NEW TESTAMENT: EXTRACT FROM THE FIRST LETTER OF ST. PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS: CHAPTER 15, VERSES 50-57

Introduction. This extract from St. Paul's first letter (or epistle) to the Corinthians features the final part of the traditional reading laid down in the Book of Common Prayer for the Funeral Service. This magnificent and haunting passage is set out below in four versions. The first two versions are in English, the recent translation of the New English Bible preceding the words of the Authorised Version, in which the English language appears at its most majestic. Below are the Latin version of the Vulgate, used by the Roman Catholic Church for centuries, and, finally, the original, as written by St. Paul in 'koine' Greek. 

A.  THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE (1961): 

"What I mean, my brothers is this: flesh and blood can never possess the kingdom of God, and the perishable cannot possess immortality. Listen! I will unfold a mystery; we shall all be changed in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet-call. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will rise immortal, and we shall be changed. This perishable being must be clothed with the imperishable, and what is mortal must be clothed with immortality. And when our mortality has been clothed with immortality, then the saying of Scripture will come true: 'Death is swallowed up; victory is won!' 'O Death, where is your victory? O Death, where is your sting?' The sting of death is sin, and sin gains its power from the law; but, God be praised, he gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

B.  THE HOLY BIBLE: AUTHORISED KING JAMES VERSION (1611):

"Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. / Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, / In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. / For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. / So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. / O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? / The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. / But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."  

C.  ST. JEROME: VULGATE BIBLE (406): 

"Hoc autem dico, fratres, quoniam caro et sanguis Regnum Dei possidere non possunt, neque corruptio incorruptelam possidebit. Ecce, mysterium vobis dico: omnes quidem resurgemus sed non omnes inmutabimur, in momento, in ictu oculi; in novissima tuba; canet enim et mortui resurgent incorrupti et nos inmutabimur. Oportet enim corruptibile hoc induere incorruptelam et mortale hoc induere inmortalitatem. Cum autem mortale hoc induerit inmortalitatem, tunc fiet sermo qui scriptus est absorta est mors in victoria. Ubi est mors in victoria tua? Ubi est mors stimula tuus? Stimulus autem mortis peccatum est, virtus vero peccati lex. Deo autem gratias qui dedit nobis victoriam per Dominum nostrum Iesum Christum."

D.  THE NEW TESTAMENT IN THE ORIGINAL GREEK OF ST. PAUL (57):

Τοῦτο δέ φημι, ἀδελφοί, ὅτι σὰρξ καὶ αἷμα βασιλείαν θεοῦ κληρονομῆσαι οὐ δύναται, οὐδὲ ἡ φθορὰ τὴν ἀφθαρσίαν κληρονομεῖ. ἰδοῦ μυστήριον ὑμῖν λέγω· πάντες οὐ κοιμησηθόμεθα πάντες δὲ ἀλλαγησόμεθα, ἐν ἀτόμῳ, ἐν ῥιπῇ ὀφθαλμοῦ, ἐν τῇ ἐσχάτῃ σάλπιγγι· σαλπίσει γὰρ, καὶ οἱ νεκροὶ ἐγερθήσονται ἄφθαρτοι, καὶ ἡμεῖς ἀλλαργησόμεθα. δεῖ γὰρ τὸ φθαρτὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσασθαι ἀφθαρσίαν καὶ τὸ θνητὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσασθαι ἀθανασίαν. ὅταν δὲ τὸ θνητὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται τὴν ἀθανασίαν, τότε γενήσεται ὁ λόγος ὁ γεγραμμένος "Κατεπόθη ὁ θάνατος εἰς νῖκος." "ποῦ σου, θάνατε, τὸ νῖκος; ποῦ σου, θάνατε, τὸ κέντρον;" τὸ δὲ κέντρον τοῦ θάνατου ἡ ἁμαρτία, ἡ δὲ δύναμις τῆς ἁμαρτίας ὁ νόμος· τῷ δὲ θεῷ χάρις τῷ διδόντι ἡμῖν "τὸ νῖκος " διὰ τοῦ κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ.

NEW TESTAMENT: THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES

Introduction:

This remarkable book, which is the only one of its kind in the New Testament, purports to tell of the early history of Christianity, and particularly of how the Christian message was spread to the wider world of the gentiles through the agency of St. Paul. Its author, according to tradition, was St. Luke, a non-Jewish Greek speaking physician who, from the use of the first person plural at certain points in the text, appears to have accompanied Paul on his second and third missionary journeys and his long journey to Rome as a prisoner to stand trial before the Emperor Nero. "Acts" was probably attached originally to the Third Gospel, but was separated from it around 150 A.D. when Christians wanted the four gospels bound in one codex. Its date is uncertain. It cannot have been written before 61-63, i.e. the time of Paul's imprisonment in Rome, which is where the book ends. A date as late as 80-100 has been suggested by some, but a date around 70 is perhaps more likely.

In structural terms, the book is divided into two parts. Chapters 1-12 cover the development of the early church in Jerusalem and in this part St. Peter is prominent. In Chapters 13-28, however, the spotlight falls increasingly upon St. Paul. The book includes a number of key passages which are fundamental to the development of Christianity. These include the accounts of the Ascension (Chapter 1) and Pentecost (Chapter 2), the stoning of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and his long speech prior to this (Chapter 7), the conversion of Paul on the road to Damascus (Chapter 9), the decision to free gentiles from the full requirements of the Mosaic Law (Chapter 15), Paul's speech before the Areopagus in Athens (Chapter 17), the silversmiths' riot in Ephesus (Chapter 19), Paul's farewell speech to the elders of Ephesus (Chapter 20), Paul's speeches in his own defence before the Roman governor Felix (Chapter 24) and King Herod Agrippa II (Chapter 26), and the extraordinarily graphic account of the storm and shipwreck which Paul and his companions experienced on the way to Rome (Chapter 27). In general terms, the historical validity of the book as a whole is demonstrated by the inclusion of many accompanying details of no particular significance, and of some which are not necessarily advantageous, such as the quarrel between Paul and Barnabas (Chapter 15).

Central to the "Acts" is the Christian 'kerygma' of faith in Jesus Christ, leading to remission of sins and the promise of eternal life for all believers.

In terms of grammar and language, Luke employs a number of constructions, which do not appear in Attic Greek. For instance, he frequently begins pieces of direct speech with the conjunction ' ὅτι ', although this commonly introduces indirect speech. The Genitive of Purpose, i.e. ' τοῦ ' plus the infinitive, is also quite common, although it scarcely appears in Attic Greek. In particular, there are frequent instances of ' εἰμί ' plus a participle as a periphrastic alternative for a main verb. A list of these instances are shown in the appendix at the end of this translation.

Prologue (Ch. 1  vv. 1-5):

Chapter 1.  The first book I wrote, O Theophilus, (was) about all the things which Jesus began both to do and to teach until the day on which, after he had given his instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen, he was taken up (into heaven); to these he also showed himself alive after his Passion by many proofs, having been seen by them through (a period of) forty days, and telling (them) of the things about the kingdom of God. And, while he was at table with (them), he told (them) "Do not depart from Jerusalem, but await the promise of the Father, about which you have heard from me; for John, indeed, baptised in water, but you will be baptised in the Holy Spirit not many days from now (lit. after this)."  

The Ascension (Ch. 1.  vv. 6-11):

So, when they had come together, they questioned him, saying, "Lord, are you restoring the kingdom of Israel at this time?" He said to them, "It is not for you to know the times and the seasons, which the Father has placed within his authority, but you will receive power, when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts (lit. extremity) of the earth."

And, when he had said these things, while they were looking, he was lifted up and a cloud took him away from their sight (lit. eyes). And, as they were gazing into the sky as he went, behold, two men in white clothing stood alongside them, and they said, "Men of Galilee, why are you standing, looking into the sky? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into the sky, will come (back) in the same way as (lit. in such a way as the manner in which) you viewed him going up into the sky."

PART I:  THE CHURCH IN JERUSALEM (Ch. 1. v.12 - Ch. 5.  v. 42): 

The group of apostles (Ch. 1.  vv. 12-14):  

Then, they returned to Jerusalem from a mountain, called (the Mount) of Olives, which is near Jerusalem, being a Sabbath (day's) journey (away). When they had come, they went up into the upper room (of the house) where they were staying, (that is) Peter, as well as John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James, (the son of) Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot and Judas, (the son) of James. These were all continuing steadfastly in prayer of one accord, with the women and Mary, the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

Judas is replaced (Ch. 1.  vv. 15-26): 

Now, during these  days, Peter, having arisen in the midst of the brothers - and the number of their names was round about (lit. about the same as) a hundred and twenty - , said, "Men (and) brothers, it was necessary that the Scripture should be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who was the guide to those who arrested Jesus, because he was counted among us and obtained his share of this ministry. (Now, this [man] acquired a field with the proceeds of his crime, and, falling headlong [lit. becoming prone], he burst asunder in the midst and his intestines spilled out [lit. were poured out]. And it became known to all of those who lived in Jerusalem that that field was called, in their language, 'Akeldama', that is the 'Field of Blood'.) For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation become desolate and let there be no one living within it, and Let someone else take his office of overseer. So, of the men who accompanied us during all the time in which the Lord Jesus went in and went out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day on which he was taken up from us, one of these must (lit. it is necessary that one of these should) become a witness with us of his resurrection.

They put forward two (men), Joseph, called Barsabbas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. Praying, they said, "You, Lord, the knower of the hearts of all, show the one of these two, whom you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas went aside to his own place. Then, they drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias, and he was numbered among (lit. reckoned along with) the eleven apostles.

Pentecost (Ch. 2.  vv. 1-13) 

Chapter 2.  Now, while the day of (the festival) of Pentecost was in progress (lit. was being completed), they were all together in the same (place), and there suddenly came from the sky a noise like (that) of a violent wind being discharged, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting, and tongues like fire were seen being distributed between them, and (one) sat upon each one of them, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, even as the spirit was giving them (the ability) to speak clearly.

There were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation of those under the sky: and, when this sound was heard, the multitude came together and were thrown into confusion because each (one) heard them speaking in his own language: and they were astonished and began to marvel, saying, "Behold, are not all those who are speaking Galileans? How do we hear, each one of us in his own language in which we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and those born in Mesopotamia, Judea, and Cappadocia, Pontus, and the (province of) Asia, Phrygia, as well as Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya around Cyrene, and visiting Romans, both Jews and converts, Cretans and Arabians, we hear them speaking in our own tongues of the mighty (works) of God." And they were all  amazed and quite at a loss, saying to one another, "What does this mean (lit. purport to be)?" But others said in a mocking voice that they were full of new sweet wine.

Peter's address to the crowd (Ch. 2. vv. 14-36)

But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice and spoke plainly to them, saying, "(You) men of Judea and all (of you) who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you and hearken to my words. For these (men) are not drunk, as you suppose, as it is (only) the third hour of the day, but this is what has been spoken through the prophet Joel: It will be in the last  days, says God, I shall pour out my spirit on all flesh and your sons and your daughters will prophesy, and your young men will see visions and your old men will dream dreams; yes, and upon my slaves and slave-women in those days I shall pour out my spirit, and they shall prophesy. I shall show wonders in the sky above and signs on the earth beneath, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned into darkness and the moon into blood before the great and illustrious day of the Lord has come. It will be that, whoever shall call on the name of the Lord, that everyone will be saved. 

"Men of Israel, hear these words. Jesus of Nazareth, a man who has been assigned to you by God by mighty works and wonders and signs, which God performed through him in the midst of you, even as you yourselves know, him, having been delivered up by the determined counsel and foreknowledge of God, (and,) having been nailed (to the cross), you put to death by the hand of lawless (men), (the man) whom God raised up, having freed (him) from the pangs of death, as it was not possible that he should be held fast by it. For David says with regard to him, 'I saw the Lord always before my face because he is at my right hand, so that I cannot be shaken about. My heart was gladdened on account of this, and my tongue rejoiced exceedingly, and besides my flesh will also dwell in hope, because you will not leave my soul in Hades, nor will you permit your holy one to see corruption. You made known to me the ways of life, (and) you will fill me with good cheer with your face.'

"Men (and) brothers, I may (lit. it is permitted [to me] to) speak to you with frankness about the patriarch David, that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is among us right up to this day; therefore, because he was a prophet and knew that God had sworn to him with an oath that he would seat (someone) from the fruit of his loins upon his throne, having foreseen (this), he spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was neither left in Hades nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus God raised up, of which (fact) we are all witnesses. So, as he has been exalted by God's right hand, and has received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this which you now see and hear. For David did not ascend to the heavens, but he himself says: The Lord said to my lord, sit at my right (hand) until I can place your enemies (as) a footstool for your feet.

"So, let all the house of Israel know that God made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified."
   
The first conversions (Ch. 2.  vv. 37-41)

Now, when they heard (this), they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men (and) brothers, what shall we do?" Peter (said) to them: "Repent and be baptised, each (one) of you, in the name of of Jesus Christ, for the remission of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit; for the promise is to you and to your children, and to all those (who are) afar off, as many as the Lord our God may call to (himself)." With many other words, he bore witness and exhorted them, saying, "May you be saved from this crooked generation." So those who gladly received his word were baptised, and about three thousand souls were added (to their number) on that day.

The early Christian community (Ch. 2.  vv. 42-47)

And they were continuing steadfastly in the teaching and fellowship of the apostles, (and) in the breaking of bread and in prayer.

Fear came upon every soul, and many miracles and portents came about through the apostles.

All those who had become believers had all things in common together (lit. at the same [time]), and they sold their possessions and goods and divided them amongst everyone according as anyone had need.

Day by day continuing steadfastly of one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at home, they partook of food with great joy and simplicity of heart, praising God and finding (lit. possessing) favour with all the people. The Lord added those who were being saved to the same (group) on a daily basis.  

The cure of a lame man. (Ch. 3.  vv. 1-10)

Chapter 3.  Peter and John were going up into the temple at the hour of prayer, (which was) the ninth (hour), and a certain man, who was lame from his mother's womb, was being carried, and they laid him (lit. whom they laid) on a daily basis at the door of the temple to seek alms from those going into the temple, and he (lit. who), seeing that Peter and John were about to go into the temple, asked to receive alms. But Peter, gazing intently at him, said, "Look at us!" He fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said "Silver and gold have I none (lit. do not belong to me), but what I do have, this I give to you: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, (stand up and) walk!" Taking hold of him by his right hand, he raised him up; and, instantly, his feet and ankles were strengthened (lit. were made firm), and, leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and he entered with them into the temple, walking, leaping and praising God. All the people saw him walking and praising god, and they recognised him, that he was the (man) who had been sitting at the Beautiful Gate of the temple (asking) for alms, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

Peter's address to the people (Ch. 3.  vv. 11-26)

While he was clinging to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the portico which is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. Seeing (this), Peter made answer to the people (thus): "Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this (man), or why are you staring at us, as though by our own power or holiness, we have made him walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers has glorified his servant Jesus, whom you have handed over and disowned in the presence of (lit. before the face of) Pilate, when he had decided to release him; but you denied the Holy and Righteous (One), and asked that a man, (who was) a murderer should be granted to you as a favour, and you killed the prince of life, whom God raised from the dead, of which (fact) we are witnesses. By our faith in his name, his name has made strong this (man) whom you behold and know, and this faith that is through him has given the man this perfect soundness in the presence of (it. over and against) all of you.

"Now, I am aware that you did acted in ignorance, as also (did) your rulers; but God has thus fulfilled (the things) which he announced beforehand through the mouth of all the prophets, (that is) that his Christ should suffer. So, repent and turn around so as to ensure that your sins may be blotted out, so that moments of refreshment may come from the presence (lit. the face) of the Lord, and (that) he may send Christ Jesus, who has been pre-ordained to you. Indeed, Moses said that the Lord will raise up a prophet for you like me from among your brothers; you will listen to him in all (things), whatever he may say to you. It will be that every soul that will not listen to that prophet will be utterly cut off (lit. destroyed) from the people. In fact, all of the prophets from Samuel and those following (him) (lit.those  in succession), as many as have spoken, also proclaimed these days.

"You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant which God arranged with your fathers, when he said to Abraham: In your seed will the families of the earth be blessed. Having raised up his servant, God sent him to you first, to bless you in turning each (one of you) away from your wicked ways."

Peter and John before the Sanhedrin (Ch. 4.  vv. 1-22)

Chapter 4.  While they were speaking to the people, the chief priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees interrupted them, as they were troubled because they were teaching the people, and were proclaiming, in the (case) of Jesus, his resurrection from the dead, and they arrested (lit. laid their hands upon) them and put (them) into custody till the next morning, for it was evening already. But many of those who heard the word believed, and the number of these men came to be about five thousand.

On the next morning, it happened that their rulers and elders and scribes were gathered together in Jerusalem (also Annas, the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as there were of the high priest's kin), and, having stood them in their midst, they began to enquire, "By what power or in what name did you do this?" Then, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "(You) rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today on the basis of a good deed to a crippled man, (as to) in what (manner) this (man) has been healed (lit. saved), be it known to you all and to all the people of Israel that in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, (and) whom God raised from the dead, in him does this (man) stand before (lit. in front of ) you. He is the stone rejected by you, the builders, who has become the corner-stone (lit. the head of the corner). Now, there is no salvation in anyone else, for there is no name given (to men) under heaven, in which we can (lit. it is necessary for us to) be saved." When they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and realised that they were unlettered and ordinary men, they were amazed, and began to recognise them that they used to be with Jesus. And, looking at the man who had been healed, standing (there) with them, they had nothing to say against (it). Then, commanding them to go outside the (hall of the) Sanhedrin (i.e. the Jewish Council), they conferred among one another, saying "What shall we do to these men? because, indeed, a remarkable portent has occurred through them (which is) manifest to all those living in Jerusalem and we cannot deny (it). But, so that it should not spread any more among the people, let us threaten them so that they may no longer speak in this name to any men."

Having called (them), they charged (them) not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. But, Peter and John, in giving their answer, said to them, "Whether it is right before (in the face of) God to listen to you rather than to God, judge (for yourselves). For we cannot stop speaking (lit. cannot not speak) of (the things) which we saw and heard. Having further threatened (them), they released them, not finding how they might punish them on account of the people, because everyone was glorifying God for what had been done; for the man upon whom this miracle (lit. portent) of healing had occurred was more than forty years (old).

The apostles' prayer under persecution. (Ch. 23.  vv. 23-31)

Having been released, they came to their own (people) and reported everything that the chief priests and elders had said to them. Hearing (this), they lifted their voices to God with one accord and said, "Lord, you (are) the one who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and all the (things) in them, (and) who, by the Holy Spirit, (spoke) through the mouth of our forefather David, your servant, saying: "Why do the nations prance about and the peoples contemplate vain (things)? The kings of the earth and the rulers gathered together in the same (place) against the Lord and his Anointed One.

"For, in truth, in this city, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, have come together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, to do whatever your hand and counsel pre-ordained to happen. So now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants (the strength) to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch forth your hand for healing, and portents and miracles may happen through the name of of your servant Jesus. When they had made supplication, the place, in which they were gathered together, was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit,and they spoke the word of God with boldness.  

The early Christian community (Ch. 4.  vv. 32-35)

The multitude of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed that anything of the things which belonged to him was his own, but they had everything (lit. there was to them all things) in common.

With great power the apostles gave forth their witness as to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.

For there was not among them anyone (who was) in want; for as many as were owners of pieces of land or houses, when they had sold (them), they brought the value of what had been sold and laid (it) at the feet of the apostles; and it was distributed to each (one) as anyone might have the need.

The generosity of Barnabas (Ch. 4.  vv. 36-37)

Joseph, who was surnamed Barnabas by the apostles, which is translated (as) Son of Comfort, a Levite (and) a Cypriot by race, as a field belonged to him, sold (it) and brought the money and laid (it) at the foot of the apostles.  

The fraud of Ananias and Sapphira (Ch. 5.  vv. 1-11)

Chapter 5.  

A certain man, Ananias by name, with Sapphira, his wife, sold a property and kept back part of the price, with his wife also being aware (of this), and, bringing a certain part (of it), he laid (it) at the feet of the apostles. But Peter said, "Ananias, for what reason has Satan filled your heart so that you have cheated the Holy Spirit and held back (part) of the price of the land? While it remained in your possession, did it not remain (with you), and, when it was sold, did (the (money) not continue in your control? How (is it) that you have conceived such a deed in your heart? You have not lied to men, but to God. When he heard these words, Ananias fell down and (lit. having fallen down,) expired. Then, a great fear came upon those hearing (these words). The young men arose and (lit. having arisen,) wrapped (him) up, and, carrying (him) out, they buried (him).

An interval of about thee hours occurred, and (then) his wife, unaware of what had happened, came in. Peter challenged her (thus): "Tell me whether you sold the piece of land for so much? She said. "Yes. for so much." But Peter (said) to her, "How (is it) that it was agreed between you to test the spirit of the Lord? Look! the feet of those who buried your husband (are) at the door, and they will carry you out." Immediately, she fell down at his feet and expired; entering, the young men found her dead, and, carrying her out, they buried (her) beside her husband. A great fear came upon the whole assembly and upon everyone who heard these (things).

The general situation (Ch. 5.  vv. 12-16)

Many signs and portents occurred among the people through the hands of the apostles; and within Solomon's portico they were all of one accord; no one among the rest dare to be joined to them; but the people were extolling them and multitudes of men and women, believing in the Lord, were added steadily, so that they even brought out the sick into the by-ways and laid (them) on cots and mattresses, in order that, when Peter came past, his shadow at least might fall upon one of them. A multitude also came together from the cities around Jerusalem, bringing sick (people) and those troubled by unclean spirits, all of whom were healed.

The apostles' arrest and miraculous deliverance (Ch. 5.  vv. 17-21)

Then, the high priest arising, and all those with him, who were the sect of the Saducees, were filled with jealousy, and they arrested (lit. laid their hands upon) the apostles and put them in public custody. But an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the prison during the night, and, bringing them out, he said: "Go and, standing in the temple, talk to the people about all the things which have been said about this (new) life." Hearing this, they went into the temple just before dawn and began to teach.

A summons to appear before the Sanhedrin (Ch. 5.  vv. 22-33)

The high priest and those who were with him having arrived, called the Sanhedrin and all the assembly of elders of the sons of Israel together, and they sent to the jail for them to be brought out. But the officers, having arrived (there), did not find them in the prison, and, on their return, they reported, saying that, "We found the prison locked amidst every (means of) security, and the guards standing at the doors, but, when we opened (them), no one was inside. Now, when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were at a loss as to what they might mean with regard to them. One man coming up (to them), told them: "Look! the men whom you put in prison are in the temple, standing and teaching the people." Then, the captain, going off with the officers, fetched them, (but) without (lit. with no) violence, for they were afraid of the people, lest they should be stoned (by them).

They stood them in the Sanhedrin. And the high priest enquired of them, saying: "We commanded you by order not to teach on the basis of this name, and look! you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you wish to bring the blood of this man upon us." But, in reply, Peter and the apostles said: "We must (lit. it is necessary [for us] to) obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you executed (lit. manhandled), (by) hanging (him) on a piece of wood. God exalted him with his right (hand) (to be) our prince and saviour, (and) to grant repentance to Israel and remission of sins; we are witnesses of these things which have been said, and (so also is) the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him." When they heard (this), they gnashed their teeth and wanted to do away with him.

Gamaliel's intervention (Ch. 5.  vv. 34-42)

But, a certain Pharisee, Gamaliel by name, a teacher of the Law, esteemed by all the people, standing up in the Sanhedrin, gave the order to make the men (go) outside for a short (while), and he said to them: "(You) men of Israel, be careful (lit. give heed to yourselves) what you are about to do with regard to these men. For, in the past (lit. before these days), Theudas arose, claiming to be someone (important) himself, to whom a number of men, about four hundred, attached themselves (lit. turned towards); but he was slain, and all those who obeyed him were scattered and came to nothing. After this (man) there arose Judas the Galilean during the days of the census, and he took away some people after him in revolt; he also perished, and all those who obeyed him were dispersed. Now, I say to you, stand aloof from these men and discharge them (because, if this counsel or this work is of men, it will be destroyed; but, if it is of God, you will not be able to destroy them), lest at some time you may even be found (to be) fighters against God." They were persuaded by him, and, summoning the apostles, (after) flogging (them), they ordered (them) not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let (them) go. So, they departed from the presence (lit. the face) of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing, because they were deemed worthy to be dishonoured on behalf of that name; and every day, in the the temple and from house to house (lit. at home), they did not cease teaching and proclaiming the good news of Christ Jesus.

PART II.  THE EARLIEST MISSIONS (Ch. 6. v.1 - Ch. 12. v.25)

The institution of the Seven (Ch. 6.  vv. 1-7)

Chapter 6.  During these days, while the disciples were multiplying, a murmuring of the Greek-speakers against the Hebrews occurred, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily ministrations. Summoning the multitude of the disciples, the Twelve said (to them): "It is not acceptable for us to forsake the word of God so as to wait at tables; so, brothers, pick out men from amongst yourselves, full of the (Holy) Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to (meet) this need; but we shall continue steadfastly in prayer and in the ministry of the word. These words were acceptable in the sight of the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Permenas and Nicolaus, a convert from Antioch, whom they presented to the apostles, and, after they had prayed, they laid their hands upon them.

The word of God continued to spread (lit. increased), and the number of disciples in Jerusalem multiplied greatly, and a large group of priests submitted to the faith.

Stephen's arrest (Ch. 6.  vv. 8-15)

Now, Stephen, full of grace and power, performed great miracles and portents among the people. But there arose certain of the (people) from the synagogue of the Freedmen, both Cyrenians and Alexandrians, and of the (people) from Cilicia and Asia, in order to dispute with Stephen, and yet they were not able to withstand the wisdom and the spirit with which he was speaking. Then, they suborned men to say, "We have heard him speaking blasphemous words against Moses and God;" and they stirred up the people, the elders and the scribes, and, stopping (him), they seized him and led (him) to the Sanhedrin, and they put up false witnesses who said, "This man does not stop making speeches against this holy place and the Law. For we have heard him saying that this Jesus the Nazarene will destroy this place and change the customs which Moses handed down to us." And all those sitting in the Sanhedrin, as they were gazing at him, saw his face, as though (it were) the face of an angel.

Stephen's speech (Ch. 7.  vv. 1-54)

Chapter 7.  (The era of the patriarchs: vv. 1-16) The high priest said, "Are these things so?" He (i.e. Stephen) said, "Men, brothers and fathers, listen (to me). The God of glory appeared to (lit. was seen by) our father Abraham, while he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran, and he said to him, 'Go forth from your land and your kindred and (come) hither into the land which I shall show to you;' then, going forth, from the land of the Chaldeans, he dwelt in Haran, and from there after the death of his father (God) led him to another abode in this land in which you now reside. He did not give him any heritable property in it, nor even a foothold (lit. a place for his foot, yet he announced that he would give it to him in possession, and to his offspring (lit. seed) after him, although he had no child (lit. there was no child to him). God spoke to this effect, that his offspring would be aliens in a foreign land and (the inhabitants) would enslave (them) and maltreat (them) for four hundred years; 'but  I will judge the nations in which they are slaves,' said God, 'and after that, they will depart and worship me in this place.' He gave them the covenant of circumcision; and so he (i.e. Abraham) beget Isaac and circumcised him on the eighth day, and Isaac (beget) Jacob, and Jacob the twelve patriarchs.

"The patriarchs, being jealous of Joseph, sold (him into slavery) in Egypt; but God was with him, and rescued him from all his tribulations, and gave him favour and wisdom before Pharaoh, King of Egypt, and he appointed him governor over Egypt and his whole household. Now, a famine and great suffering came upon Egypt and Canaan, and our forefathers (lit. fathers) could not find any food; but Jacob, hearing that there was grain in Egypt, sent out our forefathers for the first time; on their second (visit), Joseph was made known to his brothers, and his race became clear to Pharaoh. And Joseph, having sent (messengers), summoned his father Jacob and all his kindred, in (the number of) seventy-five souls; and Jacob went down into Egypt, and (in due course) he passed away, himself and our forefathers, and (their bodies) were returned to Shechem, and laid in the tomb, which Abraham had bought for a price in silver from the sons of Hamor of Shechem.

(The time of Moses: vv. 17-43) "But just as the time for the (fulfilment of the) promise which God had vouchsafed to Abraham was drawing near, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt, until such (time) as a different king arose in Egypt, who had not known Joseph. This (king), outwitting our race by trickery, maltreated our forefathers by making (them) expose their babies, so that they should not survive. At this time Moses was born, and he was beautiful to God; he was nourished for three months in his father's house; when he was exposed, Pharaoh's daughter picked him up and raised him as her own son. So, Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and he was powerful in his words and deeds.

"When he reached forty (lit. the time of forty years was being fulfilled in his [case]), he decided (lit. it came into his heart) to visit his brothers, the children of Israel. Then, seeing one (of them) being mistreated, he went to (his) defence and executed vengeance for the (man) who was being oppressed, (by) striking down the Egyptian. He imagined that his brothers would understand that God was giving them deliverance by his hand, but they did not understand. On the following day, he appeared to them, as they were fighting, and he sought to reconcile them in the direction of peace, saying,'Men, you are brothers; so, why do you wrong one another?' But the (man) who was doing his neighbour wrong pushed him away, saying, 'Who made you a ruler and a judge over us? You don't want to kill me in the manner in which you killed the Egyptian yesterday, do you?' At this remark, Moses fled, and became an alien resident in the land of Midian, where he beget two sons.

"After forty years had passed (lit. been fulfilled), an angel appeared to him in the wilderness of Mount Sinai in a flame of fire in a thorn-bush; seeing (it), Moses wondered at the sight; as he approached (it) to investigate, the voice of the Lord was heard (lit. occurred). 'I (am) the God of your forefathers, the God of Abraham, of Isaac and of Jacob.' Becoming fearful, Moses did not dare to look. And the Lord said to him, 'Take the sandals off your feet, for the place on which you stand is holy ground. (In) looking, I have seen the mistreatment of my people (who are) in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and have come down to set them free; now, (come) hither, (as) I am sending you into Egypt. 

"This Moses, whom they rejected, saying 'Who made you a ruler or a judge?', God has sent him (as) both a ruler and a redeemer with the hand of the angel who appeared to him in the bush. This man led them out, performing miracles and portents in Egypt, in the Red Sea and in the wilderness for forty years. This is that Moses who said to the children of Israel, 'God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your brothers. This is the (man) who was in the assembly (of the Chosen People) in the desert with the angel that spoke to him on Mount Sinai and with our forefathers, who received the words of life to give us; our forefathers did not wish to be obedient to him, but rejected (him) and, in their hearts turned back to Egypt, saying to Aaron 'Make us gods that will go ahead of us; for this Moses,  who led us out of the land of Egypt, we don't know what has happened to him.' In those days they made (the statue of) a calf, and offered a sacrifice to the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their hands. Then, God turned (away from them), and gave them up to worship the host of the sky, as it is written in the book of prophets, 'You didn't offer victims and sacrifices in the wilderness for forty years to me, did you, (O) house of Israel? You took up the tent of Moloch and the star of the god Rephan, the figures which you made so as to worship them. So, I shall  deport you beyond Babylon.'  

(The tabernacle and the temple: vv. 44-50)  "But our forefathers possessed (lit. There was to our forefathers) the Tent of Testimony in the desert, just as he who had spoken to Moses ordered (him) to make it in accordance with the pattern which he had seen; this our forefathers, who had received (it) in succession, also brought in with Joshua to the (land) held by the nations which God had expelled before the face of our forefathers, right up to the time (the days) of David; he found favour in the sight of God, and asked (permission) to find a dwelling-place for the God of Jacob. Solomon, however, built him a house. But the Most High does not dwell in (buildings) made by (human) hands; even as the prophet says: 'Heaven (is) my throne and the earth (is) the footstool for my feet. What kind of house will you build me?' says the Lord, or 'What (is) the place of my resting? Did not my hand make all these things?'

"(You people), stiff-necked and uncircumcised in your hearts and ears, you always come into conflict with the Holy Spirit; as your fathers (did), so (do) you. Which (one) of the prophets did your forefathers not persecute? And they killed those who had made an advance announcement concerning the coming of the Righteous (One), of whom you have become betrayers and murderers, (you) who received the Law as commands from the angels, and yet did not keep (it)."

When they heard these things, they were cut to their hearts, and gnashed their teeth at him.

The stoning of Stephen.  Saul as persecutor. (Ch. 7.  vv. 55-60; Ch. 8.  vv. 1-3) 

But (he), being full of the Holy Spirit, (while) gazing steadfastly towards heaven, saw the glory of God and Jesus, standing at the right (hand) of God, and he said, "Behold! I see the heavens having been opened and the Son of Man standing on the right (hand) of God. Then, crying out with a loud voice, they covered their ears, and rushed at him with one accord, and, driving (him) out of the city, they began to stone (him). The witnesses placed their garments at the feet of a young man called Saul. They stoned Stephen, as he was calling out and saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Getting down on his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them;" and, saying this, he fell asleep (in death).

Chapter 8.  Saul was consenting to his death. On that day a great persecution occurred against the congregation, (which was) in Jerusalem; all (of them), except the apostles, were scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria.

Many devout men bore Stephen (to his burial), and made a loud lament over him.

But Saul treated the congregation outrageously, entering into house after house, and, dragging (out) men and women, he delivered (them) to prison.

Philip in Samaria (Ch. 8.  vv. 4-8)

Then, those who had been scattered abroad went around preaching the word. Going down to a city of Samaria, Philip proclaimed the Christ to them. The crowds, devoted themselves of one accord to the (things) which were spoken by Philip, while they heard about, and looked at, the miracles which he had performed; for many of those who had unclean spirits (saw them) coming out (of them) crying out in a loud voice, and many who were paralysed and lame were healed; and there was great joy in that city.

Simon the magician (Ch. 8.  vv. 9-25)

But there was a certain man, Simon by name, who had previously practised being a magician in the city and astonishing the people of Samaria, claiming that he himself was someone great. To him they all listened carefully, from the least to the greatest, saying this (man) is the Power of God, called Great. They paid attention to him because he had amazed them for some considerable time with his sorceries. But, when they believed Philip, who was preaching the good news about the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptised, both men and women. Simon, himself, also believed, ans having been baptised, he was continuing to adhere closely to Philip, and, seeing portents and great (miracles), he was amazed.

Now, when the apostles who were in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them; having come down, they prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit; for as yet he had not fallen upon anyone of them, but they had only been baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then, they laid their hands upon them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

Now, when Simon saw that the (Holy) Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, saying, 'Give me also this authority, so that (anyone) upon whom I lay my hands should receive the Holy Spirit.' But Peter said to him, "May your silver (go) with you to destruction, because you thought to acquire for yourself the free gift of God through money. You have (lit. There is to you) neither part nor lot in this matter, as your heart is not right in the sight of God. So, repent and of your wickedness, and beseech the Lord (so that) if perhaps the design of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are (held) in the gall of bitterness and the bond of iniquity". In reply, Simon said, "May you pray for me to the Lord, so that none of (the things) which you spoken of should befall (lit. come upon) me."

So, when they had given thorough witness and had spoken the word of the Lord, they turned back towards Jerusalem, and they preached the good news to many of the villages of Samaria.

Philip baptises a eunuch (Ch. 8.  vv. 26-40)

But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying. "Arise and go to the south by the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza; this is a desert." Having arisen, he went, and, behold! an Ethiopian man, a powerful eunuch of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure, (and) who had come to Jerusalem to worship. He was on his way back and sitting in his carriage, and he was reading the prophet Isaiah. The Spirit said to Philip, "Go up and attach (yourself) to this carriage." Running up to (him), Philip heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and he said, "Do you actually understand what you are reading?" He said, "How indeed can I (do so), unless someone guides me?" and he exhorted Philip to come up and (lit. having come up, to) sit with him. Now, the passage of scripture which he was reading was this: "Like a sheep he is brought to slaughter, and as a lamb (is) voiceless before his shearer, so he opens not his mouth. In his humiliation, judgement was taken away from him: who will tell the story of his progeny, since his life is taken away from the earth?" In reply, the eunuch said to Philip, I beg of you, "About whom does the prophet say this? About himself or about someone else?" Opening his mouth and starting from this (passage of) the scriptures, Philip explained to him the good news about Jesus.

But, as they were proceeding down the road, they came upon some water: and the eunuch says, "Look! water. What is preventing me from being baptised." Then, he ordered the carriage to halt, and they both went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch, and he baptised him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip off, and the eunuch saw him no more, but went on his way rejoicing. Philip was found in Ashdod, and continuing on his travels, he proclaimed the good news to all the cities until he came to Caesarea.

The conversion of Saul (Ch. 9.  vv. 1-19)

Chapter 9.  But Saul, still breathing threat and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, going to the high priest, asked for letters from him to the synagogues in Damascus, in order that, if he were to find any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them, bound, to Jerusalem. On his journey, it happened that he was coming near to Damascus, and suddenly a light from the sky shone (all) around him, and, falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" He said, "Who are you. Lord?" And he (said), "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting; but arise and go in to the city and you will be told (lit. it will be told to you) what you must (lit. it is necessary for you to) do." Now, the men who were travelling in company with him stood (there) speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul arose from the ground, but, when his eyes were opened, he saw nothing; then. taking him by the hand, they led him into Damascus. And he was without sight for three days, and he neither ate nor drank.

There was in Damascus a certain disciple, Ananias by name, and the Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Behold, I (am here), Lord." And the Lord (said) to him, "Arise (and) go to the street called 'Straight', and look, in the house of Judas, for (a man) of Tarsus, named Saul, for Look! he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in and laying his hands upon him, so that he might see again."

But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many (people) with regard to this man how many evil (things) he did to your saints in Jerusalem; and he has authority here from the chief priests to put in bonds all those who are calling on your name. But the Lord said to him, "Go on your way, because this (man) is my chosen vessel (lit. a vessel of choice to me) to bear my name before the nations and kings and the children of Israel, for I will show him how much he must (lit. it is necessary for him to) suffer for my name's sake. So, Ananias went off, and entered into the house and laid his hands upon him, saying, "The Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road by which you were coming, has sent me, so that you may recover your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit," and, immediately, (something) like scales fell from his eyes, and he could see again, and, having arisen, he was baptised, and, after he had received some food, he gained strength.

Saul's preaching at Damascus (Ch. 9.  vv. 20-25)

He happened to be with the disciples in Damascus, and, at once, he preached Jesus in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. And all those who heard (him) were amazed and said: "Is this not the (man) who did such damage in Jerusalem to those who were calling upon this name," and that he has come here for this purpose, so that he might lead them bound to the chief priests? But Saul grew in strength further, and confounded the Jews who were living in Damascus, (by) teaching that this is the Christ.

When several days had passed (lit. had been fulfilled), the Jews conspired together to put him to death; but their plot became known to Saul. They watched the gates closely day and night, so that they might kill him; but his disciples, taking (him) at night, let him down from the wall, lowering (him) in a basket.

Saul's visit to Jerusalem (Ch. 9.  vv. 26-30)

When he came to Jerusalem, he sought to attach himself to the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. Then, Barnabas, taking hold of him, brought (him) to the apostles, and described to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that he had spoken to him, and how, in Damascus, he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus. He was with them, going in and going out at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord. He spoke and disputed with the Greek-speaking (Jews), but they began seeking to kill him. When the brothers discovered (this), they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

A lull (Ch. 9.  v. 31)

So, the congregation throughout the whole of Judea, Galilee and Samaria had peace, (while) it was building itself up, and, walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the (Holy) Spirit, it kept on multiplying.

Peter cures a paralytic at Lydda (Ch. 9.  vv. 32-35)

It happened that, as Peter was going through all (these places), he came down also to the saints who dwelt at Lydda, and there he found a certain man who was paralysed, (and) who had been lying down upon a cot for eight years. Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; arise and make up your (bed)." And at once he arose. Everyone who was living in Lydda and the (plain of) Sharon saw him, (and) these turned to the Lord.

Peter raises a woman to life at Jaffa (Ch. 9  vv. 36-43)

Now, there was at Jaffa (or Joppa) a certain female disciple, named Tabitha, which, when translated, means Dorcas; this (woman) abounded in (lit. was full of) good deeds and acts of mercy, which she had performed. At this time (lit. in those days), it happened that she fell sick and (lit. having fallen sick, she) died; and, having washed (her), they laid (her) in an upper room. As Lydda was near to Jaffa, the disciples, when they heard that Peter was in this (city), sent two men to call out to him, "Do not hesitate to come to us." Arising, Peter went with them. When he arrived, they led him up into the upper room, and all the widows stood beside him, weeping and exhibiting the shirts and tunics, which Dorcas had made, when she was (still) with them. Putting everyone out (of the room), Peter, getting down on his knees, prayed, and, turning to the body, he said. "Tabitha, arise!" and she opened her eyes, and, when she saw Peter, she sat up. Giving her his hand, he raised her up, and, summoning the saints and widows, he presented her (to them) alive. (This) became known throughout the whole of Jaffa, and many believed in the Lord.

It happened that he (i.e. Peter) stayed in Jaffa for several days with a certain Simon, (who was) a tanner.

Peter visits a Roman centurion (Ch. 10.  vv. 1-33)

Chapter 10.  Now, in Caesarea a certain man, Cornelius by name, a centurion of the cohort called 'Italica', a devout (man), who, with all his household, feared God, performing many acts of mercy for the people and continually praying to God, clearly saw in a vision at about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming towards him, and saying to him, "Cornelius!" Gazing intently at him and being fearful, he said, "What is it, Lord?" He said to him, "Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God; now send men to Jaffa and summon a certain Simon, who is surnamed Peter; he is being entertained as a guest by a certain Simon, a tanner, whose house is beside the sea. When the angel who spoke to him had departed, calling upon two of his household servants and a devout soldier from amongst those who waited constantly upon him, and having explained everything to them, he sent them to Jaffa.

On the morrow, when they were on their journey and they were drawing near to the city, Peter went up to the housetop to pray at about the sixth hour (i.e. at noon). He became hungry and wanted to eat, but, while they were preparing (food), a trance fell upon him, and he beholds heaven having been opened and some kind of vessel, like a great linen-sheet, descending, let down upon the earth by its four corners, in which were all kinds of four-footed (creatures) and creeping beasts of the earth (i.e. reptiles) and birds of the sky. Then a voice came to him, (saying): "Arise, Peter, sacrifice (a victim) and eat!" But Peter said, "By no means, Lord, as I have never eaten anything profane or unclean." And again a voice (spoke) to him for a second (time), (saying): "What God has cleansed, you (should) not (make) profane." This occurred for a third (time), and, immediately, the vessel was taken up into heaven.  

Now, while Peter was at a loss within himself (as to) what the vision which he had seen might mean, behold! the men, who had been sent by Cornelius, having made enquiries about Simon's house, stood at the gate, and calling out, they asked whether Simon who was surnamed Peter was lodging there. While Peter was reflecting in his mind about the vision, the Spirit said (to him), "Look! three (lit. two) men (are) seeking you. But arise, go down and go with them, not doubting anything at all, because I have sent them." Going down, Peter said to the men, "Look! I am (the man) whom you seek. What is the cause, on account of which you are here?" They said: "Cornelius, a righteous man, and (one) who fears God and who is well spoken of by the whole nation of the Jews, was given instructions by a holy angel to summon you to his house and to listen to the things which are said by you." So, inviting them in, he entertained (them) as guests.

On the next day, having arisen, he went out with them, and some of the brothers from Jaffa accompanied him. On the following day, they entered into Caesarea; Cornelius was expecting them, having called his relatives and intimate friends together. When it came about that Peter entered, Cornelius, meeting with him face to face, fell at his feet and (lit. falling at his feet,) worshipped him. But Peter raised him up, saying, "Arise! I, myself, am  a man also." As he conversed with him, he entered and found many (people) gathered together, and he said to them: "You know that it is unlawful for a Jewish man to attach himself to, or approach, someone of another race; and yet God has shown me that I should not call any man profane or unclean; therefore, when I was sent for, I came without objection. So, I ask for what reason did you call me." Cornelius said, "Four days ago, until this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour, and behold, a man in bright raiment stood before me, and said, 'Cornelius, your prayer and your alms-giving have been remembered in the sight of God; so, send to Jaffa and summon Simon, who is surnamed Peter; he is lodging in the house of Simon the tanner by the sea.' So, I sent to you at once, and you did well to come. So now we are all here in the presence of God to hear of all the (things) which have been commanded of you by the Lord."

So, I sent to you at once, and you did well to come. So now we are all in the presence of God to hear of all the things, which have been commanded of you by the Lord.

Peter's address in the house of Cornelius (Ch. 10.  vv. 34-43)

Opening his mouth, Peter said, "In truth, I am discovering that God is impartial (lit. not a respecter of persons), but in every nation he who fears him and accomplishes righteousness is acceptable to him. Preaching the good news of peace to the children of Israel through Jesus Christ, he sent the word: he is Lord of all. You know what things were said throughout the whole of Judea, starting from Galilee, after the baptism preached by John, (namely) Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power, and he (lit. who) went about doing good works and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. We (are) witnesses of all the (things) which he did in the land of the Jews and Jerusalem; they also killed him, hanging (him) from (a cross of) wood. God raised (him) up on the third day, and allowed him to become manifest, but not to all the people, but to the witnesses who had been chosen by God, namely to us, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead; and he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that this is the (man) who is appointed by God (as) the judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify to this, that through his name everyone believing in him will receive remission of their sins.

Baptism of the first gentiles (Ch. 10.  vv. 44-48)

While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those hearing the word. Those believers from the circumcision, who had come with Peter, were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the gentiles (lit. nations). For they heard them speaking in tongues and glorifying God. Then Peter answered (them): "Can anyone refuse the water (of baptism), so that those who have received the Holy Spirit, like we (have they), should not be baptised?" He commanded them to be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ. Then, they asked him to stay (with them) for some days.  

Jerusalem: Peter justifies his conduct (Ch. 11.  vv.1-18)

Chapter 11.  The apostles and the brothers who were in Judea heard that the gentiles had also received the word of God. When Peter came up to Jerusalem, those from the circumcision disputed with him, saying that he had entered into (the houses of) uncircumcised men (lit. men possessing a foreskin), and had eaten with them. But Peter, when he had started (to speak), began to explain (the circumstances) to them in order, saying: "I was in the city of Jaffa praying, and I saw in a trance a vision, (namely) some sort of vessel, like a great sheet, let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came right up to me; gazing intently at it, I observed (it) well, and saw the four-footed (creatures) of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things and the birds of the sky. I also heard a voice saying to me, 'Arise, Peter, sacrifice (a victim) and eat.' But I said, 'By no means, Lord, as nothing profane or unclean has ever entered my mouth.' But for a second (time) a voice from heaven answered (me), (saying), 'What God has cleansed, you (should) not (make) profane.' This happened for a third (time), and everything was taken up again into heaven.

"And behold! at that very instant three men stood at the house in which we were, having been sent to me from Caesarea. The Spirit told me to go with them without any argument at all, and these six brothers also came with me, and we entered into the man's house. He informed us how he had seen the angel standing in his house and saying (to him), 'Send to Jaffa, and summon Simon who is surnamed Peter, who will speak words to you, by which you and your entire household will be saved.'
"While I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, just as (it had done) on us at the beginning. I was reminded of the saying of the Lord, how he used to say, 'John indeed baptised in water, but you will be baptised in the holy Spirit.' If, then, God gave to them the same gift as (he) also (gave) to us, when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to withstand God?"

When they heard these (things), they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, "Then God has also granted to the gentiles the repentance (that leads) to life."

Foundation of the church at Antioch (Ch. 11.  vv. 19-26)

Those, then, who had been scattered by the persecution that arose with regard to Stephen, travelled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except only to Jews. But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and of Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke also to the Greeks, preaching the good news of the Lord Jesus. The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number, who had become believers, turned to the Lord.

The report concerning them came to (lit. was heard by) the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas out to Antioch; when he had arrived and had seen the grace of God, he rejoiced, and exhorted (them) all to remain in the Lord with resolve of heart, for he was a good man and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith, and a considerable crowd (of people) was added to the Lord.

Then, he went out to Tarsus to look for Saul, and, when he found (him), he brought (him) to Antioch, It came about that they were gathered together with them in the church for a whole year, and taught a considerable crowd (of people), and, for the first time, in Antioch the disciples bore the name 'Christians.'

Now, at that time (lit. in these days), prophets came down from Jerusalem into Antioch; one of them, named Agabus, getting to his feet, indicated by the Spirit that a great famine was about to come upon the whole world; this happened in the time of Claudius. According (as to whether) anyone of the disciples could afford (it), each of them determined to send a relief contribution to the brothers who lived in Judea; this they also did, (by) sending (it) to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

Peter's arrest and miraculous deliverance (Ch. 12.  vv. 1-19)

Chapter 12.  Now, at about that time, King Herod applied his hands to persecute certain members of the church. He killed James, the brother of John, with a sword; then, seeing that it was pleasing to the Jews, he brought himself to arrest Peter as well (these were the days of unleavened [bread]), (and,) having captured him, he put (him) inn prison, delivering (him) to four squads of four soldiers to guard him, intending to present him to the people after the Passover. So, Peter was kept in prison, but prayer to God concerning him was zealously undertaken by the church.

On that night, when Herod was about to bring him out (for trial), Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and guards in front of the doors were taking care of the prison. Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by (him) and a light shone in his prison cell; striking Peter's side, he woke him up, saying, "Get up quickly!" and his chains fell from his hands. The angel said to him, "Dress (yourself), and tie on your sandals; and he did so. Then, he said to him, "Throw your cloak around (you)  and follow me." Going out, he followed (him), and yet he did not know that what was happening through the angel was real, but thought that he was seeing a vision. Going past the first guard and the second (one), they came to the iron gate leading into the city, which opened to them of its own accord. Going out, they went down one street, and, at once, the angel departed from him. When Peter had come to himself, he said, "Now I truly know that the Lord has sent his angel, and has delivered me out of the hands of Herod and from every expectation of the Jewish people."

While he was thinking about (this), he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John, who was surnamed Mark, where there was a number (of people) gathered together and praying. When he knocked at the door of the gateway, a maid named Rhoda came to answer (it), and, recognising Peter's voice, she did not open the gate for joy, but reported that Peter stood before the gate. They said to her, "You are are crazy!" but  she insisted that it was so. Then, they said, "It is his angel." But Peter continued knocking; opening (the door), they saw him, and were amazed. But, motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he told them in detail how the Lord had brought him out of prison, and he said: "Tell these (things) to James and to the brothers." And, departing, he went to another place.

When day had come, there was a great (lit. no slight) commotion among the soldiers (as to) what Peter happened (to have done). When Herod had searched for him but had not found (him), (after) having interrogated the guards, he ordered (them) to be led off (to execution). Then, going down from Judea to Caesarea, he spent some time (there).

The death of the persecutor (Ch. 12.  vv. 20-23) 

Now, he (i.e. Herod) was angry with (the people) of Tyre and Sidon; they came to him of one accord, and, having won over Blastus, who was in charge of the King's bedchamber, they asked for peace, since their country was fed from the (country) of the King. On the appointed day, Herod, (after) dressing himself in royal raiment, (and) sitting on the throne, made a speech to them; the people exclaimed, "(It is) the voice of a god, not of a man." Immediately, an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give the glory to God, and, becoming consumed by worms, he expired.

Barnabas and Saul return to Antioch (Ch. 12.  vv. 24-25)

But the word of the Lord grew and multiplied.

Barnabas and Saul, having completed their ministry at Jerusalem, returned (to Antioch), taking along with (them) John  who was surnamed Mark.

PART III.  THE MISSION OF BARNABAS AND PAUL:  THE COUNCIL OF JERUSALEM (Ch. 13.  v. 1 - Ch. 15.  v. 35)

The mission sent out (Ch. 13.  vv. 1-3)

Chapter 13.  Now among the church that was in Antioch there were some prophets and teachers, including Barnabas and Simeon, who was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, the foster-brother of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. When they were offering worship to the Lord, and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set Barnabas and Saul apart for me for the work to which I have called them." Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands upon them, they sent (them) away.

Cyprus: the magician Elymas (Ch. 13.  vv. 4-12)

So, having been sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed off to Cyprus. Arriving in Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews; they also had John (as) their assistant.

When they had gone through the whole of the island as far as Paphos, they came across a man, a certain magician, a false prophet (and) a Jew, whose name (was) Bar-Jesus, who was with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, a man of intelligence. The latter, summoning Barnabas and Saul, sought to hear the word of God; but Elymas the magician (for his name is translated thus), began to oppose them, seeking to turn the proconsul aside from the faith. But Saul, who (is) also (called) Paul, being full of the Holy Spirit, looking intently at him, said: "O (man) full of every kind of deceit, and of all cunning, (you) son of the devil, (you) enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease to pervert the right way of the Lord? And now, look! the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind, not seeing the sun for a period of time." At once, a thick mist and darkness fell upon him, and, as he went around, he was seeking (people) to lead him by the hand. Then, the proconsul, seeing what had happened, believed, being astounded at the teaching of the Lord.

They arrive at Antioch in Pisidia (Ch. 13.  vv. 13-16)

Paul and his companions (lit. Those around Paul), having set sail from Paphos, came to Perga in Pamphylia; John, departing from them, returned to Jerusalem. But they, passing through from Perga, came  to Antioch in Pisidia, and going into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, they took their seats. After the public reading of the law and the prophets, the officials of the synagogue sent (a message) to them, saying, "Men (and) brothers, if you have (lit. If there is among you) any word of encouragement for the people, do speak." Then, Paul, arising and beckoning with his hand, said:

Paul's preaching before the Jews (Ch. 13.  vv. 17-43)

(Summary of the history of salvation: vv. 17-25) "Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen. The God of this people Israel chose our forefathers and exalted the people in their alien residence in the land of Egypt, and, with an uplifted arm, he led them out of it. For a time of about forty years he took care of them in the wilderness. After he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, he assigned their land (to them) as an inheritance for about four hundred and fifty years. After these (things), he gave (them) judges until the prophet Samuel. And from then they asked for a king, and God gave them Saul, the son of Kish, a man from the tribe of Benjamin  for forty years; when he had removed him, he raised up David as their king, concerning whom he said in testimony, 'I have found David, the (son) of Jesse, a man after my own heart, who  will perform all  my wishes.'  From this man's seed God has brought to Israel a saviour Jesus in accordance with his promise, after John, before his coming, had proclaimed the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. As John was fulfilling his course, he said, 'What do you suppose I am? I am not (he); but, behold! one comes after me, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to unloose.'

(Claim that Jesus is the expected Messiah: vv. 26-39) "Men (and) brothers, sons of the stock of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, the  word of this salvation has been sent out to you. For those who dwell in Jerusalem and their rulers, because they did not know him and the voices of the prophets which are read out on every Sabbath, fulfilled (them by) condemning (him), and, although they found no cause for his death, they (still) asked Pilate to have him put to death; when they had fulfilled all the things which had been written about him, taking him down from the cross, they laid (him) in a tomb. But God raised him from the dead; he appeared for many days to those who came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are now his witnesses to the people. "We are declaring to you the good news about the promise which has been made to our forefathers that God has fulfilled it to our children (by) raising up Jesus, as it is also written in the second psalm: 'You are my son; this day I have begat you.' (The fact) that he raised him up from the dead, no more destined to return to corruption, he has spoken thus: 'I will give you the holy (things promised) to David which can be relied upon.' Therefore, he also says: 'You will not allow your holy one to see corruption.' For David, having served the will of God in his own generation, fell asleep, and was laid with his fathers and saw corruption, but (he) whom God raised up did not see corruption. So, be it known to you, men (and) brothers, that through this (man) remission of sins is proclaimed to you, and in him everyone who believes is justified from all the (things) from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.

"So, take care lest what has been spoken in the prophets comes upon (you), "Behold! you scoffers, and wonder and perish, because I am undertaking in your days a task which you would not believe, if someone were to tell you about it in detail."  

When they were going out (of the synagogue), they (i.e. the people) begged that these matters should be spoken to them on the following Sabbath. When the synagogue had broken up, many of the Jews and the devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas, who, (when) speaking to them, urged them to abide in the grace of God.

Paul and Barnabas preach to the gentiles (Ch. 13.  vv. 44-51)

On the coming Sabbath almost the whole city gathered together to hear the word of God. But, when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy, and, (while) blaspheming, contradicted the (things) which were spoken by Paul. Speaking out freely, Paul and Barnabas said "It was necessary that Gods's word be spoken to you first: since you rejected it and judged yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold! we are turning to the gentiles; for so has the Lord commanded us, (saying): 'I have established you as a light to the gentiles, so that you should be as a salvation to the uttermost parts (lit. extremity) of the earth.' " 

Hearing (this), the gentiles rejoiced and glorified the word of God, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed; the word of the Lord spread abroad throughout the whole region.

But the Jews stirred up the devout women who were of an honourable estate and the chief (men) of the city, and raised up a persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their territory (lit. boundaries). But they, shaking the dust from off their feet (in protest) against them, went to Iconium, and the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

Iconium evangelised (Ch. 14.  vv. 1-7)

Chapter 14.  It happened in Iconium that they entered together into the the synagogue of the Jews, and spoke in such a way that a large multitude of both Jews and Greeks believed. But the disbelieving Jews stirred up and distressed the souls of the gentiles against the brothers. So, they spent a considerable time speaking boldly by the authority of the Lord, who bore witness to his grace (by) allowing signs and  miracles to occur by means of their hands.

But the multitude of the city was split: some were with the Jews, others (were) with the apostles. When there was a violent attempt by both the gentiles and the Jews, together with their rulers, to insult (them) and to stone (them), on becoming aware (of this), they fled to the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra and Derbe and the surrounding area, and there they continued to preach the gospel.

Healing of a cripple (Ch. 14.  vv. 8-18)

At Lystra there sat a certain man, crippled in his feet, (and) lame from his mother's womb, who had never walked. He was listening to Paul speaking; looking intently at him, and seeing that he had the faith to be healed, he (i.e. Paul) said in a loud voice, "Stand upright on your feet!" and he sprang up and walked about.

When the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voice in the language of Lycaonia, saying, "The Gods have come down to us in the likeness of men." They called Barnabas Zeus and Paul Hermes, since he was the leader in speech. The priest of Zeus, whose (temple) was in front of the city, bringing bulls and garlands to the gates, wished to offer sacrifice with the crowds. But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard (of this), tearing their own clothes, leapt into the throng, crying out and saying: "Men, why are you doing these (things)? We are also men, who are suffering the same things as you, bringing the good news to you, so that you may turn from these empty things to the living God who made the sky and the earth and the sea, and everything that (is) in them; in the generations which have gone by, he allowed all the nations to walk in their own ways; yet he did not leave himself without a witness, doing good, (and) giving you rains and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and good cheer." Even (after) saying these things, they scarcely restrained the crowds from sacrificing to them.

End of the mission (Ch. 14.  vv. 19-28)

But some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and, having urged on the crowds (against them) and stoning Paul, they dragged (him) outside the city, thinking he was dead. But, with the disciples surrounding him, having got up, he went into the city. The next day he departed, together with Barnabas, for Derbe. After they had preached the gospel to that city, and having made a number of disciples, thy returned to Lystra, and to Iconium, and to Antioch, putting heart into (lit. confirming) the souls of the disciples, (and) exhorting (them) to continue in the faith, and (saying) that we must (lit. it is necessary for us to) enter into the Kingdom of God through many afflictions. Appointing elders for them in each congregation, and having prayed with fastings, they committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their faith; and, having spoken the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia, and from there they sailed off to Antioch, from where they had been entrusted to the grace of God for the work which they had (now) completed.

On their arrival, having gathered the congregation together, they reported the many (things) that God had done by means of them, and (said) that he had opened a door of faith to the gentiles. Then, they spent some considerable (lit. not a little) time with the disciples.

Controversy at Antioch (Ch. 15.  vv. 1-4)

Chapter 15.  Certain men who had come down from Judea taught the brothers as follows, "Unless you have been circumcised in accordance with the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved." After no small disagreement and argument  by Paul and Barnabas with them had occurred, they appointed Paul and Barnabas and some others of them to go up to the apostles and elders at Jerusalem with regard to this dispute. So, having been sent forth by the congregation, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, relating in detail the conversion of the gentiles, and they caused great joy to all the brothers. When they arrived in Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the congregation, the apostles and the elders, and they reported the many (things) which God had done by means of them.

Controversy at Jerusalem (Ch. 15.  vv. 5-6)

But some (men) from the sect of the Pharisees, who had become believers, rose up, saying: "It is necessary to circumcise them, and to enjoin (them) to keep the law of Moses." The apostles and the elders were gathered together to see about this matter.

Peter's speech (Ch. 15.  vv. 7-12)

After much argument had taken place, Peter, getting to his feet, said to them, "Men (and) brothers, you know that in the early days God made the choice among you, that through my mouth the gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe. God, who knows our hearts, bore witness to them (by) giving (them) the Holy Spirit, just as (he did) to us. He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith. So now, why do you put God to the test, by placing a yoke of the neck of the disciples which neither our forefathers nor we have the strength to bear? But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus in the (same) manner in which they (are)."

The whole multitude fell silent, and listened to Barnabas and Paul recounting the many signs and miracles which God had performed among the gentiles through them.

James' speech (Ch. 15.  vv. 13-21)

After they were silent, James answered, saying: "Men (and) brothers, listen to me. Simeon (i.e. Peter) has explained how God first decided to take from the gentiles a people for his name. The words of the prophets agree with this, as it is written: 'After that, I shall return and rebuild the tent of David, which has fallen down, and I shall rebuild its ruins and I shall erect it once more, so that those of the men who remain may seek after the Lord, and all the gentiles on whom my name has been invoked in their case, says the Lord, who is doing those things known from eternity.' Therefore I judge that we should not trouble those from the gentiles who are turning to God, but (word) should be despatched to them that they should abstain  from the pollutions of idols, from fornication, from what is strangled, and from blood. For from ancient times (lit. generations) Moses has in every city those who preach him in the synagogues, as he is read on every Sabbath."

The apostolic letter (Ch. 15.  vv. 22-29)
Then, the apostles and the elders, decided (lit. it seemed good to the apostles and the elders), together with the whole of the congregation, to choose men from among themselves to send to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, (namely) Judas, called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brothers, writing these things by their hand: "The apostles and the elder brothers to the brothers who (are) of the gentiles in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia, greetings! Since we have heard that some (men) from among us have disturbed you with words, (while) unsettling your souls, although we gave no such orders, we have decided (lit. it seemed good to us), being of one accord, to choose men to send to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have offered up their lives (lit. souls) for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, we have sent Judas and Silas, that they may also report the same (things). For the Holy Spirit and we have decided (lit. it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and ourselves) to lay no greater burdens upon you besides these necessary (things), that you should abstain from (things) sacrificed to idols, and blood, and (things) which have been) strangled, and fornication; if you keep yourselves from these (things), you will do well. Farewell!"

The delegates at Antioch (Ch. 15.  vv. 30-35)

So, when they had departed, they went down to Antioch, and, having gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter; reading (it), they (i.e. the congregation at Antioch) were delighted at the encouragement (it gave them). Both Judas and Silas, who were also prophets themselves, encouraged and strengthened the brothers by many words; after they had spent some time (there), they went back in peace from the brothers to those who had sent them. However, Paul and Barnabas stayed in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others as well.

PART IV.  PAUL'S MISSIONS (Ch. 15.  v. 36  -  Ch. 10.  v.20)

Paul separates from Barnabas and recruits Silas (Ch. 15.  vv. 36-41)

After some days, Paul said to Barnabas, "When we return, let us visit our brothers in every city, in which we proclaimed the word of the Lord, (to see) how they are." Barnabas wanted to take John, who was called Mark, along with (them) also; but Paul did not consider it right to take with (them) this (man) who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia, and who did not go with them to (do) the work. Such an argument occurred that they separated themselves from one another, and Barnabas, taking Mark (with him), sailed away to Cyprus. Then Paul, selecting Silas, went off, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of God, and went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening their congregations.

Lycaonia: Paul recruits Timothy. (Ch. 16.  vv. 1-5)

Chapter 16.  He came to Derbe and Lystra, and, behold! a certain disciple was there, Timothy by name, the son of a woman of the Jewish faith and of a Greek father, who had received a good character witness from the brothers in Lystra and Iconium; Paul wanted him to go out with him, and, taking (him aside), he circumcised him, because of the Jews, who were in those places; for they all knew that his father was a  Greek.

As they went through the cities, they delivered to them, to keep, the decrees which had been determined by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem. So, the churches were strengthened in the faith and increased in number daily.

The crossing into Asia Minor (Ch. 16.  vv. 6-10)

They went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia, and, when they came to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them (to do so); passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. A vision appeared to Paul during the night: a certain Macedonian man was standing (there) and begging him, and saying, "Come across into Macedonia and (lit. Having come across into Macedonia,) help us!" When he saw the vision, we immediately sought to go over to Macedonia, concluding that God had called upon us to preach the good news to them.

Arrival at Philippi (Ch. 16.  vv. 11-15)

So, setting sail, we ran a straight course to Samothrace, and on the following (day) to Neapolis, and, from there, to Philippi, which is the principal city of he region of Macedonia, (and) a (Roman) colony. We stayed in this city for some days. On the Sabbath day we went forth outside the gate, beside a river, where we supposed there was a place of prayer, and, sitting down, we spoke to the women who had gathered together. A certain woman, named  Lydia, a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshipped God. was listening to (us); the Lord opened the heart of this (woman) to heed the (things) spoken by Paul. When she and her household were baptised, she begged us (thus): "If you have judged that I am faithful to the Lord, come into my house and (lit. Coming into my house,) stay." And she compelled us (to do so).

Imprisonment of Paul and Silas (Ch. 16.  vv. 16-24)

As we were going to the place of prayer, it happened that a certain girl, who possessed a spirit of divination, (and)n who brought her masters much profit (by) he fortune telling, met us; the same (girl), following after Paul and us, cried out, saying: "These men are servants of the Moat High God, who are proclaiming to us the way of salvation." She kept doing this for many days. But Paul, having wearied (of this), turning upon the spirit, said: "I charge you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her;" and it came out that very hour.

But, when her masters saw that their hope of profit had gone, seizing hold of Paul and Silas, they dragged (them) into the market-place before the officials, and, taking them before the magistrates, they said: "These men, who are Jews, are disturbing our city, and are advocating customs which it is not lawful for us to accept or to perform, as we are Romans." The multitude rose up against them, and the magistrates, tearing off their clothes, gave the command to flog (them). Having laid many stripes upon them, they threw (them) into prison, commanding the jailer to guard them securely; he, having received such an order, threw them into the inner prison and secured their feet in the stocks (lit. wood).

The miraculous deliverance of Paul and Silas (Ch. 16.  vv. 25-40)

At about midnight, Paul and Silas, (while) praying, were singing to God, and the prisoners heard them; suddenly a great earthquake occurred, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken, and immediately all the doors of the prison were opened, and everyone's fetters were loosened. The jailer, having been roused from sleep and seeing the doors of the prison opened, having drawn his sword, was intending to kill himself, as he thought that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Do not do any harm to yourself, for we are all here."

Calling for some lights, he leapt in, and fell down trembling (lit. being atremble) before Paul and Silas, and, leading them outside, he said, "Sirs, what must I (lit. is it necessary for me to) do to be saved?" They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." And they spoke the word of the Lord to him, together with all those in his household. Then, taking them during that hour of the night, he bathed their stripes, and was baptised, he and all his household without delay, and taking them up into his house, he set food before them, and rejoiced greatly with his household, now that he had believed.

When day came, the magistrates sent their lictors, saying, "Release those men.!" The jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, "The magistrates have sent (an instruction) that you should be released; so come out now and (lit.coming out now,) go in peace." But Paul said to them: "(After) flogging us in public without a trial, men who are Roman (citizens), they cast (us) into prison; so are they now ejecting us in secret? No, indeed, but let them come in and (lit. coming in,) escort us out themselves."

The lictors reported these words to the magistrates; then, they grew afraid, when they heard that they were Roman (citizens), and, when they came, they entreated them, and, as they brought (them) out, they asked (them) to depart from the city. When they came out of the prison, they went to Lydia's (house), and, when they had seen the brothers, they encouraged (them) and departed.

Thessalonica: difficulties with the Jews (Ch. 17.  vv. 1-9)

Chapter 17.  Passing through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. In accordance with Paul's custom, he went in to them, and for three (successive) Sabbath (days) he reasoned with them from the scriptures, explaining and declaring that the Christ had (lit. it was necessary for the Christ) to suffer and to rise up from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus, whom I am proclaiming to you, is the Christ." Some of them were persuaded, and joined (lit. attached themselves to) Paul and Silas, and (so did) a great multitude of devout Greeks and many (lit. not a few) of the leading women.

But the Jews, becoming resentful, getting the help of wicked men from the market-place, and causing a riot, threw the  city into confusion, and launching (an attack) on the house of Jason, they sought to bring them (i.e. Paul and Silas) out to the people; when they did not find them, the dragged Jason and some of the brothers before the rulers of the city, crying out as follows: "These (men) who have turned the world upside down, are present here also, (and) Jason has received them; they are all acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus." They troubled the and the rulers of the city, when they heard these (things), and, (after) taking sufficient (security) from Jason and the others, they released them.

Fresh difficulties at Beroea (Ch. 17.  vv. 10-15)

The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Beroea, and, when they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. Now, these (Jews) were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, (and) they received the word with all readiness, daily examining the scriptures (to see) if these (things) were so. So, many of them believed, including some high-ranking Greek women, and many (lit. not a few) men.

But, when the Jews at Thessalonica learned that the word of God was being proclaimed by Paul at Beroea as well, they came there also, inciting and stirring up the crowds. Then, the brothers immediately sent Paul to go as far as the sea; Silas and Timothy stayed behind there. Those who were escorting Paul took (him) as far as Athens, and, (after) taking charge of an instruction for Silas and Timothy to come to him as quickly as possible, they departed.

Paul in Athens (Ch. 17.  vv. 16-21)
Now, as Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him, seeing that the city was full of idols. And so he debated in the synagogue with the Jews and the devout (persons) and every day in the agora with those who happened to be present. Certain of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers debated with him and some said, "What does this idle babbler (lit. seed-picker) want to say?" Others (said), "He seems to be a proclaimer of foreign deities;" (this was) because he was preaching the good news of Jesus and the resurrection.

Taking hold of him, they led (him) to the Areopagus (i.e. the Hill of Ares, where the Athenian council met), saying, "Can we learn what this new teaching (is) which is being spoken by you? For you bring some strange (things) to our ears. So, we wish to know what these (things) mean  (lit. want to be)." Now, all the Athenians and their visiting strangers spent their time on nothing other than saying or listening to something quite new.

Paul's speech before the council of the Areopagus (Ch. 17.  vv. 22-34)

Then, standing in the middle of the Areopagus, Paul said: "Men of Athens, I see you as very religious in every respect; for, as I as passed along and observed your objects of worship, I found an altar, on which has been inscribed: 'To an Unknown God.' And so what you worship in ignorance, I announce this to you (now).

"The god who made the world and everything in it, being lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made by (human) hands, nor is he served by human hands, as if he is in need of anything, (but) he himself gives life and breath and everything (else) to all (mankind); from one (man) he made every race of men to dwell upon he whole surface of the earth, having determined appointed seasons and the boundaries of their territories, that they should seek God (to see) if they could reach out for him and find (him) though he is really not far away from each one of us. For in him we live and move and have our being, as some of the poets among you have also said. For we are his offspring too. So, being the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the divine (being) is like gold or silver or stone, a work of art and of the imagination of man.

"So, God, having overlooked the times of ignorance, is now commanding men that they should all repent everywhere, for he has fixed a day on which he is going to judge the inhabited world with justice, by a man whom he had designated, providing an assurance to all (men) that he has raised him from the dead."

Hearing of the resurrection of the dead, some jeered, but others said, "We shall hear you again concerning this." Thus Paul departed from the midst of them; but certain men, sticking to him, became believers, amongst whom (were) Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others together with them.

Foundation of the church of Corinth (Ch. 18.  vv. 1-11)

Chapter 18.  After this, having departed from Athens, he came to Corinth. Finding a certain Jew, named Aquila, a man of Pontus by race, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome, he (i.e. Paul) went to them, and, because they were of the same trade, he stayed and worked with them, for they were tent-makers by trade, and he used to debate in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded Jews and Greeks.

When Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul was devoted to (preaching) the word, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ. When they opposed (him) and spoke ill of (him), shaking out his clothing, he said to them, "Your blood (be) upon your own heads. I am clean; from now on I shall go to the gentiles." Transferring from there (i.e. the synagogue), he went into the house of a certain (man) who worshipped God, named Titius Justus, whose house was adjoining the synagogue (i.e. Paul used Justus' house for the purpose of preaching).  Crispus, the presiding officer of the synagogue, became a believer with all his household, and many of the Corinthians, who heard (him), believed and were baptised. The Lord said to Paul during the night through a vision, "Do not be afraid, but keep on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you and no one will attack you in order to injure you, for I have (lit. there are to me) many people in this city." So, he stayed there for a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

The Jews take Paul to court (Ch. 18.  vv. 12-17)

But, when Gallio was the proconsul of Achaea, the Jews, with one accord, rose up against Paul and brought him to the tribunal (i.e. the judgement seat), saying, "This (man) persuades men to worship God contrary to the law. But, when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, "If indeed it were some wrong or a wicked crime, I would with reason put up with you, O Jews; but if there are questions about words and names and your own law, you should see to it yourselves; I do not wish to be a judge of these (matters)." So, he drove them from the tribunal. Then, all (of them), laying hold of Sosthenes, the presiding officer of the synagogue (i.e. he must have replaced Crispus, when he became a Christian) beat him before the tribunal; but none of these (things) was a matter of concern to Gallio.

Return to Antioch and departure for the third journey (Ch. 18.  vv. 18-23)

Having remained there still for several days, Paul, (after) taking leave of the brothers, sailed away to Syria, taking Priscilla and Aquila with him, (and) having shaved his head at Cenchreae, because he had (made) a vow (to do so).

He came to Ephesus, and left them there, but he, himself, entering into the synagogue, debated with the Jews. When they requested (him) to stay (with them) for a longer time, he did not agree (to this), but, taking his leave (of them), and saying, "I shall return to you again, if God is willing," he set sail from Ephesus, and, having landed at Caesarea, and, having gone up and having greeted the church (at Jerusalem), he went down to Antioch, and, having passed some time (there), he departed, going through the land of Galatia and Phrygia successively, encouraging all the disciples.  

Apollos (Ch. 18.  vv. 24-28)

A certain Jewish (man), named Apollos, an Alexandrian by race, (and) an eloquent man, arrived in Ephesus, (and) he was very knowledgeable (lit. mighty) in the scriptures. This (man) had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and, being aglow with the Spirit, he spoke and taught correctly about the (things) of Jesus. although he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue; but, when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside, and explained the way of God to him more accurately.

When he began to wish to pass over to Achaea, the brothers, urging (him to do so), wrote to the disciples, (asking them) to welcome him; when he arrived, he was very helpful to those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews in public, showing by means of the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.

The disciples of John at Ephesus (Ch. 19.  vv. 1-7)

Chapter 19.  During the (time) that Apollos was in Corinth, it happened that Paul, having passed through the inland (lit. upper) parts (of the country), came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples (there), and he said to them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit, when you believed?" They said to him, "But we have not even heard whether there is a Holy Spirit." Then he said, "So, into what were you baptised?" They said, "Into John's baptism." Paul said, "John baptised (with) the baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe in the (one) who would come after him, that is in Jesus."When they heard (this), they were baptised in the name of the Lord  Jesus; and, when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying; they were about twelve men in all.

Foundation of the church of Ephesus (Ch. 19.  vv. 8-10)

Entering into the synagogue, he spoke boldly for three months, debating and persuading about the kingdom of God. But, when some began to harden their hearts and refused to believe, speaking evil of the Way before the multitude, (after) withdrawing from them, he separated the disciples (from them), discoursing on a daily basis in the lecture room of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all those living in Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord.

The Jewish exorcists (Ch. 19.  vv. 11-20)

God kept performing such remarkable (lit. not haphazard) miracles (lit. acts of power) through the hands of Paul, that even napkins (lit. sweat cloths) and aprons were carried away from his body to those who were sick, and their diseases departed from them and the evil spirits came out.

But some of the itinerant Jews, (being) exorcists, undertook to pronounce the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying: "I adjure you (by) Jesus, whom Paul proclaims." There were seven sons of a certain Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who were doing this. The spirit said to them in answer, "Jesus I know and Paul I know, but who are you?" When the man, in whom the evil spirit was, leapt upon them and overpowered (them) one after another, he prevailed upon them so that they fled out of that house, naked and wounded. This became known to everyone who lived in Ephesus, both Jews and Greeks, and fear fell upon all of them, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. Many of those who had believed came (forward) to confess and report their actions.

Several of those who had practised magical (lit. curious) arts, having brought their books together, burned (these) in the sight of all; they counted the value of them, and  found (it was) fifty thousand (lit. five myriad) (pieces) of silver.

Thus, with such force was the word of the Lord spreading and growing in strength.

PART V.  THE END OF PAUL'S MISSIONARY JOURNEYS: A PRISONER FOR CHRIST (Ch. 19.  v. 21  -  Ch. 28.  v. 31)

Paul's plans (Ch. 19.  vv. 21-22)

When these (things) had been completed, Paul made up his mind (lit. determined in the spirit), when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaea, to go to Jerusalem, saying, "After I have come there, I must (lit. it is necessary for me to) see Rome." Having sent two of those who were assisting him to Macedonia, he himself stayed in Asia for a time.

Ephesus: the silversmiths' riot (Ch. 19.  vv. 23-40)

At that time a large (lit. no small) disturbance occurred concerning the Way. For a certain silversmith called Demetrius, (by) making silver shrines of Artemis (i.e. Diana to the Romans) produced a considerable amount of (lit. no little) business for the craftsmen, (and) gathering them together with those workmen of a similar (occupation) he said, "Gentlemen, you know that from this business comes (lit. there is to us) our prosperity, and you see and hear that not only at Ephesus, but throughout almost the whole of Asia, this Paul, by his persuasion, has converted a considerable crowd (of people), saying that there are no gods made by (human) hands. Not only is there a danger that this occupation of ours will come into disrepute, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be counted as nothing, and also that the majesty of she, whom the whole of Asia and the world worships, is about to be destroyed." Hearing (this) and becoming full of anger, they cried out, saying, "Great (is) Artemis of the Ephesians!" The city was filled with confusion, and they rushed, of one accord, into the theatre, carrying off with (them) the Macedonians, Gaius and Aristarchus, (who were) Paul's travelling companions. Although Paul was willing to go before the people, the disciples did not allow him (to do so). Also, some of the Asiarchs (i.e. members of the Asiatic assembly which supervised the cult of Rome and the emperor on behalf of the cities of Asia), who were his friends, sending (messages) to him, entreated (him) not to to venture into (lit. not to surrender himself to) the theatre.
 
So, some cried out (one) thing (and others) another, for the assembly was in a state of confusion, and most of them did not know for what reason they had come together. They brought Alexander out of the crowd, with the Jews pushing him forward, and Alexander, beckoning with his hand, wished to explain things to the people. But, when they realised that he was Jewish, one voice arose from (them) all for about two hours, crying out, "Great (is) Artemis of the Ephesians!" Quietening (lit. checking) the crowd, the town clerk said: "Men of Ephesus, what man is there then who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is the guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of the (image) which fell from Zeus? So, these (things) being indisputable, you must (lit. it is necessary for you to) be calm, and do nothing rash. For you have brought these men (here), (who are) neither temple-robbers nor blasphemers of your goddess. If, therefore, Demetrius, and the craftsmen (who are) with him, have a case against anyone, assizes (lit. court days) are being held and there are proconsuls; let them bring charges against one another! But, if you are seeking anything beyond (that), it will be resolved in the lawful assembly. For, indeed, we are in danger of being indicted concerning this day's riot, there being no cause (for it), and we could not give a justification for this commotion." Having said these (things), he dismissed the assembly.

Paul leaves Ephesus (Ch. 20.  vv. 1-6)

Chapter 20.  After the cessation of the uproar, Paul, having sent for the disciples, and after he had encouraged (them and) bidden (them) farewell, departed to go to Macedonia. Having passed through those parts, and having encouraged those who were there (lit. them) with much discourse, he made his way into Greece, and, having spent three months (there), when a plot against him by the Jews occurred as he was about to sail to Syria, he made up his mind (lit. he became of the view) to return through Macedonia. There were accompanying him Sopater of Beroea, (the son) of Pyrrhus, Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, Gaius of Derbe, Timothy, and the Asians, Tychicus and Trophimus. These (men), going on ahead, were awaiting us at Troas; after the days of unleavened bread, we set sail from Philippi, and after five days we came to them at Troas, where we stayed for seven days.

Troas: Paul raises a dead man to life (Ch. 20.  vv. 7-12)

On the first (day) of the week, when we had gathered together to break bread, Paul conversed with them, intending to depart on the next day, and he prolonged his discourse until midnight. There were several lamps in the upper room where we were gathered together; (there was) a certain young man, named Eutychus, sitting in the window weighed down with deep sleep, (and,) while Paul was conversing still further, overcome by sleep, he fell down from the third storey, and was picked up dead. Going downstairs, Paul fell on him, and embracing (him), said (to them), "Do not trouble yourselves, for his life is in him." When he had gone up, and had broken bread, and had eaten, and had been in their company for a considerable (time) right up until daybreak, he thus departed. They took the boy away alive, and were comforted beyond measure (lit. not moderately).

From Troas to Miletus (Ch. 20.  vv. 13-16)

But we, who had gone ahead to the ship, set sail for Assos, intending to take Paul on board there, for, as he had given instructions to this effect, he was himself intending to go by land. When he met us at Assos, taking him on board, we came to Mitylene, and, sailing from there on the following (day), we came opposite Chios, and on the next (day) we put in to land at Samos, and on the (day) after that we arrived at Miletus; for Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he might not have to waste any time in Asia, as he was hastening, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost.

Farewell to the elders of Ephesus (Ch. 20.  vv. 17-38)

Sending (word) to Ephesus from Miletus, he summoned the elders of the church. When they had come to him, he said to them: "You well know from the first day that I stepped into Asia how I was with you all the time, slaving for the Lord with all humility and tears, and with the trials that befell me amid the plots of the Jews, while I did not shrink from telling you about anything which was beneficial, and from teaching you in public and from house to house, bearing witness to both Jews and to Greeks about repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus.

"And now, look! I am going to Jerusalem, bound in the Spirit, not knowing the (things) which will happen to me there (lit. within it), except that in every city the Holy Spirit testifies to me, saying that bonds and tribulations await me; but, on no account, do I hold my life (as) dear to me, provided that I can complete my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus to testify fully to the gospel of the grace of God.

"And now, look! I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the Kingdom (of God), will see my face no longer; therefore I testify to you on this day that my conscience is clear with regard to (lit. that I am clean from the blood of) all (men), for I did not shrink from declaring to you all the whole of God's will.

"Pay heed to yourselves and to the whole flock, in which the Holy Spirit has appointed you (as) overseers, to shepherd the church of God through the blood of his own (son).

"I know that after my departure fierce (lit. oppressive) wolves will enter into you, not sparing the flock, and men will arise from among yourselves, speaking perverse (things) to draw away the disciples behind them. So, be watchful, remembering that for a three year period I did not cease to admonish you night and day with my tears. And now I entrust you to the Lord and to the word of his grace, which can build (you) up and give (you) your inheritance among all those sanctified (ones).

"I did not covet anyone's silver or gold or apparel; you yourselves know that these hands ministered to my needs and to those who were with me. I have shown you everything that you need (lit. it is necessary [for you]) (to do), while labouring in this way, to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, as he himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "

When he had said these (things), getting on his knees, he prayed with them all. Much weeping occurred among everyone, and, falling on Paul's neck, they kissed him, suffering particularly at the remark which he had made that they were about to see his face no longer. Then, they escorted him to the ship.

The journey to Jerusalem (Ch. 21.  vv. 1-14)

Chapter 21.  When it happened that we, having been parted from them, had set sail, running a straight course, we came to Cos, and on the next (day) to Rhodes, and from there to Patara. Having found a ship which was crossing over to Phoenicia, going aboard, we set sail. Having caught site of Cyprus, and leaving it on our port side, we sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre, as the ship was unloading her cargo there. Having discovered some disciples, we stayed there for seven days, (and) these said to Paul through the Spirit that he should not go to Jerusalem. When it happened that we had accomplished these days, departing, we went on our way, while all (of them), with their wives and children, escorted us, until (we were) outside the city, and, going down on our knees on the beach (and) praying, we said farewell to one another, and climbed into the ship, and they returned to their homes.

When we had completed the voyage from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais, and, greeting the brothers, we stayed with them for one day. Departing on the next day, we came to Caesarea, and entering into the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the Seven, we stayed with him. He had (lit. There were to him) four virgin daughters who prophesied. As  we remained (there) for a number of days, a certain prophet, named Agabus, came down from Judea, and, coming to us, and taking Paul's belt (and) binding his own feet and hands, he said, "Thus speaks the Holy Spirit: 'In such a manner will the Jews in Jerusalem bind the man, whose belt this is, and they will deliver (him) into the hands of the gentiles.' " When we heard these (things), both we and the local people besought him not to go to Jerusalem. Then, Paul answered: "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart in pieces? For I am ready not only to be bound but also to die for the name of the Lord Jesus." As he had not been persuaded, we fell silent, saying, "Let the will of the Lord be done!" 

Paul's arrival in Jerusalem  (Ch. 21.  vv. 15-26)

After these days, having prepared for the journey, we went up to Jerusalem; but (some) of the disciples from Caesarea also went with us, taking (us) to a certain Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple.

When we came to Jerusalem, the brothers received us gladly. On the following (day) Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present. When he had greeted them, he recounted in detail (lit. one by one) (the things) which God had done among the gentiles by means of his ministry. When they heard (this), they glorified God, and said  to him, "You see, brother, how many thousands there are among the Jews who have believed, and yet they are zealous for the Law; they have been informed about you that you teach all Jews who (live) among the gentiles apostasy from (the Law) of Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children, nor to follow the customary practices. So, what is (to be done)? At any rate, they will hear that you have come. Therefore, do this (thing) which we tell you: we have (lit. there are to us) four men, who have a vow [laid] upon themselves. Taking them, purify yourself with them and meet their expenses (lit. spend [money] on them), in order that they may shave their heads, and (then) everyone will know that there is nothing (in the things) which they have been told about you, but (that) you yourself are also walking in an orderly manner, observing the Law. With regard to the gentiles who have believed, we have sent out (a written document), giving our decision that they should keep themselves from what is sacrificed to idols, and blood, and (anything) strangled, and fornication.

Then, Paul, taking the men, (and) having purified himself with them, went into the temple, declaring the fulfilment of the days of purification, until the offering should be presented on behalf of each one of them.

Paul's arrest (Ch. 21.  vv. 27-40) 

When the seven days were about to be completed, the Jews, seeing him in the temple, disquieted the whole multitude, and laid their hands upon him, crying out: "Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches all (men) everywhere  against the people, against the Law and (against) thus place, and he has even brought Greeks into the temple and profaned this holy place." For they had seen from afar Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, and they imagined that he had brought him into the temple.

The whole city was disturbed, and a tumultuous concourse of the people took place, and, seizing Paul, they dragged him out of the temple, and the doors were immediately shut. While they were (all) trying to kill him, information reached the tribune of the cohort that all Jerusalem was in an uproar, and immediately taking the soldiers and centurions, he ran down to them, and, when they saw the tribune and his soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. Then, the tribune, coming near, arrested Paul and ordered (him) to be bound with two chains, and enquired who he was and what he was doing; some in the crowd shouted one thing,(and others) another; as he was unable to find out the truth, because of the noise, he ordered him to be brought into the barracks. When he came to the stairs, it happened that he was lifted up by the soldiers because of the violence of the crowd, for the mass of the people followed (them), crying out, "Do away with him!"

As he was about to be brought into the barracks, Paul said to the tribune, "Can I (lit. Is it possible for me to) say something to you?" He (i.e. the tribune) said, "You know (how to speak) in Greek, don't you? Then, are you not the Egyptian who previously (lit. before these days) stirred into revolt, and led out into the desert, the four thousand men of the Assassins?" But Paul said, "I am a Jewish man from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; I beg you, allow me to speak to the people." When he had been given permission, Paul, standing on the stairway, motioned to the people with his hand, and, when a profound silence occurred, he spoke (to them) in the Hebrew language, saying:

Paul's address to the Jews of Jerusalem (Ch. 22.  vv. 1-21)

Chapter 22.  Men, brothers and fathers, listen to my defence (which I) now (make) to you. When they heard that he was speaking to them in the Hebrew language, they kept silence all the more. And he said: "I am a Jewish man, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the foot of Gamaliel, instructed in accordance with the strictness of our ancestral law, being zealous for God, just as all of you are today, (and) I persecuted this Way to the death, putting in chains and delivering to prison both men and women, as indeed the high priest and all the (council) of elders can testify in my case; having also received letters from them to the brothers in Damascus, I travelled (there) to lead those who were there to Jerusalem in chains, in order that they might be punished.

"But it happened that, as I was on the journey and drawing close to Damascus, at about midday a great light from the sky suddenly flashed all around me, and I fell to the ground, and heard a voice, saying tome, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?' I answered, 'Who are you, Lord?' And he said to me, 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.' Those who were with me saw the light, but did not hear the voice which spoke to me. I said, 'What shall I do, Lord?' The Lord said to me, 'Arise and (lit. Having arisen,) go into Damascus, and there you will be told (lit. it will be told to you) about everything which it is appointed for you to do. But, as I could not see from the splendour of that light, I came into Damascus, being led by the hands of those who were with me.

"A certain Ananias, a devout man in accordance with  the Law, (and) well-spoken of by all the Jews who lived (there), coming to me, and standing by (me), said to me, 'Brother Saul, see once more!' and I looked up at him at that very hour. He said, 'The God of our forefathers has chosen you to know his will, to see the Righteous (One) and to hear a voice from his mouth, because you will be a witness for him to all men of what you have seen and heard. And now why do you wait? Arise and (lit. Arising,) be baptised and wash away your sins, calling on his name.

It happened that, after I had returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into (lit. I came to be in) a trance, and saw him saying to me, "Hurry up and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept testimony from you concerning me.' And I said, 'Lord, they themselves know that, in every synagogue, I used to imprison and beat those who believed in you; when the blood of your martyr Stephen was being shed, I myself was standing by and giving consent, and guarding the cloaks of those who were killing him.' But he said to me, 'Be on your way, for I shall send you out a long way off to the gentiles.' "

Paul the Roman citizen (Ch. 22.  vv. 22-29)

They listened to him until this (point in) his address, and then they raised their voices, saying, "Rid the earth of this (man) (lit. Take this man away from the earth), for it is not fitting for him to live." When they cried out, and waved their cloaks around and threw dust into the air, the tribune ordered him to be brought into the barracks, saying that he should be examined by scourging, in order that he might discover for what reason they should be shouting about him in such a manner. When they had exposed him to the straps, Paul said to the centurion, who was standing by, "Is it lawful for you to scourge a man (who is) a Roman (citizen) and (who has) not (been) condemned (in court)?" When the centurion heard (this), going to the tribune, he reported, saying. "What are you intending to do? For this man is a Roman (citizen)." Coming forward, the tribune said to him, "Tell me, are you a Roman (citizen)?" He said, "Yes." The tribune replied, "I acquired this right as a citizen for a large sum (of money)." But Paul said, "I was actually born (with it)."  Then, immediately, those who were about to examine him, departed from him; and the tribune became afraid when he learned that he was a Roman (citizen), and because he had put him in chains.

His appearance before the Sanhedrin (Ch. 22.  v.30 - Ch 23.  vv. 1-11) 

But on the next day, wishing to know for sure why he was being accused by the Jews, he freed him, (from his chains) and commanded the chief priests and all the Sanhedrin to come together, and, bringing Paul down, he set (him) before them.

Chapter 23.  Looking steadfastly at the Sanhedrin, Paul said, "Men (and) brothers, I have conducted myself as a citizen before God with a good conscience until this day." Then the high priest Ananias ordered those standing beside him to strike him on the mouth. Then Paul said to him, "God is going to strike you, (you) white-washed wall; do you sit in judgement over me according to the Law, and command me to be struck contrary to the Law?" Those standing by said, "Are you abusing God's high priest?" Paul said, "I did not know, brothers, that he was high priest; for it is written: 'You shall not curse (lit. speak injuriously of) a ruler of your people.' "   

But Paul, being aware that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, cried out in the Sanhedrin, "Men (and) brothers, I am a Pharisee (and) a son of Pharisees: I am on trial with regard to the hope and resurrection of the dead. When he said this, a dispute took place between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the multitude were divided. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angel nor spirit, but the Pharisees publicly accept all of these. Loud shouting arose, and, getting to their feet, some of the scribes of the party of the Pharisees argued, saying, "We find no evil in this man; but, perhaps, a spirit or an angel spoke to him." When a great argument broke out, the tribune, fearing lest Paul were torn apart by them, ordered his force of soldiers to go down and (lit. having gone down, to) snatch him from their midst, (and) to conduct (him) to the barracks.

On the following night, the Lord, standing beside him (i.e. Paul), said, "Take heart, for as you have testified about me at Jerusalem, so you must (lit. it is necessary for you to) testify at Rome."

The conspiracy of the Jews against Paul (Ch. 23.  vv. 12-22)

When day came, the Jews, forming a compact body, bound themselves by a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul. There were more than forty of those making this conspiracy; coming to the chief priests and the elders, these (men) said we have bound ourselves by a curse to take no food at all, we have killed Paul. So now you, together with the Sanhedrin, must inform the tribune that he should bring him down to you as though you were intending to examine his case more closely; we are ready to kill him before he comes near (to you).

But Paul's sister's son, hearing of this ambush, having arrived at and entering into the barracks, informed Paul (about it). Then Paul, summoning one of the centurions, said, "Take this young man to the tribune, for he has something to tell him." So, having taken him, he brought (him) to the tribune, and said, "The prisoner Paul, having summoned me, asked (me) to bring to you this young man, who has something to tell you." Taking him by the hand and drawing him aside, the tribune enquired (of him) in private, "What is it that you have to tell me?" He said: "The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul down to the Sanhedrin tomorrow, as though intending to enquire more closely about him; so don't be persuaded by them, for more than forty men of theirs are lying in wait for him, having bound themselves with a curse neither to eat or to drink until they have done away with him, and now they are ready, waiting for the promise from you. Then, the tribune dismissed the youngster, exhorting (him) to blurt out to no one "These (things) which you have made clear to me."

Paul transferred to Caesarea (Ch. 23.  vv. 23-35)

Summoning a certain two of his centurions, he said (to them), "Get ready two hundred soldiers to go up to Caesarea, as well as seventy cavalrymen and two hundred auxiliaries (lit. spearmen), at the third hour of the night, and provide beasts of burden, so that, putting Paul on (one), they may bring (him) safely to Felix the governor," (and) he wrote a letter in the following terms (lit. which had this form):

"Claudius Lysias to the most excellent governor, Felix, greetings! (After) stopping with my company of solders, I rescued this man, who had been seized by the Jews, and was about to be murdered by them, when I learned that he was a Roman (citizen), and, wishing to know for what reason they were accusing him, I brought (him) down to their Sanhedrin; I found that he was being accused about questions of their law, but there was no charge worthy of death or imprisonment. When the existence of a plot against him was disclosed to me, I immediately sent (him) to you, requiring his accusers to speak against him to you."

So the soldiers, taking Paul in accordance with the orders which they had received (lit. with what had been ordered to them), brought (him) to Antipatris by night; but, on the next day, having permitted the cavalrymen to go with him, they returned to their barracks; coming to Caesarea, and delivering the letter to the governor, they also presented Paul to him. Having read (the letter), and having enquired what province he was from, and having ascertained that (he was) from Cilicia, he (i.e. Felix) said," I shall hear you thoroughly when your accusers have arrived also; (and) he ordered that he (i.e. Paul) be kept in Herod's palace.

The case before Felix (Ch. 24.  vv. 1-9)

Chapter 24.  

After five days the high priest Ananias came down with certain elders and an orator, one Tertullus, (and) they made clear to the governor their views against Paul. When he had been called upon, Tertullus began to accuse (him), saying , "As we have obtained much peace through you, and improvements to our nation have occurred through your foresight, we receive (this) in every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, with all thankfulness. But, in order that I do not weary you any further I beg you to hear us briefly in your graciousness. For we have found this man a pestilential fellow (lit. plague) and an instigator of arguments among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes; he even tried to profane the temple, and we arrested him; from him you will be able, (by) examining (him) yourself, to find out about all these (things) of which we are accusing him. The Jews also joined in the attack, affirming that these (things) were so.

Paul's speech before the Roman governor (Ch. 24.  vv. 10-21)

When the governor beckoned to him to speak, Paul replied (as follows): "Knowing that you have been a judge of this nation for many years, I can readily say the (things) about myself, as you are able to recognise that, in my case, there are not more than twelve days from the (day) on which I went up to worship at Jerusalem, and they did not find me in the temple disputing with anyone or creating a disturbance in a crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city, nor can they prove to you (the things) about which they are now accusing me.  

"But I do confess this to you, that I so serve the God of our forefathers in accordance with the Way, which they call a sect, believing in all the (things which are) in accordance with the Law and in the (things) which are written in the prophets, having hope in God, which they themselves also admit, that there is going to be a resurrection both of the righteous and of the wicked; in this (respect), also, I myself endeavour at all (times) to have a conscience which is innocent (lit. void of offence) in relation to both God and men.

"After quite a number of years, I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation, among which they found me having been purified in the temple with no crowd nor with any tumult, but certain Jews from Asia, who should (lit. for whom it was necessary to) be present before you and have made an accusation, if they had anything against me, - or (else) let these (men) themselves say what injustice they found in me as I stood before the Sanhedrin, (other) than in respect of this single utterance which I cried out  (while) standing amongst them, namely: "I am on trial before you today with regard to the resurrection of the dead."

Paul's captivity at Caesarea (Ch. 24.  vv. 22-27)

But Felix, knowing quite well (lit. accurately) the (circumstances) of the Way, put them off, saying, "When the tribune Lysias comes down, I shall decide the (case) concerning you." He instructed the centurion that he should be kept in custody, but that he should have some relaxation (in his arrangements), and that he should not prevent any of his own people serving him. After some days, Felix, having come with his wife, who was a Jewess, sent for Paul and listened to him concerning his faith in Christ Jesus. And, when he talked about righteousness, self-control and the coming judgment, Felix, becoming anxious, responded, "Go your way for now, but when I get an opportunity, I shall summon you again;" Hoping, at the same time, that money would be given to him by Paul, and sending for him more often on that account, he used to converse with him. But, when a space of two years had come to an end, Felix received Porcius Festus (as) his successor, and, wishing to gain favour with the Jews, Felix left Paul in custody.

Paul appeals to Caesar (Ch. 25.  vv. 1-12)

Chapter 25.  Festus, therefore, having come into the province, went up after three days to Jerusalem from Caesarea, and the chief priests and the principal (men) of the Jews informed him against Paul, and entreated him, requesting a favour of him, that he would send him to Jerusalem, while they laid an ambush to do away with him on the way. However, Festus replied that Paul was to be kept in custody at Caesarea, and that he himself was about to go there shortly. "So, let the powerful (ones) among you," he said, "going down with (me), accuse him, if there is anything wrong (lit. out of place) in the man."

Then, having spent no more than eight or ten days among them, going down to Caesarea, (and) taking his seat on the tribunal the next day, he commanded that Paul be brought in. When he arrived, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood around him, bringing against (him) many grievous charges, which they did not have the ability to prove, while Paul said in his defence, "Neither in relation to the Law of the Jews, nor in relation to the temple, nor in relation to Caesar, have I sinned in any way." But Festus, wishing to gain favour with the Jews, said to Paul in reply, "Are you willing, to go (lit. having gone) to Jerusalem, to be tried there before me concerning these (things)?" Then, Paul said, "I am standing before Caesar's tribunal, where I should (lit, it is necessary for me to) be tried. I have done no wrong to the Jews, as you very well know. However, if I have done wrong and have committed anything worthy of death, I am not asking to be immune from dying; but, if there is nothing at all (in any of those things) of which these (men) are accusing me, no one can hand me over to them as a favour; I appeal to Caesar." Then, Festus, having conferred with his council, replied thus: "You have appealed to Caesar: to Caesar you shall go."

Paul appears before King Agrippa (Ch. 25.  vv. 13-27 - Ch. 26.  v. 1)

Now, after some days had passed, King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Jerusalem to welcome Festus. As they were staying there for several days, Festus put before the King the (circumstances) respecting Paul, saying, "There is a certain man, left behind by Felix (as) a prisoner, about whom, when I was in Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed (me), requesting a sentence against him; I replied to them that it is not the custom among  Romans to hand over any man before the accused can meet his accusers face-to-face and get the opportunity of making his defence with regard to the charge. Then, when they had come together there, without making any delay at all, taking my seat on the tribunal on the following (day), I commanded the man to be brought in; when the accusers got to their feet, they brought no accusation of the (kind of) wicked (things), which I had supposed concerning the man, but had certain questions about their own religion against him, and concerning a certain Jesus, who is dead, (but) whom Paul kept affirming (is) alive. Being at a loss as to the (mode of) enquiry concerning such (matters), I asked whether he would be willing to go to Jerusalem, and there be judged concerning them. But, when Paul appealed that he be held for the decision of the Emperor (lit. the August [One]), I ordered that he should be kept in custody until (the time) when I could send him to Caesar. Then, Agrippa (said) to Festus, "I should like to hear the man myself." "Tomorrow," he said, "you will hear him."

So, on the next day, when King Agrippa and Bernice had arrived with much pomp, and had entered into the audience chamber, together with military commanders and the chief men of the city, Paul was brought in at Festus' command. Festus said, "King Agrippa and all (you) men who are present with us here, you behold this (man), concerning whom the whole multitude of the Jews interceded with me, both in Jerusalem and here, crying out that he should not (lit. that it is necessary for him not to) live any longer. But I have discovered nothing that he has committed (that is) worthy of death, and, when this (man) himself appealed to the emperor, I decided to send (him). I do not have anything definite about him that I can write to my lord; therefore, I have brought him before you (all), and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that, after the judicial examination has taken place, I may have something that I can write; for it is seems unreasonable to me, (when) sending a prisoner, not also to indicate the charges against him."

Chapter 26.  Now, Agrippa said to Paul, "You may (lit. It is permitted to you to) speak on your own behalf." Then, Paul, stretching out his hand, began to make his defence:

Paul's speech before King Agrippa (Ch. 26.  vv. 2-23)

"I consider myself fortunate, King Agrippa, being about to make my defence before you concerning all (the things) of which I am accused by Jews, especially as you are expert in all the customs and issues among Jews; therefore, I beg (you) to hear me patiently.

"Indeed, all Jews have known of my way of life, which from my youth (up) was among my own nation from the beginning and in Jerusalem, (and those) who have been acquainted with me from the first, if they are prepared to bear witness, (know) that, in accordance with the strictest sect of our religion, I lived (as) a Pharisee, and now I stand on trial for the hope of the promise made to our forefathers by God, which our twelve tribes, rendering sacred service zealously night and day, are hoping to attain; concerning this hope I am accused by Jews, (O) King. Why is it judged incredible among you (all) if God raises up the dead?

"I, indeed, thought to myself that I should do many (things) contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth; I also did this in Jerusalem: I shut up many of the saints in prisons, having received authority from the chief priests, and, when they were put to death, I cast my vote against (them),  and, (by) punishing them in all the synagogues, I tried to compel (them) to recant, and, being extremely angry with (lit. mad at) them, I even pursued them into foreign cities.

"During these (missions), (while) journeying to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests, I saw, at midday on the road, a light from heaven, brighter than (lit. beyond the brilliance of) the sun, gleaming (all) around me and those who were travelling with me. When we had all fallen down to the ground, I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew language, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? (It is) hard for you to kick against the pricks.' I said, 'Who are you, Lord?' and the Lord said, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting; but arise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this (purpose), to appoint you (as) a servant and (as) a witness both (of the things) which you have seen with regard to me, and (of the visions) in which I shall be revealed to (lit. I shall be seen by) you, rescuing you from your people and from the gentiles to whom I shall send you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the authority of Satan to God, (and) so that they may receive remission of sins and a share in the inheritance among those who have been sanctified by their faith in me.'

"Wherefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but I brought the message, firstly to those in Damascus, and then in Jerusalem and all the country of Judea, and to the gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing works worthy of repentance. For this reason, the Jews, having seized me in the temple, tried to do away with (me). However, having obtained the help that is from God, I continue (lit. stand) right up to this day bearing witness to both great and small, saying nothing beyond (the things) which the prophets and Moses said were going to happen, that the Christ (was) destined to suffer, (and) that (as) the first (man to rise) from the resurrection, he was going to proclaim a light both to our people and to the gentiles."  

His hearers' reactions (Ch. 26.  vv. 24-32)

While he was saying these (things) in his defence, Festus said in a loud voice, "Paul, you are crazy! Your great learning is (lit. your many writings are) driving you mad." But Paul said, "I am not mad, most excellent Festus, but I am declaring boldly sayings of truth and good sense. For the King, to whom I speak outspokenly is aware of these (things); for I am persuaded that not one of these (things) escapes his notice, for this has not been done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe in the prophets? I know that you do believe (in them)." Then, Agrippa (said) to Paul, "In a short (while) you would persuade me to make (myself) a Christian." Paul (said), "I pray to God, whether in a short (time) or a long (time), that not only you but also all those who hear me this day might become such as I am, except for these chains."

The King arose, together with the governor, and Bernice, and those who had been sitting with them. And, when they had withdrawn, they spoke to one another, saying, "This man is doing nothing worthy of death or imprisonment." And Agrippa said to Festus, "This man could have been set free, if he had not appealed to Caesar."

The departure for Rome (Ch. 27.  vv. 1-8)

Chapter 27. When it was decided that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners to a centurion named Julius, of the Augustan cohort. Embarking upon a ship from Adramyttium that was about to sail to places along the (coast of) Asia, we put to sea, there being with us Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica; the next (day), we landed at Sidon and Julius treating Paul with kindness, permitted (him) to go (lit. having gone) to his friends to enjoy their care.

Putting to sea from there, we sailed under the lee of Cyprus, because the winds were contrary, and, sailing across the open sea off Cilicia and Pamphylia, we put in at Myra in Lycia. And there the centurion, finding a ship from Alexandria that was sailing to Italy, made us go aboard it.

Sailing slowly for several days, and getting past Cnidus with some difficulty, as the wind did not allow us to make more progress (lit. go further), we sailed under the lee of Crete past Salmone, and, sailing along it (i.e. the coast of Crete), we came to a certain place called Fair Havens, which was near to the city of Lasea.

Storm and shipwreck (Ch. 27.  vv. 9-44)

With much time having been spent, and the voyage now becoming hazardous, because even the Fast (i.e. the Day of Atonement) had already gone by, Paul gave a warning, saying to them, "Gentlemen, I perceive that the voyage is going to be (accompanied) with damage and much loss, not only of the cargo and of the ship, but also of our lives. However, the centurion gave more heed to the captain (lit. pilot) and to the owner of the ship than to the (things) which were said by Paul. As the harbour was unsuitable for wintering in, the majority gave advice that that they should put to sea from there, if somehow they might be able, having reached Phoenix, to winter there (in) a harbour of Crete, looking towards the north-east and south-east.

When a southerly breeze blew softly, (and) thinking that they had gained their purpose, weighing anchor, they sailed along close to (the coast of) Crete. Not long afterwards, however, a tempestuous wind, which is called a north-easter, bore down upon it; When the ship was caught and carried away, and was not able to bear up against the wind, giving way to (it), we were borne along. Running under the lee of a certain small island called Cauda, we were able, with some difficulty, to get full control of the skiff (i.e. the small boat at the ship's stern), (and), having hoisted it up, they used (it) as a means of assistance in undergirding the ship, and, fearing lest they should wrecked on the Syrtis (sand-bank), releasing the sea-anchor, so they were borne along. On the next day, as we were suffering exceedingly from the storm, they began throwing (the cargo) overboard. Then, on the third (day), they threw away the ship's tackle. When neither the sun nor the stars had shone upon (us) for many days, and a great (lit. no small) storm was raging around (lit. lying upon) (us), all hope of our being saved was finally removed.

Then, after there had been a long abstinence from food, Paul, standing up in their midst, aid, "You should, O Gentlemen, have taken my advice not to sail from Crete, and (thus) to have sustained such damage and and loss. Yet, now I exhort you to cheer up, for there will be among you no loss of life, except for the ship; for there stood  beside me this night an angel of the God, to whom I belong and whom I serve, saying, 'Do not fear, Paul: for you must (lit. it is necessary for  you to) stand before Caesar, and look! God has granted to you all those who are sailing with you.' So, be of good cheer, Gentlemen, for I believe God that it will be exactly as I have been told (lit. in the manner in which it has been spoken to me). However, we must (lit. it is necessary for us to) be cast ashore on some island."

But, when the fourteenth night had come, while we were been driven back and forth in the Adriatic (Sea), at about midnight, the sailors began to suspect that they were being drawn to some sort of land. Taking soundings, they found twenty fathoms, and, having proceeded a short (distance), and, taking soundings once more, they found fifteen fathoms; fearing lest we might be cast ashore somewhere on rocky ground (lit. place releasing four anchors from the stern, they prayed for day to come. When the soldiers, seeking to flee from the ship, lowered the skiff into the sea, as if under the pretence of intending to let down anchors from the prow, Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these (men) remain on the ship, you cannot be saved." Then, the soldiers cut the ropes of the skiff, and let it fall away.

When day was about to occur, Paul began to encourage (them) all to take some food, saying, "Today (is) the fourteenth day that you are continuing without food (while) on watch, having taken nothing; therefore, I beg you to take some food, as this is for your safety; for no hair will be lost from the head of anyone of you. He said this, and, taking bread, he gave thanks to God in the presence of all, and, having broken (it), he began to eat. Then, everyone, becoming cheerful, they also took food. We were all (of us) in the  ship about seventy-six (N.B. some versions of the text say two hundred and seventy-six) souls. Having had their fill of food, they lightened the ship, throwing the grain overboard into the sea.)

When day came, they did not recognise the land, but they noticed a certain bay with (lit. which had) a beach, on to which they decided, if they could, to beach (lit. secure) the ship. Then, casting off the anchors, they let (them fall) into the sea, at the same time letting loose the lashings of the rudders, and, hoisting up the foresail to the wind, they made for the beach. But, coming upon a place where two seas met, they ran the ship ashore, and the prow, having got firmly stuck, remained immovable, but the stern started to be broken up by the violent force (of the waves).

The advice of the soldiers was that they should kill the prisoners, so that no one, having plunged into the sea, might escape. But the centurion, wishing to keep Paul safe, restrained them from their plan, and commanded that those who could swim, having thrown themselves overboard, should get to the land first, and that the rest (should follow), some on planks, and others on certain things from the ship. So, it transpired that they all came through safely to the land.

Waiting in Malta (Ch. 28.  vv. 1-10)

Chapter 28.  Having got through safely, we then discovered that the island was called Malta. The natives showed  us extraordinary (lit. no common) kindness, for, having kindled a fire, they took us all in, on account of the rain that was falling and because of the cold. But, when Paul had collected quite a number of dry sticks and had placed them on the fire, a viper, coming out of the heat, fastened itself on his hand. When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, "No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, although he has escaped from the sea, justice has not allowed to live." He, however, shaking the creature off into the fire, suffered no harm at all. They were expecting that he was about to swell up (lit. be consumed), or suddenly to fall down dead. But, after they had been expecting (this) for a long (time), seeing that nothing out of the ordinary had happened to him, changing their minds, they began to say that he was a god.

Now, in the (neighbourhood) of that place were lands (belonging) to the first (man) of the island, named Publius, who, having received us, entertained (us) for three days in a kindly manner. Now, it happened that Publius' father was lying sick with (lit. oppressed by) fevers and dysentery, (and) Paul went in to (see) him, and, (after) praying, (and) laying his hands on him, he healed him. After this had happened, the rest of those in the island who also had sickness, came and were cured. They also honoured us with many marks of respect, and (for us), when we were about to set sail, they put on board the (things) which catered for our needs.
 

From Malta to Rome (Ch. 28.  vv. 11-16)

After three months, we put to sea in an Alexandrian ship with a figurehead of the Twins (i.e. Castor and Pollux), which had wintered in the island. Putting in at Syracuse, we stayed there for three days, (and,) sailing around from there, we arrived at Rhegium. When, after one day, a south wind sprung up, on the second day we came to Puteoli, where, having found brothers, we were entreated to stay with them for seven days; and so we came to Rome.

From there the brothers, when they heard the (news) about us, came to escort us as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns, (and), when Paul saw them, giving thanks to God, took courage. . When we entered Rome, Paul was allowed (lit. it was permitted to Paul) to stay by himself with the soldiers who was guarding him.

Paul makes contact with the Roman Jews (Ch. 28.  vv. 17-22)

After three days, it happened that he called together those who were leaders of the Jews; when they had gathered, he said to them, "Men (and) brothers, I, although I have done nothing contrary to our people or our ancestral customs, was delivered (as) a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans, (and) they, having examined (me), wished to set me free, because there was no reason for death in me; but, when the Jews spoke against (this), I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, not that I have anything (of which) to accuse my nation. For this reason, therefore, I have asked you to see and speak to me, for (it is) on account of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain."

They said to him, "We have neither received letters concerning you from Judea, nor did any of the brothers who have arrived here report or speak anything evil about you. But we think it proper to hear from you what you think, for, with regard to this sect, (it is) known to us that it is spoken against everywhere."

Paul's declaration to the Roman Jews (Ch. 28.  vv. 23-28)

Having assigned him a day, they came to him into his lodging in great numbers, and he put his case to them, testifying to the Kingdom of God, and persuading them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and the prophets from early morning until evening. Some believed the (things) which he was saying, but others were unconvinced. Being in disagreement with one another, they began to break up, when Paul said one (last) word, namely, "The Holy Spirit spoke well to your forefathers through the prophet Isaiah, saying: Go to this people, and say, In hearing, you will hear, and not in any way understand, and, seeing, you will see, and not in any way perceive; for this people's heart has grown torpid (lit. has fattened) and their ears have dulled (lit. they have heard heavily in their ears), and they have shut their eyes, lest they should ever see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and would turn again and I would heal them. 

"Be it known to you, therefore, that this salvation of God has been sent to the gentiles; and they also will hear it."

Epilogue (Ch. 28.  vv. 30-31)

Then, he remained for an entire period of two years in his own rented house, preaching the Kingdom of God and teaching the (things) concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with complete freedom of speech (and) without hindrance (from anyone).


APPENDIX. 

One of the characteristics of Luke's Greek is to employ forms of the copulative verb 'εἰμί ' together with participles as an alternative to the use of imperfect, perfect, pluperfect verbs. The 35 instances of this periphrastic usage are listed below. The relevant chapter and verse are shown first:

1.10.  ἀτενίζοντες ἦσαν:  'they were gazing'

1.13.  ἦσαν καταμένοντες:  'they were staying'

1.14.  ἦσαν προσκαρτεροῦντες:  'they were continuing steadfastly'

2.3.    ἦσαν καθήμενοι:  'they were sitting'

2.14.  μεμεστωμένοι εἰσίν:  'they were full of'

2.42.  ἦσαν ... προσκαρτεποῦντες:  'they were continuing steadfastly'

4.31.  ἦσαν συνηγμένοι:  'they were gathered together'

8.1.   ἦν συνευδοκῶν:  ' ... was consenting'

8.13.  ἦν προσκαρτερῶν  'he was continuing to adhere closely'    

8.16.  βεβαπτισμένοι ὑπῆρχον  'they had been baptised'

8.28.  ἠν ... ὑποστρέφων καὶ καθήμενος  'he was on his way back and sitting'

9.9.   ἦν ... μὴ βλέπων:  'he was without sight'

9.28.  ἦν ... εἰσποπευόμενος καὶ ἐκπορευόμενος:  'he was going in and going out'

10.24. ἦν προσδοκῶν:  ' ... was expecting'

11.5.  ἥμην ... προσευχόμενος:  'I was praying'

12.6.  ἦν ... κοιμώμενος:  " ... was sleeping.'

12.12. ἦσαν ... συνηθροισμένοι καὶ προσευχομένοι:  'were gathered together'

12.20.  Ἠν ... θυμομαχῶν:  'He was angry'

13.48.  ἦσαν τεταγμένοι:  ' ... were appointed'

14.7.    εὐαγγελιζόμενοι ἦσαν:  'they continued to preach'

14.26.  ἦσαν παρεδεδομένοι:  'they had been entrusted'

16.9.    ἦν ἑστώς καὶ παρακαλῶν ... καὶ λέγων:  ' ... was standing there and begging ... and saying'

16.12.  Ἧμεν ... διατρίβοντες:  'We were staying'

18.7.     ἦν συνομοροῦσα:  ' ... was adjoining'

18.25.  ἦν κατηχημένος:  'had been instructed'

18.32.  ἦν συνκεχυμένη:  ' ... was in a state of confusion'

20.8.    ἦμεν συνηγμένοι:  'we were gathered together'

20.14.  ἦν μέλλων:  'he was intending'

21.3.    ἦν ἀποφορτιζόμενον:  ' ... was unloading.'

21.29.  ἦσαν ...  προεωρακότες:  'they had seen from afar'

21.33.  ἐστιν πεποιηκώς: 'he was doing'

22.19.  ἤμην φυλακίζων καὶ δέρων:  'I used to imprison and beat'

22.29.  ἦν δεδωκώς :  'he had bound'

25.10.  Ἑστώς ... ειμί:  'I am standing'

26.26.  ἐστιν ... πεπραγμένον:  ' ... has been done'