all of saint paul page 1
The Systematic Saint Paul
An Exegesis on the Pauline Epistles
Frater meum Occultum
Acknowledgments
μὴ σκοπούντων ἡμῶν τὰ βλεπόμενα ἀλλὰ τὰ μὴ βλεπόμενα·
τὰ γὰρ βλεπόμενα πρόσκαιρα τὰ δὲ μὴ βλεπόμενα αἰώνια
Leo Strauss observed that when packing for eternity, one must be judicious, for an author to attempt to be all things to all people , inadventently, he becomes menotionous to all. Therefore, it is our sincere pleasure for the following individuals to join us on our adventure.
Taylor Morley, Dominick Farr, Thomas Wright, Hunter Jackson, Stephen Keller, Joe Mascari, Adam Elea, Steve Meyette, Jaimexxxx “Farr, Thomas Galloway, Denver Drake, Brayden Drake, Tyler Forster, Mickey McDonald, R.J. Wood, Sarah Marchino, Christian Tertwieler, Gabe Donnerxxxx, Levi Herb, Robert Morley, Brock Morley, Tyler Baileyxx,
Preface
Does the world need an additional commentary on the words of Saint Paul? From Pagels’ Gnostic exegeses to Nietzsche's criticism of Paul in the AntiChrist and everything in between, the first impulse is a resounding “No.” Yet, a systematic treatment of Saint Paul is missing. The reader of the Pauline epistles will always believe he understands the texts and, yet, we remain unconvinced of the correctness of any individual understanding. Pagels clearly states that her work is how it was possible for second century Gnostics to interpret Paul. As a respected scholar, Pagels relies on the accepted world chronology of Scaliger. Nietzsche, not being constrained by certain formalities, states that the histories of the church were ready, they were “duly published”, which suggests a subtle indication that he not only rejected the chronology of Scaliger, but believed that these published works were the from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. As there is no consensus on the meaning of the epistles, this is the salient indication that the text is ambiguous. The typical expounder of Saint Paul does not seek truth and only wishes to be acknowledged for their commentary and insights from a difficult oeuvre by an easily convinced audience.
The King James Bible version is used exculsively throughtout, due to the
Part the First
To accurately interpret the text, one must determine who the expected audience is, for to do otherwise, assumes a premise that may not be sustained with further research. With so many varying opinions on the Pauline corpus, it is seasonable to assume that the expected reader is atypical, in the sense of thinking and understanding.
Our first premise is that the true nature of the text is esoteric, otherwise, their would be little conflicting opinions. Therefore, the complete text must be read to find indications of esoteric writing and if there are such indications, then our premise will be confirmed. After this conformation, the arduous task of determining exactly Saint Paul is attempting to teach remains.
Pseudonym PS
The easiest example of esoteric writing to identify is the pseudonym, as Paul was originally Saul [Acts 13:9. This fact is well known, however, a fact not as well know is that, according to Matthew 1:23, the name of the prophecied child is to be Emmanuel, but the child was named Jesus by his father. The reader can justly consider “Jesus” to be a pseudonym for Emmanuel [Matthew 1: 21, 25]. If this Jesus is not an alias for Emmanuel, then it follows that Jesus cannot be the expected Messiah, as he did not fulfill the prophecy. The total number of the usages of “Jesus” overwhelms the single instance of Emmanuel, but sheer volume of occurrences cannot be considered as viable evidence for the overturning any fact or reasonable conclusions from facts. Therefore, for the purpose of this research, Jesus will be considered as a pseudonym.
Allegory [AL]
Gal. 4:24 Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.
Saint Paul explicitly mentions the usage of allegory and frequently uses this method of exegesis throughout his epistles without identifying them as such.
Rhetorical Questions [RQ]
By their nature, rhetorical questions are not to be answered. However, in the Pauline texts, rhetorical questions frequently give information the reader would not otherwise be aware.
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? -1 Cor. 6:3
The reader would be unaware that he would judge angels of God. However, the faithful may judge those “messengers” who preach another gospel [Gal. 1:8.
Oftentimes, Saint Paul provides an immediate response:
Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I.
-2 Cor. 11:22
Certain questions can be answered in another text:
[Need] we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? -2 Cor. 3:1
And [Saul] desired of him [the high priest] letters to Damascus to the synagogues… Act 9:2
It would seem that the answer to needing letters of commendation is in the affirmative.
Appeal to Authority [AA]
The appeals to the authority of the Old Testament are often explained by Saint Paul through allegorical explanations. Saint Paul also mentions revelations from the Lord which are rightly considered as authority.
Inexact Repetition IR
Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: -2 Cor. 5:6
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
-2 Cor. 5:8
Both sentences confirm one cannot be both in the body and with the Lord simultaneously.
The careful reader should not readily accept that the terms Jesus, Jesus Christ, Christ, and Christ Jesus are synonymous.
Technical Language TL
The two most commonly found examples of technical language are “the resurrection from the dead” and “the resurrection of the dead.” Additional examples include the “remission of sins”, “justified by faith”, “received the atonement”, “the gift by grace”, and “the body of sin”.
Strange Expressions SE
Strange expressions abound in the Pauline epistles and examples are: “the circumcision by faith”, “God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel”, “the wages of sin is death”, and “the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Ambiguity Of Expression [AE]
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 1Co 9:20-22
Saint Paul includes both the “Jews” and those “under the law”. When encountering other passages, the typical reader assumes “the law” is the “Jewish law” and they may be correct. However, in the above passages, Saint Paul clearly makes a distinction between being a “Jew” and being “under the law”. Therefore, “the law” is considered as an ambiguous expression. By appearing to be different characters, in different circumstances, Saint Paul exposes himself to being duplicitous, or dual minded [cf. James xxxx]
Saint Paul frequently utilizes the “Pronoun Game” and the answer to the question of “Who?” is often omitted, leaving the careful reader to wonder who the name of the subject at hand. If the noun is previously provided, then we include it in brackets with the verse number, for example: [God, v.7].
Principles Frequently Stated, But Contradicted By Upholding Incompatible Views [FS]
In the epsitle to the Roman, the reader is told that that the law is holy and just:
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Rom 7:12
However, Saint Paul writes to the Galtians that the law is a curse:
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse …10 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law ... Gal. 3:10,13
The law cannot be holy, just, and a curse simuoltaneously.
Infelicity Of Style [IS]
The best example of an infelicity of style is when Saint Paul becomes exasperated by the question of circumcision that he commits to writing his wish that his opponents would emasculate themselves.
I would they were even cut off which trouble you. Gal 5:12
On four occasions, Saint Paul states he is not lying, indicating he is accused of lying [Rom 9:1, 2Co 11:31, Gal 1:20, 1Ti 2:7].
Contradiction [CD]
Contradictions are of two main types, explicit and implicit, and of the two, explicit contradictions are the easiest to notice.
And the men … stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. Act 9:7
[The men saw] the light, … but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. Act 22:9
In one version, men hear a voice, but see no one and in the second version, the men hear no one, but see the light.
[Paul said] “[We] turn to the Gentiles.” Act 13:46
[Paul] went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures, Act 17:2
[Paul said] I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles. Act 18:6
[Paul] entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. Act 18:19
[Paul] went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months… Act 19:8
Although Saint Paul was appointed to go to the Gentiles, and he himself states that he will only preach to the Gentiles, he continues to dispute with the Jews.
Him [Timotheus] would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek. Act 16:3
The apostolic letter stated the circumcision was not mandatory for converts [xxx], as Paul had argued, yet Paul circumcises Timotheus.
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty,
so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 2Co 11:3
The explicit “simplicity” of Christ is subtly contradicted by the 48,000 words Saint Paul devotes to the subject.
Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: 2Co 3:12
The “great plainness of speech” is contradicted by the ambiguous writing and technical language.
The final subtle contradiction to be considered is found in the title “The Acts of the Apostles” itself, which consists mostly of the adventures of Saint Paul.
Saint Paul relates to the Corinthians that he relates what he has heard:
And that he [Christ v.3] was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: 1Co 15:5
There is no mention of Judas Iscariot or Saint Thomas being absent, so the number of witness that saw the risen Christ should either be eleven or ten.
Finally, the Pauline epistles cannot be considered as letters. The ancient letter that Julius Caesar sent to the Roman senate:
Veni Vidi Vici
and the “spurious” Pauline letter to the Laocideans:
Paul, an apostle not of men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ, unto the brethren that are at Laodicea.1 Grace be unto you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.2 I give thanks unto Christ in all my prayers, that ye continue in him and persevere in his works, looking for the promise at the day of judgement TL .3 Neither do the vain talkings of some overset you CM , which creep in, that they may turn you away from the truth of the Gospel which is preached by me.4 And now shall God cause that they that are of me shall continue ministering unto the increase of the truth of the Gospel and accomplishing goodness, and the work of salvation, even eternal life.5 TL And now are my bonds seen of all men, which I suffer in Christ, wherein I rejoice and am glad.6 And unto me this is for everlasting salvation TL, which also is brought about by your prayers, and the ministry of the Holy Ghost TL, whether by life or by death. 7 For verily to me life is in Christ, and to die is joy.8 And unto him (or And also) shall he work his mercy in you that ye may have the same love, and be of one mind.9 Therefore, dearly beloved, as ye have heard in my presence so hold fast and work in the fear of God TL, and it shall be unto you for life eternal.10 For it is God that worketh in you.11 And do ye without afterthought whatsoever ye do.12 And for the rest, dearly beloved, rejoice in Christ, and beware of them that are filthy in lucre.13 Let all your petitions be made openly before God, and be ye steadfast in the mind of Christ.14 And what things are sound and true and sober and just and to be loved, do ye.15 [CM] And what ye have heard and received, keep fast in your heart.16 And peace shall be unto you.17 The saints TL salute you.18 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with your spirit.19 And cause this epistle to be read unto them of Colossae, and the epistle of the Colossians to be read unto you.20
are necessarily short, due entirely to the limited supply of animal skins and their resultant expensive and luxurious nature. The Pauline epistles are not letters, in the strict sense, but books.
*
If Saint Paul only wrote in esoteric language without offering explicit statements concerning the actual topic under consideration, then the reader could never be certain of his personal understanding of the text was the correct interpretation. Without at least one link or hint to non Pauline Christianity to insure the interpretation is xxxcorrect, not only plausible, then any interpretations would remain ambiguous, at best, and unverifiable, at worst.
The first suggestion of the correct interpretation of the writings of Saint Paul occurs in Romans:
For if the casting away of them [Israel, v.7] be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? Rom 11:15
Therefore, this is an explicit statement that Israel’s acceptance of the gospel of Saint Paul is understood as “life from the dead”.
Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. 2Ti 2:18
From the second indication, it is likely that “the resurrection of the dead” is an ongoing process, although there could be a one time future event.
Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. Eph 5:14
Thirdly, Saint Paul connects the state of being dead as the state being asleep, where the revived, or awake, receives the light of Christ. We understand this passage as those who are sleeping are in ignorance and the rising from ignorance is the light or knowledge of Christ. Saint Paul confirms our conclusion that the resurrection is an ongoing process by using the present verb tense:
[Yield] yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, TL ... Rom 6:13
--
Who [our Lord Jesus Christ, xxxx] died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. 1Th 5:10
We understand this statement as indicating there are two types of people, those who have the full knowledge of Christ, those who are awake, and those with an incomplete knowledge of Christ, those who sleep.
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 1Co 9:20
Fourthly, the law cannot always be interpreted as “the Jewish law”, hinting that there is at least one other, although unnamed, law.
And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. Act 20:9
This is an allegory relating how the primary audience of Saint Paul is not literally dead, they are only described as being dead. Of course, Saint Paul knows the truth: “Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.” The conclusion to this allegory is that the young man, or the attentive reader, was a hearer of Saint Paul and, as he lifted Eutychus from the dead, so he can raise the reader from death to life.
On the name Paul
Saint Paul writes that he is “the least of the apostles”, is “less than the least of all saints”, and “his bodily presence is weak“ [1Cor 15:9; 2Cor 10:10; Eph 3:8]. This is simply wordplay and not humility, since the word “Paul” means “little” or “small” in Latin.
The necessity of esoteric writing in the Pauline Epistles
If the truth of what is found in the Pauline Christianity is good or wholesome, and wanted or needed, then the Gospel would be clear, concise, and agreed upon and joyfully embraced by all, but the most degenerate. However, the following list demonstrates the different ethnic groups, religious practices, and social classes that persecuted that early “sect of the Nazarenes” and their “good news” [Act 24:5]:
Then they [the council members, Acts 6:15] cried out with a loud voice … and ran upon him [Stephen, Acts 6:9] with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him... Act 7:57-58
And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him [Pau, xxl]: Act 9:23
[Paul, xxx] disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Act 9:29
But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul PS and Barnabas PS, and expelled them out of their coasts. Act 13:50
And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles … of the Jews ... to stone them [Paul and Barnabas, v.50], They were ware of it, and fled… Act 14:56
[Certain] Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul PS, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. Act 14:19
[The Thyatirians, v.14] rose up together against them [Paul and Silas, v.19]; and the magistrates … commanded to beat them. Act 16:22
But when they [the Ephesians?] knew that he [Paul] was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians. Act 19:34
Paul would have entered the theater at Ephesus, if some of disciples did not intervene [v.30].
[As all the city, v.30] went about to kill him [Paul, v.29], tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. Act 21:31
[The multitude of people, Acts 21:36] gave him [Paul] audience unto this word ...
and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live. Act 22:22
And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul PS should have been pulled in pieces of them [the Sadducees, v.7], commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle. Act 23:10
And when it was day, certain [more than 40, v.13] of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul PS. Act 23:12
Although there is no certainty of what Saint Paul was saying, it is clear that the message offends Jews, Gentiles, rulers, and the common people. When people are indignant that they assault Paul and wrathful to the point of attempting to murder him, then there is no doubt these same people would burn his epistles. It can be said that though long and painful experience Saint Paul adopted his peculiar writing style that is indebted to the Greeks, the Barbarians, the wise, and the “unwise” [Rom 1:14].
If the true understanding of Pauline Christianity is scattered in a few obscure terms and a handful of hints throughout the epistles, then the appeals to morality are explicit within each letter. Saint Paul offers advice on ethics and insists upon adherence to basic moral rules that everyone knows, yet, no one follows all of them. Appeasements to morality and obscure usage of language are intentional attempts by the author to both preserve the writings and prevent the destruction of these writings, respectively, The morality found in the epistles are not the exclusive domain of Christianity and cannot be considered when seeking an understanding into Christianity, generally, and Pauline Christianity, specifically. Appeals to ethics, morality, and the personal advice of Saint Paul, but not commandments from the Lord, are grouped together under “conventional morality”, or [CM].
Although the personal adventures and struggles of Saint Paul are informative and suggestive, these are limited by time and place and should not be properly considered as belonging to the universalism that is Pauline Christianity. The occurrences of these passages are noted by PA, for “personal adventures”.
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2Co 4:18
Finally, the King James Version of the Bible is used exclusively for this research, as it the most widely available edition in the English access. The text has been persevered, although the excessive usage of punctuation such as colons, semicolons, and parentheses has been modified to be understandable to the general reader. Another benefit regarding ths Bibiical version is that words not in the original Greek text are indicated by itialics. The salutation from 1Cor1:1xx where Saint Paul states he is an Apostle in the King James version with italics:
Paul PS, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ...
and without italics:
Paul PS, an apostle of Jesus Christ...
are subject to two interpretations. With italics, it seems that the editor wants the reader to recall the encounter on the road to Damascus, where the Lord calls Saul to be the Apostle to the Gentiles [Act 26:17]. However, in the original Greek, Saint Paul merely mentions he is an apostle, or messenger of the gospel, without any special significance attached to the title.
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The following section contains all of “The Acts of the Apostles” and has been formatted to demonstrate the long speeches and various dialogues. Abbreviations of the esoteric writing techniques and select commentary are included. We also indicate when the disciples or Saint Paul are persecuted [PRS].
Acts.1
The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,1 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost TL had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:2 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:3 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.4
For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost TL not many days hence.5
When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying,
Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?6
And he said unto them,
It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.7 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost TL is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.8
And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.9 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;10 Which also said,
Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.11
Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey.12 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.13 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.14 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)15 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost TL by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.16 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.17 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. 18 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.19 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.20 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,21 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.22 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.23 And they prayed, and said,
Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,24 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.25
And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
The number of twelve Apostles is maintained.
Acts.2
And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.1 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.2 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.3 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost TL, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.4 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.5 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.6 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another,
Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?7 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?8 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,9 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,10 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.11
And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another,
What meaneth this?12
Others mocking said,
These men are full of new wine.13
But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them,
Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:14 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.15 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;16 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God,I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:17 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:18 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:19 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come:20 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.21 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:22 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:23 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.24 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:25 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:26 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.27 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.28 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.29 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;30 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.31 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.32 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.33 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,34 Until I make thy foes thy footstool.35 Therefore let all the house of Israe know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.36
Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles,
Men and brethren, what shall we do?37
Then Peter said unto them,
Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.38 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.39
And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying,
Save yourselves from this untoward generation.40
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.41 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.42 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.43 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;44 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.45 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,46 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Acts.3
Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.1 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple;2 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.3 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said,
Look on us.4
And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.5 Then Peter said,
Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.6
And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ancle bones received strength.7 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.8 And all the people saw him walking and praising God:9 And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him.10 And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.11 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people,
Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?12 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.13 But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;14 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.15 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.16 And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.17 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.18 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;19 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:20 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.21 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.22 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.23 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.24 Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.25 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.
Acts.4
And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,1 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.TL2 And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide.3 Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.4 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,5 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.6 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked,
By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?7
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost TL, said unto them,
Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,8 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;9 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.10 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.11 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.12
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.13 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.14 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,15 Saying,
What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.16 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.17
And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.18 But Peter and John answered and said unto them,
Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.19 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.20
So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.21 For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.22 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.23 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said,
Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:24 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?25 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.26 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,27 For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.28 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,29 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.30
And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost TL, and they spake the word of God [ae] with boldness.31 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.32 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.33 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,34 And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.35 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, PS (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,36 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet SE.
Acts.5
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,1 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.2 But Peter said,
Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land3 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.4
And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost SE: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.5 And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.6 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.7 And Peter answered unto her,
Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much?
And she said,
Yea, for so much.8
Then Peter said unto her,
How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.9
Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost SE: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.10 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.11 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.12 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.13 And believers were the more added to the Lord SE, multitudes both of men and women.)14 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.15 There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.16 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,17 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.18 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,19
Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.20
And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel TL and sent to the prison to have them brought.21 But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,22 Saying,
The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.23
Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.24 Then came one and told them, saying,
Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.25
Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.26 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,27 Saying,
Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.28
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said,
We ought to obey God rather than men.29 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.30 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.31 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.32
When they [the people, v. 26] heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them [Peter and the other apostles, v.29].33
[PRS]
Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel [Acts 22:3], a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;34 And said unto them,
Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.35 For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.36 After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.37 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:38 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.39
Theudas and Judas
And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.40
[PRS]
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.41 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Acts.6
And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.1 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said,
It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.2 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost TL and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.3 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.4
And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost TL, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:5 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them TL.6 And the word of God increased SE; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.7 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.8 Then there arose certain of the synagogue [AE], which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.9 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.10 Then they suborned men, which said,
We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.11
And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,12 And set up false witnesses, which said,
This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:13 For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.14 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.15
Acts.7
Then said the high priest,
Are these things so?1
And he said,
Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,2 And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee.3 Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell.4 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.5 And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years.6 And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place.7 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.8 And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him,9 And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.10 Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance.11 But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first.12 And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh.13 Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, threescore and fifteen souls.14 So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers,15 And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem.16 But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,17 Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph.18 The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.19 In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months:20 And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son.21 And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.22 And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.23 And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:24 For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.25 And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?26 But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us?27 Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?28 Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons.29 And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush.30 When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the Lord came unto him,31 Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.32 Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground.33 I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt.34 This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.35 He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years.36 This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.37 This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:38 To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt,39 Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.40 And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.41 Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness?42 Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.43 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.44 Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;45 Who found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.46 But Solomon built him an house.47 Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet,48 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?49 Hath not my hand made all these things?50 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost TL: as your fathers did, so do ye.51 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:52 Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.53
The strange situation of Stephen, a Jew, relating the history of the Jews to the Jews is fully explained by the suggestion that the proper audience is the Gentile reader.
When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.54 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost TL, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,55 And said,
Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.TL56
Then they [the council members, Acts 6:15] cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,57 And cast him [Stephen, Acts 6:9] out of the city, and stoned him PRS: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.58
It is unknown why the murderers of Stephen would disrobe and put their clothes at the feet of Saul. The wording that Saul is a “young man” is vague. Jewish tradition maintains that a male is considered a man at age thirteen. The zealous and fanatical nature of the persecutions of the early Christians by Saul may be explained by his extreme youth.
And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying,
Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.59
And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice,
Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.
And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Acts.8
And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.29 As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.3 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.4 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.5 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.6 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.7 And there was great joy in that city.8 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:9 To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying,
This man is the great power of God.10
This certain Simon is understood to be Simon Magus.
And to him [Simon, v.8] they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.11 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.12 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.13 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:14 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost TL: 15 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)16 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.TL17 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost TL was given, he offered them money,18 Saying,
Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. TL19
But Peter said unto him,
Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.20 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.21 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.22 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.23
Then answered Simon, and said,
Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.24
According to the text, Simon believes [Acts 8:13] and the there is no indication that he either stopped believing or repented.
And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.25 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying,
Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.26
And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,27 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.28 Then the Spirit said unto Philip,
Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.29
And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said,
Understandest thou what thou readest?30
And he said,
How can I, except some man should guide me?
And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.31
The place of the scripture which he read was this,
He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:32 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.33
And the eunuch answered Philip, and said,
I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?34
Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.35 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said,
See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?36
And Philip said,
If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.
And he answered and said,
I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.37
And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.38 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord TL caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.39 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.
Acts.9
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,1 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this wayTL, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.2 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:3 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him,
Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?4
And he said,
Who art thou, Lord?
And the Lord said,
I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.5
And he trembling and astonished said,
Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?
And the Lord said unto him,
Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.6
And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.7 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.8 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.9 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said,
Behold, I am here, Lord.
[11] And the Lord said unto him,
Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,11 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.12
Then Ananias answered,
Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints TL at Jerusalem:13 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.14
But the Lord said unto him,
Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:15 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.16
And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said,
Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way TL as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. TL
[18] And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.18 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.19 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.20 But all that heard him were amazed, and said;
Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?21
But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.[23] And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him [Paul]:23
Jews want to kill Paul. [PRS]
But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.24 Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.[26] And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.26
The disciples thought that Saul was infiltrating the movement.
But Barnabas PS took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way,TL and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.27 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.[29] And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him [Paul] PRS.29
The Greeks want to kill Saul.
Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.30 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost TL, were multiplied.31 And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints TL which dwelt at Lydda.32 And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy.33 And Peter said unto him,
Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed.
And he arose immediately.34 And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.35 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.36 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.37 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.38 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.39 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said,
Tabitha, arise.
And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.40 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints TL and widows, presented her alive.41 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.42 And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.
Acts.10
There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,[AE] 1 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.2 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him,
Cornelius.3
And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said,
What is it, Lord?
And he said unto him,
Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.4 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter:5 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.6
And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually;7 And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.8 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:9 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,10 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:11 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.12 And there came a voice to him,
Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.13
But Peter said,
Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.14
And the voice spake unto him again the second time,
What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.15
This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.16 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,17 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there.18 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him,
Behold, three men seek thee.19 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.20
Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said,
Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?21
And they said,
Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.22
Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.23 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.24 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.25 But Peter took him up, saying,
Stand up; I myself also am a man.26
And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together.27 And he said unto them,
Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.28 Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?29
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,30 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.31 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.32 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.
[34] Then Peter opened his mouth, and said,
Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:34 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.35 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)36 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;37 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost TL and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.38 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:39 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;40 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.41 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.42 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
43 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell TL on all them which heard the word.44 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost TL.45 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,46
Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost TL as well as we?47
And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts.11
And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God TL.1 And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision [ae] contended with him,2 Saying,
Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.3
But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,4
I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:5 Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.6 And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.7 But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.8 But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.9 And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.10 And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.11 And the spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:12 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;13 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.14 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost TL fell on them, as on us at the beginning.15 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost TL.16 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?17
When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying,
Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.SE18
Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.19 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.20 And the hand of the Lord was with them AE: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord TL.21 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas PS, that he should go as far as Antioch.22 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord SE. 23 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost TL and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.[25] Then departed Barnabas PS to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:25 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.26 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.27 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit SE that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.28 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:[Acts 11:30] Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas PS and Saul.
Acts.12
Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church.1 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.2 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)3 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.4
Four quaternions of soldiersxxx
Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.5 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.6 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying,
Arise up quickly.
And his chains fell off from his hands.7 And the angel said unto him,
Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals.
And so he did. And he saith unto him,
Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.8
And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.9 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.10 And when Peter was come to himself, he said,
Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.11
And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.12 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.13 And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.14 And they said unto her,
Thou art mad.
But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they,
It is his angel.15
But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.16 But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said,
Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren.
And he departed, and went into another place.17 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.18 And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode.19 And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.20 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.21 And the people gave a shout, saying,
It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.22
And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.23 But the word of God grew and multiplied.24 And Barnabas PS and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.
Acts.13
Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger PS, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.1 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost TL said,
Separate me Barnabas PS and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.2
And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them TL, they sent them away.Acts. 13:3 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost TL, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.4 And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.[6] And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-jesus:6 Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.7 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.[9] Then Saul, (who also is called Paul PS,) filled with the Holy Ghost TL, set his eyes on him,9 And said,
O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?10 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season.
And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.11 Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.12 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.13 But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.14 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.
[16] Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said,
Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.16 The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.17 And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness.18 And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot.19 And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.20 And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.21 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.22 Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:23 When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.24 And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.25 Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.26 For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning him.27 And though they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain.28 And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre.29 But God raised him from the dead:30 And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.31 And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers,32 God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.33 And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David.34 Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.35 For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption:36 But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption.37 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:38 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.39 Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets;40 Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.
Jesus was crucified on a tree [v.29]41
And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.42 Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul PS and Barnabas PS: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.43 And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.44 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul PS, contradicting and blaspheming.45 Then Paul PS and Barnabas PS waxed bold, and said,
It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.46 For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying,
I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.47
And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.48 And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.49 But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul PS and BarnabasPS, and expelled them out of their coasts PRS.50
Paul is persecuted.
But they shook off the dust of their feet against them SE, and came unto Iconium.51 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost TL.
Acts.14
And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.1 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.2 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.3 But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles.4 And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them PRS,5 They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:6
And there they preached the gospel.7 And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:8 The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,9 Said with a loud voice,
Stand upright on thy feet.
And he leaped and walked.10 And when the people saw what Paul PS had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.11 And they called Barnabas PS, Jupiter; and Paul PS, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker.12 Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.13 Which when the apostles, Barnabas PS and Paul PS IR, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,14 And saying,
Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:15 Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.16 Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.17
And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.18 And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul PS, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead PRS.19
Paul is stoned and presumed dead.
Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he [Paul] rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.20 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,21 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God TL. 22 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.23 And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.24 And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:25 And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.26 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.27 And there they abode long time with the disciples.
Acts.15
And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said,
Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.1
When therefore PaulPS and BarnabasPS had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul PS and Barnabas PS, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.[Acts 15:3] And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.3 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.4 But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying,
That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.5
And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.6 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them,
Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.7 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost TL, even as he did unto us;8 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.9 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?10 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.11
Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas PS and Paul PS IR, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.12 And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying,
Men and brethren, hearken unto me: 13 Simeon [Acts 13:1] hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.14 And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,15 After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:16 That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things.17 Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.18 Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God:19 But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.20 For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day.21 Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul PS and Barnabas PS; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas PS, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:22
And they wrote letters by them after this manner;
The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia:23 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:24 It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,25 Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.26 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.27 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost TL, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;28 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.29
So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle:30 Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.31 And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.32 And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles.33 Notwithstanding it pleased Silas to abide there still.34 Paul PS also and Barnabas PS continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.35 And some days after Paul PS said unto Barnabas PS,
Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.36
And Barnabas PS determined to take with them John, whose surme was Mark.37 But Paul PS thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.38 And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas PS took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;39
Paul is “contentious” towards Mark.
And Paul PS chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.40 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.
Acts.16
Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek:1 Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.2 Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.3
The apostolic letter stated the circumcision was not mandatory for converts, as Paul had sucessfully argued, yet Paul circumcises Timotheus.
And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.4 And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.5 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost TL to preach the word in Asia,6 After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.7 And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.8 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying,
Come over into Macedonia, and help us.9
And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.10 Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis;11 And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.12 And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.13 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened SE, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of PaulPS.14 And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.15 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:16 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying,
These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.17
And this did she many days. But Paul PS, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit,
I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.
And he came out the same hour.18 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul PS and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,19 And brought them to the magistrates, saying,
These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city,20 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.21
And the multitude [Thyatirians, v.14] rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them [Paul and Silas, v.19] PRS.22
Paul is beaten.
And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:23 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.24 And at midnight Paul PS and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.25 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.26 And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.27
But Paul PScried with a loud voice, saying,
Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.28
Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul PS and Silas,29 And brought them out, and said,
Sirs, what must I do to be saved?30
And they said,
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.31
And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.32 And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.33 And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.34 And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying,
Let those men go.35
And the keeper of the prison told this saying to PaulPS,
The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.36
But PaulPS said unto them,
They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.37
And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.38 And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.39 And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.
Acts.17
Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:1 And Paul PS as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,2 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.3
Paul continues preaching to the Jews.
And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul PS and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.4 But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.5 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying,
These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;6 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.7
And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things.8 And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.9 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul PS and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.10
Paul goes to the synagogue.
These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.11 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.12 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul PS at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.13 And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul PS to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.14 And they that conducted Paul PS brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.15 Now while Paul PS waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.16 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.17 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said,
What will this babbler say?
other some,
He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.18
And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying,
May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?19 For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean.20
(For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)21 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said,
Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.22 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.23 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;24 Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;25 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;26 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:27 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.28 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.29 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:30 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.31
And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said,
We will hear thee again of this matter.32
So Paul PS departed from among them.33 Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
Acts.18
After these things Paul PS departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;1 And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.2 And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.3 And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.4 And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul PS was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.5 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them,
Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.6
And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.7 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.8 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision,
Be xxxx not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:9 For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.10
And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.11 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul PS, and brought him to the judgment seat,12 Saying,
This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.13
And when Paul PSwas now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews,
If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you:14 But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.15
And he drave them from the judgment seat.16 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.17 And Paul PS after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.18
A Nazarene vow fulfillled.
And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.19
Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, goes to the synagogue.
When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;20 But bade them farewell, saying,
I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will.
And he sailed from Ephesus.21 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down to Antioch.22 And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.23 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.24 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.25 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way TL of God more perfectly SE. 26 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:27 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Acts.19
And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul PS having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,1He said unto them,
Have ye received the Holy Ghost TL since ye believed?
And they said unto him,
We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.2
And he said unto them,
Unto what then were ye baptized?
And they said,
Unto John's baptism.3
Then said Paul,
John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.4
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.5 And when Paul PS had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost TL came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.6 And all the men were about twelve.[8] And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.8
Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, teaches at the synagogue for three months.
But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.[10] And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.10 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul PS:11 So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.12
People are healed by touching the garments of Jesus and Paul. cf.
Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying,
We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul PS preacheth.13
There is no demonic possession in the Old Testament, so Jewish exorcists are a result development.
And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.14 And the evil spirit answered and said,
Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?15
And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.16 And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.17 And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.18 Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.19 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.20 After these things were ended, Paul PS purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying,
After I have been there, I must also see Rome.21
So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season.22 And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.SE 23 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen;24 Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said,
Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth.25 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul PS hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands:26 So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.27
And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying,
Great is Diana of the Ephesians.28
And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's PS companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.29 And when Paul PS would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.30 And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre.31 Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.32 And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.33 But when they [the Ephesians?] knew that he [Paul] was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out,
Great is Diana of the Ephesians.34
And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said,
xxx men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter?35 Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly.36 For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess.37 Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another.38 But if ye inquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly.39 For we are in danger to be called in question for this day's uproar, there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this concourse.40
And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.
Acts.20
And after the uproar was ceased, Paul PS called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.1 And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,29 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.3 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.4 These going before tarried for us at Troas.5 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.6 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul PSpreached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.7 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.8 And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.9 And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said,
Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.10
When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.11 And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.12 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul PS: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.13 And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.14 And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.15 For Paul PS had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.16 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.17 And when they were come to him, he said unto them,
Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,18 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:19 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,20 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.21 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:22 Save that the Holy Ghost TLwitnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.23 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.24 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God TL, shall see my face no more.25 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.26 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.27 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost TLhath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood SE. 28 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.29 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.30 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.31 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.32 I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.33 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.34 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said,
It is more blessed to give than to receive.35
And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.36 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,37 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
Acts.21
And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:1 And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.2 Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.3 And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul PS through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.[xxx]4 And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.5 And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again.6 And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.7 And the next day we that were of Paul's PS company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.8
One of the seven?
And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.9 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.10 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's PS girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said,
Thus saith the Holy Ghost TL, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.11
And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.12 Then Paul PS answered,
What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.13
And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying,
The will of the Lord be done.14
And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.15 There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.16 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.17 And the day following Paul PS went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present.18 And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.19 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him,
Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:20 And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.21 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.22 Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them;23 Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.24 As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.25
Then Paul PS took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purifcation, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.26 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,27 Crying out,
Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.28
(For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul PShad brought into the temple.)29 And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took PaulPS, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.30 And as they [all the city, v.30] went about to kill him [Paul, v.29] PRS, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.31
Paul was almost killed.
Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul PS.32 Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.33 And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle.34 And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people.35 For the multitude of the people followed after, crying,
Away with him.36
And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain,
May I speak unto thee?
Who said,
Canst thou speak Greek?37 Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?38
But Paul said,
I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.39
And when he had given him licence, Paul PS stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,
Acts.22
Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you.1
(And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)2
I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel [Acts 5:34] , and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God TL, as ye all are this day.3 And I persecuted this way TLunto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.4 As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished.5 And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me.6 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me,
Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?7
And I answered,
Who art thou, Lord?
And he said unto me,
I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.8
And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.9 And I said,
What shall I do, Lord?
And the Lord said unto me,
Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.10
And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.11 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,12 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.13 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One PS, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.14 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.15 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.16 And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;17 And saw him saying unto me,
Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.18
And I said,
Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee:19 And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.20 And he said unto me,
Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.21
And they [the multitude of people, [Acts 21:36] gave him [Paul] audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said,
Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live PRS.22
Paul is persecuted.
And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air,23 The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they cried so against him.24 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul PS said unto the centurion that stood by,
Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?25
When the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain, saying,
Take heed what thou doest: for this man is a Roman.26
Then the chief captain came, and said unto him,
Tell me, art thou a Roman?
He said,
Yea.27
And the chief captain answered,
With a great sum obtained I this freedom.
And Paul said,
But I was free born.28
Then straightway they departed from him which should have examined him: and the chief captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.29 On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.
Acts.23
And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said,
Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.1
And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.2 Then said Paul PS unto him,
God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?3
And they that stood by said,
Revilest thou God's high priest?4
Then said Paul PS,
I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.5
The reader is expected to believe that Saint Paul did not know either who the high priest was or that they had distinguihing clothing.
But when Paul PS perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council,
Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.6
And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.7 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both AE.8 And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying,
We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.9
And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul PS should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.10
And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said,
Be of good cheer, PaulPS: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.11
And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed PaulPS.12 And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy PRS.13
More than forty people want to kill Paul.
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 slain Paul.14 Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would inquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him.15
And when Paul's PSsister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.16 Then Paul PScalled one of the centurions unto him, and said,
Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.17
So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said,
Paul the prisoner called me unto him, and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee, who hath something to say unto thee.18
Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside privately, and asked him,
What is that thou hast to tell me?19
And he said,
The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul PS to morrow into the council, as though they would inquire somewhat of him more perfectly.20 But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.21
So the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged him,
See thou tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me.22
And he called unto him two centurions, saying,
Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night;23 And provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.24
Paul is protected by 470 soldiers.
And he wrote a letter after this manner:25
Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.26 This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.27 And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought him forth into their council:28 Whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.29 And when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent straightway to thee, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say before thee what they had against him. Farewell.30
Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul PS, and brought him by night to Antipatris.31 On the morrow they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the castle:32 Who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul PS also before him.33 And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;34
I will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come.
And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.
Acts.24
And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul PS.1 And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying,
Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence,2 We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.3 Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.4 For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:5 Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.6 But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands,7 Commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.8
And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so.9 Then Paul PS, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered,
Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:10 Because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship.11 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:12 Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.13 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:14 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.15 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.16 Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.17 Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult.18 Who ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought against me.19 Or else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council,20 Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.21
And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said,
When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.22
And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul PS, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.23 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for PaulPS, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.24 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come Felix trembled, and answered,
Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.25
He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul PS, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him.26 But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul PSbound.
Acts.25
Now when Festus was come into the province, after three days he ascended from Caesarea to Jerusalem.1Then the high priest and the chief of the Jews informed him against Paul PS, and besought him,2 And desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him.3 But Festus answered, that Paul PSshould be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither.4
Let them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.5
And when he had tarried among them more than ten days, he went down unto Caesarea; and the next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded Paul PS to be brought.6 And when he was come, the Jews which came down from Jerusalem stood round about, and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, which they could not prove.
Unlike the complaints agiasts Jesus, which they could not prove.7
While he answered for himself,
Neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar, have I offended any thing at all.8
But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered PaulPS, and said,
Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?9
Then said PaulPS,
I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.10 For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Caesar.11
Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered,
xxx thou appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go.12
And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.13
And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul'sPS cause unto the king, saying,
There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:14 About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him.15 To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him.16 Therefore, when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth.17 Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed:18 But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.19 And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.20 But when Paul PShad appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar.21
Then Agrippa said unto Festus,
xx would also hear the man myself. To morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him.22
And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul PS was brought forth.23 And Festus said,
King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us, ye see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he ought not to live any longer.24 But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him.25 Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write.26 For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him.
Acts.26
Then Agrippa said unto Paul,
Thou art permitted to speak for thyself.
Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:1
I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:2 Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.3 My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews;4 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.5 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:6 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.7 Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?8 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.9 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.10 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.11 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,12 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.13 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.14 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.15 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;16 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,17 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.18 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:19 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.20 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.21 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:22 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.23
And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice,
Paul PS, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.24
But he said,
I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.25 For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.26 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.27 Then Agrippa said unto Paul,
Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.28
And Paul said,
I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.29
And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:30 And when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying,
This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds.31
Then said Agrippa unto Festus,
This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar.
Acts.27
And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul PS and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.1 And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.2 And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself.3 And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.4 And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia.5 And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein.6 And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone;7 And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.8 Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them,9 And said unto them,
Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.10
Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.11 And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west.12 And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete.13 But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon.14 And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive.15 And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat:16 Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven.17 And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship;18 And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship.19 And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.20 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said,
Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.21 And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship.22 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve,23 Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.24 Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.25 Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island.26
But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some country;27 And sounded, and found it twenty fathoms: and when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms.28 Then fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.29 And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship,30 Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers,
Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.31
Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.32 And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying,
This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing.33 Wherefore I pray you to take some meat: for this is for your health: for there shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you.34
And when he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat.35 Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took some meat.36 And we were in all in the ship two hundred threescore and sixteen souls.37 And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, and cast out the wheat into the sea.38 And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship.39 And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore.40 And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves.41 And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape.42 But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land:43 And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.
Acts.28
And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.1 And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.2 And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.3 And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves,
No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.4
And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.5 Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.6
The “barbarians” are quick to change their opinions concerning Paul, yet both views are incorrect.
In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.7 And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.8 So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:9 Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.[10] And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.11 And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.12 And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli:13 Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went toward Rome.14 And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appiiforum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.15 And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him.16 And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them,
Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.17 Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me.18 But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.19 For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.20 And they said unto him,
We neither received letters out of Judaea concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any harm of thee.21 But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.22
And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.23 And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.24 And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word,
Well spake the Holy Ghost TL by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,25 Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:26 For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.27 Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.28
And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves.29 And Paul PS dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,30 Preaching the kingdom of God TL, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
=
For such a large text, the “Acts of the Apostles” has a limited number of esoteric writing techniques and the majority of these are the pseudonym of Paul and the technical language of the “Holy Ghost” and this facts suggets Acts is to meant to read and interpreted as a typical document.
Pseudonyms, predominately Paul and Barnabas over 150
Technical language, predominant the Holy Ghost over 50
The explicit contradiction between the two descriptions of the meeting of Jesus on the road to Damascus is the most obvious inconsistency. An implitict contradition is the number of Apostles is maintained by drawing lots [Acts 1:26], yet Saint Paul describes himself as an Apostle, thereby increasing the number of Apostles from twelve to thirteen. The scenerios where Jews relate the history of Jews to people who are Jews themselves, is the primary indication that the text is for Christians and Christian converts.
Bernice
[King] Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.25:13
[When] Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp...25:23
And when he [Paul, v.29] had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:26:30
Bernice is mentioned on three occasions in the Acts od the Apostles and no information concerning her is provided. However, history remembers Bernice, as she would later marry Titus, before he destroyed Jerusalem. Saint Paul seems comfortable conversing in an upper class environment, which is expected when one is related to the ruling family:
Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord. Rom 16:11
Pharisee
For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both AE. Act 23:8
The reader can be reasonably certain that Saint Paul is proud both of his heritage and of obtaining the position of a Pharisee. Without a doubt, it is more challenging to be a Pharisee than a Sadducee for the primary reason that the law of Moses does not indicate either a resurrection or a personal immortal soul, although, angels are mentioned in the Old Testament. The Sadducees simply the interpret the text as it is, whereas the Pharisees must offer creative exegeses or allegorical intepretations to arrive at the desired results of a future resurrection and immortal souls.
Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. Act 6:53
The “who” in this passage are the “stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears” [Acts 6:51]. Stephen does not say that the law was from God, but from angels. Stephen is only attched when he states that he sees “the Son of man standing on the right hand of God” [Act 6:56]. Saint Paul agrees with Stephen concerning the origin of the law:
[The law, v.18] was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.19 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. Gal 3:19-20
The “mediator” who gave the law is not “one”, however, “God is one”. The implication of these passages is the mediator, Jehovah, who gave the laws to Israel is not the ultimate God beyond the eigth heaven, but a tribal deity. Saint Paul acknowledges the existence of other gods, as does the Old Testament:
For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, as there be gods many, and lords many, 1Co 8:5
Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods [angels?]. Gal 4:8
Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels… Col 2:18
When combining the texts of Galatians and Colossians, the realization that the nation of Israel has received the law from angels and they worship the angel Jehovah as God, otherwise said, the Israelites “did service unto them which by nature are no gods”, the mediating angel, and expected a “reward” for their “humility”. It can now be understood why Saint Paul was often persecuted by Jews, Gentiles, the rulers, and the common people, as he taught that either the national or popular gods were only angels (or messengers) of the one God or that these national gods were simply the creations of their respective ethnic ancestors. Regardless of whether Saint Paul was teaching that the gods were only messengers or that they were only literary creations to his audience, his teachings opposed their pious frauds. In Gnostic thought, the ultimate God, the God above the tribal deities, was oftentimes described as the “Unknown God”, as he does not manifest himself in the material world and his existence is theoretical.
[Paul] found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Act 17:23
The wording, “To the Unknown God”, could be interpreted that certain gods might exist that the Greeks have yet to name, in the sense of an unknown bird god or an unknown fish god. The “Unknown God” is simply the highest God, as Saint Paul should know, yet, he states that he “Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.” It is doubtful that the impossible to know God is ignorantly worshiped, as his existence can only be known philosophically, through the application of reason. Therefore, to state the unknown God is worshiped in ignorance by the fewest, the most thoughtful, is a subtle contradiction. The implication of this second statement is that Saint Paul teaches that the highest God has manifested his will in the physical universe. It was understood, at least by the learned, that it was possible for the lessor gods to influence human events in the material plane, however, the novel idea that the unknown or ultimate God could do this would be decisively rejected, for once the wholly spiritual and incorporeal God enters into reality and affects changes, he is no longer completely spiritual, but is, to some degree, physical. The unknown God of the Greeks could neither flood the world nor wrestle with Jacob.
One method that Saint Paul could preach that God can influence his creation, without altering his essence, would be through his energies, not through his physical presence. References to various energies, or dynamisxx, are found in the Pauline epistles.
But unto them which are called TL,... Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 1Cor 1:24
Saint Paul explicitly connects not only the power of God with Christ, but also the wisdom of God with Christ.
Be... thou partaker … of the gospel TL according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling TL,... which was given us in Christ Jesus IR before the world began TL,
2Ti 1:8-9
The power of God is from “Christ Jesus” and has saved “us” before the world began. Once again, the pronoun “us” is presumed to be “we Christians” who know “the way of God more perfectly.”
[The gospel of Christ] is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth… Rom 1:16
[For] unto us which are saved it [the preaching of the cross] is the power of God. 1Co 1:18
The gospel of Christ is the power of God for salvation and, for the saved, the preaching of the cross is the power of God. The fact that a coherent statement can be made from two separate epistles suggests that Saint Paul is not only aware of what he is writing, and the reasoned conclusions from these statements, but that he is consistent across his epistles.
Respecter of People
[Peter] said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: Act 10:34
For there is no respect of persons with God. Rom 2:11
But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. Col 3:25
[Masters know] that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.
Eph 6:9
Peter and Saint Paul agree that God is not a respecter of persons. However, Noah found favor with God [Genesis 6:9] and David was a man after God’s own heart [Samuel 13:14, Acts 13:22]. The seeming contradiction between these statements is removed when one distinguishes between the indifference of the God of Saint Paul and the tribal deity of the Old Testament. Jehovah not only has his favorite individuals, but also has his favorite people: the tribes of Israel.
As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. Rom 9:13
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“Many are called...”
According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world… Eph 1:4
The “God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” has chosen “us”, presumably Christians, previous to the act of cosmic creation. This passage proposes that some people are predestined to become Christians or to recognize Jesus as the Christ.
Moreover whom he did predestinate TL, them he also called TL: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. Rom 8:30
From this passage it follows that predestination is synonymous with being “called”. Ephesians 1:4 equates “chosen” with predestination, while Romans states that those who are predestined are the “called”. The remaining texts that indicate predestination as a Pauline doctrine:
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate TL to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Rom 8:29
Having predestinated TL us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will TL,5 [We] being predestinated TL according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: Eph 1:5-11
These passages in the King James translation leave the question concerning the potential difference between the many who are “called” and few who are “chosen” unresolved. Additional confusion arises in the Kings James Bible, as the adjective ἐκλεκτός [G1588, eklektos] is translated as both “elect,” on sixteen occurrences, and “chosen”, on seven occurrences.
Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect eklektos ? It is God that justifieth. Rom 8:33
For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth; Rom 9:11
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace TL.5 What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blindedxxxxx Rom 11:5, 7
As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election TL, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes. Rom 11:28
Enemies of the gospel can be members of the election.
Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Rom 16:13
But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;27 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: 1Co. 1:27-28
And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind: 2Co 8:19
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Col 3:12
According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Eph 1:4
Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God TL. 1Th 1:4
But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: 2 Thes. 2:13
I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ IR and the elect angels TL, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. 1Ti 5:21
No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus IR with eternal glory. 2Ti 2:4, 10
Paul PS, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect TL, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; Tit 1:1
ἐκλέγομαι G1586
eklegomai verb
But God hath chosen eklegomai the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen eklegomai the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;27 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen eklegomai, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: 1Co 1:27-28
According as he hath chosen eklegomai us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Eph 1:4
Ἐκλογή G1589
ekloge feminine noun
But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen ekloge vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: Act 9:15
For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election ekloge might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth; Rom 9:11
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election ekloge of grace.5 What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election ekloge hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded. Rom 11:5, 7
There is a “remnant” that are elected of grace and the remainder are blind.
Called
Paul PS, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, Rom 1:1
Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:6 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints TL: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ IR. Rom 1:6-7
Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God. Rom 2:17
So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. Rom 7:3
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called TL according to his purpose.28 Moreover whom he did predestinate TL, them he also called TL: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. Rom 8:28, 30
Rom 9:7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called.
Even us, whom he hath called TL, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? RQ24 And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God. Rom 9:24, 26
Paul PS, called to be an apostle TL of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,1 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus IR, called to be saints TL, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, IR both theirs and ours: 1Co 1:1-2
God is faithful, by whom ye were called TL unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord IR. 1Co 1:9
But unto them which are called TL, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.24 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called TL: 1Co 1:24, 26
But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 1Co 5:11
But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.15 But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called TL every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches.17 Is any man called being circumcised?RQ let him not become uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision RQ?let him not be circumcised. 1Co. 7:15, 17-18
Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.20 Art thou called being a servant?RQ care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather.21 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 1Co 7:20-22
Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God. 1Co 7:24
For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, as there be gods many, and lords many, 1Co 8:5
For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle TL, because I persecuted the church of God. 1Co 15:9
I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you TL into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Gal 1:6
But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb SE, and called me TL by his grace, Gal 1:15
Gal. 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
Ephs 2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;
Eph. 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord TL, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
Eph. 4:4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
Col. 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called TL in one body; and be ye thankful.
Col. 4:11 And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, TL which have been a comfort unto me.
That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you TL unto his kingdom and glory.1 Thes. 2:12
For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. [CM]1 Thes. 4:7
Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.2 Thes. 2:4
Whereunto he [God v.13] called you by our gospel SE, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.IR2 Thes. 2:14
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life TL, whereunto thou art also called TL, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.1 Tim. 6:12
Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling TL, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus IR before the world began, TL2 Tim. 1:9
“...few are chosen.”
Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord TL, and his mother and mine. Rom 16:13
1 Cor. 1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
1 Cor. 1:28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:2 Cor. 8:19
According as he [the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, v.3] hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: TLEph. 1:4
But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you TL to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit TLand belief of the truth:2 Thes. 2:13
No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.SE -2 Tim. 2:4
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The Law
Νόμος G 3551
nomos masculine noun From a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals)
The KJV translates Strong's G 3551 as: law (197).
In the Pauline epistles, the “law” cannot always be presumed to be interpreted as the “Jewish law”, as Saint Paul distinguishes between those who are “Jews” and those “under the law” and this indicates at least one additional law.
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law nomos, as under the law nomos, that I might gain them that are under the law nomos; To them that are without law, as without law nomos , (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 1Cor 9:20-22
Saint Paul could illistrate his style of ministry by either using the Jews and those without the law or those under the law and the weak, however, he includes all four types. Certain individuals may describe this behavior of Saint Paul as duplicitous or “dual minded”. The exact law in a specific text can be typically be understood from the context:
[You] could not be justified by the law of Moses. Act 13:39
Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: Act 15:24
[Thousands] of Jews... are all zealous of the law: Act 21:20
[Paul] teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law... Act 22:28
[Paul was taught according to] the law of the Fathers, and was zealous toward God, Act 22:3
[Paul worships] the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law… Act 24:14
[Paul answered], Neither against the law of the Jews … Act 25:8
The majority of the occurrences of “the law” in the book of Acts can be understood as the Jewish law from the context alone, however, the correct interpretation of the text becomes increasing difficult in the Pauline epistles. In conclusion to this part, the term “law” can be considered as being a general term consisting of all divinely revealed laws and not limited to the laws of Israel.
Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law nomos of commandments contained in ordinances SE ; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; Eph 2:15
The wording of “the law of commandments contained in ordinances” is so verbose that even the causal reader must notice it and question its inteneded meaning. Saint Paul expressly mentions two laws:
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law nomos of God; but with the flesh the law nomos of sin TL . Rom 7:25
According to Saint Paul, there are two laws: The mind that serves the law of God and the body that serves the law of sin.
For I delight in the law nomos of God after the inward man: Rom 7:22
In addition to the law of God, there is a “law of faith”:
Where is boasting then RQ ? It is excluded. By what law nomos RQ ? of works? Nay: but by the law nomos of faith. Rom 3:27
Saint Paul offers additional insights concerning the law of the mind and the “law of sin” in the flesh:
But I see another law nomos in my members, warring against the law nomos of my mind TL, and bringing me into captivity to the law nomos of sin TL which is in my members. Rom 7:23
Saint Paul continues describing the duality between the spiritual and the physical:
For we know that the law nomos is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin SE . Rom 7:14
The usage of the pronoun “we” possibly includes those who know “the way TL of God more perfectly” [Acts 18:26]. The “law of the mind”, or the “law of God”, is spiritual, while the “law of sin” is fleshly and “carnal”.
Saint Paul provides eighty uses of the term “the law” that overwhelms the six occurrences that differentiate the “law of sin” and the “law of my mind”. Without first acknowledging that Saint Paul teaches two distinct laws, the reader would be confused by the contradictory statements. In the majority of usages, the “law” should be understood as the commandments and ordinances from Jehovah, oftentimes called the “Lord”.
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For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; For not the hearers of the [Jewish, v.10] law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. Rom 2:12-13
The workers of the law will be justified before Jehovah, but not before God.
Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law nomos, and makest thy boast of God,17 And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law nomos; Rom 2:17-18
Thou that makest thy boast of the law nomos, through breaking the law nomos dishonourest thou God RQ ? Rom 2:23
One cannot boast before God, since he is not a respecter of persons, only Jehovah respects individuals.
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Rom 2:Which shew the work of the law nomos written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)15 An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law nomos. Rom 2:15, 20
For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law nomos: but if thou be a breaker of the law nomos, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.25 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law nomos, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision RQ ?26 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law nomos, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law nomos?27 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: Rom 2:25-28
Now we know that what things soever the law nomos saith, it saith to them who are under the law nomos: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law nomos there shall no flesh be justified in his [God, v.19] sight: for by the law nomos is the knowledge of sin.20 But now the righteousness of God without the law nomos is manifested, being witnessed by the law nomos and the prophets; Rom 3:19-21
The deeds of the law, or works or the law, can only be justified by the tribal deity, Jehovah, not by God, and the righteeousness of God is manifested without the law, which cannot be said of Jehovah.
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law nomos. Rom 3:28
Do we then make void the law nomos through faith? God forbid AE : yea, we establish the law nomos . Rom 3:31
The law of faith [v.27] is established.
For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world SE , was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law nomos, but through the righteousness of faith.13 For if they which are of the law nomos be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect.14 Because the law nomos worketh wrath: for where no law nomos is, there is no transgression TL .15 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law nomos, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the Father of us all, Rom 4:13-16
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For until the law nomos sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law nomos. Rom 5:13
Adam lived for a time without sin, as the commandment to not eat of the tree was after his creation,
however, Eve always lived under the law, as it was given before her creation.
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Moreover the law nomos entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: Rom 5:20
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law nomos, but under grace. Rom 6:14
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Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law nomos,) how that the law nomos hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth RQ ?1 For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law nomos to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law nomos of her husband.2 So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; nomos so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.3 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law nomos by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead TL, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.4 For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law nomos, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death.5 But now we are delivered from the law nomos, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter [the Law?].6 What shall we say then RQ ?I s the law nomos sin RQ ? God forbid AE . Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law nomos: for I had not known lust, except the law nomos had said, Thou shalt not covet.7 But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law nomos sin was dead.8 For I was alive without the law nomos once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. Rom 7:1-9
If one answers the initial question that the law only applies to the living in the affirmative, then the rest of the text is superfluous. Saint Paul answers his rhetorical question in Corinthians:
The wife is bound by the law nomos as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. 1Co 7:39
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Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law nomos, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law nomos: for by the works of the law nomos shall no flesh be justified. Gal 2:16
The body is not just justified by the law of Jehovah.
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For I through the law nomos am dead to the law nomos, that I might live unto God.19 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law nomos, then Christ is dead in vain. Gal 2:19, 21
The grace of God is contrasted with the law of Jehovah.
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Is the law nomos then against the promises of God RQ ?God forbid AE : for if there had been a law nomos given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law nomos. Gal 3:21
Although righteousness cannot come from the law of Jehovah, the law is not against the promises of God.
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Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law nomos; ye are fallen from grace.
Gal 5:4
The grace of Christ is contrasted with being “justified” under the law.
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Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law nomos, a Pharisee;5 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law nomos, blameless.6 And be found in him [Christ, v.8], not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law nomos, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: Phl 3:5-6, 9
One’s righteousness found in the law is contrasted with the righteousness of God.
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The Law- Not Categorized
For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law nomos shall be judged by the law nomos;12 For not the hearers of the law nomos are just before God, but the doers of the law nomos shall be justified.13 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, nomos do by nature the things contained in the law nomos, these, having not the law nomos, are a law nomos unto themselves: Rom 2:12-14
What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law nomos, but under grace? God forbid. Rom 6:15
Wherefore the law nomos is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good CM . Rom 7:12
The appeal to the opinion that the law is holy is contradicted when Saint Paul states that the law is a curse.
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If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law nomos that it is good. Rom 7:16
I find then a law nomos, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. Rom 7:21
For the law nomos of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus IR hath made me free from the law nomos of sin and death TL .2 For what the law nomos could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh,3 God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law nomos might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Rom 8:2-4
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law nomos of God, neither indeed can be. Rom 8:7
Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law nomos, and the service of God, and the promises; Rom 9:4
But Israel, which followed after the law nomos of righteousness, hath not attained to the law nomos of righteousness.31 Wherefore RQ ?Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law nomos. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; Rom 9:31-32
For Christ is the end of the law nomos for righteousness to every one that believeth.4 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law nomos AA, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.
Rom 10:4-5
Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.8 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Rom 13:8,10
Say I these things as a man RQ ? or saith not the law nomos the same also RQ ?8 For it is written in the law nomos of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. 1Co 9:8-9
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law nomos, as under the law nomos, that I might gain them that are under the law nomos;20 To them that are without law nomos, as without law nomos, (being not without law to God, but under the law nomos to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law nomos. 1Co 9:20-21
In the law nomos it is written AA, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord AA . 1Co 14:21
Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law nomos AA. 1Cor 14:34
The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law nomos. 1Cor 15:56
This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law nomos, or by the hearing of faith RQ? Gal 3:2
He [Paul?] therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law nomos, or by the hearing of faith RQ ? Gal 3:5
For as many as are of the works of the law nomos are under the curse: for it is written AA , Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law nomos to do them. But that no man is justified by the law nomos in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith AA . And the law nomos is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law nomos, being made a curse for us: for it is written AA, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: Gal 3:10-13
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law nomos, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.17 For if the inheritance be of the law nomos, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.18 Wherefore then serveth the law nomos RQ ? It was added because of transgressions TL , till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Gal 3:17-19
But before faith came, we were kept under the law nomos, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law nomos was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. Gal. 3:23-24
But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law nomos, To redeem them that were under the law nomos, that we might receive the adoption of sons TL . Gal 4:4-5
Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law nomos, do ye not hear the law nomos RQ ? Gal 4:21
For all the law nomos is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself AA . Gal 5:14
But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law nomos. Gal 5:18
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law nomos. Gal 5:23
Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law nomos of Christ.2 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law nomos; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh IS.
Gal 6:2, 13
Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.7 But we know that the law nomos is good, if a man use it lawfully;8 Knowing this, that the law nomos is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers CM, 1Ti 1:7-9
But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain CM. Tit 3:9
Since the “law of God” and the “law of sin” has been discovered and confirmed, it is of importance that we examine the exact nature of sin as understood by Saint Paul.
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Sin
The most frequently found Greek word translated as “sin” in the King James version of the Bible is Ἁμαρτία, G266, This word is an archery term and means “to miss the mark”. Sin, for the Jews, is to fall short of the 613 commandments, while for the Gentiles, sin can either be of a religious or of a secular nature.
ἁμαρτάνω 264 988.2
hamartanō verb Perhaps from ἄλφα (G 1) (as a negative particle) and the base of μέρος (G 3313)
The KJV translates Strong's G 264 as: sin (38), trespass (3), offend (1), for your faults (1). Total: 43
For when the Gentiles, which have not the [Jewish, v. 10] law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Rom 2:14
The inference from this passage is that a person who abides by his own standards of morality, whether based on Natural Law or not, is sinless, as he would rarely “miss the mark” he set for himself. Of course, said individual is a law unto himself [Rom 2:15], regardless of the views of either secular or religious authorities.
For as many as have sinned hamartanō without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned hamartanō in the law shall be judged by the law; Rom 2:12
Those with the law die without the law and those with the law are judged by the law.
What then RQ ? are we better than they RQ ?No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin hamartia; Rom 3:9
For all have sinned hamartanō, and come short of the glory of God; Rom 3:23
But the scripture hath concluded all under sin hamartia AA , that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. Gal 3:22
In Galatians, Saint Paul references his statement in Romans [v.23], thereby making his epistle “scripture”.
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Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his [God, v.19] sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin hamartia. Rom 3:20
Works are not justified before God, only before the Lord and Jehovah.
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Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his [Christ Jesus, v.24] blood TL, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins TL that are past, through the forbearance of God; Rom 3:25
Saying AA, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins hamartia are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Rom 4:7-8
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Wherefore, as by one man [Adam?] sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned hamartanō:12 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 13 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses SE , even over them that had not sinned hamartanō after the similitude of Adam's transgression TL , who is the figure of him that was to come.14 And not as it was by one [Adam?] that sinned hamartanō, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one [Jesus?] to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. Rom 5:12-14, 16
For as by one man's disobedience [Adam?] many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one [Jesus?] shall many be made righteous. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord IR. Rom 5:19-21
Not surprisingly, there are more offenses after the written Law was introduced [v.20], since the unwritten law, Natural Law, is limited.
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For in that he [Christ, v.9] died, he died unto sin hamartia once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.10 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin hamartia, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord IR . 11 Let not sin hamartia therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.12 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin hamartia: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead TL, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.13 For sin hamartia shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.14 What then RQ ?shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace RQ ?God forbid AE .15 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin hamartia unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness SE RQ ?16 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin hamartia SE. but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.17 Being then made free from sin hamartia, ye became the servants of righteousness. Rom 6:10-18
One should consider themselves dead to sin, but alive “unto God”, not alive to the Lord nor to Jehovah [v.10].
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For when ye were the servants of sin hamartia SE, ye were free from righteousness.20 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 22 For the wages of sin is death SE; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord IR . Rom 6:20, 22-23
Being free from the law allows one to become a servant to God [v.22], not to the Lord nor to Jehovah.
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For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins hamartia, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. Rom 7:5
What shall we say then RQ ? Is the law sin hamartia RQ ? God forbid AE . Nay, I had not known sin hamartia, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin hamartia, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin hamartia was dead. Gentiles, without the Law, do not have sin, as it is dead. For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin hamartia revived, and I died. Rom 7:7-9
For sin hamartia, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Rom 7:11
The commandment kills.
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Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin hamartia that dwelleth in me. Rom 7:17
Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin hamartia that dwelleth in me. Rom 7:20
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin hamartia TL which is in my members. Rom 7:23
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord IR . So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God TL ; but with the flesh the law of sin hamartia TL . Rom 7:25
Sin dwells in Saint Paul [v.17 and v.20] and is in his members [v.23]. Saint Paul serves the law of sin with his flesh [v.25].
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus IR hath made me free from the law of sin hamartia and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh hamartia, and for sin hamartia, condemned sin hamartia in the flesh: Rom 8:2-3
God sent Christ Jesus [v.3], not the Lord nor Jehovah.
Was then that which is good made death unto me RQ ?God forbid AE . But sin hamartia, that it might appear sin hamartia, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by hamartia the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin SE . Rom 7:13-14
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And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin hamartia; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. Rom 8:10
In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins hamartia of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ SE: Col 2:11
Sin is located in the body
And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written AA, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. Rom 15:9
The Gentiles glorify God, neither the Lord nor Jehovah.
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For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins hamartanō according to the scriptures; 1Co 15:3
For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Rom 5:6
In Corinthians, it seems that Saint Paul references his epistle to the Romans as “scripture” [v.3].
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And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins hamartia. 1Co 15:17
The sting of death is sin hamartia; and the strength of sin hamartia is the law. 1Co 15:56
For he [God] hath made him [Christ, v.20] to be sin hamartia for us, who [Christ] knew no sin hamartia; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him [Christ]. 2Co 5:21
God has made Christ to be “sin for us”, not the Lord nor Jehovah.
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What shall we say then RQ ?Shall we continue in sin hamartia, that grace may abound RQ ?1 God forbid AE . How shall we, that are dead to sin hamartia SE , live any longer therein RQ ? Rom 6:1-2
Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him SE . that the body of sin hamartia TL might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin hamartia. Rom 6:6-7
For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their [Israel, v.26] sins hamartia AA . Rom 11:27
And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin hamartia. Rom 14:23
But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin hamartanō against Christ. 1Co 8:12
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins hamartia, according to the riches of his grace TL ; Eph 1:7
And you hath he [Christ, 1:20] quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins hamartia TL ;1 Even when we were dead in sins TL , [God, v.4] hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) Eph 2:1, 5
In whom [the Son, v.13] we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins hamartia TL IR :
Col 1:14
God has made us alive with Christ, not alive in the Lord or Jehovah.
Who [our Lord Jesus Christ, v.3] gave himself for our sins hamartia, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father IR: Gal 1:4
We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,15 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin hamartia RQ? God forbid AE. Gal 2:15, 17
As everyone has a body of flesh, it follows that everyone is a sinner.
And you, being dead in your sins hamartia TL and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses TL ; Col 2:13
[Jews, v.14] Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved TL , to fill up their sins hamartia alway TL : for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost. Th 2:16
Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day TL shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin hamartia be revealed TL, the son of perdition; 2Th 2:3
The following are appeals to conventional morality:
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that commiteth fornication sinneth hamartanō against his own body. CM 1Co 6:18
But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned hamartanō; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned hamartanō. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but I spare you. CM 1Co 7:28
But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth hamartanō not: let them marry. CM 1Co 7:36
Awake to righteousness, and sin hamartanō not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. CM 1Co 15:34
And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed. CM 2Co 12:21
I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: CM 2Co 13:2
Be ye angry, and sin hamartanō not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: CM Eph 4:26
Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear CM.20 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins hamartia: keep thyself pure CM.22 Some men's sins hamartia are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after SE CM. 1Ti 5:20, 22, 24
For of this sort [men, v.2-4] are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins hamartia, led away with divers lusts CM, 2Ti 3:6
Knowing that he [a heretic, v.10] that is such is subverted, and sinneth hamartanō, being condemned of himself CM. Tit 3:11
Saint Paul does not provide a workable definition of sin. A practical definition of sin would allow the individual to know what constitutes sin and, thereby, to correctly identify a previously an unknown sin and to prevent poetential sinning.. However, he writes that “whatsoever is not of faith is sin” [Rom 15:23]. Therefore, everything is sin, expect for the few things that are of faith. It not certain if faith is limited to man, or if angels can have faith also.
Ἁμαρτωλός 268 945.3
hamartōlos adjective From ἁμαρτάνω (G264)
The KJV translates Strong's G 268 as: sinner (43), sinful (4).
For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner hamartōlos? Rom 3:7
I lie not [Rom 9:1, 2Cor 11:31, Gal 1:20, 1Ti 1:5].
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners hamartōlos, Christ died for us.8 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners hamartōlos, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Rom 5:8, 19
God commends his love for us, not the Lord nor Jehovah.
Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful hamartōlos. Rom 7:13
This is only passage in the Pauline Epistles where ἁμαρτωλός is correctly translated as an adjective.
We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners hamartōlos of the Gentiles,15 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners hamartōlos, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.
Gal 2:15, 17
Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners hamartōlos, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 1Ti 1:9
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus IR came into the world to save sinners hamartōlos; of whom I am chief. 1Ti 1:15
An unamagious defitinion for ἁμαρτωλός is found in the first epistle to Timothy, where Saint Paul explictly states the law was made for sinners. xxx
Faith 168 occurrences
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Hope
Who [Abraham, v. xxx] against hope believed in hope, that he might become the Father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. Rom 4:18
By whom [the lord Jesus Christ, v.1] also we have access by faith TL into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Rom 5:2
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost TL which is given unto us. Rom 5:5
For the creature TL was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Rom 8:20
The “creature” accidentally becomes vain due to hope.
For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 24 RQ But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Rom 8:24-25
Now the God of hope TL fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost TL. Rom 15:13
Or saith he it altogether for our sakes RQ? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope AA. 1Co 9:10
If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 1Co.15:19
Believers without a full knowledge of Christ, or those who are ignorant of “the way TL of God more perfectly SE”, also have hope.
And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation. 2Co 1:7
For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. Gal 5:5
The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his [God, v.17] calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints SE. Eph 1:18
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; Eph 4:4
Him [xxx]therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. Phl 2:23
For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Col 1:5
If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul PS am made a minister; Col 1:23
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Col 1:27
Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ IR, in the sight of God and our Father; 1Th 1:3
But let us, who are of the day SE, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love SE; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation TL. 1Th 5:8
Now our Lord Jesus Christ IR himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace SE, 2 Th 2:16
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; Tit 1:2
That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Tit. 3:7
Since one hopes for eternal life, it is clear that there is some doubt or uncertainty concerning eternal life for the believer, that is, eternal life is not guaranteed.
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Charity 21 occurrences
1 Cor. 8:1 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.1 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.2 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.3 charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, -1 Cor. 13:1-4
1 Cor. 13:8 charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
1 Cor.13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity
1 Cor. 14:1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
1 Cor. 15:14 Let all your things be done with charity.
Col. 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
1 Thes. 3:6 But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:
2 Thes. 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;
1 Tim. 1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
1 Tim. 2:15 Notwithstanding she [the woman, xx] shall be saved in childbearing SE, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
1 Tim. 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
2 Tim. 2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. [CM]
2 Tim. 3:10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
Tit. 2:2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.
There are two caveats in our approach to understand the Pauline Epistles. Firstly, we may lack the natural mental facilities to correctly interpret the written word and, as we are dependent on translations into English, this increases the likelihood that we will not fully appreciate what is written.
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 1Cor 2:6-7
Saint Paul clearly states that he speaks of “the wisdom of God in a mystery” and, unless the we can penetrate this mystery, our efforts will not be completely satisfactory, that is, we will remain imperfect. Secondly, there is a strong indication that Saint Paul teaches by both letters and by speech.
Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. 2Th 2:15
These “words” may constitute a non written tradition for the proper interpretation of the text which, of course, we do not have access to these possible insights from the text alone. The Roman and Greek churches have their respective Traditions for the interpretation of scripture, but any appeal to these traditions negates our premise that Saint Paul can be understood from his epistles alone.
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The Systematic Saint Paul
An Exegesis on the Pauline Epistles
Frater meum Occultum
Acknowledgments
μὴ σκοπούντων ἡμῶν τὰ βλεπόμενα ἀλλὰ τὰ μὴ βλεπόμενα·
τὰ γὰρ βλεπόμενα πρόσκαιρα τὰ δὲ μὴ βλεπόμενα αἰώνια
Leo Strauss observed that when packing for eternity, one must be judicious, for an author to attempt to be all things to all people , inadventently, he becomes menotionous to all. Therefore, it is our sincere pleasure for the following individuals to join us on our adventure.
Taylor Morley, Dominick Farr, Thomas Wright, Hunter Jackson, Stephen Keller, Joe Mascari, Adam Elea, Steve Meyette, Jaimexxxx “Farr, Thomas Galloway, Denver Drake, Brayden Drake, Tyler Forster, Mickey McDonald, R.J. Wood, Sarah Marchino, Christian Tertwieler, Gabe Donnerxxxx, Levi Herb, Robert Morley, Brock Morley, Tyler Baileyxx,
Preface
Does the world need an additional commentary on the words of Saint Paul? From Pagels’ Gnostic exegeses to Nietzsche's criticism of Paul in the AntiChrist and everything in between, the first impulse is a resounding “No.” Yet, a systematic treatment of Saint Paul is missing. The reader of the Pauline epistles will always believe he understands the texts and, yet, we remain unconvinced of the correctness of any individual understanding. Pagels clearly states that her work is how it was possible for second century Gnostics to interpret Paul. As a respected scholar, Pagels relies on the accepted world chronology of Scaliger. Nietzsche, not being constrained by certain formalities, states that the histories of the church were ready, they were “duly published”, which suggests a subtle indication that he not only rejected the chronology of Scaliger, but believed that these published works were the from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. As there is no consensus on the meaning of the epistles, this is the salient indication that the text is ambiguous. The typical expounder of Saint Paul does not seek truth and only wishes to be acknowledged for their commentary and insights from a difficult oeuvre by an easily convinced audience.
The King James Bible version is used exculsively throughtout, due to the
Part the First
To accurately interpret the text, one must determine who the expected audience is, for to do otherwise, assumes a premise that may not be sustained with further research. With so many varying opinions on the Pauline corpus, it is seasonable to assume that the expected reader is atypical, in the sense of thinking and understanding.
Our first premise is that the true nature of the text is esoteric, otherwise, their would be little conflicting opinions. Therefore, the complete text must be read to find indications of esoteric writing and if there are such indications, then our premise will be confirmed. After this conformation, the arduous task of determining exactly Saint Paul is attempting to teach remains.
Pseudonym PS
The easiest example of esoteric writing to identify is the pseudonym, as Paul was originally Saul [Acts 13:9. This fact is well known, however, a fact not as well know is that, according to Matthew 1:23, the name of the prophecied child is to be Emmanuel, but the child was named Jesus by his father. The reader can justly consider “Jesus” to be a pseudonym for Emmanuel [Matthew 1: 21, 25]. If this Jesus is not an alias for Emmanuel, then it follows that Jesus cannot be the expected Messiah, as he did not fulfill the prophecy. The total number of the usages of “Jesus” overwhelms the single instance of Emmanuel, but sheer volume of occurrences cannot be considered as viable evidence for the overturning any fact or reasonable conclusions from facts. Therefore, for the purpose of this research, Jesus will be considered as a pseudonym.
Allegory [AL]
Gal. 4:24 Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.
Saint Paul explicitly mentions the usage of allegory and frequently uses this method of exegesis throughout his epistles without identifying them as such.
Rhetorical Questions [RQ]
By their nature, rhetorical questions are not to be answered. However, in the Pauline texts, rhetorical questions frequently give information the reader would not otherwise be aware.
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? -1 Cor. 6:3
The reader would be unaware that he would judge angels of God. However, the faithful may judge those “messengers” who preach another gospel [Gal. 1:8.
Oftentimes, Saint Paul provides an immediate response:
Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I.
-2 Cor. 11:22
Certain questions can be answered in another text:
[Need] we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? -2 Cor. 3:1
And [Saul] desired of him [the high priest] letters to Damascus to the synagogues… Act 9:2
It would seem that the answer to needing letters of commendation is in the affirmative.
Appeal to Authority [AA]
The appeals to the authority of the Old Testament are often explained by Saint Paul through allegorical explanations. Saint Paul also mentions revelations from the Lord which are rightly considered as authority.
Inexact Repetition IR
Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: -2 Cor. 5:6
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
-2 Cor. 5:8
Both sentences confirm one cannot be both in the body and with the Lord simultaneously.
The careful reader should not readily accept that the terms Jesus, Jesus Christ, Christ, and Christ Jesus are synonymous.
Technical Language TL
The two most commonly found examples of technical language are “the resurrection from the dead” and “the resurrection of the dead.” Additional examples include the “remission of sins”, “justified by faith”, “received the atonement”, “the gift by grace”, and “the body of sin”.
Strange Expressions SE
Strange expressions abound in the Pauline epistles and examples are: “the circumcision by faith”, “God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel”, “the wages of sin is death”, and “the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Ambiguity Of Expression [AE]
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 1Co 9:20-22
Saint Paul includes both the “Jews” and those “under the law”. When encountering other passages, the typical reader assumes “the law” is the “Jewish law” and they may be correct. However, in the above passages, Saint Paul clearly makes a distinction between being a “Jew” and being “under the law”. Therefore, “the law” is considered as an ambiguous expression. By appearing to be different characters, in different circumstances, Saint Paul exposes himself to being duplicitous, or dual minded [cf. James xxxx]
Saint Paul frequently utilizes the “Pronoun Game” and the answer to the question of “Who?” is often omitted, leaving the careful reader to wonder who the name of the subject at hand. If the noun is previously provided, then we include it in brackets with the verse number, for example: [God, v.7].
Principles Frequently Stated, But Contradicted By Upholding Incompatible Views [FS]
In the epsitle to the Roman, the reader is told that that the law is holy and just:
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Rom 7:12
However, Saint Paul writes to the Galtians that the law is a curse:
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse …10 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law ... Gal. 3:10,13
The law cannot be holy, just, and a curse simuoltaneously.
Infelicity Of Style [IS]
The best example of an infelicity of style is when Saint Paul becomes exasperated by the question of circumcision that he commits to writing his wish that his opponents would emasculate themselves.
I would they were even cut off which trouble you. Gal 5:12
On four occasions, Saint Paul states he is not lying, indicating he is accused of lying [Rom 9:1, 2Co 11:31, Gal 1:20, 1Ti 2:7].
Contradiction [CD]
Contradictions are of two main types, explicit and implicit, and of the two, explicit contradictions are the easiest to notice.
And the men … stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. Act 9:7
[The men saw] the light, … but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. Act 22:9
In one version, men hear a voice, but see no one and in the second version, the men hear no one, but see the light.
[Paul said] “[We] turn to the Gentiles.” Act 13:46
[Paul] went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures, Act 17:2
[Paul said] I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles. Act 18:6
[Paul] entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. Act 18:19
[Paul] went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months… Act 19:8
Although Saint Paul was appointed to go to the Gentiles, and he himself states that he will only preach to the Gentiles, he continues to dispute with the Jews.
Him [Timotheus] would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek. Act 16:3
The apostolic letter stated the circumcision was not mandatory for converts [xxx], as Paul had argued, yet Paul circumcises Timotheus.
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty,
so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 2Co 11:3
The explicit “simplicity” of Christ is subtly contradicted by the 48,000 words Saint Paul devotes to the subject.
Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: 2Co 3:12
The “great plainness of speech” is contradicted by the ambiguous writing and technical language.
The final subtle contradiction to be considered is found in the title “The Acts of the Apostles” itself, which consists mostly of the adventures of Saint Paul.
Saint Paul relates to the Corinthians that he relates what he has heard:
And that he [Christ v.3] was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: 1Co 15:5
There is no mention of Judas Iscariot or Saint Thomas being absent, so the number of witness that saw the risen Christ should either be eleven or ten.
Finally, the Pauline epistles cannot be considered as letters. The ancient letter that Julius Caesar sent to the Roman senate:
Veni Vidi Vici
and the “spurious” Pauline letter to the Laocideans:
Paul, an apostle not of men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ, unto the brethren that are at Laodicea.1 Grace be unto you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.2 I give thanks unto Christ in all my prayers, that ye continue in him and persevere in his works, looking for the promise at the day of judgement TL .3 Neither do the vain talkings of some overset you CM , which creep in, that they may turn you away from the truth of the Gospel which is preached by me.4 And now shall God cause that they that are of me shall continue ministering unto the increase of the truth of the Gospel and accomplishing goodness, and the work of salvation, even eternal life.5 TL And now are my bonds seen of all men, which I suffer in Christ, wherein I rejoice and am glad.6 And unto me this is for everlasting salvation TL, which also is brought about by your prayers, and the ministry of the Holy Ghost TL, whether by life or by death. 7 For verily to me life is in Christ, and to die is joy.8 And unto him (or And also) shall he work his mercy in you that ye may have the same love, and be of one mind.9 Therefore, dearly beloved, as ye have heard in my presence so hold fast and work in the fear of God TL, and it shall be unto you for life eternal.10 For it is God that worketh in you.11 And do ye without afterthought whatsoever ye do.12 And for the rest, dearly beloved, rejoice in Christ, and beware of them that are filthy in lucre.13 Let all your petitions be made openly before God, and be ye steadfast in the mind of Christ.14 And what things are sound and true and sober and just and to be loved, do ye.15 [CM] And what ye have heard and received, keep fast in your heart.16 And peace shall be unto you.17 The saints TL salute you.18 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with your spirit.19 And cause this epistle to be read unto them of Colossae, and the epistle of the Colossians to be read unto you.20
are necessarily short, due entirely to the limited supply of animal skins and their resultant expensive and luxurious nature. The Pauline epistles are not letters, in the strict sense, but books.
*
If Saint Paul only wrote in esoteric language without offering explicit statements concerning the actual topic under consideration, then the reader could never be certain of his personal understanding of the text was the correct interpretation. Without at least one link or hint to non Pauline Christianity to insure the interpretation is xxxcorrect, not only plausible, then any interpretations would remain ambiguous, at best, and unverifiable, at worst.
The first suggestion of the correct interpretation of the writings of Saint Paul occurs in Romans:
For if the casting away of them [Israel, v.7] be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? Rom 11:15
Therefore, this is an explicit statement that Israel’s acceptance of the gospel of Saint Paul is understood as “life from the dead”.
Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. 2Ti 2:18
From the second indication, it is likely that “the resurrection of the dead” is an ongoing process, although there could be a one time future event.
Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. Eph 5:14
Thirdly, Saint Paul connects the state of being dead as the state being asleep, where the revived, or awake, receives the light of Christ. We understand this passage as those who are sleeping are in ignorance and the rising from ignorance is the light or knowledge of Christ. Saint Paul confirms our conclusion that the resurrection is an ongoing process by using the present verb tense:
[Yield] yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, TL ... Rom 6:13
--
Who [our Lord Jesus Christ, xxxx] died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. 1Th 5:10
We understand this statement as indicating there are two types of people, those who have the full knowledge of Christ, those who are awake, and those with an incomplete knowledge of Christ, those who sleep.
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 1Co 9:20
Fourthly, the law cannot always be interpreted as “the Jewish law”, hinting that there is at least one other, although unnamed, law.
And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. Act 20:9
This is an allegory relating how the primary audience of Saint Paul is not literally dead, they are only described as being dead. Of course, Saint Paul knows the truth: “Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.” The conclusion to this allegory is that the young man, or the attentive reader, was a hearer of Saint Paul and, as he lifted Eutychus from the dead, so he can raise the reader from death to life.
On the name Paul
Saint Paul writes that he is “the least of the apostles”, is “less than the least of all saints”, and “his bodily presence is weak“ [1Cor 15:9; 2Cor 10:10; Eph 3:8]. This is simply wordplay and not humility, since the word “Paul” means “little” or “small” in Latin.
The necessity of esoteric writing in the Pauline Epistles
If the truth of what is found in the Pauline Christianity is good or wholesome, and wanted or needed, then the Gospel would be clear, concise, and agreed upon and joyfully embraced by all, but the most degenerate. However, the following list demonstrates the different ethnic groups, religious practices, and social classes that persecuted that early “sect of the Nazarenes” and their “good news” [Act 24:5]:
Then they [the council members, Acts 6:15] cried out with a loud voice … and ran upon him [Stephen, Acts 6:9] with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him... Act 7:57-58
And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him [Pau, xxl]: Act 9:23
[Paul, xxx] disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Act 9:29
But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul PS and Barnabas PS, and expelled them out of their coasts. Act 13:50
And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles … of the Jews ... to stone them [Paul and Barnabas, v.50], They were ware of it, and fled… Act 14:56
[Certain] Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul PS, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. Act 14:19
[The Thyatirians, v.14] rose up together against them [Paul and Silas, v.19]; and the magistrates … commanded to beat them. Act 16:22
But when they [the Ephesians?] knew that he [Paul] was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians. Act 19:34
Paul would have entered the theater at Ephesus, if some of disciples did not intervene [v.30].
[As all the city, v.30] went about to kill him [Paul, v.29], tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. Act 21:31
[The multitude of people, Acts 21:36] gave him [Paul] audience unto this word ...
and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live. Act 22:22
And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul PS should have been pulled in pieces of them [the Sadducees, v.7], commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle. Act 23:10
And when it was day, certain [more than 40, v.13] of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul PS. Act 23:12
Although there is no certainty of what Saint Paul was saying, it is clear that the message offends Jews, Gentiles, rulers, and the common people. When people are indignant that they assault Paul and wrathful to the point of attempting to murder him, then there is no doubt these same people would burn his epistles. It can be said that though long and painful experience Saint Paul adopted his peculiar writing style that is indebted to the Greeks, the Barbarians, the wise, and the “unwise” [Rom 1:14].
If the true understanding of Pauline Christianity is scattered in a few obscure terms and a handful of hints throughout the epistles, then the appeals to morality are explicit within each letter. Saint Paul offers advice on ethics and insists upon adherence to basic moral rules that everyone knows, yet, no one follows all of them. Appeasements to morality and obscure usage of language are intentional attempts by the author to both preserve the writings and prevent the destruction of these writings, respectively, The morality found in the epistles are not the exclusive domain of Christianity and cannot be considered when seeking an understanding into Christianity, generally, and Pauline Christianity, specifically. Appeals to ethics, morality, and the personal advice of Saint Paul, but not commandments from the Lord, are grouped together under “conventional morality”, or [CM].
Although the personal adventures and struggles of Saint Paul are informative and suggestive, these are limited by time and place and should not be properly considered as belonging to the universalism that is Pauline Christianity. The occurrences of these passages are noted by PA, for “personal adventures”.
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2Co 4:18
Finally, the King James Version of the Bible is used exclusively for this research, as it the most widely available edition in the English access. The text has been persevered, although the excessive usage of punctuation such as colons, semicolons, and parentheses has been modified to be understandable to the general reader. Another benefit regarding ths Bibiical version is that words not in the original Greek text are indicated by itialics. The salutation from 1Cor1:1xx where Saint Paul states he is an Apostle in the King James version with italics:
Paul PS, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ...
and without italics:
Paul PS, an apostle of Jesus Christ...
are subject to two interpretations. With italics, it seems that the editor wants the reader to recall the encounter on the road to Damascus, where the Lord calls Saul to be the Apostle to the Gentiles [Act 26:17]. However, in the original Greek, Saint Paul merely mentions he is an apostle, or messenger of the gospel, without any special significance attached to the title.
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The following section contains all of “The Acts of the Apostles” and has been formatted to demonstrate the long speeches and various dialogues. Abbreviations of the esoteric writing techniques and select commentary are included. We also indicate when the disciples or Saint Paul are persecuted [PRS].
Acts.1
The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,1 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost TL had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:2 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:3 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.4
For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost TL not many days hence.5
When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying,
Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?6
And he said unto them,
It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.7 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost TL is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.8
And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.9 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;10 Which also said,
Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.11
Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey.12 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.13 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.14 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)15 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost TL by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.16 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.17 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. 18 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.19 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.20 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,21 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.22 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.23 And they prayed, and said,
Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,24 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.25
And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
The number of twelve Apostles is maintained.
Acts.2
And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.1 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.2 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.3 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost TL, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.4 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.5 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.6 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another,
Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?7 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?8 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,9 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,10 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.11
And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another,
What meaneth this?12
Others mocking said,
These men are full of new wine.13
But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them,
Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:14 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.15 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;16 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God,I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:17 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:18 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:19 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come:20 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.21 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:22 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:23 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.24 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:25 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:26 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.27 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.28 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.29 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;30 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.31 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.32 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.33 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,34 Until I make thy foes thy footstool.35 Therefore let all the house of Israe know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.36
Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles,
Men and brethren, what shall we do?37
Then Peter said unto them,
Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.38 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.39
And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying,
Save yourselves from this untoward generation.40
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.41 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.42 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.43 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;44 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.45 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,46 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Acts.3
Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.1 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple;2 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.3 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said,
Look on us.4
And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.5 Then Peter said,
Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.6
And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ancle bones received strength.7 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.8 And all the people saw him walking and praising God:9 And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him.10 And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.11 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people,
Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?12 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.13 But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;14 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.15 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.16 And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.17 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.18 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;19 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:20 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.21 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.22 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.23 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.24 Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.25 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.
Acts.4
And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,1 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.TL2 And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide.3 Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.4 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,5 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.6 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked,
By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?7
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost TL, said unto them,
Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,8 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;9 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.10 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.11 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.12
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.13 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.14 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,15 Saying,
What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.16 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.17
And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.18 But Peter and John answered and said unto them,
Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.19 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.20
So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.21 For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.22 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.23 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said,
Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:24 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?25 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.26 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,27 For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.28 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,29 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.30
And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost TL, and they spake the word of God [ae] with boldness.31 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.32 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.33 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,34 And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.35 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, PS (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,36 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet SE.
Acts.5
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,1 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.2 But Peter said,
Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land3 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.4
And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost SE: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.5 And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.6 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.7 And Peter answered unto her,
Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much?
And she said,
Yea, for so much.8
Then Peter said unto her,
How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.9
Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost SE: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.10 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.11 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.12 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.13 And believers were the more added to the Lord SE, multitudes both of men and women.)14 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.15 There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.16 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,17 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.18 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,19
Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.20
And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel TL and sent to the prison to have them brought.21 But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,22 Saying,
The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.23
Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.24 Then came one and told them, saying,
Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.25
Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.26 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,27 Saying,
Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.28
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said,
We ought to obey God rather than men.29 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.30 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.31 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.32
When they [the people, v. 26] heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them [Peter and the other apostles, v.29].33
[PRS]
Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel [Acts 22:3], a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;34 And said unto them,
Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.35 For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.36 After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.37 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:38 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.39
Theudas and Judas
And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.40
[PRS]
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.41 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Acts.6
And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.1 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said,
It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.2 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost TL and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.3 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.4
And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost TL, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:5 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them TL.6 And the word of God increased SE; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.7 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.8 Then there arose certain of the synagogue [AE], which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.9 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.10 Then they suborned men, which said,
We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.11
And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,12 And set up false witnesses, which said,
This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:13 For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.14 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.15
Acts.7
Then said the high priest,
Are these things so?1
And he said,
Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,2 And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee.3 Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell.4 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.5 And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years.6 And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place.7 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.8 And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him,9 And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.10 Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance.11 But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first.12 And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh.13 Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, threescore and fifteen souls.14 So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers,15 And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem.16 But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,17 Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph.18 The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.19 In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months:20 And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son.21 And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.22 And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.23 And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:24 For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.25 And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?26 But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us?27 Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?28 Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons.29 And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush.30 When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the Lord came unto him,31 Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.32 Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground.33 I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt.34 This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.35 He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years.36 This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.37 This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:38 To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt,39 Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.40 And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.41 Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness?42 Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.43 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.44 Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;45 Who found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.46 But Solomon built him an house.47 Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet,48 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?49 Hath not my hand made all these things?50 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost TL: as your fathers did, so do ye.51 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:52 Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.53
The strange situation of Stephen, a Jew, relating the history of the Jews to the Jews is fully explained by the suggestion that the proper audience is the Gentile reader.
When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.54 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost TL, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,55 And said,
Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.TL56
Then they [the council members, Acts 6:15] cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,57 And cast him [Stephen, Acts 6:9] out of the city, and stoned him PRS: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.58
It is unknown why the murderers of Stephen would disrobe and put their clothes at the feet of Saul. The wording that Saul is a “young man” is vague. Jewish tradition maintains that a male is considered a man at age thirteen. The zealous and fanatical nature of the persecutions of the early Christians by Saul may be explained by his extreme youth.
And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying,
Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.59
And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice,
Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.
And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Acts.8
And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.29 As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.3 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.4 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.5 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.6 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.7 And there was great joy in that city.8 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:9 To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying,
This man is the great power of God.10
This certain Simon is understood to be Simon Magus.
And to him [Simon, v.8] they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.11 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.12 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.13 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:14 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost TL: 15 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)16 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.TL17 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost TL was given, he offered them money,18 Saying,
Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. TL19
But Peter said unto him,
Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.20 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.21 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.22 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.23
Then answered Simon, and said,
Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.24
According to the text, Simon believes [Acts 8:13] and the there is no indication that he either stopped believing or repented.
And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.25 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying,
Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.26
And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,27 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.28 Then the Spirit said unto Philip,
Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.29
And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said,
Understandest thou what thou readest?30
And he said,
How can I, except some man should guide me?
And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.31
The place of the scripture which he read was this,
He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:32 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.33
And the eunuch answered Philip, and said,
I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?34
Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.35 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said,
See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?36
And Philip said,
If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.
And he answered and said,
I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.37
And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.38 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord TL caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.39 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.
Acts.9
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,1 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this wayTL, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.2 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:3 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him,
Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?4
And he said,
Who art thou, Lord?
And the Lord said,
I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.5
And he trembling and astonished said,
Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?
And the Lord said unto him,
Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.6
And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.7 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.8 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.9 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said,
Behold, I am here, Lord.
[11] And the Lord said unto him,
Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,11 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.12
Then Ananias answered,
Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints TL at Jerusalem:13 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.14
But the Lord said unto him,
Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:15 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.16
And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said,
Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way TL as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. TL
[18] And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.18 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.19 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.20 But all that heard him were amazed, and said;
Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?21
But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.[23] And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him [Paul]:23
Jews want to kill Paul. [PRS]
But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.24 Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.[26] And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.26
The disciples thought that Saul was infiltrating the movement.
But Barnabas PS took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way,TL and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.27 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.[29] And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him [Paul] PRS.29
The Greeks want to kill Saul.
Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.30 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost TL, were multiplied.31 And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints TL which dwelt at Lydda.32 And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy.33 And Peter said unto him,
Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed.
And he arose immediately.34 And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.35 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.36 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.37 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.38 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.39 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said,
Tabitha, arise.
And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.40 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints TL and widows, presented her alive.41 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.42 And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.
Acts.10
There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,[AE] 1 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.2 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him,
Cornelius.3
And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said,
What is it, Lord?
And he said unto him,
Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.4 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter:5 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.6
And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually;7 And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.8 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:9 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,10 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:11 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.12 And there came a voice to him,
Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.13
But Peter said,
Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.14
And the voice spake unto him again the second time,
What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.15
This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.16 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,17 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there.18 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him,
Behold, three men seek thee.19 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.20
Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said,
Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?21
And they said,
Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.22
Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.23 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.24 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.25 But Peter took him up, saying,
Stand up; I myself also am a man.26
And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together.27 And he said unto them,
Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.28 Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?29
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,30 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.31 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.32 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.
[34] Then Peter opened his mouth, and said,
Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:34 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.35 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)36 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;37 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost TL and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.38 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:39 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;40 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.41 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.42 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
43 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell TL on all them which heard the word.44 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost TL.45 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,46
Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost TL as well as we?47
And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts.11
And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God TL.1 And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision [ae] contended with him,2 Saying,
Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.3
But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,4
I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:5 Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.6 And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.7 But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.8 But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.9 And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.10 And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.11 And the spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:12 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;13 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.14 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost TL fell on them, as on us at the beginning.15 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost TL.16 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?17
When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying,
Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.SE18
Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.19 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.20 And the hand of the Lord was with them AE: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord TL.21 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas PS, that he should go as far as Antioch.22 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord SE. 23 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost TL and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.[25] Then departed Barnabas PS to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:25 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.26 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.27 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit SE that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.28 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:[Acts 11:30] Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas PS and Saul.
Acts.12
Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church.1 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.2 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)3 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.4
Four quaternions of soldiersxxx
Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.5 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.6 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying,
Arise up quickly.
And his chains fell off from his hands.7 And the angel said unto him,
Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals.
And so he did. And he saith unto him,
Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.8
And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.9 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.10 And when Peter was come to himself, he said,
Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.11
And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.12 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.13 And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.14 And they said unto her,
Thou art mad.
But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they,
It is his angel.15
But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.16 But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said,
Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren.
And he departed, and went into another place.17 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.18 And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode.19 And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.20 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.21 And the people gave a shout, saying,
It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.22
And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.23 But the word of God grew and multiplied.24 And Barnabas PS and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.
Acts.13
Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger PS, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.1 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost TL said,
Separate me Barnabas PS and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.2
And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them TL, they sent them away.Acts. 13:3 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost TL, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.4 And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.[6] And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-jesus:6 Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.7 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.[9] Then Saul, (who also is called Paul PS,) filled with the Holy Ghost TL, set his eyes on him,9 And said,
O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?10 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season.
And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.11 Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.12 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.13 But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.14 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.
[16] Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said,
Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.16 The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.17 And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness.18 And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot.19 And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.20 And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.21 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.22 Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:23 When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.24 And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.25 Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.26 For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning him.27 And though they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain.28 And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre.29 But God raised him from the dead:30 And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.31 And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers,32 God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.33 And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David.34 Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.35 For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption:36 But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption.37 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:38 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.39 Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets;40 Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.
Jesus was crucified on a tree [v.29]41
And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.42 Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul PS and Barnabas PS: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.43 And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.44 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul PS, contradicting and blaspheming.45 Then Paul PS and Barnabas PS waxed bold, and said,
It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.46 For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying,
I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.47
And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.48 And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.49 But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul PS and BarnabasPS, and expelled them out of their coasts PRS.50
Paul is persecuted.
But they shook off the dust of their feet against them SE, and came unto Iconium.51 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost TL.
Acts.14
And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.1 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.2 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.3 But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles.4 And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them PRS,5 They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:6
And there they preached the gospel.7 And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:8 The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,9 Said with a loud voice,
Stand upright on thy feet.
And he leaped and walked.10 And when the people saw what Paul PS had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.11 And they called Barnabas PS, Jupiter; and Paul PS, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker.12 Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.13 Which when the apostles, Barnabas PS and Paul PS IR, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,14 And saying,
Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:15 Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.16 Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.17
And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.18 And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul PS, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead PRS.19
Paul is stoned and presumed dead.
Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he [Paul] rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.20 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,21 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God TL. 22 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.23 And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.24 And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:25 And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.26 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.27 And there they abode long time with the disciples.
Acts.15
And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said,
Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.1
When therefore PaulPS and BarnabasPS had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul PS and Barnabas PS, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.[Acts 15:3] And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.3 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.4 But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying,
That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.5
And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.6 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them,
Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.7 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost TL, even as he did unto us;8 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.9 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?10 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.11
Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas PS and Paul PS IR, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.12 And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying,
Men and brethren, hearken unto me: 13 Simeon [Acts 13:1] hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.14 And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,15 After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:16 That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things.17 Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.18 Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God:19 But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.20 For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day.21 Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul PS and Barnabas PS; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas PS, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:22
And they wrote letters by them after this manner;
The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia:23 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:24 It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,25 Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.26 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.27 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost TL, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;28 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.29
So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle:30 Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.31 And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.32 And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles.33 Notwithstanding it pleased Silas to abide there still.34 Paul PS also and Barnabas PS continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.35 And some days after Paul PS said unto Barnabas PS,
Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.36
And Barnabas PS determined to take with them John, whose surme was Mark.37 But Paul PS thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.38 And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas PS took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;39
Paul is “contentious” towards Mark.
And Paul PS chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.40 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.
Acts.16
Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek:1 Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.2 Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.3
The apostolic letter stated the circumcision was not mandatory for converts, as Paul had sucessfully argued, yet Paul circumcises Timotheus.
And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.4 And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.5 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost TL to preach the word in Asia,6 After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.7 And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.8 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying,
Come over into Macedonia, and help us.9
And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.10 Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis;11 And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.12 And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.13 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened SE, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of PaulPS.14 And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.15 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:16 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying,
These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.17
And this did she many days. But Paul PS, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit,
I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.
And he came out the same hour.18 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul PS and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,19 And brought them to the magistrates, saying,
These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city,20 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.21
And the multitude [Thyatirians, v.14] rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them [Paul and Silas, v.19] PRS.22
Paul is beaten.
And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:23 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.24 And at midnight Paul PS and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.25 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.26 And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.27
But Paul PScried with a loud voice, saying,
Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.28
Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul PS and Silas,29 And brought them out, and said,
Sirs, what must I do to be saved?30
And they said,
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.31
And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.32 And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.33 And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.34 And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying,
Let those men go.35
And the keeper of the prison told this saying to PaulPS,
The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.36
But PaulPS said unto them,
They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.37
And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.38 And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.39 And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.
Acts.17
Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:1 And Paul PS as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,2 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.3
Paul continues preaching to the Jews.
And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul PS and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.4 But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.5 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying,
These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;6 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.7
And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things.8 And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.9 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul PS and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.10
Paul goes to the synagogue.
These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.11 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.12 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul PS at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.13 And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul PS to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.14 And they that conducted Paul PS brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.15 Now while Paul PS waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.16 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.17 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said,
What will this babbler say?
other some,
He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.18
And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying,
May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?19 For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean.20
(For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)21 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said,
Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.22 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.23 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;24 Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;25 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;26 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:27 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.28 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.29 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:30 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.31
And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said,
We will hear thee again of this matter.32
So Paul PS departed from among them.33 Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
Acts.18
After these things Paul PS departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;1 And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.2 And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.3 And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.4 And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul PS was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.5 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them,
Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.6
And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.7 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.8 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision,
Be xxxx not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:9 For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.10
And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.11 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul PS, and brought him to the judgment seat,12 Saying,
This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.13
And when Paul PSwas now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews,
If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you:14 But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.15
And he drave them from the judgment seat.16 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.17 And Paul PS after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.18
A Nazarene vow fulfillled.
And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.19
Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, goes to the synagogue.
When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;20 But bade them farewell, saying,
I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will.
And he sailed from Ephesus.21 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down to Antioch.22 And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.23 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.24 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.25 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way TL of God more perfectly SE. 26 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:27 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Acts.19
And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul PS having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,1He said unto them,
Have ye received the Holy Ghost TL since ye believed?
And they said unto him,
We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.2
And he said unto them,
Unto what then were ye baptized?
And they said,
Unto John's baptism.3
Then said Paul,
John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.4
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.5 And when Paul PS had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost TL came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.6 And all the men were about twelve.[8] And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.8
Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, teaches at the synagogue for three months.
But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.[10] And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.10 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul PS:11 So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.12
People are healed by touching the garments of Jesus and Paul. cf.
Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying,
We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul PS preacheth.13
There is no demonic possession in the Old Testament, so Jewish exorcists are a result development.
And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.14 And the evil spirit answered and said,
Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?15
And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.16 And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.17 And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.18 Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.19 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.20 After these things were ended, Paul PS purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying,
After I have been there, I must also see Rome.21
So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season.22 And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.SE 23 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen;24 Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said,
Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth.25 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul PS hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands:26 So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.27
And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying,
Great is Diana of the Ephesians.28
And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's PS companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.29 And when Paul PS would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.30 And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre.31 Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.32 And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.33 But when they [the Ephesians?] knew that he [Paul] was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out,
Great is Diana of the Ephesians.34
And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said,
xxx men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter?35 Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly.36 For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess.37 Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another.38 But if ye inquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly.39 For we are in danger to be called in question for this day's uproar, there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this concourse.40
And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.
Acts.20
And after the uproar was ceased, Paul PS called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.1 And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,29 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.3 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.4 These going before tarried for us at Troas.5 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.6 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul PSpreached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.7 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.8 And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.9 And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said,
Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.10
When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.11 And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.12 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul PS: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.13 And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.14 And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.15 For Paul PS had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.16 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.17 And when they were come to him, he said unto them,
Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,18 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:19 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,20 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.21 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:22 Save that the Holy Ghost TLwitnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.23 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.24 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God TL, shall see my face no more.25 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.26 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.27 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost TLhath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood SE. 28 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.29 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.30 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.31 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.32 I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.33 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.34 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said,
It is more blessed to give than to receive.35
And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.36 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,37 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
Acts.21
And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:1 And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.2 Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.3 And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul PS through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.[xxx]4 And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.5 And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again.6 And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.7 And the next day we that were of Paul's PS company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.8
One of the seven?
And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.9 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.10 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's PS girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said,
Thus saith the Holy Ghost TL, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.11
And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.12 Then Paul PS answered,
What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.13
And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying,
The will of the Lord be done.14
And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.15 There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.16 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.17 And the day following Paul PS went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present.18 And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.19 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him,
Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:20 And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.21 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.22 Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them;23 Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.24 As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.25
Then Paul PS took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purifcation, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.26 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,27 Crying out,
Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.28
(For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul PShad brought into the temple.)29 And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took PaulPS, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.30 And as they [all the city, v.30] went about to kill him [Paul, v.29] PRS, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.31
Paul was almost killed.
Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul PS.32 Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.33 And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle.34 And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people.35 For the multitude of the people followed after, crying,
Away with him.36
And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain,
May I speak unto thee?
Who said,
Canst thou speak Greek?37 Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?38
But Paul said,
I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.39
And when he had given him licence, Paul PS stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,
Acts.22
Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you.1
(And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)2
I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel [Acts 5:34] , and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God TL, as ye all are this day.3 And I persecuted this way TLunto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.4 As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished.5 And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me.6 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me,
Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?7
And I answered,
Who art thou, Lord?
And he said unto me,
I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.8
And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.9 And I said,
What shall I do, Lord?
And the Lord said unto me,
Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.10
And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.11 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,12 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.13 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One PS, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.14 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.15 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.16 And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;17 And saw him saying unto me,
Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.18
And I said,
Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee:19 And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.20 And he said unto me,
Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.21
And they [the multitude of people, [Acts 21:36] gave him [Paul] audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said,
Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live PRS.22
Paul is persecuted.
And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air,23 The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they cried so against him.24 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul PS said unto the centurion that stood by,
Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?25
When the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain, saying,
Take heed what thou doest: for this man is a Roman.26
Then the chief captain came, and said unto him,
Tell me, art thou a Roman?
He said,
Yea.27
And the chief captain answered,
With a great sum obtained I this freedom.
And Paul said,
But I was free born.28
Then straightway they departed from him which should have examined him: and the chief captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.29 On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.
Acts.23
And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said,
Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.1
And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.2 Then said Paul PS unto him,
God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?3
And they that stood by said,
Revilest thou God's high priest?4
Then said Paul PS,
I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.5
The reader is expected to believe that Saint Paul did not know either who the high priest was or that they had distinguihing clothing.
But when Paul PS perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council,
Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.6
And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.7 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both AE.8 And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying,
We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.9
And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul PS should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.10
And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said,
Be of good cheer, PaulPS: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.11
And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed PaulPS.12 And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy PRS.13
More than forty people want to kill Paul.
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 slain Paul.14 Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would inquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him.15
And when Paul's PSsister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.16 Then Paul PScalled one of the centurions unto him, and said,
Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.17
So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said,
Paul the prisoner called me unto him, and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee, who hath something to say unto thee.18
Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside privately, and asked him,
What is that thou hast to tell me?19
And he said,
The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul PS to morrow into the council, as though they would inquire somewhat of him more perfectly.20 But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.21
So the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged him,
See thou tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me.22
And he called unto him two centurions, saying,
Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night;23 And provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.24
Paul is protected by 470 soldiers.
And he wrote a letter after this manner:25
Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.26 This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.27 And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought him forth into their council:28 Whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.29 And when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent straightway to thee, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say before thee what they had against him. Farewell.30
Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul PS, and brought him by night to Antipatris.31 On the morrow they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the castle:32 Who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul PS also before him.33 And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;34
I will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come.
And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.
Acts.24
And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul PS.1 And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying,
Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence,2 We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.3 Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.4 For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:5 Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.6 But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands,7 Commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.8
And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so.9 Then Paul PS, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered,
Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:10 Because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship.11 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:12 Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.13 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:14 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.15 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.16 Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.17 Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult.18 Who ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought against me.19 Or else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council,20 Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.21
And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said,
When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.22
And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul PS, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.23 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for PaulPS, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.24 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come Felix trembled, and answered,
Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.25
He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul PS, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him.26 But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul PSbound.
Acts.25
Now when Festus was come into the province, after three days he ascended from Caesarea to Jerusalem.1Then the high priest and the chief of the Jews informed him against Paul PS, and besought him,2 And desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him.3 But Festus answered, that Paul PSshould be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither.4
Let them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.5
And when he had tarried among them more than ten days, he went down unto Caesarea; and the next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded Paul PS to be brought.6 And when he was come, the Jews which came down from Jerusalem stood round about, and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, which they could not prove.
Unlike the complaints agiasts Jesus, which they could not prove.7
While he answered for himself,
Neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar, have I offended any thing at all.8
But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered PaulPS, and said,
Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?9
Then said PaulPS,
I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.10 For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Caesar.11
Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered,
xxx thou appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go.12
And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.13
And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul'sPS cause unto the king, saying,
There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:14 About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him.15 To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him.16 Therefore, when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth.17 Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed:18 But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.19 And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.20 But when Paul PShad appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar.21
Then Agrippa said unto Festus,
xx would also hear the man myself. To morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him.22
And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul PS was brought forth.23 And Festus said,
King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us, ye see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he ought not to live any longer.24 But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him.25 Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write.26 For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him.
Acts.26
Then Agrippa said unto Paul,
Thou art permitted to speak for thyself.
Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:1
I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:2 Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.3 My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews;4 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.5 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:6 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.7 Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?8 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.9 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.10 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.11 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,12 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.13 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.14 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.15 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;16 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,17 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.18 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:19 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.20 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.21 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:22 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.23
And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice,
Paul PS, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.24
But he said,
I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.25 For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.26 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.27 Then Agrippa said unto Paul,
Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.28
And Paul said,
I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.29
And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:30 And when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying,
This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds.31
Then said Agrippa unto Festus,
This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar.
Acts.27
And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul PS and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.1 And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.2 And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself.3 And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.4 And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia.5 And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein.6 And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone;7 And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.8 Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them,9 And said unto them,
Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.10
Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.11 And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west.12 And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete.13 But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon.14 And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive.15 And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat:16 Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven.17 And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship;18 And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship.19 And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.20 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said,
Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.21 And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship.22 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve,23 Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.24 Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.25 Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island.26
But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some country;27 And sounded, and found it twenty fathoms: and when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms.28 Then fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.29 And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship,30 Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers,
Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.31
Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.32 And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying,
This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing.33 Wherefore I pray you to take some meat: for this is for your health: for there shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you.34
And when he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat.35 Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took some meat.36 And we were in all in the ship two hundred threescore and sixteen souls.37 And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, and cast out the wheat into the sea.38 And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship.39 And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore.40 And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves.41 And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape.42 But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land:43 And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.
Acts.28
And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.1 And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.2 And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.3 And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves,
No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.4
And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.5 Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.6
The “barbarians” are quick to change their opinions concerning Paul, yet both views are incorrect.
In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.7 And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.8 So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:9 Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.[10] And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.11 And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.12 And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli:13 Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went toward Rome.14 And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appiiforum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.15 And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him.16 And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them,
Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.17 Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me.18 But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.19 For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.20 And they said unto him,
We neither received letters out of Judaea concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any harm of thee.21 But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.22
And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.23 And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.24 And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word,
Well spake the Holy Ghost TL by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,25 Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:26 For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.27 Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.28
And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves.29 And Paul PS dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,30 Preaching the kingdom of God TL, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
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For such a large text, the “Acts of the Apostles” has a limited number of esoteric writing techniques and the majority of these are the pseudonym of Paul and the technical language of the “Holy Ghost” and this facts suggets Acts is to meant to read and interpreted as a typical document.
Pseudonyms, predominately Paul and Barnabas over 150
Technical language, predominant the Holy Ghost over 50
The explicit contradiction between the two descriptions of the meeting of Jesus on the road to Damascus is the most obvious inconsistency. An implitict contradition is the number of Apostles is maintained by drawing lots [Acts 1:26], yet Saint Paul describes himself as an Apostle, thereby increasing the number of Apostles from twelve to thirteen. The scenerios where Jews relate the history of Jews to people who are Jews themselves, is the primary indication that the text is for Christians and Christian converts.
Bernice
[King] Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.25:13
[When] Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp...25:23
And when he [Paul, v.29] had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:26:30
Bernice is mentioned on three occasions in the Acts od the Apostles and no information concerning her is provided. However, history remembers Bernice, as she would later marry Titus, before he destroyed Jerusalem. Saint Paul seems comfortable conversing in an upper class environment, which is expected when one is related to the ruling family:
Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord. Rom 16:11
Pharisee
For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both AE. Act 23:8
The reader can be reasonably certain that Saint Paul is proud both of his heritage and of obtaining the position of a Pharisee. Without a doubt, it is more challenging to be a Pharisee than a Sadducee for the primary reason that the law of Moses does not indicate either a resurrection or a personal immortal soul, although, angels are mentioned in the Old Testament. The Sadducees simply the interpret the text as it is, whereas the Pharisees must offer creative exegeses or allegorical intepretations to arrive at the desired results of a future resurrection and immortal souls.
Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. Act 6:53
The “who” in this passage are the “stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears” [Acts 6:51]. Stephen does not say that the law was from God, but from angels. Stephen is only attched when he states that he sees “the Son of man standing on the right hand of God” [Act 6:56]. Saint Paul agrees with Stephen concerning the origin of the law:
[The law, v.18] was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.19 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. Gal 3:19-20
The “mediator” who gave the law is not “one”, however, “God is one”. The implication of these passages is the mediator, Jehovah, who gave the laws to Israel is not the ultimate God beyond the eigth heaven, but a tribal deity. Saint Paul acknowledges the existence of other gods, as does the Old Testament:
For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, as there be gods many, and lords many, 1Co 8:5
Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods [angels?]. Gal 4:8
Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels… Col 2:18
When combining the texts of Galatians and Colossians, the realization that the nation of Israel has received the law from angels and they worship the angel Jehovah as God, otherwise said, the Israelites “did service unto them which by nature are no gods”, the mediating angel, and expected a “reward” for their “humility”. It can now be understood why Saint Paul was often persecuted by Jews, Gentiles, the rulers, and the common people, as he taught that either the national or popular gods were only angels (or messengers) of the one God or that these national gods were simply the creations of their respective ethnic ancestors. Regardless of whether Saint Paul was teaching that the gods were only messengers or that they were only literary creations to his audience, his teachings opposed their pious frauds. In Gnostic thought, the ultimate God, the God above the tribal deities, was oftentimes described as the “Unknown God”, as he does not manifest himself in the material world and his existence is theoretical.
[Paul] found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Act 17:23
The wording, “To the Unknown God”, could be interpreted that certain gods might exist that the Greeks have yet to name, in the sense of an unknown bird god or an unknown fish god. The “Unknown God” is simply the highest God, as Saint Paul should know, yet, he states that he “Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.” It is doubtful that the impossible to know God is ignorantly worshiped, as his existence can only be known philosophically, through the application of reason. Therefore, to state the unknown God is worshiped in ignorance by the fewest, the most thoughtful, is a subtle contradiction. The implication of this second statement is that Saint Paul teaches that the highest God has manifested his will in the physical universe. It was understood, at least by the learned, that it was possible for the lessor gods to influence human events in the material plane, however, the novel idea that the unknown or ultimate God could do this would be decisively rejected, for once the wholly spiritual and incorporeal God enters into reality and affects changes, he is no longer completely spiritual, but is, to some degree, physical. The unknown God of the Greeks could neither flood the world nor wrestle with Jacob.
One method that Saint Paul could preach that God can influence his creation, without altering his essence, would be through his energies, not through his physical presence. References to various energies, or dynamisxx, are found in the Pauline epistles.
But unto them which are called TL,... Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 1Cor 1:24
Saint Paul explicitly connects not only the power of God with Christ, but also the wisdom of God with Christ.
Be... thou partaker … of the gospel TL according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling TL,... which was given us in Christ Jesus IR before the world began TL,
2Ti 1:8-9
The power of God is from “Christ Jesus” and has saved “us” before the world began. Once again, the pronoun “us” is presumed to be “we Christians” who know “the way of God more perfectly.”
[The gospel of Christ] is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth… Rom 1:16
[For] unto us which are saved it [the preaching of the cross] is the power of God. 1Co 1:18
The gospel of Christ is the power of God for salvation and, for the saved, the preaching of the cross is the power of God. The fact that a coherent statement can be made from two separate epistles suggests that Saint Paul is not only aware of what he is writing, and the reasoned conclusions from these statements, but that he is consistent across his epistles.
Respecter of People
[Peter] said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: Act 10:34
For there is no respect of persons with God. Rom 2:11
But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. Col 3:25
[Masters know] that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.
Eph 6:9
Peter and Saint Paul agree that God is not a respecter of persons. However, Noah found favor with God [Genesis 6:9] and David was a man after God’s own heart [Samuel 13:14, Acts 13:22]. The seeming contradiction between these statements is removed when one distinguishes between the indifference of the God of Saint Paul and the tribal deity of the Old Testament. Jehovah not only has his favorite individuals, but also has his favorite people: the tribes of Israel.
As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. Rom 9:13
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“Many are called...”
According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world… Eph 1:4
The “God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” has chosen “us”, presumably Christians, previous to the act of cosmic creation. This passage proposes that some people are predestined to become Christians or to recognize Jesus as the Christ.
Moreover whom he did predestinate TL, them he also called TL: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. Rom 8:30
From this passage it follows that predestination is synonymous with being “called”. Ephesians 1:4 equates “chosen” with predestination, while Romans states that those who are predestined are the “called”. The remaining texts that indicate predestination as a Pauline doctrine:
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate TL to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Rom 8:29
Having predestinated TL us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will TL,5 [We] being predestinated TL according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: Eph 1:5-11
These passages in the King James translation leave the question concerning the potential difference between the many who are “called” and few who are “chosen” unresolved. Additional confusion arises in the Kings James Bible, as the adjective ἐκλεκτός [G1588, eklektos] is translated as both “elect,” on sixteen occurrences, and “chosen”, on seven occurrences.
Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect eklektos ? It is God that justifieth. Rom 8:33
For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth; Rom 9:11
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace TL.5 What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blindedxxxxx Rom 11:5, 7
As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election TL, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes. Rom 11:28
Enemies of the gospel can be members of the election.
Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Rom 16:13
But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;27 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: 1Co. 1:27-28
And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind: 2Co 8:19
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Col 3:12
According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Eph 1:4
Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God TL. 1Th 1:4
But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: 2 Thes. 2:13
I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ IR and the elect angels TL, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. 1Ti 5:21
No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus IR with eternal glory. 2Ti 2:4, 10
Paul PS, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect TL, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; Tit 1:1
ἐκλέγομαι G1586
eklegomai verb
But God hath chosen eklegomai the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen eklegomai the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;27 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen eklegomai, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: 1Co 1:27-28
According as he hath chosen eklegomai us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Eph 1:4
Ἐκλογή G1589
ekloge feminine noun
But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen ekloge vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: Act 9:15
For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election ekloge might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth; Rom 9:11
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election ekloge of grace.5 What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election ekloge hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded. Rom 11:5, 7
There is a “remnant” that are elected of grace and the remainder are blind.
Called
Paul PS, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, Rom 1:1
Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:6 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints TL: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ IR. Rom 1:6-7
Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God. Rom 2:17
So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. Rom 7:3
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called TL according to his purpose.28 Moreover whom he did predestinate TL, them he also called TL: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. Rom 8:28, 30
Rom 9:7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called.
Even us, whom he hath called TL, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? RQ24 And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God. Rom 9:24, 26
Paul PS, called to be an apostle TL of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,1 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus IR, called to be saints TL, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, IR both theirs and ours: 1Co 1:1-2
God is faithful, by whom ye were called TL unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord IR. 1Co 1:9
But unto them which are called TL, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.24 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called TL: 1Co 1:24, 26
But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 1Co 5:11
But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.15 But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called TL every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches.17 Is any man called being circumcised?RQ let him not become uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision RQ?let him not be circumcised. 1Co. 7:15, 17-18
Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.20 Art thou called being a servant?RQ care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather.21 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 1Co 7:20-22
Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God. 1Co 7:24
For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, as there be gods many, and lords many, 1Co 8:5
For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle TL, because I persecuted the church of God. 1Co 15:9
I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you TL into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Gal 1:6
But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb SE, and called me TL by his grace, Gal 1:15
Gal. 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
Ephs 2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;
Eph. 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord TL, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
Eph. 4:4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
Col. 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called TL in one body; and be ye thankful.
Col. 4:11 And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, TL which have been a comfort unto me.
That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you TL unto his kingdom and glory.1 Thes. 2:12
For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. [CM]1 Thes. 4:7
Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.2 Thes. 2:4
Whereunto he [God v.13] called you by our gospel SE, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.IR2 Thes. 2:14
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life TL, whereunto thou art also called TL, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.1 Tim. 6:12
Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling TL, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus IR before the world began, TL2 Tim. 1:9
“...few are chosen.”
Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord TL, and his mother and mine. Rom 16:13
1 Cor. 1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
1 Cor. 1:28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:2 Cor. 8:19
According as he [the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, v.3] hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: TLEph. 1:4
But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you TL to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit TLand belief of the truth:2 Thes. 2:13
No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.SE -2 Tim. 2:4
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The Law
Νόμος G 3551
nomos masculine noun From a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals)
The KJV translates Strong's G 3551 as: law (197).
In the Pauline epistles, the “law” cannot always be presumed to be interpreted as the “Jewish law”, as Saint Paul distinguishes between those who are “Jews” and those “under the law” and this indicates at least one additional law.
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law nomos, as under the law nomos, that I might gain them that are under the law nomos; To them that are without law, as without law nomos , (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 1Cor 9:20-22
Saint Paul could illistrate his style of ministry by either using the Jews and those without the law or those under the law and the weak, however, he includes all four types. Certain individuals may describe this behavior of Saint Paul as duplicitous or “dual minded”. The exact law in a specific text can be typically be understood from the context:
[You] could not be justified by the law of Moses. Act 13:39
Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: Act 15:24
[Thousands] of Jews... are all zealous of the law: Act 21:20
[Paul] teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law... Act 22:28
[Paul was taught according to] the law of the Fathers, and was zealous toward God, Act 22:3
[Paul worships] the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law… Act 24:14
[Paul answered], Neither against the law of the Jews … Act 25:8
The majority of the occurrences of “the law” in the book of Acts can be understood as the Jewish law from the context alone, however, the correct interpretation of the text becomes increasing difficult in the Pauline epistles. In conclusion to this part, the term “law” can be considered as being a general term consisting of all divinely revealed laws and not limited to the laws of Israel.
Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law nomos of commandments contained in ordinances SE ; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; Eph 2:15
The wording of “the law of commandments contained in ordinances” is so verbose that even the causal reader must notice it and question its inteneded meaning. Saint Paul expressly mentions two laws:
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law nomos of God; but with the flesh the law nomos of sin TL . Rom 7:25
According to Saint Paul, there are two laws: The mind that serves the law of God and the body that serves the law of sin.
For I delight in the law nomos of God after the inward man: Rom 7:22
In addition to the law of God, there is a “law of faith”:
Where is boasting then RQ ? It is excluded. By what law nomos RQ ? of works? Nay: but by the law nomos of faith. Rom 3:27
Saint Paul offers additional insights concerning the law of the mind and the “law of sin” in the flesh:
But I see another law nomos in my members, warring against the law nomos of my mind TL, and bringing me into captivity to the law nomos of sin TL which is in my members. Rom 7:23
Saint Paul continues describing the duality between the spiritual and the physical:
For we know that the law nomos is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin SE . Rom 7:14
The usage of the pronoun “we” possibly includes those who know “the way TL of God more perfectly” [Acts 18:26]. The “law of the mind”, or the “law of God”, is spiritual, while the “law of sin” is fleshly and “carnal”.
Saint Paul provides eighty uses of the term “the law” that overwhelms the six occurrences that differentiate the “law of sin” and the “law of my mind”. Without first acknowledging that Saint Paul teaches two distinct laws, the reader would be confused by the contradictory statements. In the majority of usages, the “law” should be understood as the commandments and ordinances from Jehovah, oftentimes called the “Lord”.
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For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; For not the hearers of the [Jewish, v.10] law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. Rom 2:12-13
The workers of the law will be justified before Jehovah, but not before God.
Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law nomos, and makest thy boast of God,17 And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law nomos; Rom 2:17-18
Thou that makest thy boast of the law nomos, through breaking the law nomos dishonourest thou God RQ ? Rom 2:23
One cannot boast before God, since he is not a respecter of persons, only Jehovah respects individuals.
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Rom 2:Which shew the work of the law nomos written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)15 An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law nomos. Rom 2:15, 20
For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law nomos: but if thou be a breaker of the law nomos, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.25 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law nomos, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision RQ ?26 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law nomos, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law nomos?27 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: Rom 2:25-28
Now we know that what things soever the law nomos saith, it saith to them who are under the law nomos: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law nomos there shall no flesh be justified in his [God, v.19] sight: for by the law nomos is the knowledge of sin.20 But now the righteousness of God without the law nomos is manifested, being witnessed by the law nomos and the prophets; Rom 3:19-21
The deeds of the law, or works or the law, can only be justified by the tribal deity, Jehovah, not by God, and the righteeousness of God is manifested without the law, which cannot be said of Jehovah.
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law nomos. Rom 3:28
Do we then make void the law nomos through faith? God forbid AE : yea, we establish the law nomos . Rom 3:31
The law of faith [v.27] is established.
For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world SE , was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law nomos, but through the righteousness of faith.13 For if they which are of the law nomos be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect.14 Because the law nomos worketh wrath: for where no law nomos is, there is no transgression TL .15 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law nomos, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the Father of us all, Rom 4:13-16
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For until the law nomos sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law nomos. Rom 5:13
Adam lived for a time without sin, as the commandment to not eat of the tree was after his creation,
however, Eve always lived under the law, as it was given before her creation.
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Moreover the law nomos entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: Rom 5:20
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law nomos, but under grace. Rom 6:14
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Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law nomos,) how that the law nomos hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth RQ ?1 For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law nomos to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law nomos of her husband.2 So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; nomos so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.3 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law nomos by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead TL, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.4 For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law nomos, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death.5 But now we are delivered from the law nomos, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter [the Law?].6 What shall we say then RQ ?I s the law nomos sin RQ ? God forbid AE . Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law nomos: for I had not known lust, except the law nomos had said, Thou shalt not covet.7 But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law nomos sin was dead.8 For I was alive without the law nomos once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. Rom 7:1-9
If one answers the initial question that the law only applies to the living in the affirmative, then the rest of the text is superfluous. Saint Paul answers his rhetorical question in Corinthians:
The wife is bound by the law nomos as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. 1Co 7:39
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Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law nomos, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law nomos: for by the works of the law nomos shall no flesh be justified. Gal 2:16
The body is not just justified by the law of Jehovah.
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For I through the law nomos am dead to the law nomos, that I might live unto God.19 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law nomos, then Christ is dead in vain. Gal 2:19, 21
The grace of God is contrasted with the law of Jehovah.
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Is the law nomos then against the promises of God RQ ?God forbid AE : for if there had been a law nomos given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law nomos. Gal 3:21
Although righteousness cannot come from the law of Jehovah, the law is not against the promises of God.
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Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law nomos; ye are fallen from grace.
Gal 5:4
The grace of Christ is contrasted with being “justified” under the law.
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Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law nomos, a Pharisee;5 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law nomos, blameless.6 And be found in him [Christ, v.8], not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law nomos, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: Phl 3:5-6, 9
One’s righteousness found in the law is contrasted with the righteousness of God.
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The Law- Not Categorized
For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law nomos shall be judged by the law nomos;12 For not the hearers of the law nomos are just before God, but the doers of the law nomos shall be justified.13 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, nomos do by nature the things contained in the law nomos, these, having not the law nomos, are a law nomos unto themselves: Rom 2:12-14
What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law nomos, but under grace? God forbid. Rom 6:15
Wherefore the law nomos is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good CM . Rom 7:12
The appeal to the opinion that the law is holy is contradicted when Saint Paul states that the law is a curse.
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If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law nomos that it is good. Rom 7:16
I find then a law nomos, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. Rom 7:21
For the law nomos of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus IR hath made me free from the law nomos of sin and death TL .2 For what the law nomos could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh,3 God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law nomos might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Rom 8:2-4
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law nomos of God, neither indeed can be. Rom 8:7
Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law nomos, and the service of God, and the promises; Rom 9:4
But Israel, which followed after the law nomos of righteousness, hath not attained to the law nomos of righteousness.31 Wherefore RQ ?Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law nomos. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; Rom 9:31-32
For Christ is the end of the law nomos for righteousness to every one that believeth.4 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law nomos AA, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.
Rom 10:4-5
Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.8 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Rom 13:8,10
Say I these things as a man RQ ? or saith not the law nomos the same also RQ ?8 For it is written in the law nomos of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. 1Co 9:8-9
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law nomos, as under the law nomos, that I might gain them that are under the law nomos;20 To them that are without law nomos, as without law nomos, (being not without law to God, but under the law nomos to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law nomos. 1Co 9:20-21
In the law nomos it is written AA, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord AA . 1Co 14:21
Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law nomos AA. 1Cor 14:34
The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law nomos. 1Cor 15:56
This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law nomos, or by the hearing of faith RQ? Gal 3:2
He [Paul?] therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law nomos, or by the hearing of faith RQ ? Gal 3:5
For as many as are of the works of the law nomos are under the curse: for it is written AA , Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law nomos to do them. But that no man is justified by the law nomos in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith AA . And the law nomos is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law nomos, being made a curse for us: for it is written AA, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: Gal 3:10-13
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law nomos, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.17 For if the inheritance be of the law nomos, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.18 Wherefore then serveth the law nomos RQ ? It was added because of transgressions TL , till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Gal 3:17-19
But before faith came, we were kept under the law nomos, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law nomos was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. Gal. 3:23-24
But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law nomos, To redeem them that were under the law nomos, that we might receive the adoption of sons TL . Gal 4:4-5
Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law nomos, do ye not hear the law nomos RQ ? Gal 4:21
For all the law nomos is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself AA . Gal 5:14
But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law nomos. Gal 5:18
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law nomos. Gal 5:23
Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law nomos of Christ.2 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law nomos; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh IS.
Gal 6:2, 13
Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.7 But we know that the law nomos is good, if a man use it lawfully;8 Knowing this, that the law nomos is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers CM, 1Ti 1:7-9
But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain CM. Tit 3:9
Since the “law of God” and the “law of sin” has been discovered and confirmed, it is of importance that we examine the exact nature of sin as understood by Saint Paul.
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Sin
The most frequently found Greek word translated as “sin” in the King James version of the Bible is Ἁμαρτία, G266, This word is an archery term and means “to miss the mark”. Sin, for the Jews, is to fall short of the 613 commandments, while for the Gentiles, sin can either be of a religious or of a secular nature.
ἁμαρτάνω 264 988.2
hamartanō verb Perhaps from ἄλφα (G 1) (as a negative particle) and the base of μέρος (G 3313)
The KJV translates Strong's G 264 as: sin (38), trespass (3), offend (1), for your faults (1). Total: 43
For when the Gentiles, which have not the [Jewish, v. 10] law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Rom 2:14
The inference from this passage is that a person who abides by his own standards of morality, whether based on Natural Law or not, is sinless, as he would rarely “miss the mark” he set for himself. Of course, said individual is a law unto himself [Rom 2:15], regardless of the views of either secular or religious authorities.
For as many as have sinned hamartanō without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned hamartanō in the law shall be judged by the law; Rom 2:12
Those with the law die without the law and those with the law are judged by the law.
What then RQ ? are we better than they RQ ?No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin hamartia; Rom 3:9
For all have sinned hamartanō, and come short of the glory of God; Rom 3:23
But the scripture hath concluded all under sin hamartia AA , that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. Gal 3:22
In Galatians, Saint Paul references his statement in Romans [v.23], thereby making his epistle “scripture”.
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Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his [God, v.19] sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin hamartia. Rom 3:20
Works are not justified before God, only before the Lord and Jehovah.
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Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his [Christ Jesus, v.24] blood TL, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins TL that are past, through the forbearance of God; Rom 3:25
Saying AA, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins hamartia are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Rom 4:7-8
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Wherefore, as by one man [Adam?] sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned hamartanō:12 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 13 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses SE , even over them that had not sinned hamartanō after the similitude of Adam's transgression TL , who is the figure of him that was to come.14 And not as it was by one [Adam?] that sinned hamartanō, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one [Jesus?] to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. Rom 5:12-14, 16
For as by one man's disobedience [Adam?] many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one [Jesus?] shall many be made righteous. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord IR. Rom 5:19-21
Not surprisingly, there are more offenses after the written Law was introduced [v.20], since the unwritten law, Natural Law, is limited.
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For in that he [Christ, v.9] died, he died unto sin hamartia once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.10 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin hamartia, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord IR . 11 Let not sin hamartia therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.12 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin hamartia: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead TL, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.13 For sin hamartia shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.14 What then RQ ?shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace RQ ?God forbid AE .15 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin hamartia unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness SE RQ ?16 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin hamartia SE. but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.17 Being then made free from sin hamartia, ye became the servants of righteousness. Rom 6:10-18
One should consider themselves dead to sin, but alive “unto God”, not alive to the Lord nor to Jehovah [v.10].
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For when ye were the servants of sin hamartia SE, ye were free from righteousness.20 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 22 For the wages of sin is death SE; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord IR . Rom 6:20, 22-23
Being free from the law allows one to become a servant to God [v.22], not to the Lord nor to Jehovah.
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For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins hamartia, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. Rom 7:5
What shall we say then RQ ? Is the law sin hamartia RQ ? God forbid AE . Nay, I had not known sin hamartia, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin hamartia, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin hamartia was dead. Gentiles, without the Law, do not have sin, as it is dead. For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin hamartia revived, and I died. Rom 7:7-9
For sin hamartia, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Rom 7:11
The commandment kills.
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Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin hamartia that dwelleth in me. Rom 7:17
Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin hamartia that dwelleth in me. Rom 7:20
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin hamartia TL which is in my members. Rom 7:23
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord IR . So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God TL ; but with the flesh the law of sin hamartia TL . Rom 7:25
Sin dwells in Saint Paul [v.17 and v.20] and is in his members [v.23]. Saint Paul serves the law of sin with his flesh [v.25].
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus IR hath made me free from the law of sin hamartia and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh hamartia, and for sin hamartia, condemned sin hamartia in the flesh: Rom 8:2-3
God sent Christ Jesus [v.3], not the Lord nor Jehovah.
Was then that which is good made death unto me RQ ?God forbid AE . But sin hamartia, that it might appear sin hamartia, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by hamartia the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin SE . Rom 7:13-14
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And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin hamartia; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. Rom 8:10
In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins hamartia of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ SE: Col 2:11
Sin is located in the body
And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written AA, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. Rom 15:9
The Gentiles glorify God, neither the Lord nor Jehovah.
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For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins hamartanō according to the scriptures; 1Co 15:3
For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Rom 5:6
In Corinthians, it seems that Saint Paul references his epistle to the Romans as “scripture” [v.3].
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And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins hamartia. 1Co 15:17
The sting of death is sin hamartia; and the strength of sin hamartia is the law. 1Co 15:56
For he [God] hath made him [Christ, v.20] to be sin hamartia for us, who [Christ] knew no sin hamartia; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him [Christ]. 2Co 5:21
God has made Christ to be “sin for us”, not the Lord nor Jehovah.
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What shall we say then RQ ?Shall we continue in sin hamartia, that grace may abound RQ ?1 God forbid AE . How shall we, that are dead to sin hamartia SE , live any longer therein RQ ? Rom 6:1-2
Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him SE . that the body of sin hamartia TL might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin hamartia. Rom 6:6-7
For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their [Israel, v.26] sins hamartia AA . Rom 11:27
And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin hamartia. Rom 14:23
But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin hamartanō against Christ. 1Co 8:12
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins hamartia, according to the riches of his grace TL ; Eph 1:7
And you hath he [Christ, 1:20] quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins hamartia TL ;1 Even when we were dead in sins TL , [God, v.4] hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) Eph 2:1, 5
In whom [the Son, v.13] we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins hamartia TL IR :
Col 1:14
God has made us alive with Christ, not alive in the Lord or Jehovah.
Who [our Lord Jesus Christ, v.3] gave himself for our sins hamartia, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father IR: Gal 1:4
We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,15 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin hamartia RQ? God forbid AE. Gal 2:15, 17
As everyone has a body of flesh, it follows that everyone is a sinner.
And you, being dead in your sins hamartia TL and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses TL ; Col 2:13
[Jews, v.14] Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved TL , to fill up their sins hamartia alway TL : for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost. Th 2:16
Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day TL shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin hamartia be revealed TL, the son of perdition; 2Th 2:3
The following are appeals to conventional morality:
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that commiteth fornication sinneth hamartanō against his own body. CM 1Co 6:18
But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned hamartanō; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned hamartanō. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but I spare you. CM 1Co 7:28
But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth hamartanō not: let them marry. CM 1Co 7:36
Awake to righteousness, and sin hamartanō not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. CM 1Co 15:34
And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed. CM 2Co 12:21
I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: CM 2Co 13:2
Be ye angry, and sin hamartanō not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: CM Eph 4:26
Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear CM.20 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins hamartia: keep thyself pure CM.22 Some men's sins hamartia are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after SE CM. 1Ti 5:20, 22, 24
For of this sort [men, v.2-4] are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins hamartia, led away with divers lusts CM, 2Ti 3:6
Knowing that he [a heretic, v.10] that is such is subverted, and sinneth hamartanō, being condemned of himself CM. Tit 3:11
Saint Paul does not provide a workable definition of sin. A practical definition of sin would allow the individual to know what constitutes sin and, thereby, to correctly identify a previously an unknown sin and to prevent poetential sinning.. However, he writes that “whatsoever is not of faith is sin” [Rom 15:23]. Therefore, everything is sin, expect for the few things that are of faith. It not certain if faith is limited to man, or if angels can have faith also.
Ἁμαρτωλός 268 945.3
hamartōlos adjective From ἁμαρτάνω (G264)
The KJV translates Strong's G 268 as: sinner (43), sinful (4).
For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner hamartōlos? Rom 3:7
I lie not [Rom 9:1, 2Cor 11:31, Gal 1:20, 1Ti 1:5].
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners hamartōlos, Christ died for us.8 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners hamartōlos, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Rom 5:8, 19
God commends his love for us, not the Lord nor Jehovah.
Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful hamartōlos. Rom 7:13
This is only passage in the Pauline Epistles where ἁμαρτωλός is correctly translated as an adjective.
We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners hamartōlos of the Gentiles,15 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners hamartōlos, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.
Gal 2:15, 17
Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners hamartōlos, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 1Ti 1:9
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus IR came into the world to save sinners hamartōlos; of whom I am chief. 1Ti 1:15
An unamagious defitinion for ἁμαρτωλός is found in the first epistle to Timothy, where Saint Paul explictly states the law was made for sinners. xxx
Faith 168 occurrences
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Hope
Who [Abraham, v. xxx] against hope believed in hope, that he might become the Father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. Rom 4:18
By whom [the lord Jesus Christ, v.1] also we have access by faith TL into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Rom 5:2
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost TL which is given unto us. Rom 5:5
For the creature TL was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Rom 8:20
The “creature” accidentally becomes vain due to hope.
For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 24 RQ But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Rom 8:24-25
Now the God of hope TL fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost TL. Rom 15:13
Or saith he it altogether for our sakes RQ? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope AA. 1Co 9:10
If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 1Co.15:19
Believers without a full knowledge of Christ, or those who are ignorant of “the way TL of God more perfectly SE”, also have hope.
And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation. 2Co 1:7
For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. Gal 5:5
The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his [God, v.17] calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints SE. Eph 1:18
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; Eph 4:4
Him [xxx]therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. Phl 2:23
For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Col 1:5
If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul PS am made a minister; Col 1:23
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Col 1:27
Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ IR, in the sight of God and our Father; 1Th 1:3
But let us, who are of the day SE, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love SE; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation TL. 1Th 5:8
Now our Lord Jesus Christ IR himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace SE, 2 Th 2:16
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; Tit 1:2
That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Tit. 3:7
Since one hopes for eternal life, it is clear that there is some doubt or uncertainty concerning eternal life for the believer, that is, eternal life is not guaranteed.
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Charity 21 occurrences
1 Cor. 8:1 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.1 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.2 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.3 charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, -1 Cor. 13:1-4
1 Cor. 13:8 charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
1 Cor.13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity
1 Cor. 14:1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
1 Cor. 15:14 Let all your things be done with charity.
Col. 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
1 Thes. 3:6 But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:
2 Thes. 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;
1 Tim. 1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
1 Tim. 2:15 Notwithstanding she [the woman, xx] shall be saved in childbearing SE, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
1 Tim. 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
2 Tim. 2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. [CM]
2 Tim. 3:10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
Tit. 2:2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.
There are two caveats in our approach to understand the Pauline Epistles. Firstly, we may lack the natural mental facilities to correctly interpret the written word and, as we are dependent on translations into English, this increases the likelihood that we will not fully appreciate what is written.
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 1Cor 2:6-7
Saint Paul clearly states that he speaks of “the wisdom of God in a mystery” and, unless the we can penetrate this mystery, our efforts will not be completely satisfactory, that is, we will remain imperfect. Secondly, there is a strong indication that Saint Paul teaches by both letters and by speech.
Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. 2Th 2:15
These “words” may constitute a non written tradition for the proper interpretation of the text which, of course, we do not have access to these possible insights from the text alone. The Roman and Greek churches have their respective Traditions for the interpretation of scripture, but any appeal to these traditions negates our premise that Saint Paul can be understood from his epistles alone.
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