city. And we kneeled down on the shore: and we prayed.
21:6. And when we had bid one another farewell, we took ship. And they returned home.
21:7. But we, having finished the voyage by sea, from Tyre came down to Ptolemais: and saluting the brethren, we abode one day with them.
21:8. And the next day departing, we came to Caesarea. And entering into the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, we abode with him.
The evangelist… That is, the preacher of the gospel; the same that before converted the Samaritans, and baptized the eunuch, chap. 8., being one of the first seven deacons.
21:9. And he had four daughters, virgins, who did prophesy.
21:10. And as we tarried there for some days, there came from Judea a certain prophet, named Agabus.
21:11. Who, when he was come to us, took Paul's girdle: and binding his own feet and hands, he said: Thus saith the Holy Ghost: The man whose girdle this is, the Jews shall bind in this manner in Jerusalem and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.
21:12. Which when we had heard, both we and they that were of that place desired him that he would not go up to Jerusalem.
21:13. Then Paul answered and said: What do you mean, weeping and afflicting my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but to die also in Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus.
21:14. And when we could not persuade him, we ceased, saying: The will of the Lord be done.
21:15. And after those days, being prepared, we went up to Jerusalem.
21:16. And there went also with us some of the disciples from Caesarea, bringing with them one Mnason a Cyprian, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.
21:17. And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
21:18. And the day following, Paul went in with us unto James: and all the ancients were assembled.
21:19. Whom when he had saluted, he related particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.
21:20. But they hearing it, glorified God and said to him: Thou seest, brother, how many thousands there are among the Jews that have believed: and they are all zealous for the law.
21:21. Now they have heard of thee that thou teachest those Jews, who are among the Gentiles to depart from Moses: saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, nor walk according to the custom.
21:22. What is it therefore? The multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.
21:23. Do therefore this that we say to thee. We have four men, who have a vow on them.
21:24. Take these and sanctify thyself with them: and bestow on them, that they may shave their heads. And all will know that the things which they have heard of these are false: but that thou thyself also walkest keeping the law.
Keeping the law… The law, though now no longer obligatory, was for a time observed by the Christian Jews: to bury, as it were, the synagogue with honour.
21:25. But, as touching the Gentiles that believe, we have written, decreeing that they should only refrain themselves from that which has been offered to idols and from blood and from things strangled and from fornication.
21:26. Then Paul took the men and, the next day being purified with them, entered into the temple, giving notice of the accomplishment of the days of purification, until an oblation should be offered for every one of them.
21:27. But when the seven days were drawing to an end, those Jews that were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people and laid hands upon him, crying out:
21:28. Men of Israel, help: This is the man that teacheth all men every where against the people and the law and this place; and moreover hath brought in Gentiles into the temple and hath violated this holy place.
21:29. (For they had seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him. whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)
21:30. And he whole city was in an uproar: and the people ran together. And taking Paul, they drew him out of the temple: and immediately the doors were shut.
21:31. And as they went about to kill him, it was told the tribune of the band that all Jerusalem was in confusion.
21:32. Who, forthwith taking with him soldiers and centurions, ran down to them. And when they saw the tribune and the soldiers, they left off beating Paul.
21:33. Then the tribune, coming near, took him and commanded him to be bound with two chains: and demanded who he was and what he had done.
21:34. And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude. And when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle.
21:35. And when he was come to the stairs, it fell out that he was carried by the soldiers, because of the violence of the people.
21:36. For the multitude of the people followed after, crying: Away with him!
21:37. And as Paul was about to be brought into the castle, he saith to the tribune: May I speak something to thee? Who said: Canst thou speak Greek?
21:38. Art not thou that Egyptian who before these days didst raise a tumult and didst lead forth into the desert four thousand men that were murderers?
21:39. But Paul said to him: I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city. And I beseech thee, suffer me to speak to the people.
21:40. And when he had given him leave, Paul standing on the stairs, beckoned with his hand to the people. And a great silence being made, he spoke unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying:
Acts Chapter 22
Paul declares to the people the history of his conversion. He escapes scourging by claiming the privilege of a Roman citizen.
22:1. Men, brethren and fathers, hear ye the account which I now give unto you.
22:2. (And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew tongue, they kept the more silence.)
22:3. And he saith: I am a Jew, born at Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the truth of the law of the fathers, zealous for the law, as also all you are this day:
22:4. Who persecuted this way unto death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women,
22:5. As the high priest doth bear me witness and all the ancients. From whom also receiving letters to the brethren, I went to Damascus, that I might bring them bound from thence to Jerusalem to be punished.
22:6. And it came to pass, as I was going and drawing nigh to Damascus, at mid-day, that suddenly from heaven there shone round about me a great light:
22:7. And falling on the ground, I heard a voice saying to me: Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
22:8. And I answered: Who art thou, Lord? And he said to me: I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.