Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

1 Now at the same time, king Herod extended his hand, in order to afflict some from the Church.

2 Then he killed James, the brother of John, with the sword.

3 And seeing that it pleased the Jews, he set out next to apprehend Peter also. Now it was the days of Unleavened Bread.

4 So when he had apprehended him, he sent him into prison, handing him over into the custody of four groups of four soldiers, intending to produce him to the people after the Passover.

5 And so Peter was detained in prison. But prayers were being made without ceasing, by the Church, to God on his behalf.

6 And when Herod was ready to produce him, in that same night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, and was bound with two chains. And there were guards in front of the door, guarding the prison.

7 And behold, an Angel of the Lord stood near, and a light shined forth in the cell. And tapping Peter on the side, he awakened him, saying, “Rise up, quickly.” And the chains fell from his hands.

8 Then the Angel said to him: “Dress yourself, and put on your boots.” And he did so. And he said to him, “Wrap your garment around yourself and follow me.”

9 And going out, he followed him. And he did not know this truth: that this was being done by an Angel. For he thought that he was seeing a vision.

10 And passing by the first and second guards, they came to the iron gate which leads into the city; and it opened for them by itself. And departing, they continued on along a certain side street. And suddenly the Angel withdrew from him.

11 And Peter, returning to himself, said: “Now I know, truly, that the Lord sent his Angel, and that he rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the people of the Jews were anticipating.”

12 And as he was considering this, he arrived at the house of Mary, the mother of John, who was surnamed Mark, where many were gathered and were praying.

13 Then, as he knocked at the door of the gate, a girl went out to answer, whose name was Rhoda.

14 And when she recognized the voice of Peter, out of joy, she did not open the gate, but instead, running in, she reported that Peter stood before the gate.

15 But they said to her, “You are crazy.” But she reaffirmed that this was so. Then they were saying, “It is his angel.”

16 But Peter was persevering in knocking. And when they had opened, they saw him and were astonished.

17 But motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he explained how the Lord had led him away from prison. And he said, “Inform James and those brothers.” And going out, he went away to another place.

18 Then, when daylight came, there was no small commotion among the soldiers, as to what had happened concerning Peter.

19 And when Herod had requested him and did not obtain him, having had the guards interrogated, he ordered them led away. And descending from Judea into Caesarea, he lodged there.

20 Now he was angry with those of Tyre and Sidon. But they came to him with one accord, and, having persuaded Blastus, who was over the bedchamber of the king, they petitioned for peace, because their regions were supplied with food by him.

21 Then, on the appointed day, Herod was clothed in kingly apparel, and he sat in the judgment seat, and he gave a speech to them.

22 Then the people were crying out, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!”

23 And immediately, an Angel of the Lord struck him down, because he had not given honor to God. And having been consumed by worms, he expired.

24 But the word of the Lord was increasing and multiplying.

25 Then Barnabas and Saul, having completed the ministry, returned from Jerusalem, bringing with them John, who was surnamed Mark.

1 Now there were, in the Church at Antioch, prophets and teachers, among whom were Barnabas, and Simon, who was called the Black, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manahen, who was the foster brother of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

2 Now as they were ministering for the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said to them: “Separate Saul and Barnabas for me, for the work for which I have selected them.”

3 Then, fasting and praying and imposing their hands upon them, they sent them away.

4 And having been sent by the Holy Spirit, they went to Seleucia. And from there they sailed to Cyprus.

5 And when they had arrived at Salamis, they were preaching the Word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they also had John in the ministry.

6 And when they had traveled throughout the entire island, even to Paphos, they found a certain man, a magician, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-Jesu.

7 And he was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man. This man, summoning Barnabas and Saul, wanted to hear the Word of God.

8 But Elymas the magician (for so his name is translated) stood against them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the Faith.

9 Then Saul, who is also called Paul, having been filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him,

10 and he said: “So full of every deceit and of all falsehoods, son of the devil, enemy of all justice, you never cease to subvert the righteous ways of the Lord!

11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you. And you will be blinded, not seeing the sun for a length of time.” And immediately a fog and a darkness fell over him. And wandering around, he was seeking someone who might lead him by the hand.

12 Then the proconsul, when he had seen what was done, believed, being in wonder over the doctrine of the Lord.

13 And when Paul and those who were with him had sailed from Paphos, they arrived at Perga in Pamphylia. Then John departed from them and returned to Jerusalem.

14 Yet truly, they, traveling on from Perga, arrived at Antioch in Pisidia. And upon entering the synagogue on the Sabbath day, they sat down.

15 Then, after the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent to them, saying: “Noble brothers, if there is in you any word of exhortation to the people, speak.”

16 Then Paul, rising up and motioning for silence with his hand, said: “Men of Israel and you who fear God, listen closely.

17 The God of the people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people, when they were settlers in the land of Egypt. And with an exalted arm, he led them away from there.

18 And throughout a time of forty years, he endured their behavior in the desert.

19 And by destroying seven nations in the land of Canaan, he divided their land among them by lot,

20 after about four hundred and fifty years. And after these things, he gave them judges, even until the prophet Samuel.

21 And later on, they petitioned for a king. And God gave them Saul, the son of Kish, a man from the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years.

22 And having removed him, he raised up for them king David. And offering testimony about him, he said, ‘I have found David, the son of Jesse, to be a man according to my own heart, who will accomplish all that I will.’

23 From his offspring, according to the Promise, God has brought Jesus the Savior to Israel.

24 John was preaching, before the face of his advent, a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.

25 Then, when John completed his course, he was saying: ‘I am not the one you consider me to be. For behold, one arrives after me, the shoes of whose feet I am not worthy to loosen.’

26 Noble brothers, sons of the stock of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, it is to you the Word of this salvation has been sent.

27 For those who were living in Jerusalem, and its rulers, heeding neither him, nor the voices of the Prophets that are read on every Sabbath, fulfilled these by judging him.

28 And although they found no case for death against him, they petitioned Pilate, so that they might put him to death.

29 And when they had fulfilled everything that had been written about him, taking him down from the tree, they placed him in a tomb.

30 Yet truly, God raised him up from the dead on the third day.

31 And he was seen for many days by those who went up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who even now are his witnesses to the people.

32 And we are announcing to you that the Promise, which was made to our fathers,

33 has been fulfilled by God for our children by raising up Jesus, just as it has been written in the second Psalm also: ‘You are my Son. This day I have begotten you.’

34 Now, since he raised him from the dead, so as to no longer return to corruption, he has said this: ‘I will give to you the holy things of David, the faithful one.’

35 And also then, in another place, he says: ‘You will not allow your Holy One to see corruption.’

36 For David, when he had ministered to his generation in accordance with the will of God, fell asleep, and he was placed next to his fathers, and he saw corruption.

37 Yet truly, he whom God has raised from the dead has not seen corruption.

38 Therefore, let it be known to you, noble brothers, that through him is announced to you remission from sins and from everything by which you were not able to be justified in the law of Moses.

39 In him, all who believe are justified.

40 Therefore, be careful, lest what was said by the Prophets may overwhelm you:

41 ‘You despisers! Look, and wonder, and be scattered! For I am working a deed in your days, a deed which you would not believe, even if someone were to explain it to you.’ “

42 Then, as they were departing, they asked them if, on the following Sabbath, they might speak these words to them.

43 And when the synagogue had been dismissed, many among the Jews and the new worshipers were following Paul and Barnabas. And they, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

44 Yet truly, on the following Sabbath, nearly the entire city came together to hear the Word of God.

45 Then the Jews, seeing the crowds, were filled with envy, and they, blaspheming, contradicted the things that were being said by Paul.

46 Then Paul and Barnabas said firmly: “It was necessary to speak the Word of God first to you. But because you reject it, and so judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles.

47 For so has the Lord instructed us: ‘I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, so that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ “

48 Then the Gentiles, upon hearing this, were gladdened, and they were glorifying the Word of the Lord. And as many as believed were preordained to eternal life.

49 Now the word of the Lord was disseminated throughout the entire region.

50 But the Jews incited some devout and honest women, and the leaders of the city. And they stirred up a persecution against Paul and Barnabas. And they drove them away from their parts.

51 But they, shaking the dust from their feet against them, went on to Iconium.

52 The disciples were likewise filled with gladness and with the Holy Spirit.

1 Now it happened in Iconium that they entered together into the synagogue of the Jews, and they spoke in such a way that a copious multitude of both Jews and Greeks believed.

2 Yet truly, the Jews who were unbelieving had incited and enflamed the souls of the Gentiles against the brothers.

3 And so, they remained for a long time, acting faithfully in the Lord, offering testimony to the Word of his grace, providing signs and wonders done by their hands.

4 Then the multitude of the city was divided. And certainly, some were with the Jews, yet truly others were with the Apostles.

5 Now when an assault had been planned by the Gentiles and the Jews with their leaders, so that they might treat them with contempt and stone them,

6 they, realizing this, fled together to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the entire surrounding region. And they were evangelizing in that place.

7 And a certain man was sitting at Lystra, disabled in his feet, lame from his mother’s womb, who had never walked.

8 This man heard Paul speaking. And Paul, gazing at him intently, and perceiving that he had faith, so that he might be healed,

9 said with a loud voice, “Stand upright upon your feet!” And he leaped up and walked around.

10 But when the crowds had seen what Paul had done, they lifted up their voice in the Lycaonian language, saying, “The gods, having taken the likenesses of men, have descended to us!”

11 And they called Barnabas, ‘Jupiter,’ yet truly they called Paul, ‘Mercury,’ because he was the lead speaker.

12 Also, the priest of Jupiter, who was outside the city, in front of the gate, bringing in oxen and garlands, was willing to offer sacrifice with the people.

13 And as soon as the Apostles, Barnabas and Paul, had heard this, tearing their tunics, they leapt into the crowd, crying out

14 and saying: “Men, why would you do this? We also are mortals, men like yourselves, preaching to you to be converted, from these vain things, to the living God, who made heaven and earth and the sea and all that is in them.

15 In previous generations, he permitted all nations to walk in their own ways.

16 But certainly, he did not leave himself without testimony, doing good from heaven, giving rains and fruitful seasons, filling their hearts with food and gladness.”

17 And by saying these things, they were barely able to restrain the crowds from immolating to them.

18 Now certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium arrived there. And having persuaded the crowd, they stoned Paul and dragged him outside of the city, thinking him to be dead.

19 But as the disciples were standing around him, he got up and entered the city. And the next day, he set out with Barnabas for Derbe.

20 And when they had evangelized that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch,

21 strengthening the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them that they should remain always in the faith, and that it is necessary for us to enter into the kingdom of God through many tribulations.

22 And when they had established priests for them in each church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, in whom they believed.

23 And traveling by way of Pisidia, they arrived in Pamphylia.

24 And having spoken the word of the Lord in Perga, they went down into Attalia.

25 And from there, they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had now accomplished.

26 And when they had arrived and had gathered together the church, they related what great things God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

27 And they remained for no small amount of time with the disciples.

1 And certain ones, descending from Judea, were teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.”

2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas made no small uprising against them, they decided that Paul and Barnabas, and some from the opposing side, should go up to the Apostles and priests in Jerusalem concerning this question.

3 Therefore, being led by the church, they traveled through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles. And they caused great joy among all the brothers.

4 And when they had arrived in Jerusalem, they were received by the church and the Apostles and the elders, reporting what great things God had done with them.

5 But some from the sect of the Pharisees, those who were believers, rose up saying, “It is necessary for them to be circumcised and to be instructed to keep the Law of Moses.”

6 And the Apostles and elders came together to take care of this matter.

7 And after a great contention had taken place, Peter rose up and said to them: “Noble brothers, you know that, in recent days, God has chosen from among us, by my mouth, Gentiles to hear the word of the Gospel and to believe.

8 And God, who knows hearts, offered testimony, by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as to us.

9 And he distinguished nothing between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

10 Now therefore, why do you tempt God to impose a yoke upon the necks of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?

11 But by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we believe in order to be saved, in the same manner also as them.”

12 Then the entire multitude was silent. And they were listening to Barnabas and Paul, describing what great signs and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles through them.

13 And after they had been silent, James responded by saying: “Noble brothers, listen to me.

14 Simon has explained in what manner God first visited, so as to take from the Gentiles a people to his name.

15 And the words of the Prophets are in agreement with this, just as it was written:

16 ‘After these things, I will return, and I will rebuild the tabernacle of David, which has fallen down. And I will rebuild its ruins, and I will raise it up,

17 so that the rest of men may seek the Lord, along with all the nations over whom my name has been invoked, says the Lord, who does these things.’

18 To the Lord, his own work has been known from eternity.

19 Because of this, I judge that those who were converted to God from among the Gentiles are not to be disturbed,

20 but instead that we write to them, that they should keep themselves from the defilement of idols, and from fornication, and from whatever has been suffocated, and from blood.

21 For Moses, from ancient times, has had in each city those who preach him in the synagogues, where he is read on every Sabbath.”

22 Then it pleased the Apostles and elders, with the whole Church, to choose men from among them, and to send to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas, and Judas, who was surnamed Barsabbas, and Silas, preeminent men among the brothers,

23 what was written by their own hands: “The Apostles and elders, brothers, to those who are at Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, brothers from the Gentiles, greetings.

24 Since we have heard that some, going out from among us, have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, to whom we gave no commandment,

25 it pleased us, being assembled as one, to choose men and to send them to you, with our most beloved Barnabas and Paul:

26 men who have handed over their lives on behalf of the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

27 Therefore, we have sent Judas and Silas, who themselves also will, with the spoken word, reaffirm to you the same things.

28 For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to impose no further burden upon you, other than these necessary things:

29 that you abstain from things immolated to idols, and from blood, and from what has been suffocated, and from fornication. You will do well to keep yourselves from these things. Farewell.”

30 And so, having been dismissed, they went down to Antioch. And gathering the multitude together, they delivered the epistle.

31 And when they had read it, they were gladdened by this consolation.

32 But Judas and Silas, being also prophets themselves, consoled the brothers with many words, and they were strengthened.

33 Then, after spending some more time there, they were dismissed with peace, by the brothers, to those who had sent them.

34 But it seemed good to Silas to remain there. So Judas alone departed to Jerusalem.

35 And Paul and Barnabas remained at Antioch, with many others, teaching and evangelizing the Word of the Lord.

36 Then, after some days, Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return to visit the brothers throughout all the cities in which we have preached the Word of the Lord, to see how they are.”

37 And Barnabas wanted to take John, who was surnamed Mark, with them also.

38 But Paul was saying that he ought not to be received, since he withdrew from them at Pamphylia, and he had not gone with them in the work.

39 And there occurred a dissension, to such an extent that they departed from one another. And Barnabas, indeed taking Mark, sailed to Cyprus.

40 Yet truly, Paul, choosing Silas, set out, being delivered by the brothers to the grace of God.

41 And he traveled through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the Churches, instructing them to keep the precepts of the Apostles and the elders.

1 Then he arrived at Derbe and Lystra. And behold, a certain disciple named Timothy was there, the son of a faithful Jewish woman, his father a Gentile.

2 The brothers who were at Lystra and Iconium rendered good testimony to him.

3 Paul wanted this man to travel with him, and taking him, he circumcised him, because of the Jews who were in those places. For they all knew that his father was a Gentile.

4 And as they were traveling through the cities, they delivered to them the dogmas to be kept, which were decreed by the Apostles and elders who were at Jerusalem.

5 And certainly, the Churches were being strengthened in faith and were increasing in number every day.

6 Then, while crossing through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were prevented by the Holy Spirit from speaking the Word in Asia.

7 But when they had arrived in Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not permit them.

8 Then, when they had crossed through Mysia, they descended to Troas.

9 And a vision in the night was revealed to Paul of a certain man of Macedonia, standing and pleading with him, and saying: “Cross into Macedonia and help us!”

10 Then, after he saw the vision, immediately we sought to set out for Macedonia, having been assured that God had called us to evangelize to them.

11 And sailing from Troas, taking a direct path, we arrived at Samothrace, and on the following day, at Neapolis,

12 and from there to Philippi, which is the preeminent city in the area of Macedonia, a colony. Now we were in this city some days, conferring together.

13 Then, on the Sabbath day, we were walking outside the gate, beside a river, where there seemed to be a prayer gathering. And sitting down, we were speaking with the women who had assembled.

14 And a certain woman, named Lydia, a seller of purple in the city of Thyatira, a worshiper of God, listened. And the Lord opened her heart to be receptive to what Paul was saying.

15 And when she had been baptized, with her household, she pleaded with us, saying: “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, enter into my house and lodge there.” And she convinced us.

16 Then it happened that, as we were going out to prayer, a certain girl, having a spirit of divination, met with us. She was a source of great profit to her masters, through her divining.

17 This girl, following Paul and us, was crying out, saying: “These men are servants of the Most High God! They are announcing to you the way of salvation!”

18 Now she behaved in this way for many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you, in the name of Jesus Christ, to go out from her.” And it went away in that same hour.

19 But her masters, seeing that the hope of their profit went away, apprehended Paul and Silas, and they brought them to the rulers at the courthouse.

20 And presenting them to the magistrates, they said: “These men are disturbing our city, since they are Jews.

21 And they are announcing a way which is not lawful for us to accept or to observe, since we are Romans.”

22 And the people rushed together against them. And the magistrates, tearing their tunics, ordered them to be beaten with staffs.

23 And when they had inflicted many scourges on them, they cast them into prison, instructing the guard to watch them diligently.

24 And since he had received this kind of order, he cast them into the interior prison cell, and he restricted their feet with stocks.

25 Then, in the middle of the night, Paul and Silas were praying and praising God. And those who were also in custody were listening to them.

26 Yet truly, there was a sudden earthquake, so great that the foundations of the prison were moved. And immediately all the doors were opened, and the bindings of everyone were released.

27 Then the prison guard, having been jarred awake, and seeing the doors of the prison open, drew his sword and intended to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had fled.

28 But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying: “Do no harm to yourself, for we are all here!”

29 Then calling for a light, he entered. And trembling, he fell before the feet of Paul and Silas.

30 And bringing them outside, he said, “Sirs, what must I do, so that I may be saved?”

31 So they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and then you will be saved, with your household.”

32 And they spoke the Word of the Lord to him, along with all those who were in his house.

33 And he, taking them in the same hour of the night, washed their scourges. And he was baptized, and next his entire household.

34 And when he had brought them into his own house, he set a table for them. And he was joyous, with his entire household, believing in God.

35 And when daylight had arrived, the magistrates sent the attendants, saying, “Release those men.”

36 But the prison guard reported these words to Paul: “The magistrates have sent to have you released. Now therefore, depart. Go in peace.”

37 But Paul said to them: “They have beaten us publicly, though we were not condemned. They have cast men who are Romans into prison. And now they would drive us away secretly? Not so. Instead, let them come forward,

38 and let us drive them away.” Then the attendants reported these words to the magistrates. And upon hearing that they were Romans, they were afraid.

39 And arriving, they pleaded with them, and leading them out, they begged them to depart from the city.

40 And they went away from the prison and entered into the house of Lydia. And having seen the brothers, they consoled them, and then they set out.

1 Now when they had walked through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they arrived at Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews.

2 Then Paul, according to custom, entered to them. And for three Sabbaths he disputed with them about the Scriptures,

3 interpreting and concluding that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise again from the dead, and that “this is the Jesus Christ, whom I am announcing to you.”

4 And some of them believed and were joined to Paul and Silas, and a great number of these were from the worshipers and the Gentiles, and not a few were noble women.

5 But the Jews, being jealous, and joining with certain evildoers among the common men, caused a disturbance, and they stirred up the city. And taking up a position near the house of Jason, they sought to lead them out to the people.

6 And when they had not found them, they dragged Jason and certain brothers to the rulers of the city, crying out: “For these are the ones who have stirred up the city. And they came here,

7 and Jason has received them. And all these men act contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus.”

8 And they incited the people. And the rulers of the city, upon hearing these things,

9 and having received an explanation from Jason and the others, released them.

10 Yet truly, the brothers promptly sent Paul and Silas away by night to Beroea. And when they had arrived, they entered the synagogue of the Jews.

11 But these were more noble than those who were at Thessalonica. They received the Word with all enthusiasm, daily examining the Scriptures to see if these things were so.

12 And indeed, many believed among them, as well as not a few among the honorable Gentile men and women.

13 Then, when the Jews of Thessalonica had realized that the Word of God was also preached by Paul at Beroea, they went there also, stirring up and disturbing the multitude.

14 And then the brothers quickly sent Paul away, so that he might travel by sea. But Silas and Timothy remained there.

15 Then those who were leading Paul brought him as far as Athens. And having received an order from him to Silas and Timothy, that they should come to him quickly, they set out.

16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred up within him, seeing the city given over to idolatry.

17 And so, he was disputing with the Jews in the synagogue, and with the worshipers, and in public places, throughout each day, with whomever was there.

18 Now certain Epicurean and Stoic philosophers were arguing with him. And some were saying, “What does this sower of the Word want to say?” Yet others were saying, “He seems to be an announcer for new demons.” For he was announcing to them Jesus and the Resurrection.

19 And apprehending him, they brought him to the Areopagus, saying: “Are we able to know what this new doctrine is, about which you speak?

20 For you bring certain new ideas to our ears. And so we would like to know what these things mean.”

21 (Now all the Athenians, and arriving visitors, were occupying themselves with nothing other than speaking or hearing various new ideas.)

22 But Paul, standing in the middle of the Areopagus, said: “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are rather superstitious.

23 For as I was passing by and noticing your idols, I also found an altar, on which was written: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore, what you worship in ignorance, this is what I am preaching to you:

24 the God who made the world and all that is in it, the One who is the Lord of heaven and earth, who does not live in temples made with hands.

25 Neither is he served by the hands of men, as if in need of anything, since it is he who gives to all things life and breath and all else.

26 And he has made, out of one, every family of man: to live upon the face of the entire earth, determining the appointed seasons and the limits of their habitation,

27 so as to seek God, if perhaps they may consider him or find him, though he is not far from each one of us.

28 ‘For in him we live, and move, and exist.’ Just as some of your own poets have said. ‘For we are also of his family.’

29 Therefore, since we are of the family of God, we must not consider gold or silver or precious stones, or the engravings of art and of the imagination of man, to be a representation of what is Divine.

30 And indeed, God, having looked down to see the ignorance of these times, has now announced to men that everyone everywhere should do penance.

31 For he has appointed a day on which he will judge the world in equity, through the man whom he has appointed, offering faith to all, by raising him from the dead.”

32 And when they had heard about the Resurrection of the dead, indeed, some were derisive, while others said, “We will listen to you about this again.”

33 So Paul departed from their midst.

34 Yet truly, certain men, adhering to him, did believe. Among these were also Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

1 After these things, having departed from Athens, he arrived at Corinth.

2 And upon finding a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently arrived from Italy with Priscilla his wife, (because Claudius had ordered all Jews to depart from Rome,) he met with them.

3 And because he was of the same trade, he lodged with them and was working. (Now they were tentmakers by trade.)

4 And he was arguing in the synagogue on every Sabbath, introducing the name of the Lord Jesus. And he was persuading Jews and Greeks.

5 And when Silas and Timothy had arrived from Macedonia, Paul stood firm in the Word, testifying to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.

6 But since they were contradicting him and blaspheming, he shook out his garments and said to them: “Your blood is on your own heads. I am clean. From now on, I will go to the Gentiles.”

7 And moving from that place, he entered into the house of a certain man, named Titus the Just, a worshiper of God, whose house was adjoined to the synagogue.

8 Now Crispus, a leader of the synagogue, believed in the Lord, with his entire house. And many of the Corinthians, upon hearing, believed and were baptized.

9 Then the Lord said to Paul, through a vision in the night: “Do not be afraid. Instead, speak out and do not be silent.

10 For I am with you. And no one will take hold of you, so as to do you harm. For many of the people in this city are with me.”

11 Then he settled there for a year and six months, teaching the Word of God among them.

12 But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews rose up with one accord against Paul. And they brought him to the tribunal,

13 saying, “He persuades men to worship God contrary to the law.”

14 Then, when Paul was beginning to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews: “If this were some matter of injustice, or a wicked deed, O noble Jews, I would support you, as is proper.

15 Yet if truly these are questions about a word and names and your law, you should see to it yourselves. I will not be the judge of such things.”

16 And he ordered them from the tribunal.

17 But they, apprehending Sosthenes, a leader of the synagogue, beat him in front of the tribunal. And Gallio showed no concern for these things.

18 Yet truly, Paul, after he had remained for many more days, having said goodbye to the brothers, sailed into Syria, and with him were Priscilla and Aquila. Now he had shaved his head in Cenchreae, for he had made a vow.

19 And he arrived at Ephesus, and he left them behind there. Yet truly, he himself, entering into the synagogue, was disputing with the Jews.

20 Then, although they were asking him to remain for a longer time, he would not agree.

21 Instead, saying goodbye and telling them, “I will return to you again, God willing,” he set out from Ephesus.

22 And after going down to Caesarea, he went up to Jerusalem, and he greeted the Church there, and then he descended to Antioch.

23 And having spent some length of time there, he set out, and he walked in order through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.

24 Now a certain Jew named Apollo, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man who was powerful with the Scriptures, arrived at Ephesus.

25 He was learned in the Way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he was speaking and teaching the things that are of Jesus, but knowing only the baptism of John.

26 And so, he began to act faithfully in the synagogue. And when Priscilla and Aquila had heard him, they took him aside and expounded the Way of the Lord to him more thoroughly.

27 Then, since he wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers wrote an exhortation to the disciples, so that they might accept him. And when he had arrived, he held many discussions with those who had believed.

28 For he was vehemently and publicly reproving the Jews, by revealing through the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.

1 Now it happened that, while Apollo was at Corinth, Paul, after he had journeyed through the upper regions, arrived at Ephesus. And he met with certain disciples.

2 And he said to them, “After believing, have you received the Holy Spirit?” But they said to him, “We have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”

3 Yet truly, he said, “Then with what have you been baptized?” And they said, “With the baptism of John.”

4 Then Paul said: “John baptized the people with the baptism of repentance, saying that they should believe in the One who is to come after him, that is, in Jesus.”

5 Upon hearing these things, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

6 And when Paul had imposed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came over them. And they were speaking in tongues and prophesying.

7 Now the men were about twelve in all.

8 Then, upon entering the synagogue, he was speaking faithfully for three months, disputing and persuading them about the kingdom of God.

9 But when certain ones became hardened and would not believe, cursing the Way of the Lord in the presence of the multitude, Paul, withdrawing from them, separated the disciples, disputing daily in a certain school of Tyrannus.

10 Now this was done throughout two years, so that all who were living in Asia listened to the Word of the Lord, both Jews and Gentiles.

11 And God was accomplishing powerful and uncommon miracles by the hand of Paul,

12 so much so that even when small cloths and wrappings were brought from his body to the sick, the illnesses withdrew from them and the wicked spirits departed.

13 Then, even some of the traveling Jewish exorcists had attempted to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “I bind you by oath through Jesus, whom Paul preaches.”

14 And there were certain Jews, the seven sons of Sceva, leaders among the priests, who were acting in this way.

15 But a wicked spirit responded by saying to them: “Jesus I know, and Paul I know. But who are you?”

16 And the man, in whom there was a wicked spirit, leaping at them and getting the better of them both, prevailed against them, so that they fled from that house, naked and wounded.

17 And so, this became known to all the Jews and Gentiles who were living at Ephesus. And a fear fell over them all. And the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.

18 And many believers were arriving, confessing, and announcing their deeds.

19 Then many of those who had followed odd sects brought together their books, and they burned them in the sight of all. And after determining the value of these, they found the price to be fifty thousand denarii.

20 In this way, the Word of God was increasing strongly and was being confirmed.

21 Then, when these things were completed, Paul decided in the Spirit, after crossing through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, “Then, after I have been there, it is necessary for me to see Rome also.”

22 But sending two of those who were ministering to him, Timothy and Erastus, into Macedonia, he himself remained for a time in Asia.

23 Now at that time, there occurred no small disturbance concerning the Way of the Lord.

24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith making silver shrines for Diana, was providing no small profit to craftsmen.

25 And calling them together, with those who were employed in the same way, he said: “Men, you know that our income is from this craft.

26 And you are seeing and hearing that this man Paul, by persuasion, has turned away a great multitude, not only from Ephesus, but from nearly all of Asia, saying, ‘These things are not gods which have been made by hands.’

27 Thus, not only is this, our occupation, in danger of being brought into repudiation, but also the temple of the great Diana will be reputed as nothing! Then even her majesty, whom all of Asia and the world worships, will begin to be destroyed.”

28 Upon hearing this, they were filled with anger, and they cried out, saying, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!”

29 And the city was filled with confusion. And having seized Gaius and Aristarchus of Macedonia, companions of Paul, they rushed violently, with one accord, into the amphitheatre.

30 Then, when Paul wanted to enter to the people, the disciples would not permit him.

31 And some of the leaders from Asia, who were his friends, also sent to him, requesting that he not present himself in the amphitheatre.

32 But others were crying out various things. For the assembly was in confusion, and most did not know the reason they had been called together.

33 So they dragged Alexander from the crowd, while the Jews were propelling him forward. And Alexander, gesturing with his hand for silence, wanted to give the people an explanation.

34 But as soon as they realized him to be a Jew, all with one voice, for about two hours, were crying out, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!”

35 And when the scribe had calmed the crowds, he said: “Men of Ephesus, now what man is there who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is in the service of the great Diana and of the offspring of Jupiter?

36 Therefore, since these things are not able to be contradicted, it is necessary for you to be calm and to do nothing rash.

37 For you have brought forward these men, who are neither sacrilegious nor blasphemers against your goddess.

38 But if Demetrius and the craftsmen who are with him have a case against anyone, they can convene in the courts, and there are proconsuls. Let them accuse one another.

39 But if you would inquire about other things, this can be decided in a lawful assembly.

40 For now we are in peril of being convicted of sedition over today’s events, since there is no one guilty (against whom we are able to provide evidence) in this gathering.” And when he had said this, he dismissed the assembly.

1 Then, after the tumult ceased, Paul, calling the disciples to himself and exhorting them, said farewell. And he set out, so that he might go into Macedonia.

2 And when he had walked through those areas and had exhorted them with many sermons, he went into Greece.

3 After he had spent three months there, treacheries were planned against him by the Jews, just as he was about to sail into Syria. And having been advised of this, he return through Macedonia.

4 Now those accompanying him were Sopater, the son of Pyrrhus from Beroea; and also the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and also Tychicus and Trophimus from Asia.

5 These, after they had gone ahead, waited for us at Troas.

6 Yet truly, we sailed from Philippi, after the days of Unleavened Bread, and in five days we went to them at Troas, where we stayed for seven days.

7 Then, on the first Sabbath, when we had assembled together to break bread, Paul discoursed with them, intending to set out the next day. But he prolonged his sermon into the middle of the night.

8 Now there were plenty of lamps in the upper room, where we were gathered.

9 And a certain adolescent named Eutychus, sitting on the window sill, was being weighed down by a heavy drowsiness (for Paul was preaching at length). Then, as he went to sleep, he fell from the third floor room downward. And when he was lifted up, he was dead.

10 When Paul had gone down to him, he laid himself over him and, embracing him, said, “Do not worry, for his soul is still within him.”

11 And so, going up, and breaking bread, and eating, and having spoken well on until daylight, he then set out.

12 Now they had brought the boy in alive, and they were more than a little consoled.

13 Then we climbed aboard the ship and sailed to Assos, where we were to take in Paul. For so he himself had decided, since he was making the journey by land.

14 And when he had joined us at Assos, we took him in, and we went to Mitylene.

15 And sailing from there, on the following day, we arrived opposite Chios. And next we landed at Samos. And on the following day we went to Miletus.

16 For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not be delayed in Asia. For he was hurrying so that, if it were possible for him, he might observe the day of Pentecost at Jerusalem.

17 Then, sending from Miletus to Ephesus, he called those greater by birth in the church.

18 And when they had come to him and were together, he said to them: “You know that from the first day when I entered into Asia, I have been with you, for the entire time, in this manner:

19 serving the Lord, with all humility and despite the tears and trials which befell me from the treacheries of the Jews,

20 how I held back nothing that was of value, how well I have preached to you, and that I have taught you publicly and throughout the houses,

21 testifying both to Jews and to Gentiles about repentance in God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

22 And now, behold, being obliged in spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there,

23 except that the Holy Spirit, throughout every city, has cautioned me, saying that chains and tribulations await me at Jerusalem.

24 But I dread none of these things. Neither do I consider my life to be more precious because it is my own, provided that in some way I may complete my own course and that of the ministry of the Word, which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the Gospel of the grace of God.

25 And now, behold, I know that you will no longer see my face, all of you among whom I have traveled, preaching the kingdom of God.

26 For this reason, I call you as witnesses on this very day: that I am clean from the blood of all.

27 For I have not turned aside in the least from announcing every counsel of God to you.

28 Take care of yourselves and of the entire flock, over which the Holy Spirit has stationed you as Bishops to rule the Church of God, which he has purchased by his own blood.

29 I know that after my departure ravenous wolves will enter among you, not sparing the flock.

30 And from among yourselves, men will rise up, speaking perverse things in order to entice disciples after them.

31 Because of this, be vigilant, retaining in memory that throughout three years I did not cease, night and day, with tears, to admonish each and every one of you.

32 And now, I commend you to God and to the Word of his grace. He has the power to build up, and to give an inheritance to all who are sanctified.

33 I have coveted neither silver and gold, nor apparel,

34 as you yourselves know. For that which was needed by me and by those who are with me, these hands have provided.

35 I have revealed all things to you, because by laboring in this way, it is necessary 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 said these things, kneeling down, he prayed with all of them.

37 Then a great weeping occurred among them all. And, falling upon the neck of Paul, they kissed him,

38 being grieved most of all over the word which he had said, that they would never see his face again. And they brought him to the ship.

1 And after these things had happened, having reluctantly parted from them, we sailed a direct course, arriving at Cos, and on following the day at Rhodes, and from there to Patara.

2 And when we had found a ship sailing across to Phoenicia, climbing aboard, we set sail.

3 Then, after we had caught sight of Cyprus, keeping it to the left, we sailed on to Syria, and we arrived at Tyre. For the ship was going to unload its cargo there.

4 Then, having found the disciples, we lodged there for seven days. And they were saying to Paul, through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

5 And when the days were completed, setting out, we went on; and they all accompanied us with their wives and children, until we were outside of the city. And we kneeled down at the shore and prayed.

6 And when we had said farewell to one another, we climbed aboard the ship. And they returned to their own.

7 Yet truly, having completed our journey by boat from Tyre, we descended to Ptolemais. And greeting the brothers, we lodged with them for one day.

8 Then, after setting out the next day, we arrived at Caesarea. And upon entering into the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, we stayed with him.

9 Now this man had four daughters, virgins, who were prophesying.

10 And while we were delayed for some days, a certain prophet from Judea, named Agabus, arrived.

11 And he, when he had come to us, took Paul’s belt, and binding his own feet and hands, he said: “Thus says the Holy Spirit: The man whose belt this is, the Jews will bind in this way at Jerusalem. And they will deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.”

12 And when we had heard this, both we and those who were from that place begged him not to go up to Jerusalem.

13 Then Paul responded by saying: “What do you accomplish by weeping and afflicting my heart? For I am prepared, not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

14 And since we were not able to persuade him, we quieted, saying: “May the will of the Lord be done.”

15 Then, after those days, having made preparations, we ascended to Jerusalem.

16 Now some of the disciples from Caesarea also went with us, bringing with them a certain Cypriot named Mnason, a very old disciple, whose guests we would be.

17 And when we had arrived at Jerusalem, the brothers received us willingly.

18 Then, on the following day, Paul entered with us to James. And all the elders were assembled.

19 And when he had greeted them, he explained each thing that God had accomplished among the Gentiles through his ministry.

20 And they, upon hearing it, magnified God and said to him: “You understand, brother, how many thousands there are among the Jews who have believed, and they are all zealous for the law.

21 Now they have heard about you, that you are teaching those Jews who are among the Gentiles to withdraw from Moses, telling them that they should not circumcise their sons, nor act according to custom.

22 What is next? The multitude ought to be convened. For they will hear that you have arrived.

23 Therefore, do this thing that we ask of you: We have four men, who are under a vow.

24 Take these and sanctify yourself with them, and require them to shave their heads. And then everyone will know that the things that they have heard about you are false, but that you yourself walk in keeping with the law.

25 But, about those Gentiles who have believed, we have written a judgment that they should keep themselves from what has been immolated to idols, and from blood, and from what has been suffocated, and from fornication.”

26 Then Paul, taking the men on the next day, was purified with them, and he entered the temple, announcing the process of the days of purification, until an oblation would be offered on behalf of each one of them.

27 But when the seven days were reaching completion, those Jews who were from Asia, when they had seen him in the temple, incited all the people, and they laid hands on him, crying out:

28 “Men of Israel, help! This is the man who is teaching, everyone, everywhere, against the people and the law and this place. Furthermore, he has even brought Gentiles into the temple, and he has violated this holy place.”

29 (For they had seen Trophimus, an Ephesian, in the city with him, and they supposed that Paul had brought him into the temple.)

30 And the entire city was stirred up. And it happened that the people ran together. And apprehending Paul, they dragged him outside of the temple. And immediately the doors were closed.

31 Then, as they were seeking to kill him, it was reported to the tribune of the cohort: “All Jerusalem is in confusion.”

32 And so, immediately taking soldiers and centurions, he rushed down to them. And when they had seen the tribune and the soldiers, they ceased to strike Paul.

33 Then the tribune, drawing near, apprehended him and ordered that he be bound with two chains. And he was asking who he was and what he had done.

34 Then they were crying out various things within the crowd. And since he could not understand anything clearly because of the noise, he ordered him to be brought into the fortress.

35 And when he had arrived at the stairs, it happened that he was carried up by the soldiers, because of the threat of violence from the people.

36 For the multitude of the people were following and crying out, “Take him away!”

37 And as Paul was beginning to be brought into the fortress, he said to the tribune, “Is it permissible for me to say something to you?” And he said, “You know Greek?

38 So then, are you not that Egyptian who before these days incited a rebellion and led out into the desert four thousand murderous men?”

39 But Paul said to him: “I am a man, indeed a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of a well-known city. So I petition you, permit me to speak to the people.”

40 And when he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, motioned with his hand to the people. And when a great silence occurred, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying: