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Updated 10-21-23.
I'm always seeking to improve this version: text me if you have a suggestion? Jim (530) 364-0333The Acts of the Apostles, by Luke
Acts 1
1 The former account I produced, O Friend of God, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,
2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after he had through the Holy Spirit given commandments to the apostles whom he had chosen:
3 To whom he also showed himself alive after his suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them for 40 days, and speaking to them of the things pertaining to God's Kingdom:
4 And, being assembled together with them, he instructed them that they should not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, “Which,” he said, “you have heard of from me.
5 For John indeed baptized in water; but you'll be baptized in the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
6 Therefore when they had come together, they asked him, saying, “Lord, will you restore the kingdom to Israel at this time?”
7 And he told them, “It's not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father has put in his own authority.
8 But you will receive power, after the Holy Spirit has come upon you: and you'll be my witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judah, and in Samaria, and unto the remotest part of the earth.”
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they watched, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven, as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who is taken up from you into heaven, will come in like manner as you have seen him go into heaven.”
12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is a Day of Rest journey from Jerusalem.
13 And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas the brother of James.
14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and petition, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.
15 Now in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples (altogether the number of names was about a 120), and said,
16 “Men and brothers and sisters, this Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus;
17 For he was numbered with us, and obtained a part of this ministry.
18 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of his iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his intestines gushed out.
19 And it became known to all those who dwell in Jerusalem; so that field is called in their own language, Akel Dama, that is, Field of Blood.
20 For it was written in the Book of Psalms: ‘Let his dwelling place be desolate, and let no one live in it,’ and, ‘Let another take his office.’
21 Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,
22 Beginning from the baptism of John to that day when he was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.”
23 And they proposed two: Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.
24 And they prayed, and said, “O Lord, You who know the hearts of everyone, show which of these two you have chosen,
25 That he may take part in this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by offense fell, that he might go to his own place.”
26 And they cast their lots; and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
Acts 2
The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost
1 Now when the day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all in one accord in one place.
2 Then suddenly there came a sound as of a mighty rushing wind from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.
3 And there appeared to them separated tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them.
4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them what to speak.
5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.
6 Now when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and they were confused, because everyone heard them speaking in his own language.
7 And they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, aren't all of these who speak Galileans?
8 Then how is it that we each hear, in our own language in which we were born?
9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judah, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,
10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and Jewish converts,
11 Cretans and Arabians, we all hear them speaking about the wonderful works of God in our own tongues.
12 So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?”
13 But others mockingly said, “They’re full of new wine.”
14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and told them, “Men of Judah and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 Because these aren't drunk, as you suppose, seeing that it's only the third hour of the day.
16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;
17 ‘And it will come to pass in the final days, says God, I will 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:
18 And on my male servants and on my female servants, in those days, I will pour out my Spirit; and they will prophesy:
19 And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth below; blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke:
20 The sun will be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord comes:
21 And it will come to pass, that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’
22 Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved by God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves also know:
23 Him, having been delivered by the predetermined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken, and with wicked hands have crucified and put to death:
24 Whom God has raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was impossible that he should be held by them.
25 For concerning him David said, ‘I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:
26 Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue leaped for joy; moreover my flesh will also rest in this sure expectation of hope:
27 Because you won't leave my soul in Hades, nor will you let your Holy One see corruption.
28 You have made known to me the ways of life; you will make me full of joy in your presence.’
29 Men and brothers and sisters, let me freely speak to you concerning our forefather David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day.
30 Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn to him with an oath that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, he would raise up the Anointed to sit on his throne;
31 He foreseeing this spoke of the resurrection of the Anointed, that his soul would not be left in Hades, nor would his flesh see corruption.
32 This Jesus God has raised up, of whom we are all witnesses.
33 Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this which you now both see and hear.
34 Because David himself didn't go up into the heavens, but he says: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand,
35 Until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.” ’
36 Therefore let all of the house of Israel know assuredly, that God has made this same Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and the Anointed.
37 Now when they heard this, they were pierced through their hearts, and said to Peter and to the rest of the apostles, “Men and brothers, what should we do?”
38 Then Peter told them, “Change your minds, and let everyone of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the pardoning of your sins; and you'll receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, to as many as the Lord our God will call.”
40 And with many other words he testified and counseled them, saying, “Be saved from this twisted generation.”
41 Then indeed, those who had received his word gladly, were baptized; and that day about 3,000 souls were added to them.
42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
44 And all who believed were together, and they had all things in common;
45 And they sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among everyone, as anyone had need.
46 So they continued daily with one accord in the temple and breaking bread from house to house; they ate their food with great gladness and simplicity of heart,
47 Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the congregation daily those who were being saved.
1 Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, which is the ninth hour.
2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried there, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask gifts for the needy from those who entered the temple;
3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked to receive gifts for the needy.
4 And Peter, fixing his eyes on him with John, said, “Look at us.”
5 And he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them.
6 Then Peter said, “I do not have silver and gold, but what I do have that I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk.”
7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and instantly his feet and ankle bones received strength.
8 And leaping up, he stood, and walked; and he entered into the temple with them, walking, and leaping, and praising God!
9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God:
10 And they recognized him, knowing that he was the one who used to sit begging for gifts for the needy at the Beautiful Gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
11 And as the lame man who was healed was holding on to Peter and John, all the people came running together to them in the porch which is called Solomon's, being greatly amazed.
12But when Peter saw it, he answered the people: “Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Why do you look intently at us, as if by our own power or piety we had made this man walk?
13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his Son Jesus; whom you delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.
14 But you denied the Holy and Just One, and asked that a murderer be granted to you;
15 And you killed the Prince of Life, whom God has raised from the dead; of whom we are witnesses.
16 And in his name, through faith in his name, this man has been made strong, whom you see and know: yes, the faith which is through him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
17 And now, brothers, I know that you did this in ignorance, as did also your rulers.
18 But those things which God foretold by the mouth of all his prophets, that the Anointed would suffer, he has thus fulfilled.
19 Therefore change your minds, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord,
20 And that he may send Jesus Christ, who was previously announced to you.
21 Whom indeed heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken through the mouth of all his holy prophets since this age began.
22 For indeed Moses told the fathers, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your brothers: You must listen to everything that he tells you!
23 And it will come to pass, that every soul, who doesn't listen to that Prophet, will be utterly destroyed from among the people.’
24 Yes, and all the prophets, from Samuel and those who followed, as many as have spoken, have also foretold these days.
25 You are sons of the prophets, and of the Covenant which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your seed all the families of the earth will be blessed.’
26 To you first, God, having raised up his Servant Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your depravities.”
1 Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees, came upon them,
2 Being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and proclaimed in Jesus the resurrection from the dead.
3 And they laid hands on them, and put them in custody until the next day: for it was now evening.
4 But many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about 5,000.
5 And it happened on the next day, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,
6 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.
7 And when they had stood them in the midst, they asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?”
8 Then Peter, being filled with the Holy Spirit, told them, "Rulers of the people and elders of Israel,
9 If we are being judged this day for a good deed done to a weak man, by what means he has been made well;
10 Let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him does this man stand here before you whole.
11 This is the stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the head of the corner.
12 There is not salvation in any other: for there is no other name under heaven given among people, by which we must be saved.”
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they marveled; and they realized that they had been with Jesus.
14 And seeing the man who was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.
15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,
16 Saying, “What should we do to these men? Because, indeed that a notable miracle has been done by them is evident to everyone who lives in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.
17 But that it spreads no farther among the people, let's sternly threaten them, that from now on they are not to speak to the people in this name.”
18 And they called them, and instructed them not to speak at all nor to teach in the name of Jesus.
19 But Peter and John answered and told them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge.
20 For we cannot stop talking about the things which we have seen and heard.”
21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done.
22 Because the man on whom this miracle of healing had been performed was over 40 years old.
23 After being released, they went to their own people and reported everything the chief priests and the elders had said to them.
24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, “Lord, you are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them:
25 Who by the mouth of your servant David said, ‘Why did the nations rage, and the peoples plot in vain?
26 The kings of the earth took their stand, and the rulers gathered together against the Lord, and against his Anointed.’
27 For of a truth against your holy child Jesus, whom you have anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the nations, and the people of Israel, gathered together,
28 To do exactly what your hand and your purpose predetermined to happen.
29 And now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to your servants that with all boldness they may speak your word,
30 By stretching out your hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of your holy child Jesus. [Or, servant.]
31 And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke God's Word with boldness.
Unity, Power, and Sharing
32 And the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither did any of them say that any of the things which they possessed was their own; but they had all things in common.
33 And with great power the apostles testified to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and an abundance of gracious favor was upon them all.
34 Neither was there any among them who lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,
35 And laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.
36 And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated, Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus,
37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
1 But a certain man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a possession,
2 Yet they kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and he brought a certain portion, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back a portion of the price of the land for yourself?
4 While it remained, wasn't it your own? And after it was sold, wasn't it in your own power? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You haven't lied to people, but to God.”
5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and breathed his last: and great fear came on everyone who heard these things.
6 And the young men stood up, wrapped him up, and carried him out, and buried him.
7 Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.
8 That Peter said to her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” And she said, “Yes, for so much.”
9 Then Peter told her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.”
10 Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband.
11 And great fear came upon the whole congregation, and upon as many as heard these things.
12 And many signs and wonders were done among the people by the hands of the apostles; (and they were all of one accord in Solomon's porch.
13 But none of the rest dared join them, yet the people esteemed them highly.
14 And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women.)
15 So that they brought the sick out into the streets, and laid them on couches and mattresses, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them.
16 And multitudes also came together from the cities around Jerusalem, bringing sick people, and those who were tormented by unclean spirits; and they were all healed.
17 Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and they were filled with indignation,
18 And they laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.
19 But at night a messenger of the Lord opened the doors of the prison, and brought them out, and said,
20 “Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.”
21 And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest and those who were with him came and called the council together, with all the elders of the sons of Israel, and they sent to the prison to have them brought.
22 But when the officers came and didn't find them in the prison, they returned and reported it,
23 Saying, “Indeed we found the prison securely shut, and the guards standing outside before the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside.”
24 Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests heard these words, they were very perplexed concerning them and wondered what might come of this.
25 Then someone came and told them, saying, “Look, the men whom you put in the prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people!”
26 Then the captain went with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.
27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them,
28 Saying, “Didn't we strictly instruct you that you weren't to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and intend to bring this man's blood on us.”
29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, “We're to obey God rather than human beings.
30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you murdered by hanging on a tree.
31 God has exalted him with his own right hand to be the Chief Leader and Savior of all, to give Israel a change of heart and mind and forgiveness of sins.
32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so also is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
33 When they heard this, they were furious, and plotted to kill them.
34 Then one in the council stood up, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in respect by all the people, and commanded them to put the apostles outside for a little while.
35 And he told them, “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men.
36 For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody. A number of men, about 400, joined him. He was slain, and all his followers were scattered, and it came to nothing.
37 After this man Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census, and drew away many people after him: He also perished, and all his followers were scattered.
38 And now I say to you, ‘Stay away from these men, and leave them alone.’ For if this counsel or work is of human origin, it will come to nothing:
39 But if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it; or else you may even be found fighting against God.”
40 And they agreed with him: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
41 And they went away from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they had been counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
42 And daily in the temple, and from house to house, they did not cease to teach and proclaim the Good News about Jesus Christ.
1 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples were increasing, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Greek speaking Jews, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.
2 Then the 12 summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It’s not desirable that we should leave God's Word and wait on tables.
3 Therefore, brothers and sisters, pick out seven men of good reputation from among you, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.”
5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a Jewish convert from Antioch:
6 They set them before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.
7 Then God's Word increased; and the number of the disciples grew very large in Jerusalem; a great multitude of the priests also became obedient listeners to the faith.
8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people.
9 But some men from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including both Cyrenians and Alexandrians, and some from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and argued with Stephen.
10 But they weren't able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spoke.
11 Then they secretly bribed men, who said, “We've heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God!”
12 And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him to the council.
13 They also set up false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking blasphemous words against this holy place and the law:
14 For we heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and will change the customs which Moses delivered to us.”
15 And as they looked intently at him, everyone who was sitting in the council, saw that his face was like the face of a heavenly messenger.
The Call of Abraham
1 Then the high priest said, “Are these things so?”
2 And he said, “Men, brothers, and fathers, listen intently: The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Haran,
3 And told him, ‘Leave your land and leave your relatives, and go to a land which I will show you.’
4 Then he left of the land of the Chaldeans, and dwelt in Haran: and from there, when his father was dead, God relocated him to this land, in which you now dwell.
5 Yet he gave him no inheritance in it, not even enough to set his foot on: but he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, even though he didn't have a child.
6 But God spoke in this way: that his seed would dwell in a foreign land, and that they would bring them into slavery and oppress them for 400 years.
7 ‘And I will judge the nation to whom they will be in slavery,’ said God, ‘and after that they will come out and serve me in this place.’
8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham fathered Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac fathered Jacob; and Jacob fathered the 12 forefathers.
9 And our forefathers, being moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him,
10 And delivered him out of all his oppressions, and gave him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
11 Now there came a famine over all the land of Egypt and Canaan, and a time of great presure: and our fathers found no food.
12 But when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first.
13 And the second time Joseph was made known to his brothers, and Joseph's family became known to the Pharaoh.
14 Then Joseph sent and called his father Jacob and all his relatives to him, 75 souls.
15 So Jacob went down to Egypt, and died there, he, and our fathers,
16 And they were carried back to Shechem and laid in the tomb that Abraham bought for a sum of money from Hamor's sons, the father of Shechem.
17 But when the time of the promise drew near, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,
18 Until another king arose, who did not know Joseph.
19 This man dealt treacherously with our people, and oppressed our forefathers, making them set out their babies, so that they might not live.
20 At that time Moses was born, and he was well-pleasing to God; and he was brought up in his father's house for three months.
21 But when he was set out, Pharaoh's daughter took him away and brought him up as her own son.
22 And Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was powerful in words and in deeds.
23 And when he was 40 years old, it came into his heart to visit his brothers and sisters, the children of Israel.
24 And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him who was oppressed, and struck down the Egyptian:
25 Because he supposed that his brothers and sisters would have understood that God would deliver them by his hand, but they did not understand.
26 And the next day he appeared to two of them as they were fighting, and he tried to reconcile them, saying, ‘Men, you are brothers; why do you wrong one another?’
27 But he who did his neighbor wrong pushed him away, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge over us?
28 Do you want to kill me, like you did the Egyptian yesterday?’
29 Then, at this saying, Moses fled and became an alien resident in the land of Midian, where he fathered two sons.
30 And when 40 years were fulfilled, the Messenger of the Lord appeared to him in the wilderness of Mount Sinai, in a flame of fire in a bush. [Or, messenger.]
31 When Moses saw it, he marveled at the sight; and as he drew near to observe it, the voice of the Lord came to him,
32 ‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ Moses trembled, and dared not look.
33 Then the Lord told him, ‘Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.
34 Indeed, I have seen the oppression of my people who are in Egypt; I have heard their sighing and have come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send you into Egypt.’
35 This Moses whom they rejected, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’ Is the one God sent to be both a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the Messenger who appeared to him in the bush. [Or, messenger.]
36 He brought them out, after he had shown wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness 40 years.
37 This is that Moses, who told the sons of Israel, ‘The Lord our God will raise up a prophet for you, like me, from among your brothers, you must listen to him.' (Deuteronomy 18:15)
38 This is he who was in the congregation in the wilderness, with the Messenger who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers, the one who received the Living Word to give to us,
39 Whom our fathers would not obey, but rejected. And in their hearts they turned back to Egypt,
40 Saying to Aaron, ‘Make us gods to go before us; as for this Moses who brought us out of the land of Egypt, we don't know what has become of him.’
41 And in those days they made a calf, and offered sacrifice to the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.
42 Then God turned away from them and gave them up to worship the host of heaven: as it's written in the book of the Prophets, ‘Did you offer me slaughtered animals and sacrifices during 40 years in the wilderness, O house of Israel?
43 You also took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, images which you made to worship. So I will carry you away beyond Babylon.’
44 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, instructing Moses to make it according to the pattern that he had seen.
45 Which our fathers, having received it in turn, also brought it with Joshua into the land possessed by the nations, whom God drove out before the face of our fathers until the days of David;
46 Who found favor before God and asked to find a dwelling place for the God of Jacob.
47 But Solomon built him a house.
48 However, the Most High doesn't dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says:
49 ‘Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool. What house will you build for me? Says the Lord, or what is the place of my rest?
50 Hasn't my hand made all these things?’
51 You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you.
52 Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who foretold the coming of the Just One, of whom you now have become the betrayers and murderers:
53 Who have received the law by the direction of messengers, yet have not kept it.”
54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and were gnashing their teeth against him.
55 But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.
56 And he said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."
57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord,
58 And they threw him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul.
59 And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
60 Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, don't charge them with this sin!” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Saul's Persecution of Christians
1 And Saul was consenting to his death. And at that time there arose a great persecution against the congregation which was in Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judah and Samaria, except the apostles.
2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentations over him.
3 As for Saul, he made havoc of the congregation, entering into every house, and dragging off men and women he put them in prison.
4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere proclaiming the Good News—the Word.
5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and proclaimed Christ to them.
6 And the multitudes with one accord received those things which Philip spoke, hearing and seeing the signs which he performed.
7 For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed.
8 And there was great joy in that city.
9 But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and had astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great:
10 To whom they all paid attention, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.”
11 And they paid attention to him, because for a long time he had astonished them with his sorceries.
12 But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the Good News of the things concerning God's Kingdom and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
13 Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the great miracles and signs which were performed.
14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received God's Word, they sent Peter and John to them:
15 Who, when they had come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit:
16 (For he had not yet come upon any of them, for they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
17 Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money,
19 Saying, “Give me this power also, that on whomever I lay hands, they may receive the Holy Spirit.”
20 But Peter told him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could acquire the gift of God with money!
21 You'll have no part or share in this word, because your heart is not right in the sight of God.
22 Therefore change your heart and mind concerning this wickedness you have, and pray to God, if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.
23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by unrighteousness.”
24 Then answered Simon, and said, “Pray to the Lord for me, that none of these things which you have spoken may come upon me.”
25 And when they had testified and proclaimed the Word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, and proclaimed the Good News in many villages of the Samaritans.
26 But a heavenly messenger of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Get up! And go towards the south, on the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (Which is desert.)
27 So he got up and went. And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasury, and had come to Jerusalem to worship,
28 Was returning. And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet.
29 Then the Spirit told Philip, “Go near, and join yourself to this chariot.”
30 So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you're reading?”
31 And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” And he urged Philip to come up and sit with him.
32 The place in the Scripture which he read was this: “He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a silent lamb before his shearer, so too he did not open his mouth:
33 In his humiliation his justice was taken away: and who will declare his generation? Because his life is taken up from the earth.”
34 So the eunuch answered Philip and said, “I ask you, about whom does the prophet say this, about himself or about some other man?”
35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this Scripture to proclaim the Good News about Jesus to him.
36 Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, “See, here's some water. What prevents me from being baptized?”
37 And Philip said, “If you believe with your whole heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is God's Son.”
38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him.
39 And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing.
40 But Philip found himself at Azotus. And as he passed through that region, he proclaimed the Good News to all the cities until he came to Caesarea.
Acts 9
Saul's Damascus Road Conversion
1 Now Saul, still breathing out threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest,
2 And he asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
3 Now as he was traveling he came near to Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him:
4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”
5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It’s hard for you to kick against the spurs.”
6 And he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” And the Lord told him, "Get up, and go into the city, and you'll be told what you must do."
7 And the men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one.
8 Then Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he couldn't see anything. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus.
9 And three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and the Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
11 And the Lord told him, “Get up and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying.
12 And in a vision he's seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”
13 Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I've heard about this man from many people, how he's done much harm to your holy ones in Jerusalem.
14 And he has authority here from the chief priests to bind everyone who calls on your name.”
15 But the Lord told him, “Go, for he's my chosen vessel to carry my name before nations, and kings, and the sons of Israel:
16 For I'll show him how he must suffer many things on account of my name.”
17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you might receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
18 And suddenly something like scales fell from his eyes, and he could see again; and he immediately got up and was baptized.
19 And when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.
20 And he immediately proclaimed Christ in the synagogues, that he is God's Son.
21 But everyone who heard him was amazed, and said, “Isn't this he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and didn't he come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?”
22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Anointed.
23 Now after many days had passed, the Jews plotted to kill him.
24 But their plot became known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.
25 Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.
26 Now when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and didn't believe that he was a disciple.
27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles, and he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had boldly proclaimed the name of Jesus at Damascus.
28 And he was with them entering into and going out of Jerusalem.
29 And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Greek speaking Jews, but they attempted to kill him.
30 But when the brothers found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus.
31 Then all the congregations throughout Judah, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were built up. And the number of believers kept increasing as continued to walk in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit.
32 Now it happened, as Peter went through all parts of that region, that he also came down to God's holy people who dwelt at Lydda.
33 And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years and was paralyzed.
34 And Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ makes you whole. Get up, and make your bed.” And he immediately got up.
35 And all of those who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him, and turned to the Lord.
36 No there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas (Gazelle). This woman was full of good works and compassionate deeds which she did.
37 But it happened in those days that she became weak and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room.
38 And since Lydda was near to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, urging him not to delay in coming to them.
39 So Peter got up and went with them. When he had come, they brought him into the upper room: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing him the coats and garments which Dorcas had made, while she was with them.
40 But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, get up.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up.
41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called God's holy people and widows, he presented her alive.
42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord.
43 Then it happened, that he stayed in Joppa many days with Simon, a tanner.
1 Now there was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment,
2 A devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave compassionately and generously to the people, and always prayed to God.
3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision a messenger of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!”
4 And looking intently at him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it, lord?” But he told him, “Your prayers and your acts of compassion have come up as a memorial before God.
5 Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon, whose surname is Peter:
6 He is staying as a guest with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He will tell you what you must do.”
7 And when the messenger who spoke to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who waited on him continually.
8 And when he had explained all these things to them, he sent them to Joppa.
9 And the next day, as they went on their journey and drew near the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray, about the sixth hour.
10 And he became very hungry, and wished to eat: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,
11 And he saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, coming down to him and let down to the earth;
12 In which were all kinds of four-footed creatures of the earth, and wild animals, and reptiles, and the birds of the air.
13 And a voice came to him, “Get up Peter. Kill and eat.”
14 But Peter said, “No way, Lord! For I've never eaten anything that is common or unclean.”
15 And the voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.”
16 This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again.
17 Now while Peter wondered within himself what this vision which he had seen meant, behold, the men who had been sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,
18 And they called, and asked whether Simon, who was surnamed Peter, was staying there.
19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit told him, “Behold, three men are seeking you.
20 Therefore get up, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; because I have sent them.”
21 Then Peter went down to the men who were sent to him from Cornelius; and said, "Behold, I am he whom you seek. For what reason have you come?”
22 And they said, “Cornelius the centurion, a just man, one who fears God and has a good reputation among all the nation of the Jews, was divinely instructed by a holy messenger to summon you to his house, and to hear words from you.”
23 Then he invited them in and lodged them. On the next day Peter went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him.
24 And the following day they entered Caesarea. Now Cornelius was waiting for them, and he had called together his relatives and close friends.
25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshiped him.
26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I am also human.”
27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many who had come together.
28 Then he said to them, “You know how unlawful it is for a Jewish man to keep company with or go to one of another nation. But God has shown me that I shouldn't call any person common or unclean.
29 Therefore I came without objection as soon as I was sent for. I ask, then, for what reason have you sent for me?”
30 And Cornelius said, "Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,
31 And said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your acts of compassion are remembered in the sight of God.
32 Now send to Joppa and call Simon here, whose surname is Peter. He is staying as a guest with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. When he comes, he will speak to you.’
33 So I sent to you immediately, and you have done well to come. Now therefore, we are all present before God, to hear all the things that God has commanded you.”
34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, “Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
35 But in every nation whoever fears him and does righteous deeds is accepted by him.
36 The word which God sent to the sons of Israel, proclaiming the Good News of peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of everyone—
37 That message you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judah, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John proclaimed:
38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all who were oppressed by the devil; because God was with him.
39 And we are witnesses of all the things which he did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree:
40 Whom God raised up on the third day, and caused him to be seen;
41 Not by all the people, but by witnesses chosen beforehand by God, even to us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.
42 And he commanded us to proclaim to the people and earnestly testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead.
43 All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all of those who were listening to the word.
45 And all of the circumcised believers who came with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on those of the nations also;
46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and glorifying God. Then Peter answered,
47 "“Surely no one can refuse water for these to be baptized, for they have received the Holy Spirit just as we did.”
48 So he instructed them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay with them a few days.
Peter Defends Proclaiming Jesus to those of Another Nation
1 Now the apostles and brothers and sisters who were in Judah heard that those of the nations had also received God's Word.
2 And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision contended with him,
3 Saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men, and ate with them.”
4 But Peter explained it to them in order from the beginning, saying,
5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision, an object coming down like a great sheet, let down from heaven by its four corners; and it came to me.
6 When I had looked intently at it, I considered, and saw four-footed animals of the earth, and wild animals, and reptiles, and birds of the air.
7 And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Get up Peter. Kill and eat.’
8 But I said, ‘No way, Lord! For nothing common or unclean has at any time entered my mouth.’
9 But the voice answered me again from heaven, ‘What God has cleansed you must not call common.’
10 Now this happened three times, and everything was drawn up into heaven again.
11 And behold, at that very moment, three men stood before the house where I was, having been sent to me from Caesarea.
12 Then the Spirit told me, 'Go with them, doubting nothing.' Moreover these six brothers accompanied me, and we entered the man's house.
13 And he told us how he had seen a messenger standing in his house, who told him, ‘Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter;
14 Who will tell you words, by which you and all your household will be saved.’
15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as on us at the beginning.
16 Then remembered I the Word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John indeed baptized in water; but you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit.’
17 Now if God gave them the same gift as he did to us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; who was I, that I could withstand God?"
18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted a change of heart and mind unto life to the nations.”
19 Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except the Jews only.
20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Greek speaking Jews, proclaiming the Good News of the Lord Jesus.
21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number of them believed, and turned to the Lord.
22 Then news regarding them came to the ears of the congregation in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to travel to Antioch.
23 When he came and had seen God's gracious favor, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord.
24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith: and many people were added to the Lord.
25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus, to look for Saul:
26 And when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. And it happened, that for a whole year they assembled themselves with the congregation, and taught many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.
27 And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch.
28 And one of them, named Agabus, stood up and signified by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the land: which happened in the days of Claudius Caesar.
29 Then the disciples, each according to their own ability, determined to send aid to the brothers and sisters who dwelt in Judah:
30 Which they also did, sending it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
Herod Kills James the Brother of John
1 Now about that time King Herod stretched out his hands to persecute some of the congregation.
2 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.
3 And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded farther to also seize Peter. (This happened during the Days of Unleavened Bread.)
4 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to guard him; intending to bring him out to the people after the Passover.
5 Peter therefore was kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the congregation.
6 But when Herod was about to bring him out, the night before Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and other guards stood before the door guarding the prison.
7 And behold, a messenger of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and woke him up, saying, “Stand up quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands.
8 And the messenger told him, “Get dressed and tie on your sandals.” And he did so. And he told him, "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.”
9 So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the messenger was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.
10 When they were past the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leads into the city; which opened to them of its own accord: and they went out, and went down one street; and immediately the messenger left him.
11 And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain, that the Lord has sent his messenger, and has delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.”
12 And when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.
13 And as Peter knocked on the door of the gate, a girl named Rhoda came to listen,
14 And when she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed that, instead of opening the door, she ran back inside and told everyone, “Peter is standing at the gate!"
15 But they told her, “You're beside yourself!” But she kept insisting that it was so. Then they said, “It's his messenger." [Or possibly, angel?]
16 But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.
17 But he, motioning to them with his hand to be silent, declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Go, tell these things to James, and to the rest of the brothers and sisters.” And he left and went to another place.
18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers over what had become of Peter.
19 But when Herod had searched for him and didn't find him, he examined the guards and commanded that they should be executed. And he went down from Judah to Caesarea, and stayed there.
20 Now Herod was in a furious fight with the people of Tyre and Sidon: but they came to him with one accord, and having made Blastus the king's personal aide their friend, they desired peace; because their country was fed by the king's country.
21 And on a set day, Herod having put on his royal apparel, and having sat on his throne, made an oration to them.
22 And the people kept shouting, “The voice of a god and not of a man!”
23 And immediately a messenger of the Lord struck him, because he didn't give God the glory: and he was eaten by worms, and died.
24 But God's Word grew and multiplied.
25 Then Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, having completed their mission; and they brought John with them, whose surname was Mark.
The Holy Spirit Calls Barnabas and Saul into Service
1 Now in the congregation that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers; Barnabas, and Simon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, who had grown up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
2 As they were serving the Lord, and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Now set apart both Barnabas and Saul to me, for the work to which I have called them.”
3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
4 So indeed, they were sent out by the Holy Spirit; and they went down to Seleucia; and from there they sailed to Cyprus.
5 And when they were at Salamis, they proclaimed God's Word in the synagogues of the Jews: and they also had John Mark as their helper.
6 Now when they had gone through the island to Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew whose name was Bar-Jesus (Son-of-Jesus):
7 Who was with the governor, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. This man called for Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear God's Word.
8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so his name is translated) withstood them, seeking to turn the governor away from the faith.
9 Then Saul, who is also called Paul, being filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him,
10 And said, “O full of all deception and all fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease distorting the straight ways of the Lord?
11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is on you, and you will be blind, not seeing the sun for a time.” And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking someone to lead him by the hand.
12 Then the governor, having seen what happened, believed; being astonished at the teaching of the Lord.
13 Now when Paul and his company set sail from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: but John Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem.
14 And they went on from Perga and came to Antioch in Pisidia. And on the Day of Rest they went into the synagogue and sat down.
15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, “Men and brothers, if you have any word of counsel for the people, say it.”
16 Then Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand said, “Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen.
17 The God of this people Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as foreign residences in the land of Egypt, and with uplifted arm he brought them out of it.
18 And for a time of about 40 years he put up with their ways in the wilderness.
19 And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, he distributed their land to them.
20 And after that he gave them judges for about 450 years, until Samuel the prophet.
21 And after that they desired a king: and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for 40 years.
22 And when he had removed him, he raised up David for them to be their king; to whom he also testified and said, 'I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.'
23 From this man's seed, according to the promise, God raised up for Israel a Savior, Jesus:
24 After John had first proclaimed, before his coming, the baptism of a change of heart and mind to all the people of Israel.
25 And as John was finishing his course, he said, ‘Who do you think I am? I'm not he. But behold, there comes one after me, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.’
26 Men and brothers, sons of the nation of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, the word of this salvation has been sent to you.
27 For those who reside in Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they didn’t know him, nor the voices of the prophets who are read every Day of Rest, nevertheless have fulfilled them by condemning him.
28 Even though they found no charge worthy of death in him, they asked Pilate to have him executed.
29 And when they had fulfilled everything that was written concerning him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a tomb.
30 But God raised him from the dead:
31 And he was seen for many days by those who came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses to the people.
32 And we declare the Good News to you, that promise which was made to the fathers,
33 God has fulfilled this promise for us their children, in that he has raised up Jesus. As it's also written in the second Psalm: ‘You are my Son, today I have given birth to you.’
34 And in that he raised him from the dead, not ever to return to corruption, he has spoken in this way: ‘I will give you the sure compassions of David.’
35 Therefore he also says in another psalm, ‘You will not allow your Holy One to see corruption.’
36 But as for David, after he had served his own generation by doing God's will, he fell asleep, and was laid with his fathers, and saw corruption:
37 But he whom God raised up saw no corruption.
38 Therefore let it be known to you, brothers, that through this man the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you:
39 And by him everyone who believes is justified from everything, by which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
40 Therefore beware, lest what has been spoken in the prophets come upon you:
41 ‘Look, you mockers, be astounded and perish! For I am doing a work in your days, a work which you will never believe, even if someone tells you about it.’ ”
42 And when the Jews went out of the synagogue, those of other nations begged that these words might be proclaimed to them the next Day of Rest.
43 Now when the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout Jewish converts followed Paul and Barnabas, who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the gracious favor
of God.
44 And the next Day of Rest almost the whole city came together to hear God's Word.
45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and contradicting and blaspheming, spoke against those things which were spoken by Paul.
46 Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, “It was necessary that God's Word should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we turn to the nations.
47 For so the Lord commanded us, ‘I have placed you as a light for the nations, that you may bring salvation to the end of the earth.’ ”
48 And when those of other nations heard this, they were glad, and glorified the Word of the Lord: and as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed.
49 And the Word of the Lord was being spread throughout all the region.
50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and prominent women and the chief men of the city, and stirred up a persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and threw them out of their district.
51 But they shook the dust off of their feet against them, and came to Iconium.
52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
1 Now it happened that in Iconium they both entered together into the synagogue of the Jews, and spoke in such a way that a great multitude both of the Jews and of the Greeks believed.
2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up those of other nations and poisoned their minds against the brothers.
3 So they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was testifying to the word of his gracious favor, granting signs and wonders to be performed through their hands.
4 But the people of the city were divided, and indeed sided some with the Jews and some with the apostles.
5 But when a violent plot was being made by both the ethnic people and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them,
6 They became aware of it, and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding region.
7 And they proclaimed the Good News there.
8 And in Lystra a certain man without strength in his feet was sitting, a cripple from his mother's womb, who had never walked:
9 He listened to what Paul was saying. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed,
10 Said with a loud voice, “Stand up on your feet!” And he jumped up and walked.
11 And when the people saw what Paul had done, they raised their voices, saying in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!”
12 And they called Barnabas, Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker.
13 Then the priest of Zeus, whose temple was in front of their city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, intending to sacrifice with the multitudes.
14 Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of it, they tore their clothes, and ran in among the multitude, crying out,
15 And saying, “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are human beings with the same nature as you; but we announce Good News to you, that you should turn from these empty things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and everything that is in them,
16 Who in previous generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways.
17 Nevertheless he didn't leave himself without a witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness."
18 Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the multitudes from sacrificing to them.
19 But some Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there, and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul, and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.
20 However, as the disciples stood around him, he got up and went into the city. But the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe.
21 And when they had proclaimed the Good News to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,
22 Strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, “Through many pressures we must enter into God's Kingdom.”
23 And when they had appointed elders in every congregation, and prayed with fasting, they entrusted them to the Lord in whom they had faith.
24 And after they had passed through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.
25 And when they had proclaimed the Word in Perga, they went down to Attalia:
26 From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been entrusted with God's gracious favor for the work which they had completed.
27 And when they had come and gathered the congregation together, they reported everything that God had done with them, and that he had opened the door of faith to the nations.
28 And they stayed there a long time with the disciples.
1 And certain men who came down from Judah taught the brothers, and said, “Unless you're circumcised as Moses required, you cannot be saved.”
2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had taken a stand against this and debated with them, the brothers determined that Paul and Barnabas and some others of them should go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders concerning this question.
3 And being sent on their way by the congregation, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the nations, this brought great joy to all the brothers and sisters.
4 And when they had come to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the congregation and the apostles and the elders; and they reported everything that God had done with them.
5 But some believers from the sect of the Pharisees stood up, saying, “They must be circumcised, and be taught to observe the law of Moses.”
6 And the apostles and the elders came together to look into this statement.
7 But after much discussion had taken place, Peter stood up and said to them: “Men and brothers, you know that in the early days God chose from among us, that by my mouth, the nations should hear the Word concerning the Good News, and believe.
8 And God, who knows the heart, confirmed that he accepted them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he did to us.
9 And he made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
10 Now therefore why test God, by putting a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?
11 But we believe that through the gracious favor of the Lord Jesus Christ we will be saved, so also in like manner will they."
12 Then the whole multitude kept silence, and listened intently to Barnabas and Paul as they declared the signs and wonders that God had done among the nations through them.
13 And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, “Men and brothers, listen intently to me:
14 Simon has declared how at the first God visited the nations, to take out a people for his name from among them.
15 And the words of the prophets agree with this; as it’s written,
16 ‘After this I will return and will rebuild the tabernacle of David, which has fallen down; I will rebuild its ruins, and I will set it up;
17 So that the rest of mankind might seek the Lord: Even all the nations who are called by my name, says the Lord, who does all these things.’
18 From eternity all of God's works are known by him.
19 Therefore I judge that we shouldn't trouble those who are turning to God from among the nations:
20 But that we write to them to abstain from things that are polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood.
21 For throughout many generations Moses has had those who proclaim him in every city, being read in the synagogues every Day of Rest.”
22 Then it seemed good to the apostles and elders together with the whole congregation, to choose men from among them to send to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas: Judas who was called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brothers:
23 This letter was written by them: “The apostles, the elders, and the brothers, to the brothers who are of the nations in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Be of good cheer!
24 Since we heard that some, whom we did not appoint, went out from us and have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, ‘You must be circumcised, and observe the law:’
25 Having assembled together, with one accord, it seemed good to us to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,
26 Men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
27 Therefore we have sent Judas and Silas, who will also report the same things by word of mouth.
28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay no greater burden on you than these necessary things;
29 That you abstain from anything offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from sexual immorality: if you keep yourselves away from these things, you will be doing good. Be made strong.”
30 So indeed after they were sent away, they came to Antioch; and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter:
31 And having read it, everyone rejoiced over its encouragement.
32 Now Judas and Silas, themselves also being prophets, encouraged and strengthened the brothers and sisters with many words.
33 And after spending some time with them, they were sent back in peace by the brothers and sister to those who had sent them.
34 However, it seemed good to Silas to remain there.
35 Paul and Barnabas, with many others also, remained in Antioch, teaching and proclaiming the Good News of the Word of the Lord.
36 Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let's go back and visit our brothers and sisters in every city where we have proclaimed the Word of the Lord, and see how they are doing.”
37 Now Barnabas also planned to take John, who was called Mark, with them.
38 But Paul believed that they should not take him with them, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to do the work.
39 Then the disagreement became so sharp that they separated from one other. And Barnabas took Mark with him, and sailed away to Cyprus,
40 But Paul chose Silas, and left after being entrusted by the brothers and sisters to God's gracious care.
41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the congregations.
1 Then he came to Derbe and Lystra. And behold, there was a certain disciple there, named Timothy, the son of a certain Jewish woman who believed, but his father was Greek.
2 He was well spoken of by the brothers and sisters that were at Lystra and Iconium.
3 Paul wanted this man to go with him; and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those parts, for they all knew that his father was Greek.
4 And while they were passing through the cities, they were delivering the decrees which had been decided upon by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem, for them to observe.
5 So indeed the congregations were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
6 And they traveled through the Phrygian and Galatian region, having been prevented by the Holy Spirit from proclaiming the Word in Asia,
7 And having come down to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but again the Spirit did not permit them.
8 So passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas.
9 And during the night, in a vision, a man of Macedonia appeared to Paul and pleaded with him, saying, “Come over into Macedonia and help us!”
10 And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to proclaim the Good News to them.
11 Therefore setting sail from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothrace, and the next day to Neapolis;
12 And from there to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony. And we stayed in that city for some days.
13 And on the Day of Rest we went out of the city to the riverside, where prayers are customarily made; and we sat down and spoke to the women who met there.
14 And a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple fabric from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul.
15 And when she and her household were baptized, she pleaded with us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay there.” And she forcefully persuaded us.
16 And it happened, as we went to prayer, a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination from Oracle of Delphi met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling.
17 She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation!”
18 And she did this for many days. But Paul, becoming greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour.
19 And when her masters saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas, and dragged them into the marketplace to the rulers,
20 And brought them to the general, saying, “These men, being Jews, exceedingly trouble our city!
21 And they teach customs which, as Romans, are not lawful for us to receive or do.”
22 And the multitude rose up together against them; and the commanders tore off Paul and Silas' clothes and commanded them to be beaten with sticks.
23 And after they had inflicted many blows on them, they threw them into prison, giving the jailer orders to guard them securely.
24 Who, having received such a command, threw them into the inner prison, and fastened their feet in the stocks.
25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.
26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's chains were loosed.
27 And the jailer was awoken and seeing the prison doors open, supposing the prisoners had escaped, drew his sword and was about to kill himself.
28 But Paul shouted with a loud voice, saying, “Don't harm yourself: because we're all here!”
29 And he called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas,
30 And having brought them out, he said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you and your household will be saved!”
32 Then they spoke the Word of the Lord to him and to all those in his house.
33 And he took them that same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and his whole household were baptized.
34 And he brought them into his house, he set a table of food before them; and having believed in God, he jumped for joy with his whole household.
35 And when it was day, the commanders sent noncommissioned officers, saying, “Let those men go.”
36 And the jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, “The commanders have sent to let you go. Now therefore come out, and go in peace.”
37 But Paul told them, “They have beaten us publicly, men who are uncondemned Romans, and have thrown us into prison. And now do they secretly throw us out? No indeed! Let they themselves come and take us out.”
38 And the officers reported these words to the commanders: and they were afraid, when they heard that they were Romans.
39 And having come they apologized to them and escorted them out, and asked them to leave the city.
40 And they went out of the prison, and entered into Lydia’s house. And when they saw the brothers and sisters, they encouraged them; then they went away.
1 And having traveled through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews:
2 And Paul, as was his custom, went in to them, and for three days of Rest he reasoned with them from the scriptures,
3 Explaining and demonstrating that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you is the Christ."
4 And some of them were persuaded; and a great multitude of the devout Greeks, and not a few of the prominent women, joined Paul and Silas.
5 But the Jews who were not persuaded, becoming envious, took some of the evil men from the marketplace, and gathering a mob, set the whole city in an uproar and attacked the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.
6 But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brothers to the rulers of the city, shouting, “Those who have turned the world upside down have come here too!
7 Jason has harbored them, and these are all acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there is another king—Jesus!”
8 And they troubled the multitude and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things.
9 And after taking money as security from Jason and the rest, they released them.
10 And the brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea: when they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews.
11 But these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily to find out if these things were so.
12 Therefore, indeed many of them believed, and not a few of the prominent Greek women and men.
13 But when the Jews from Thessalonica became aware that God's Word was proclaimed by Paul at Berea, they came there also and stirred up the crowds.
14 So the brothers immediately sent Paul out to go to the sea; but both Silas and Timothy remained there.
15 Now those who escorted Paul brought him as far as Athens; and then returned having received instructions for Silas and Timothy to join him as quickly as possible.
16 Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was upset within him, when he saw the city was full of idols.
17 So indeed he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews, and those who worshipped there, and in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there.
18 Now some Epicurean and Stoic philosophers were having a conversation with him; but some said, “What is this seed-sower trying to say with his words?” Others said, “He seems to be a proclaimer of foreign demons.” Because he was proclaiming the Good News about Jesus and the resurrection to them.
19 So they took hold of him and brought him to Mars' Hill, saying, “We want to be able know what this new teaching is, of which you speak?
20 For you are bringing some strange things to our ears. Therefore we want to know what these things mean.”
21 (Now all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there would spend their leisure time in nothing except telling or hearing something new.)
22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' Hill, and said, “Men of Athens, I see that in all ways you are very reverent to demons.
23 For as I was passing through your city and looking closely at the objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: ‘To An Unknown God.’ Therefore, the one whom you worship without knowing, him I proclaim to you:
24 The God, who made the world and everything in it, he being Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands.
25 Nor is he waited upon with human hands, as though he needed something, since he himself gives life, breath, and everything to everyone.
26 And he has made out of one blood every nation of people to dwell on the face of the whole earth, having pre-determining their fixed times and the fixed boundaries of their habitation;
27 That they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet actually he is not far from each one of us:
28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as some of your own poets have said, “For we are also his offspring.” [Or, of his genes.]
29 Therefore, being offspring of God, we shouldn't think that which is Divine is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and human devising.
30 Therefore, God indeed overlooked these times of ignorance; but now he sends this message to all people everywhere: 'Change your minds!'
31 Because he has set a day on which he when he will judge the world with justice; through Jesus the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: but others said, “We will hear you again concerning this.”
33 And so Paul went out from among them.
34 But some men believed and joined themselves to him: among them was Dionysius (a member of the Mars’ Hill Court), and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
1 And after these things, Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;
2 And having found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome:) and he came to them.
3 And because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them, and they worked together; because they were tentmakers by occupation.
4 But he reasoned in the synagogue every Day of Rest, convincing both Jews and the Greeks.
5 But when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul, felt pressed in the Spirit to earnestly testify to the Jews, "Jesus is the Anointed!"
6 But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook off his clothes and told them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am clean of it. From now on I will go to the nations.”
7 And he went out from there, and entered into the house of someone named Justice, who worshiped God, whose house was next door to the synagogue.
8 But Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord with his whole household; and many of the Corinthians hearing, believed, and were baptized.
9 Then the Lord spoke to Paul through a vision in the night, “Don't be afraid, but continue to speak, and do not keep silent.
10 Because I am with you, and no one will attack you or hurt you; for I have many people in this city.”
11 So he remained there for a year and six months, teaching God's Word among them.
12 And when Gallio was the governor of Greece, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him before the judgment seat,
13 Saying, “This fellow persuades people to worship God contrary to the law.”
14 But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio told the Jews, “If indeed it were a matter of some wrongdoing or wicked crimes, O Jews, there would a reason to put up with you.
15 But if it's a question concerning a saying and names, and concerning your law, you see to it; because I don't want to be a judge of such things.”
16 And he drove them from the judgment seat.
17
Then all the Greeks grabbed Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue,
and beat him before the judgment seat.
Yet
Gallio wasn't concerned
about any of these things.
18 So Paul continued to remain there many days. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, because he had taken a vow.
19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.
20 But when they asked him to stay a longer time with them, he did not consent,
21 But as he was leaving them, he said, “I must by all means keep this coming feast in Jerusalem; but, God willing, I will return to you again.” And he sailed from Ephesus.
22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and had gone up and greeted the congregation, he went down to Antioch.
23 And after spending some time there, he left, and went over the region of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.
24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and being powerful in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.
25 This man was instructed in the Way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spoke and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.
26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained the Way of God more accurately to him.
27 And when he desired to cross to Greece, the brothers wrote, advising the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through God's gracious favor.
28 For he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing by the scriptures, that Jesus is the Anointed.
1 Now it happened, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples,
2 He said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” So they said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.”
3 And he said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?” And they said, “Into John's baptism.”
4 Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of a change of heart and mind, telling the people that they should believe on him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.”
5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
6 And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them; and they spoke with tongues, and prophesied.
7 And the men were about 12 in all.
8 And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading them concerning the things of God's Kingdom.
9 But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude, he went out from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus.
10 And this continued for two years, so that everyone who resided in Asia heard the Word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.
11 And God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul,
12 So that even sweat-clothes or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them.
13 Then Jews who went around casting out evil spirits took it upon themselves to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “We command you in the name of Jesus, whom Paul proclaims, to come out!”
14 And there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so.
15 But the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?”
16 And the man in whom the evil spirit was jumped on them, and overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.
17 And this became known to all the Jews and Greeks residing in Ephesus; and fear fell on all of them, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.
18 And many of those who had believed came, confessing, and declaring their deeds.
19 Also, many of those who had practiced witchcraft brought their books together and burned them in the sight of everyone. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled 50,000 pieces of silver.
20 So the Word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.
21 After these things were accomplished, Paul purposed in the Spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Greece, to go to Jerusalem, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome.”
22 So he sent two of those who were serving him into Macedonia, Timothy and Erastus, but he himself stayed in Asia for a time.
23 And about that time there occurred no small disturbance concerning the Way.
24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana, brought no small profit to the craftsmen;
25 He called together the workers of similar occupation, and said, “Men, you know that we have our prosperity by this trade.
26 Moreover you see and hear that not only at Ephesus, but throughout almost all Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away many people, saying that they are not gods which are made with hands:
27 So not only is this trade of ours in danger of falling into disrepute, but also the temple of the great goddess Diana may be despised and her magnificence destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worship.”
28 And when they heard these things, they were filled with rage, and began to shout, saying, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!”
29 And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul's traveling companions, they rushed into the theater with one accord.
30 And when Paul wanted to go in to the people, the disciples would not let him.
31 And some of the officials of Asia, who were his friends, sent to him pleading that he would not venture into the theater.
32 Some therefore shouted one thing and some another, because the assembly was confused, and most of them didn't know why they had come together.
33 And they brought Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander motioned with his hand, and would have made a defense to the people.
34 But when they found out that he was a Jew, everyone with one voice shouted for about two hours, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!”
35 And when the city clerk had quieted the multitude, he said: “Men of Ephesus, what person is there who doesn't know that the city of the Ephesians is temple guardian of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Zeus?
36 Therefore, since these things cannot be denied, you ought to be quiet and do nothing rashly.
37 Because you have brought these men here, who are neither robbers of temples, nor blasphemers of your goddess.
38 Therefore, if Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen have a case against anyone, the courts are open and there are proconsuls. Let them bring charges against one another.
39 But if you have any other inquiry to make, it will be determined in the lawful assembly.
40 Because we are in danger of being called in question for today's uproar, there being no reason which we may give to account for this disorderly gathering.”
41 And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly.
1 And after the uproar had ceased, Paul called the disciples, hugged them, and left for Macedonia.
2 And passing trough that region and encouraging them with many words, he came to Greece,
3 And stayed there three months. And when the Jews plotted against him as he was about to sail to Syria, he decided to return through Macedonia.
4 And Sopater of Berea accompanied him to Asia; also Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia.
5 These going ahead, waited for us at Troas.
6 And we sailed away from Philippi after the Days of Unleavened Bread, and in five days joined them at Troas, where we stayed seven days.
7 Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, intending to leave the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight.
8 And there were many lamps in the upper room where they were gathered together.
9 And a certain young man named Eutychus sat in a window, who was sinking into a deep sleep. He was overcome by sleep; and as Paul continued speaking, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead.
10 But Paul went down and fell upon him, and embracing him said, “Don’t be troubled, because his life is in him.”
11 Now when he had come up, had broken bread and eaten, and talked a long while, even until daybreak, then he went away.
12 And they brought the young man in alive, and they were not a little comforted.
13 Then we went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, intending to take Paul on board there; for so he had given instructions, himself intending to go on foot.
14 And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene.
15 And we sailed from there, and the next day came opposite Chios. The following day we arrived at Samos and stayed at Trogyllium. The next day we came to Miletus.
16 Because Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he wouldn’t have to spend time in Asia; because he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.
17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the congregation.
18 And when they had come to him, he told them, “You know, from the first day that I came to Asia, in what manner I always lived among you,
19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with tears, and with the trials that happened to me through the plots of the Jews:
20 And how I didn’t shrink back from declaring to you anything that was profitable, teaching you publicly and from house to house,
21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, concerning a change of heart and mind toward God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
22 And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there,
23 Except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and afflictions await me. [Literally, pressures.]
24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the Good News about God's gracious favor.
25 And now, behold, I know that you all, among whom I have gone proclaiming God's Kingdom, will see my face no more.
26 Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of everyone.
27 Because I have not shrunk back from declaring to you the full counsel of God.
28 Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit placed you as overseers, to shepherd the congregation of the Lord, and of God, which he purchased with his own blood.
29 Because I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also from among yourselves people will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after themselves.
31 Therefore watch, and remember, that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone about this, night and day, with tears.
32 And now, brothers and sisters, I entrust you to God, and to the Word concerning His Gracious Favor, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among everyone who has been made holy.
33 I have coveted no one’s silver, gold, or clothing.
34 Yes, you yourselves know that these hands served to meet my own needs and the needs of those who were with me.
35 I have shown you in all these things, how that by working hard you are to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, “It's more blessed to give than to receive.”
36 And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all.
37 And they all wept much, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,
38 Being grieved especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would see his face no more. And they accompanied him to the boat.
Acts 21
Paul's Journey to Jerusalem
1 Now it happened, that after we tore ourselves away from them, we put out to sea, and running a straight course we came to Cos and on the next day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara:
2 And finding a ship sailing over to Phoenicia, we went aboard and set sail.
3 Now when we had sighted Cyprus, we passed it on the left, sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre; because the ship was to unload her cargo there.
4 And finding disciples, we stayed there seven days: They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem.
5 And when we had come to the end of those days, we left and went on our way; and they all accompanied us, with their wives and children, until we were out of the city. And we knelt down on the shore and prayed.
6 And after we had hugged one another, we boarded the ship, and they returned home.
7 And when we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, hugged the brothers and sisters, and stayed with them one day.
8 And the next day we who were Paul's companions left and came to Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him.
9 And this man had four virgin daughters who prophesied.
10 And as we stayed there many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judah.
11 And when he had come to us, he took Paul's belt, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, “In the same way, the Holy Spirit says, ‘So the Jews at Jerusalem will also bind the man who owns this belt, and will deliver him into the hands of those of the nations.’ ”
12 And when we heard these things, both we and those of that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem.
13 Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? Because I'm not only ready to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”
14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The Lord's will be done.”
15 And after those days we made ready, and went up to Jerusalem.
16 Also some of the disciples from Caesarea went with us and brought with them a certain Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we were to lodge.
17 And when we had come to Jerusalem, the brothers and sisters joyfully received us.
18 And the day following Paul went in with us to James; and all the elders were present.
19 And when he had hugged them, he told in detail those things which God had done among the nations through his ministry.
20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and told him, “You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are who believe; and they are all zealous for the law:
21 But they've been informed about you, that you teach all the Jews who are among the nations to forsake Moses, saying that they shouldn't circumcise their children, nor to walk according to the customs.
22 What then? The assembly must certainly meet, because they will hear that you have come.
23 Therefore do what we tell you: We have four men who have taken a vow.
24 Take them, and purify yourself with them, and pay their expenses, that they may shave their heads: and then everyone will know that those things, of which they were informed concerning you, are nothing; but that you yourself also walk orderly, and observe the law.
25 But concerning those of the nations who believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, except only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from sexual immorality.”
26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day, having been purified with them, entered the temple to announce the expiration of the days of purification, at which time an offering was made for each one of them.
27 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews who were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,
28 Crying out, “Men of Israel, help! This is the man, who teaches everyone everywhere against this people, and the law, and this place: and furthermore he has also brought Greeks into the temple, and has defiled this holy place.”
29 (For having previously seen Trophimus an Ephesian with him in the city, they assumed that Paul had brought them into the temple.)
30 And the whole city was stirred up; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut.
31 Now as they were seeking to kill him, news came to the commander of the garrison that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.
32 Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down to them: and when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul.
33 Then the commander came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.
34 And some among the multitude cried one thing, and some another: and when he could not ascertain the truth because of the tumult, he commanded him to be taken into the barracks.
35 And when he came to the stairs, he was carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the multitude.
36 Because the multitude of the people who followed after, were shouting, “Away with him!”
37 And as Paul was being led into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I say something to you?” He said, “Can you speak Greek?
38 Aren't you the Egyptian who some days ago stirred up a rebellion and led the 4,000 assassins out into the wilderness?”
39 But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no obscure city; and I beg you, let me speak to the people.”
40 And when he had given him permission, Paul stood on the stairs, and motioned with the hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying,
1 “Men, brothers, and fathers, hear my defense which I now make to you.”
2 (And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the more silent.) Then he said,
3 “I am truly a man who is a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the exactness of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as you all are today.
4 And I persecuted this Way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.
5 As also the high priest and all the council of the elders testifies of me, from whom I also received letters to the brothers, and traveled to Damascus to bring those also who were there in chains to Jerusalem, to be punished.
6 Now it happened, that as I traveled, and came near to Damascus, about noon, suddenly there shone a great light from heaven around me.
7 And I fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to me,“Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”
8 And I answered, “Who are you, Lord?” And he told me, “I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.”
9 And those who were with me, indeed saw the light, and were afraid; but they didn't hear the voice of him who spoke to me.
10 And I said, “What am I to do, Lord?” And the Lord told me, “Get up, and go into Damascus; and there it will be told to you all things which are appointed for you to do.”
11 And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus.
12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report from all the Jews who resided there,
13 Came to me, and stood, and said to me, “Brother Saul, receive your sight.” And the same hour I looked up at him.
14 And he said, “The God of our fathers has chosen you, that you should know his will, and see the Just One, and should hear the voice of his mouth.
15 For you will be his witness to all people of what you have seen and heard.
16 And now why are you waiting? Get up, and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”
17 Now it happened, that, when I had come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;
18 And saw him saying to me, “Hurry, and get out of Jerusalem quickly: because they will not receive your testimony concerning me.”
19 And I said, “Lord, they know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believed on you:
20 And when the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting to his death, and kept the clothing of those who were killing him.”
21 And he told me, “Journey on, because I am sending you far away from here, to the nations.”
22 And they were listening to him until this statement, and they raised their voices, saying, “Away with such a fellow from the earth! For it's not fitting for him to live!”
23 Then they cried out, and tore off their clothes, and threw dust into the air,
24 The commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, and said that he should be examined under scourging, so that he might know why they shouted so against him.
25 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?”
26 When the centurion heard that, he went and told the commander, saying, “Be cautious what you do: because this man is a Roman.”
27 Then the commander came, and said to him, “Tell me, are you a Roman?” He said, “Yes.”
28 And the commander answered, “With a large sum of money I obtained this citizenship.” And Paul said, “But I was born a citizen.”
29 Then immediately those who were about to examine him withdrew from him; and the commander was also afraid after he found out that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.
30 But on the next day, because he wanted to know the true reason why he was being accused by the Jews, he released him, and ordered the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin to assemble, and he brought down Paul and had him stand before them.
1 Now Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, “Men and brothers, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.”
2 And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth.
3 Then Paul told him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! Because you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?”
4 And those who stood by said, “Do you insult God's high priest?”
5 Then said Paul, “Brothers, I didn't know that he was the high priest: for it's written, ‘You're not to speak evil of the ruler of your people.’ ”
6 But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Men and brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; concerning the expectation and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!”
7 And when he had said this, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the assembly was divided.
8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor heavenly messenger, nor spirit: but the Pharisees acknowledge all these things.
9 Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested, saying, “We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or a heavenly messenger has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.”
10 Now when there arose a great dissension, the commander, fearing lest Paul might be pulled in pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them, and bring him into the barracks.
11 And following the night the Lord stood by him, and said, “Have courage, Paul: because as you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”
12 And when it was day, some of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul.
13 And they were more than 40 who had made this conspiracy.
14 And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, “We have bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul.
15 Now you, therefore, together with the council, suggest to the commander that he be brought down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to make further inquiries of him; but we're ready to kill him before he comes near.”
16 So when the son of Paul's sister heard of their ambush, he went and entered the barracks and told Paul.
17 Then Paul called one of the centurions to him, and said, “Take this young man to the commander: because he has something to tell him.”
18 So he took him, and brought him to the commander, and said, “Paul the prisoner called me to him, and asked me to bring this young man to you, who has something to say to you.”
19 Then the commander took him by the hand, and privately went aside with him, and asked him, “What is it that you have to tell me?”
20 And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask that you bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though they were going to inquire more fully of him.
21 But don't yield to them, because more than 40 of them lie in wait for him, men who have bound themselves by an oath that they will neither eat nor drink until they have killed him; and now they are ready, waiting for the promise from you.”
22 So the commander let the young man go, and instructed him, “Tell no one that you have revealed these things to me.”
23 And he called two centurions to him, saying, “Prepare 200 soldiers to go to Caesarea, and 70 horsemen, and 200 spearmen, at the third hour of the night;
24 And provide them mounts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safely to Felix the governor.”
25 And he wrote a letter in the following manner:
26 “Claudius Lysias, To the most excellent governor Felix: Greetings.
27 This man was seized by the Jews and was about to be killed by them. Coming with the troops I rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman.
28 And when I wanted to know the reason they accused him, I brought him before their council:
29 I found out that he was accused concerning questions of their law, but had nothing charged against him deserving of death or chains.
30 And when it was told me that the Jews lay in wait for the man, I sent him immediately to you, and also instructed his accusers to state the charges against him before you. Farewell.”
31 Then the soldiers, as they were commanded, took Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris.
32 The next day they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the barracks:
33 When they came to Caesarea, and had delivered the letter to the governor, they also presented Paul before him.
34 And when the governor had read the letter, he asked what province he was from. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia he said,
35 “I will hear you when your accusers have also come.” And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.
Acts 24
1 Now after five days Ananias the high priest came down with the elders and a certain orator named Tertullus. These gave evidence to the governor against Paul.
2 And when he was called upon, Tertullus began his accusation, saying: “Seeing that through you we enjoy great peace, and prosperity is being brought to this nation by your foresight,
3 In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all thankfulness.
4 Nevertheless, not to be tedious to you any further, I beg you to hear, by your courtesy, a few words from us.
5 For we have found this man a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.
6 Who also tried to desecrate the temple, but we arrested him. And wanted to judge him according to our law.
7 But the commander Lysias came by and with great violence took him out of our hands,
8 Commanding his accusers to come to you. By examining him yourself you may ascertain all these things of which we accuse him.”
9 And the Jews also agreed, asserting that these things were so.
10 Then Paul, after the governor had nodded to him to speak, answered: “Since I know that you have been a judge of this nation for many years, I most cheerfully make my defense concerning myself:
11 Because you may ascertain that it's been no more than 12 days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship.
12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city:
13 Neither can they prove the things of which they now accuse me.
14 But I confess this to you, that according to the Way which they call a cult, in this way I worship the God of my fathers, believing everything that is written in the law and in the prophets:
15 And I have an expectation in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.
16 And this being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and people.
17 Now after many years I came to bring gifts of compassion to my nation, and offerings.
18 Then certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with a mob nor with a disturbance.
19 They should have been here before you to object if they had anything against me.
20 Or else let those who are here themselves say if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council,
21 Unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’ ”
22 And when Felix heard these things, having more accurate knowledge of the Way, he adjourned the proceedings and said, “When Lysias the commander comes down, I will make a decision on your case.”
23 And he commanded a centurion to guard Paul from loss or injury, and to let him have liberty, and not to prevent any of his friends from providing for him or visiting him.
24 And after some days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.
25 And as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.”
26 He also hoped that money would be given him by Paul, that he might release him: therefore he sent for him frequently, and conversed with him.
27 But after two years Porcius Festus succeeded Felix; and Felix, wanting to do the Jews a favor, left Paul bound.
1 Now when Festus had come to the province, after three days he went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem.
2 Then the high priest and the chief men of the Jews informed him against Paul; and they petitioned him,
3 And desired a favor from him, that he would summon him to Jerusalem (while they lay in ambush along the road to kill him.)
4 But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself was going there shortly.
5 “Therefore,” he said, “let those who have authority among you go down with me and accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him.”
6 And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea. And the next day sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought.
7 And when he had come, the Jews who came down from Jerusalem stood round him, and laid many weighty charges against Paul, which they could not prove.
8 He answered in his own defense, “Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar have I offended in anything at all.”
9 But Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, answered Paul and said, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and be judged there before me concerning these things?”
10 Then Paul said, "I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I should be judged: I have done no wrong to the Jews, as you very well know.
11 For if indeed I have done wrong, or have committed anything worthy of death, I do not refuse to die: but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar.”
12 Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, “You have appealed to Caesar? To Caesar you will go.”
13 And after some days king Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to greet Festus.
14 And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause to the king, saying, “There's a certain man who was left a prisoner by Felix:
15 About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, asking for a judgment against him.
16 To whom I answered, ‘It’s not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction before the accused meets the accusers face to face, and has opportunity to answer for himself concerning the charge against him.’
17 Therefore when they had come together, without any delay, the next day I sat on the judgment seat and commanded the man to be brought in.
18 When the accusers stood up, they brought no accusation against him of such things as I supposed:
19 But had some questions against him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who had died, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.
20 And because I was uncertain of such questions, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and be judged there concerning these matters.
21 But when Paul appealed to be reserved for the decision of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept until I could send him to Caesar.”
22 Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I also would like to hear the man myself.” “Tomorrow,” he said, “you will hear him.”
23 So the next day, when Agrippa and Bernice had come with great pomp, and had entered the auditorium with the commanders and the prominent men of the city, at Festus’ command Paul was brought in.
24 And Festus said, "King Agrippa, and all you gentlemen present with us, you see this man, about whom the whole multitude of the Jews have petitioned me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying out that he was not fit to live any longer.
25 But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself had appealed to Augustus, I decided to send him.
26 Therefore because I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him, I have brought him out before you. And especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the examination has taken place I may have something to write.
27 For it seems unreasonable to me to send a prisoner, and not to specify the charges against him."
1 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You are permitted to speak for yourself.” Then Paul stretched out his hand, and answered for himself:
2 “I think myself fortunate, King Agrippa, because today I will answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews:
3 Especially because you have knowledge of all the customs and questions which have to do with the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.
4 My manner of life from my youth, which was spent from the beginning among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know;
5 Who knew me from the beginning, if they were willing to testify, that according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.
6 And now I stand and am judged for the expectation of the promise God made to our fathers:
7 To this promise our 12 tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, expect to attain. For this expectation's sake, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews.
8 Why should it be thought incredible by you that God should raise the dead?
9 Indeed, I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.
10 This I also did in Jerusalem, and many of God's holy people I locked up in prisons, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them.
11 And I punished them often in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly enraged against them, I persecuted them even to foreign cities.
12 Thus I also traveled to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,
13 At midday, O king, along the road I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining around me and those who traveled with me.
14 And when we all had fallen to the ground, I heard a voice speaking to me and saying in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It's hard for you to kick against the spurs.’
15 And I said, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And he said, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.
16 But get up, and stand on your feet: because I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of these things which you have seen, and of the things which I will yet reveal to you;
17 I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the nations, to whom I am now sending you,
18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among those who are made holy through faith in me.'
19 Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision: [Literally, unpersuadable.]
20 But declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judah, and then to the nations, that they should change their minds, turn to God, and do works corresponding with a change of heart and mind.
21 On account of these things the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me.
22 Therefore, having obtained help from God, to this day I stand, witnessing both to small and great, saying nothing other than those things which the prophets and Moses said would happen:
23 That the Anointed would suffer, that he would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim enlightenment to the Jewish people and to the nations.”
24 Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you're out of your mind! Your great learning is driving you insane!”
25 But he said, “I'm not insane, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and reason.
26 For the king, before whom I also speak freely, knows these things; because I'm convinced that none of these things are hidden from him, since this thing was not done in a corner.
27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.”
28 Then Agrippa told Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.”
29 And Paul said, “I would to God that not only you, but also everyone who hears me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains.”
30 And when he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them;
31 And when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, “This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains.”
32 Then Agrippa told Festus, “This man might have been set free, if he had not appealed to Caesar.”
1 Now when it was decided that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to a centurion, named Julius, of the Augustus' Regiment.
2 And having gone on board a ship of Adramyttium, we put out to sea, intending to sail along the coasts of Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, was with us.
3 And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly, and gave him permission to go to his friends and refresh himself.
4 And when we had put out to sea from there, we sailed close to Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.
5 And when we had sailed over the sea near Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia.
6 There the centurion found an Alexandrian ship sailing to Italy, and he put us on board.
7 And having sailed slowly many days, and with difficulty we arrived off Cnidus, the wind wouldn't allow us to proceed, so we sailed under the shelter of Crete off Salmone.
8 And passing it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea.
9 Now when much time had been spent, and navigation was now dangerous; since the fast was also now over, Paul advised them,
10 Saying to them, “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives.”
11 Nevertheless the centurion believed the captain and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.
12 And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there.
13 And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, raising anchor, they sailed close by Crete.
14 But not long after, there came down from it a tempestuous wind called the North-Eastern. When the ship was caught in it, and could not head into the wind, we let her be driven.
16 And running under the shelter of a small island called Clauda, we secured the lifeboat with difficulty.
17 When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis sands, they struck sail and so were driven.
18 And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship.
19 And the third day we threw the ship's tackle overboard with our own hands.
20 And when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up.
21 But then after long abstinence from food, Paul stood in the midst of them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss.
22 But now I urge you to cheer up, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship.
23 Because this night there stood by me the messenger of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve,
24 Saying, ‘Don't be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar: and behold, God has given you all of those who sail with you.’
25 Therefore, men, cheer up: because I believe God, that it will be just as it was told me.
26 However, we must run aground on a certain island.”
27 Now when the fourteenth night had come, as we were driven up and down in the Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors sensed that they were drawing near some land.
28 And they took soundings and found it to be 20 fathoms; and when they had gone a little farther, they took soundings again and found it to be 15 fathoms.
29 Then, fearing lest we should run aground on the rocks, they dropped four anchors from the stern, and wished for day to come.
30 And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, when they had let the lifeboat down into the sea, under pretense of putting out anchors from the bow,
31 Paul told the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved.”
32 Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the lifeboat and let it fall off.
33 And as day was about to dawn, Paul implored them all to take food, saying, “Today is the fourteenth day you have waited and continued without food, and eaten nothing.
34 Therefore I urge you to take nourishment, for this is for your survival, since not a hair will fall from the head of any of you.”
35 And when he had said this, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in the presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat.
36 Then they were all encouraged, and they also took some food.
37 And in all we were 276 souls on the ship.
38 And when they had eaten their fill of food, they lightened the ship by throwing the wheat into the sea.
39 But when it was day, they didn't recognize the land; but they saw a bay with a beach, onto which they planned to run the ship if possible.
40 And they let go the anchors and left them in the sea, meanwhile loosing the rudder ropes; and they hoisted the mainsail to the wind and made for shore.
41 But striking a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the bow stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the violence of the waves.
42 And the soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away, and escape.
43 But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land:
44 And the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land.
1 Now when they had escaped, then they found out that the island was called Malta.
2 And the native people showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.
3 And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened itself on his hand.
4 And when the native people saw the creature hanging on his hand, they said among themselves, “No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice doesn't allow him to live.”
5 And he shook off the creature into the fire, and felt no harm.
6 However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.
7 In that region there was an estate of the leading citizen of the island, whose name was Publius, who received us and entertained us courteously for three days.
8 Now it so happened that the father of Publius was laying sick with a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him.
9 So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.
10 They also honored us with many gifts; and when we were to set sail, they provided such things as we needed.
11 After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island.
12 And landing at Syracuse, we stayed there three days.
13 From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew; and the next day we came to Puteoli,
14 Where we found brothers and sisters, and were invited to stay with them seven days. Then we went on toward Rome.
15 And from there, when the brothers and sisters heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.
16 Now when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard; but Paul was allowed to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him.
17 Now it happened after three days that Paul called the leaders of the Jews together. So when they had come together, he said to them: “Men and brothers, though I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.
18 Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was nothing worthy of death in me.
19 But when the Jews spoke against it, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar; not that I had anything to accuse my nation of.
20 Therefore for this reason I have called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because for the expectation of Israel I am bound with this chain.”
21 Then they said to him, “We've neither received letters from Judah concerning you, nor have any of the brothers who came reported or spoken any evil of you.
22 But we desire to hear from you what you think; because regarding this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere.”
23 So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his residence to whom he explained and solemnly testified concerning God’s Kingdom, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning until evening.
24 And some believed the things which were spoken, and some didn't believe.
25 And when they couldn't agree among themselves, they left, after Paul spoke one statement, “The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through Isaiah the prophet to our fathers,
26 Saying, ‘Go to this people and say: “Hearing you will hear, and will not understand; And seeing you will see, and not perceive;
27 Because the hearts of this people have grown hard. Their ears are hard of hearing, And they have closed their eyes, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal them.” ’
28 Therefore let it be known to you that God’s salvation has been sent to the nations, and they will listen obediently to it.”
29 And when he had said these words, the Jews left and had a great dispute among themselves.
30 And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received everyone who came in to him,
31 He proclaimed God’s Kingdom and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!
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