Acts
Chapter : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Chapter 23
Chapter 24
Chapter 25
Chapter 26
Chapter 27
Chapter 28
Chapter : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Acts - Chapter 1-28
Chapter 1
1 The former treatise have I made, O
Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to
do and teach, 2 Until the day in which he was taken up,
after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles
whom he had chosen: 3 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: 4 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. 5 For John truly
baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days
hence. 6 When they therefore were come together,
they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the
kingdom to Israel? 7 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. 8 But ye shall receive
power, after that the Holy Ghost 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. 9 And when he had spoken these things,
while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their
sight. 10 And while they looked stedfastly toward
heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 11 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. 12 Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is
from Jerusalem a sabbath day's
journey. 13 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. 14 These all continued with one accord in prayer
and supplication, with the women, and Mary the
mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. 15 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,) 16 Men and brethren, this scripture must
needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of Davidspake before concerning Judas,
which was guide to them that took Jesus. 17 For he was numbered with us, and had
obtained part of this ministry. 18 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. 19 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. 20 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. 21 Wherefore of these men which have
companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went
in and out among us, 22 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. 23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and
Matthias. 24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which
knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast
chosen, 25 That he may take part of this ministry
and apostleship, from which Judas by
transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. 26 And they gave forth their lots; and the
lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
-------------Chapter 2
1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come,
they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from
heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were
sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven
tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy
Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them
utterance. 5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under
heaven. 6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude
came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in
his own language. 7 And they were all amazed and marvelled,
saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear we every man in our own
tongue, wherein we were born? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and
the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them
speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. 12 And they were all amazed, and were in
doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? 13 Others mocking said, These men are full
of new wine. 14 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: 15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose,
seeing it is but the third hour of the day. 16 But this is that which was spoken by the
prophet Joel; 17 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: 18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens
I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above,
and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness,
and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord
come: 21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever
shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. 22 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: 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate
counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have
crucified and slain: 24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed
the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of
it. 25 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: 26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue
was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: 27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in
hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of
life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. 29 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. 30 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; 31 He seeing this before spake of the
resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not
left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. 32 This Jesus hath
God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. 33 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. 34 For David is
not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my
Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 35 Until I make thy foes thy
footstool. 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that
same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord
and Christ. 37 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? 38 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. 39 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. 40 And with many other words did he testify
and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 41 Then they that gladly received his word
were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand
souls. 42 And they continued stedfastly in the
apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in
prayers. 43 And fear came upon every soul: and many
wonders and signs were done by the apostles. 44 And all that believed were together, and
had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and
parted them to all men, as every man had need. 46 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, 47 Praising God, and having favour with all
the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
-------------Chapter 3
1 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of
prayer, being the ninth hour. 2 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; 3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. 4 And Peter,
fastening his eyes upon him with John, said,
Look on us. 5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to
receive something of them. 6 Then Peter said,
Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name
of Jesus Christ of Nazarethrise up and walk. 7 And he took him by the right hand, and
lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and
entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising
God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and
praising God: 10 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. 11 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. 12 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? 13 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. 14 But ye denied the Holy One and the Just,
and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; 15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God
hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. 16 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. 17 And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance
ye did it, as did also your rulers. 18 But those things, which God before had
shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should
suffer, he hath so fulfilled. 19 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; 20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before
was preached unto you: 21 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. 22 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. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every
soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the
people. 24 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have
spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. 25 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. 26 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.
-------------Chapter 4
1 And as they spake unto the people, the priests,
and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees , came upon them, 2 Being grieved that they taught the
people, and preached through Jesus the
resurrection from the dead. 3 And they laid hands on them, and put them
in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide. 4 Howbeit many of them which heard the word
believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand. 5 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their
rulers, and elders, and scribes, 6 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and
Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered
together at Jerusalem. 7 And when they had set them in the midst,
they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? 8 Then Peter,
filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders
of Israel, 9 If we this day be examined of the good
deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; 10 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. 11 This is the stone which was set at nought
of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for
there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be
saved. 13 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. 14 And beholding the man which was healed
standing with them, they could say nothing against it. 15 But when they had commanded them to go
aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 Saying, What 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. 17 But that it spread no further among the
people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in
this name. 18 And they called them, and commanded them
not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 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. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which
we have seen and heard. 21 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. 22 For the man was above forty years old, on
whom this miracle of healing was shewed. 23 And being let go, they went to their own
company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto
them. 24 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: 25 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the
people imagine vain things? 26 The kings of the earth stood up, and the
rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. 27 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, 28 For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy
counsel determined before to be done. 29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings:
and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy
word, 30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal;
and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus. 31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken
where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy
Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. 32 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. 33 And with great power gave the apostles
witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus:
and great grace was upon them all. 34 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, 35 And laid them down at the apostles' feet:
and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. 36 And Joses, who
by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of
consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, 37 Having land, sold it, and brought the
money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
-------------Chapter 5
1 But a certain man named Ananias, with
Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2 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. 3 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 land? 4 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. 5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and
gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these
things. 6 And the young men arose, wound him up, and
carried him out, and buried him. 7 And it was about the space of three hours
after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. 8 And Peter answered
unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for
so much. 9 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. 10 Then fell she down straightway at his
feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead,
and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. 11 And great fear came upon all the church,
and upon as many as heard these things. 12 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. 13 And of the rest durst no man join himself
to them: but the people magnified them. 14 And believers were the more added to the
Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) 15 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. 16 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. 17 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, 18 And laid their hands on the apostles, and
put them in the common prison. 19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the
prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, 20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the
people all the words of this life. 21 And when they heard that, they entered
into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and
they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of
the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to
have them brought. 22 But when the officers came, and found them not
in the prison, they returned, and told, 23 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. 24 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. 25 Then came one and told them, saying,
Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching
the people. 26 Then went the captain with the officers,
and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should
have been stoned. 27 And when they had brought them, they set
them before the council: and the high priest asked them, 28 Saying, 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. 29 Then Peter and
the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than
men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. 31 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. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and
so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. 33 When they heard that, they were cut to the
heart, and took counsel to slay them. 34 Then stood there up one in the council, a
Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the
people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space; 35 And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as
touching these men. 36 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. 37 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. 38 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: 39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow
it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. 40 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. 41 And they departed from the presence of
the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his
name. 42 And daily in the temple, and in every
house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
-------------Chapter 6
1 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. 2 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. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among
you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may
appoint over this business. 4 But we will give ourselves continually to
prayer, and to the ministry of the word. 5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude:
and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and
Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 6 Whom they set before the apostles: and
when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. 7 And the word of God increased; and the
number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly;
and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. 8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did
great wonders and miracles among the people. 9 Then there arose certain of the
synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and
Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. 10 And they were not able to resist the
wisdom and the spirit by which he spake. 11 Then they suborned men, which said, We
have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses,
and against God. 12 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, 13 And set up false witnesses, which said,
This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and
the law: 14 For we have heard him say, that
this Jesus of Nazareth shall
destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered
us. 15 And all that sat in the council, looking
stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.
-------------Chapter 7
1 Then said the high priest, Are these
things so? 2 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, 3 And said unto him, Get thee out of thy
country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew
thee. 4 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. 5 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. 6 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. 7 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. 8 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. 9 And the patriarchs, moved with envy,
sold Joseph into Egypt:
but God was with him, 10 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. 11 Now there came a dearth over all the land
of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction:
and our fathers found no sustenance. 12 But when Jacob heard
that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our
fathers first. 13 And at the second time Joseph was
made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred
was made known unto Pharaoh. 14 Then sent Joseph,
and called his father Jacob to him, and all
his kindred, threescore and fifteen souls. 15 So Jacob went
down into Egypt, and died, he, and our
fathers, 16 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. 17 But when the time of the promise drew
nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people
grew and multiplied in Egypt, 18 Till another king arose, which knew
not Joseph. 19 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. 20 In which time Moses was
born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three
months: 21 And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's
daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son. 22 And Moses was
learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in
deeds. 23 And when he was full forty years old, it came
into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel. 24 And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he
defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian: 25 For he supposed his brethren would have
understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood
not. 26 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? 27 But he that did his neighbour wrong
thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us? 28 Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the
Egyptian yesterday? 29 Then fled Moses at
this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two
sons. 30 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. 31 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, 32 Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the
God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.
Then Mosestrembled, and durst not behold. 33 Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes
from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground. 34 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. 35 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. 36 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. 37 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. 38 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: 39 To whom our fathers would not obey, but
thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt, 40 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. 41 And they made a calf in those days, and
offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own
hands. 42 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? 43 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. 44 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. 45 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; 46 Who found favour before God, and desired
to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob. 47 But Solomon built
him an house. 48 Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in
temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, 49 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? 50 Hath not my hand made all these
things? 51 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart
and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do
ye. 52 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: 53 Who have received the law by the
disposition of angels, and have not kept it. 54 When they heard these things, they were
cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. 55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost,
looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesusstanding on the right hand of God, 56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens
opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. 57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and
stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, 58 And cast him out of the city, and stoned
him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose
name was Saul. 59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and
saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. 60 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.
------------Chapter 8
1 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. 3 As for Saul,
he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and
women committed them to prison. 4 Therefore they that were scattered abroad
went every where preaching the word. 5 Then Philip went
down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. 6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto
those things which Philip spake, hearing
and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 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. 8 And there was great joy in that city. 9 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: 10 To whom they all gave heed, from the
least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. 11 And to him they had regard, because that
of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. 12 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. 13 Then Simon himself
believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs
which were done. 14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had
received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for
them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of
them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17 Then laid they their hands on them, and
they received the Holy Ghost. 18 And when Simon saw
that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he
offered them money, 19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on
whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. 20 But Peter said
unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift
of God may be purchased with money. 21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this
matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and
pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall
of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. 24 Then answered Simon,
and said, Pray ye to the LORD for me, that none of these things which ye have
spoken come upon me. 25 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. 26 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. 27 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, 28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read
Esaias the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. 30 And Philip ran
thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest
thou what thou readest? 31 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. 32 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: 33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away:
and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the
earth. 34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet
this? of himself, or of some other man? 35 Then Philip opened
his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. 36 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? 37 And Philip said,
If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said,
I believe that JesusChrist is the Son of
God. 38 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. 39 And when they were come up out of the water,
the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that
the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip was
found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he
came to Caesarea.
------------Chapter 9
1 And Saul,
yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord,
went unto the high priest, 2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of
this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. 3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light
from heaven: 4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a
voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 5 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. 6 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. 7 And the men which journeyed with him
stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. 8 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. 9 And he was three days without sight, and
neither did eat nor drink. 10 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 enquire
in the house of Judasfor
one called Saul, of
Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 12 And hath seen in a
vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he
might receive his sight. 13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard
by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 14 And here he hath authority from the chief
priests to bind all that call on thy name. 15 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: 16 For I will shew him how
great things he must suffer for my name's sake. 17 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 as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou
mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes
as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was
baptized. 19 And when he had received meat, he was
strengthened. Then was Saul certain days
with the disciples which were at Damascus. 20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of
God. 21 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? 22 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: 24 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill
him. 25 Then the disciples took him by night, and
let him down 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. 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to
the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and
that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 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. 30 Which when the brethren knew, they
brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth
to Tarsus. 31 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, were multiplied. 32 And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down
also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. 33 And there he found a certain man named
Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. 34 And Peter said
unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh
thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. 35 And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw
him, and turned to the Lord. 36 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. 37 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. 38 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. 39 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. 40 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. 41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her
up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42 And it was known throughout all Joppa;
and many believed in the Lord. 43 And it came to pass, that he tarried many
days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.
-----------Chapter 10
1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band
called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God
with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God
alway. 3 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. 4 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. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for
one Simon, whose surname is Peter: 6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he
shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. 7 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; 8 And when he had declared all these things
unto them, he sent them to Joppa. 9 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: 10 And he became very hungry, and would have
eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, 11 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: 12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted
beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the
air. 13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter;
kill, and eat. 14 But Peter said,
Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. 15 And the voice spake unto him again the
second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou
common. 16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was
received up again into heaven. 17 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 enquiry for Simon's
house, and stood before the gate, 18 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter,
were lodged there. 19 While Peter thought
on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. 20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and
go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them. 21 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? 22 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.23 Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on
the morrow Peter went away with them, and
certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called
together his kinsmen and near friends. 25 And as Peter was
coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped
him. 26 But Peter took
him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. 27 And as he talked with him, he went in,
and found many that were come together. 28 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. 29 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? 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was
fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and,
behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard,
and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 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. 33 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: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him,
and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children
of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of
all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was
published throughout all Judaea, and began
from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went
about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was
with him. 39 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: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and
shewed him openly; 41 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. 42 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. 43 To him give all the prophets witness,
that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of
sins. 44 While Peter yet
spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 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. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues,
and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these
should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in
the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
-------------Chapter 11
1 And the apostles and brethren that were
in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also
received the word of God. 2 And when Peter was
come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the
circumcision contended with him, 3 Saying, Thou wentest in to men
uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. 4 But Peter rehearsed
the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them,
saying, 5 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: 6 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. 7 And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter;
slay and eat. 8 But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or
unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. 9 But the voice answered me again from
heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou
common. 10 And this was done three times: and all
were drawn up again into heaven. 11 And, behold, immediately there were three
men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesareaunto
me. 12 And the Spirit bade me go with them,
nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered
into the man's house: 13 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; 14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou
and all thy house shall be saved. 15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost
fell on them, as on us at the beginning. 16 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. 17 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? 18 When they heard these things, they held
their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles
granted repentance unto life. 19 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. 20 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. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them:
and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. 22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears
of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they
sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23 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. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the
Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. 25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to
seek Saul: 26 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. 27 And in these days came prophets
from Jerusalem unto Antioch. 28 And there stood up one of them named
Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth
throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, every man according
to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt
in Judaea: 30 Which also they did, and sent it to the
elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
--------------Chapter 12
1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain
of the church. 2 And he killed James the
brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw it pleased the Jews,
he proceeded further to take Peter also.
(Then were the days of unleavened bread.) 4 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. 5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer
was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. 6 And when Herod would
have brought him forth, the same night Peter was
sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before
the door kept the prison. 7 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. 8 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. 9 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. 10 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. 11 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. 12 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. 13 And as Peter knocked
at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. 14 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. 15 And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But
she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his
angel. 16 But Peter continued
knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were
astonished. 17 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. 18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no
small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter. 19 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. 20 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. 21 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and
made an oration unto them. 22 And the people gave a shout, saying, It
is the voice of a god, and not of a man. 23 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. 24 But the word of God grew and
multiplied. 25 And Barnabas and Saul returned
from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their
ministry, and took with them John, whose surname
was Mark.
--------------Chapter 13
1 Now there were in the church that was at
Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord, and
fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for
the work whereunto I have called them. 3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid
their hands on them, they sent them away. 4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy
Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. 5 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
Barjesus: 7 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. 8 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,) filled with the Holy
Ghost, set his eyes on him, 10 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? 11 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. 12 Then the deputy, when he saw what was
done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord. 13 Now when Paul and
his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem. 14 But when they departed from Perga, they came to
Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat
down. 15 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. 17 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. 18 And about the time of forty years suffered he
their manners in the wilderness. 19 And when he had destroyed seven nations
in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot. 20 And after that he gave unto them judges
about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the
prophet. 21 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. 22 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. 23 Of this man's seed hath God according to
his promise raised unto Israel a
Saviour, Jesus: 24 When John had
first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people
of Israel. 25 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. 26 Men and brethren, children of the stock
of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God,
to you is the word of this salvation sent. 27 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. 28 And though they found no cause of death in him,
yet desired they Pilate that he should be
slain. 29 And when they had fulfilled all that was
written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a
sepulchre. 30 But God raised him from the dead: 31 And he was seen many days of them which
came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people. 32 And we declare unto you glad tidings, how
that the promise which was made unto the fathers, 33 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. 34 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. 35 Wherefore he saith also in another psalm,
Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 36 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: 37 But he, whom God raised again, saw no
corruption. 38 Be it known unto you therefore, men and
brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of
sins: 39 And by him all that believe are justified from
all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. 40 Beware therefore, lest that come upon
you, which is spoken of in the prophets; 41 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. 42 And when the Jews were gone out of the
synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the
next sabbath. 43 Now when the congregation was broken up,
many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and
Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of
God. 44 And the next sabbath day came almost the whole
city together to hear the word of God. 45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes,
they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken
by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. 46 Then Paul and
Barnabas 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. 47 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. 48 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. 49 And the word of the Lord was published
throughout all the region. 50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and
honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution
against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled
them out of their coasts. 51 But they shook off the dust of their feet
against them, and came unto Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy,
and with the Holy Ghost.
---------------Chapter 14
1 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. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the
Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. 3 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. 4 But the multitude of the city was
divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles. 5 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, 6 They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and
Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: 7 And there they preached the gospel. 8 And there sat a certain man at Lystra,
impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had
walked: 9 The same heard Paul speak:
who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be
healed, 10 Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on
thy feet. And he leaped and walked. 11 And when the people saw what Paul 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. 12 And they called Barnabas, Jupiter;
and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief
speaker. 13 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. 14 Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among
the people, crying out, 15 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: 16 Who in times past suffered all nations to
walk in their own ways. 17 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. 18 And with these sayings scarce restrained
they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them. 19 And there came thither certain Jews from
Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been
dead. 20 Howbeit, as the disciples stood round
about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed
with Barnabas to Derbe. 21 And when they had preached the gospel to
that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium,
and Antioch, 22 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. 23 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. 24 And after they had passed throughout
Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. 25 And when they had preached the word in
Perga, they went down into Attalia: 26 And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they
had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they
fulfilled. 27 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. 28 And there they abode long time with the
disciples.
--------------Chapter 15
1 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. 2 When therefore Paul and
Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined
that Pauland Barnabas, and certain other of
them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the
apostles and elders about this question.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. 4 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. 5 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. 6 And the apostles and elders came together for
to consider of this matter. 7 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. 8 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them
witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; 9 And put no difference between us and
them, purifying their hearts by faith. 10 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? 11 But we believe that through the grace of
the LORD Jesus Christ we
shall be saved, even as they. 12 Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave
audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what
miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them. 13 And after they had held their
peace, James answered, saying, Men and
brethren, hearken unto me: 14 Simeon hath
declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a
people for his name. 15 And to this agree the words of the
prophets; as it is written, 16 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: 17 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. 18 Known unto God are all his works from the
beginning of the world. 19 Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble
not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: 20 But that we write unto them, that they
abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things
strangled, and from blood. 21 For Moses of
old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues
every sabbath day. 22 Then pleased it the apostles and elders,
with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch
with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among
the brethren: 23 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: 24 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: 25 It seemed good unto us, being assembled
with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas
and Paul, 26 Men that have hazarded their lives for
the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same
things by mouth. 28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and
to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; 29 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. 30 So when they were dismissed, they came to
Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the
epistle: 31 Which when they had read, they rejoiced
for the consolation. 32 And Judas and
Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words,
and confirmed them. 33 And after they had tarried there a space,
they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles. 34 Notwithstanding it pleased Silas to abide
there still. 35 Paul also
and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord,
with many others also. 36 And some days after Paul said
unto Barnabas, 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. 37 And Barnabas determined to take with
them John, whose surname was Mark. 38 But Paul thought
not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went
not with them to the work. 39 And the contention was so sharp between
them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark,
and sailed unto Cyprus; 40 And Paul chose
Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of
God. 41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.
-------------Chapter 16
1 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: 2 Which was well reported of by the
brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. 3 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. 4 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. 5 And so were the churches established in
the faith, and increased in number daily. 6 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia
and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the
word in Asia, 7 After they were come to Mysia, they
assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. 8 And they passing by Mysia came down to
Troas. 9 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. 10 And after he had seen the vision,
immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia,
assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto
them. 11 Therefore loosing from Troas, we came
with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; 12 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. 13 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. 14 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, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. 15 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. 16 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: 17 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. 18 And this did she many days. But Paul, 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. 19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their
gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas,
and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers, 20 And brought them to the magistrates,
saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, 21 And teach customs, which are not lawful
for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans. 22 And the multitude rose up together
against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat
them. 23 And when they had laid many stripes upon
them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them
safely: 24 Who, having received such a charge,
thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the
stocks. 25 And at midnight Paul and
Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. 26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so
that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors
were opened, and every one's bands were loosed. 27 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. 28 But Paul cried
with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here. 29 Then he called for a light, and sprang
in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and
Silas, 30 And brought them out, and said, Sirs,
what must I do to be saved? 31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt
be saved, and thy house. 32 And they spake unto him the word of the Lord,
and to all that were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the
night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his,
straightway. 34 And when he had brought them into his house,
he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his
house. 35 And when it was day, the magistrates sent
the serjeants, saying, Let those men go. 36 And the keeper of the prison told this saying
to Paul, The magistrates have sent to let you
go: now therefore depart, and go in peace. 37 But Paul 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. 38 And the serjeants told these words unto
the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans. 39 And they came and besought them, and
brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city. 40 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.
--------------Chapter 17
1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and
Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews: 2 And Paul,
as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them
out of the scriptures, 3 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. 4 And some of them believed, and consorted
with Paul and Silas; and of the devout
Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few. 5 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. 6 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; 7 Whom Jason hath received: and these all
do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying
that there is another king, one Jesus. 8 And they troubled the people and the
rulers of the city, when they heard these things. 9 And when they had taken security of Jason, and
of the other, they let them go. 10 And the brethren immediately sent
away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea:
who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11 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. 12 Therefore many of them believed; also of
honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few. 13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge
that the word of God was preached of Paul at
Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people. 14 And then immediately the brethren sent
away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but
Silas and Timotheus abode there still. 15 And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens:
and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with
all speed, they departed. 16 Now while Paul waited
for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in
him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry. 17 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. 18 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. 19 And they took him, and brought him unto
Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest,
is? 20 For thou bringest certain strange things
to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean. 21 (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.) 22 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. 23 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. 24 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; 25 Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as
though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all
things; 26 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; 27 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: 28 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. 29 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. 30 And the times of this ignorance God
winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 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. 32 And when they heard of the resurrection
of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this
matter. 33 So Paul departed
from among them. 34 Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and
believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named
Damaris, and others with them.
---------------Chapter 18
1 After these things Paul departed
from Athens, and came to Corinth;2 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.3 And because he was of the same craft, he
abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were
tentmakers.4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every
sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.5 And when Silas and Timotheus were come
from Macedonia, Paul was
pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.6 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.7 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.8 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.9 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be
not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:10 For I am with thee, and
no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.11 And he continued there a year and six
months, teaching the word of God among them.12 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the
Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul,
and brought him to the judgment seat,13 Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship
God contrary to the law.14 And when Paul was
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:15 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.16 And he drave them from the judgment
seat.17 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.18 And Paul 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.19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them
there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the
Jews.20 When they desired him to tarry longer
time with them, he consented not;21 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.22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down
to Antioch.23 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.24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at
Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to
Ephesus.25 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.26 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 of God more perfectly.27 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:28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and
that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
---------------Chapter 19
1 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos
was at Corinth, Paul having passed through
the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,2 He said unto them, Have ye received the
Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as
heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.3 And he said unto them, Unto what then
were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's
baptism.4 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.5 When they heard this, they were baptized
in the name of the Lord Jesus.6 And when Paul had
laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with
tongues, and prophesied.7 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.9 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.11 And God wrought special miracles by the hands
of Paul:12 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.13 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 preacheth.14 And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a
Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.15 And the evil spirit answered and
said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?16 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.17 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.18 And many that believed came, and
confessed, and shewed their deeds.19 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.20 So mightily grew the word of God and
prevailed.21 After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed
through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see
Rome.22 So he sent into Macedonia two
of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed
in Asia for a season.23 And the same time there arose no small
stir about that way.24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a
silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto
the craftsmen;25 Whom he called together with the workmen of
like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our
wealth.26 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone
at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath
persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are
made with hands:27 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.28 And when they heard these sayings, they were full
of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.29 And the whole city was filled with
confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions
in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.30 And when Paul would
have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.31 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.32 Some therefore cried one thing, and some
another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore
they were come together.33 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.34 But when they knew that he was a Jew, all
with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the
Ephesians.35 And when the townclerk had appeased the
people, he said, Ye 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?36 Seeing then that these things cannot be
spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly.37 For ye have brought hither these men,
which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemers of your
goddess.38 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.39 But if ye enquire any thing concerning
other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly.40 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.41 And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed
the assembly.
--------------Chapter 20
1 And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them,
and departed for to go into Macedonia.2 And when he had gone over those parts,
and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,3 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.4 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.5 These going before tarried for us at
Troas.6 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.7 And upon the first day of the week, when
the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached
unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until
midnight.8 And there were many lights in the upper
chamber, where they were gathered together.9 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.10 And Paul went
down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his
life is in him.11 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.12 And they brought the young man alive, and
were not a little comforted.13 And we went before to ship, and sailed
unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for
so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.14 And when he met with us at Assos, we took
him in, and came to Mitylene.15 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.16 For Paul 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.17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and
called the elders of the church.18 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,19 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:20 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,21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to
the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit
unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall
befall me there:23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in
every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.24 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.25 And now, behold, I know that ye all,
among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no
more.26 Wherefore I take you to record this day,
that I am pure from the blood of all men.27 For I have not shunned to declare unto
you all the counsel of God.28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and
to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to
feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.29 For I know this, that after my departing
shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.30 Also of your own selves shall men arise,
speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by
the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with
tears.32 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.33 I have coveted no man's silver, or gold,
or apparel.34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands
have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.35 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.36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled
down, and prayed with them all.37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,38 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.
--------------Chapter 21
1 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:2 And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia,
we went aboard, and set forth.3 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.4 And finding disciples, we tarried there
seven days: who said to Paul through the
Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.5 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.6 And when we had taken our leave one of
another, we took ship; and they returned home again.7 And when we had finished our course
from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the
brethren, and abode with them one day.8 And the next day we that were of Paul's 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.9 And the same man had four daughters,
virgins, which did prophesy.10 And as we tarried there many days, there
came down from Judaea a certain prophet,
named Agabus.11 And when he was come unto us, he
took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and
feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and
shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.12 And when we heard these things, both we, and
they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.13 Then Paul 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.14 And when he would not be persuaded, we
ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.15 And after those days we took up our
carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.16 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.17 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.18 And the day following Paul went in with us unto James;
and all the elders were present.19 And when he had saluted them, he declared
particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his
ministry.20 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:21 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.22 What is it therefore? the multitude must
needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.23 Do therefore this that we say to thee: We
have four men which have a vow on them;24 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.25 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.26 Then Paul took
the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple,
to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an
offering should be offered for every one of them.27 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,28 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.29 (For they had seen before with him in the city
Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had
brought into the temple.)30 And all the city was moved, and the people ran
together: and they took Paul, and drew him out
of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.31 And as they went about to kill him,
tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.32 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.33 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.34 And some cried one thing, some another,
among the multitude: and when he could not know the certainty for the tumult,
he commanded him to be carried into the castle.35 And when he came upon the stairs, so it
was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people.36 For the multitude of the people followed after,
crying, Away with him.37 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?38 Art not thou that Egyptian, which before
these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand
men that were murderers?39 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.40 And when he had given him licence, Paul 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,
------------Chapter 22
1 Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence
which I make now unto you.2 (And when they heard that he spake in the
Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)3 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,
and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was
zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.4 And I persecuted this way unto the death,
binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.5 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.6 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.7 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a
voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?8 And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And
he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.9 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.10 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.11 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.12 And one Ananias, a devout man according
to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,13 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto
me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the
same hour I looked up upon him.14 And he said, The God of our fathers hath
chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and
shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of
what thou hast seen and heard.16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be
baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.17 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;18 And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy
testimony concerning me.19 And I said, Lord, they know that I
imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee:20 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.21 And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.22 And they gave him 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.23 And as they cried out, and cast off their
clothes, and threw dust into the air,24 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.25 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it
lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?26 When the centurion heard that, he went
and told the chief captain, saying, Take heed what thou doest: for this man is
a Roman.27 Then the chief captain came, and said
unto him, Tell me, art thou a Roman? He said, Yea.28 And the chief captain answered, With a
great sum obtained I this freedom. And Paul said,
But I was free born.29 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.30 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.
----------------Chapter 23
1 And Paul,
earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all
good conscience before God until this day.2 And the high priest Ananias commanded
them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.3 Then said Paul 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?4 And they that stood by said, Revilest
thou God's high priest?5 Then said Paul,
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.6 But when Paul 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.7 And when he had so said, there arose a
dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees : and the multitude was
divided.8 For the Sadducees say that there is no
resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.9 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.10 And when there arose a great dissension,
the chief captain, fearing lest Paul 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.11 And the night following the Lord stood by
him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as
thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must
thou bear witness also at Rome.12 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 Paul.13 And they were more than forty which had
made this conspiracy.14 And they came to the chief priests and elders,
and said, We have bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing
until we have slain Paul.15 Now therefore ye with the council signify
to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye
would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come
near, are ready to kill him.16 And when Paul's
sister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle,
and told Paul.17 Then Paul called
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.18 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.19 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?20 And he said, The Jews have agreed to
desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul to
morrow into the council, as though they would enquire somewhat of him more
perfectly.21 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.22 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.23 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;24 And provide them beasts, that they may
set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix
the governor.25 And he wrote a letter after this
manner:26 Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent
governor Felix sendeth greeting.27 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.28 And when I would have known the cause wherefore
they accused him, I brought him forth into their council:29 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.30 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.31 Then the soldiers, as it was commanded
them, took Paul, and brought him by night to
Antipatris.32 On the
morrow they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the castle:33 Who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him.34 And when the governor had read the
letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of
Cilicia;35 I will hear thee, said he, when thine
accusers are also come. And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.
---------------Chapter 24
1 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.2 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,3 We accept it always, and in all places,
most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.4 Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious
unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few
words.5 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:6 Who also hath gone about to profane the
temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.7 But the chief captain Lysias came upon
us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands,8 Commanding his accusers to come unto
thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things,
whereof we accuse him.9 And the Jews also assented, saying that
these things were so.10 Then Paul,
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:11 Because that thou mayest understand, that
there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for
to worship.12 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:13 Neither can they prove the things whereof
they now accuse me.14 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:15 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.16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have
always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.17 Now after many years I came to bring alms
to my nation, and offerings.18 Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me
purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult.19 Who ought to have been here before thee,
and object, if they had ought against me.20 Or else let these same here say, if they
have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council,21 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.22 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.23 And he commanded a centurion to
keep Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that
he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.24 And after certain days, when Felix came
with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.25 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.26 He hoped also that money should have been
given him of Paul, that he might loose him:
wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him.27 But after two years Porcius Festus came
into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paulbound.
---------------Chapter 25
1 Now when Festus was come into the
province, after three days he ascended from Caesarea to Jerusalem.2 Then the high priest and the chief of the
Jews informed him against Paul, and besought
him,3 And desired favour against him, that he would
send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way
to kill him.4 But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea,
and that he himself would depart shortly thither.5 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.6 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 to
be brought.7 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.8 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.9 But Festus, willing to do the Jews a
pleasure, answered Paul, and said, Wilt thou go
up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these
things before me10 Then said Paul,
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.11 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.12 Then Festus, when he had conferred with
the council, answered, Hast thou appealed unto Caesar?
unto Caesarshalt thou go.13 And after certain days king Agrippa and
Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute
Festus.14 And when they had been there many days,
Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king,
saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:15 About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews
informed me, desiring to have judgment against him.16 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.17 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.18 Against whom when the accusers stood up,
they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed:19 But had certain questions against him of
their own superstition, and of one Jesus, which
was dead, whom Paulaffirmed to be alive.20 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.21 But when Paul had
appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be
kept till I might send him to Caesar.22 Then Agrippa said unto Festus, I would
also hear the man myself. To morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him.23 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 was brought forth.24 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.25 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.26 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.27 For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send
a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him.
-------------Chapter 26
1 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for
himself:2 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:3 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.4 My manner of life from my youth, which
was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem,
know all the Jews;5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they
would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a
Pharisee.6 And now I stand and am judged for the
hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:7 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.8 Why should it be thought a thing
incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?9 I verily thought with myself, that I
ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.10 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.11 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.12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief
priests,13 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.14 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.15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he
said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.16 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; 17 Delivering thee from the
people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 18 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. 19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not
disobedient unto the heavenly vision:20 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.21 For these causes the Jews caught me in
the temple, and went about to kill me.22 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:23 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.24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus
said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside
thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble
Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.26 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.27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I
know that thou believest.28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.29 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.30 And when he had thus spoken, the king
rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:31 And when they were gone aside, they
talked between themselves, saying, This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of
bonds.32 Then said Agrippa unto Festus, This man
might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar.
---------------Chapter 27
1 And when it was determined that we should
sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named
Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.2 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.3 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.4 And when we had launched from thence, we
sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.5 And when we had sailed over the sea of
Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia.6 And there the centurion found a ship of
Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us
therein.7 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;8 And, hardly passing it, came unto a place
which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.9 Now when much time was spent, and when
sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Pauladmonished them,10 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.11 Nevertheless the centurion believed the
master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken
by Paul.12 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.13 And when the south wind blew softly, supposing
that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by
Crete.14 But not long after there arose against it
a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon.15 And when the ship was caught, and could
not bear up into the wind, we let her drive.16 And running under a certain island which
is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat:17 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.18 And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest,
the next day they lightened the ship;19 And the third day we cast out with our
own hands the tackling of the ship.20 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.21 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.22 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.23 For there stood by me this night the
angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve,24 Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar:
and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.25 Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I
believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.26 Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain
island.27 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;28 And sounded, and found it twenty fathoms:
and when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found it
fifteen fathoms.29 Then fearing lest we should have fallen
upon rocks, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.30 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,31 Paul said
to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot
be saved.32 Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the
boat, and let her fall off.33 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.34 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.35 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.36 Then were they all of good cheer, and
they also took some meat.37 And we were in all in the ship two
hundred threescore and sixteen souls.38 And when they had eaten enough, they lightened
the ship, and cast out the wheat into the sea.39 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.40 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.41 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.42 And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the
prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape.43 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:44 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.
---------------Chapter 28
1 And when they were escaped, then they
knew that the island was called Melita.2 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.3 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.4 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.5 And he shook off the beast into the fire,
and felt no harm.6 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.7 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.8 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.9 So when this was done, others also, which
had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:10 Who also honoured us with many honours;
and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.11 And after three months we departed in a
ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.12 And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there
three days.13 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:14 Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry
with them seven days: and so we went toward Rome.15 And from thence, when the brethren heard
of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom
when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took
courage.16 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.17 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.18 Who, when they had examined me, would
have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me.19 But when the Jews spake against it, I was
constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I
had ought to accuse my nation of.20 For this cause therefore have I called
for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of IsraelI am bound with this chain.21 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.22 But we desire to hear of thee what thou
thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken
against.23 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.24 And some believed the things which were
spoken, and some believed not.25 And when they agreed not among
themselves, they departed, after that Paul had
spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our
fathers,26 Saying, Go unto this people, and say,
Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and
not perceive:27 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.28 Be it known therefore unto you, that the
salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.29 And when he had said these words, the
Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves.30 And Paul dwelt
two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto
him,31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and
teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
---------------
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In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. [Genesis - Chapter 1:1]
Ban đầu Đức Chúa Trời dựng nên trời đất. [Sáng-thế Ký 1:1]