1   In my former treatise, I gave an account, O Theophilus, of all the actions and doctrine of Jesus, to the time of his assumption, 2   after he had given the apostles he had chosen, the orders they were to execute by the holy spirit. 3   to whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion, of which they had many proofs, during the forty days he appear'd to them, and inform'd them about the reign of the Messias: 4   being with them when they were assembled, he order'd they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for what the father had promis'd, which, said he, I mention'd. 5   “ ^note for John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the holy ghost, not many days hence.”

6   Being therefore in his presence, they asked him, saying, Lord, is this the time when you will restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7   and he

said to them, it is not for you, to know the times or the seasons, which the father hath reserv'd in his own disposal. 8   but ye shall receive the influence of the holy spirit, which will descend upon you: and ye shall be witnesses for me, in Jerusalem, in all Judea, and in Samaria, and to the remotest part of the earth.

9   After this discourse, while they beheld, he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of their sight. 10   and as they were looking stedfastly toward heaven, as he mounted up, on a sudden, two men appear'd before them robed in white, who said, 11   “ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up to heaven? this same Jesus who is taken up from you into heaven, shall descend in the same manner as ye have seen him ascend thither.” 12   then they returned to Jerusalem, from the mountain of olives, which is a sabbath-day's journey from it.

13   When they were arrived there, they went up into an upper room, where Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alpheus, Simon the Zelot, and Judas the brother of James

used to resort, 14   and unanimously persevere in prayer with the women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brethren being present.

15   At that time the disciples being assembled, to the number of about an hundred and twenty, Peter rose up in the midst of them, 16   and said, men and brethren, the prediction which the holy ghost made, by the mouth of David, concerning Judas, who was guide to those that seiz'd Jesus, must have been accomplished. 17   he was of our number, and shared in the functions of this ministry. 18   but after he had purchased a field with the reward of his iniquity, he fell down, his belly burst, and all his bowels gushed out: 19   a fact so generally known to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, that they called the field in their tongue, Aceldema, that is to say, the field of blood. 20   for it is written in the book of psalms ^note, “let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein:” and ^note “let another take possession of his charge.” 21   wherefore of those who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus convers'd among

us, 22   from his baptism by John, to the day of his assumption, we should chuse one to be a witness with us of his resurrection. 23   accordingly they presented two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was sirnamed Justus, and Matthias. and they prayed, 24   saying, “thou Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, show us which of these two thou hast chosen, 25   that he may be admitted to this apostolick ministry which Judas abandoned, to go to his own place.” 26   and having drawn lots; the lot fell upon Matthias, who was added to the eleven apostles.

1   When the day of pentecost was come, they all met together with one accord. 2   when all of a sudden there came a sound from heaven, like that of an impetuous wind, which filled all the house where they were. 3   and there appeared several little flames, and sat upon each of them: 4   and they were all filled with the holy ghost, and began to speak in different languages, as the spirit gave them utterance. 5   now many devout Jews were residing at Jerusalem, who came from all quarters

of the world. 6   and upon the rumour of this event, the multitude came together, and were confounded, every man hearing the disciples speak in his own language. 7   struck with astonishment and admiration, they said to one another, are not these men who are speaking, all Galileans? 8   how comes it then that we hear every man talking in our own native tongue? 9   Parthians, Medes, Elamites, the inhabitants of Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, 10   Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, the parts of Libya about Cyrene, foreigners from Rome, Jews, and proselytes, 11   Cretes, and Arabians, we hear them all proclaiming in our tongues the wonderful works of God. 12   and they were all amazed, and perplex'd, saying one to another, what can the meaning of this be? 13   others in derision said, these men are full of sweet wine.

14   But Peter standing up with the eleven, and raising his voice, said to them, ye men of Judea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known to you, and observe what

I say. 15   these are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is but the third hour of the day. 16   but this is the accomplishment of what was said by the prophet Joel ^note, 17   “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 dream dreams: 18   and on my servants, and on my handmaidens I will pour out of my spirit in those days, and they shall prophesy: 19   and I will shew prodigies in the heavens, and signs on the earth; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke. 20   the sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and illustrious day of the Lord shall come. 21   and then whoever shall call on the name of the Lord, shall be saved.” 22   ye men of Israel attend to what I say; Jesus of Nazareth was a man whom God distinguished among you, by miracles, by prodigies, and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as you

your selves also know: 23   him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by means of the wicked, have crucified and slain: whom God hath raised up, 24    having delivered him from the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be overpower'd by it. 25   for David says concerning him ^note, “I had the Lord always present before me, he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. 26   therefore did my heart rejoice, my tongue was glad: and my body shall rest in hope. 27   because thou wilt not leave my soul in the grave, nor wilt thou give thine holy one a prey to corruption. 28   thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy by thy presence.” 29   men and brethren, let me with assurance tell you of the patriarch David, who died and was buried here, his sepulchre being with us to this day: 30   that, as he was a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn to him ^note, to place the fruit of

his loins upon his throne: foreseeing this, 31   he spoke of the resurrection of Christ, when he said, “that his soul was not lest in the grave, neither did his body undergo corruption.”’ 32   'tis this Jesus whom God hath raised up, of which 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 spirit, he has diffused that spirit, the effects of which ye now see and hear. 34   for David is not ascended to heaven: yet he saith himself ^note, “the Lord said to 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, their hearts were struck with remorse, and they said to Peter, and to the rest of the apostles, men and brethren, what shall we do? 38   Peter replied, 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 spirit. 39   for the promise is to 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 discourses did he conjure and exhort them, to save themselves from that depraved generation. 41   then they that embraced his doctrine, were baptized: and there were about three thousand converts made that very day. 42   they continued stedfastly in the apostolical doctrine of a community, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43   and all the people were allarm'd at the many prodigies and miracles which were done by the apostles.

44   All that believed were united together, and had all things in common, 45   so that they sold their possessions and goods, and distributed the money to every one as his occasions required. 46   and continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they did eat their meals with gladness, and simplicity of heart, 47   praising God, and showing benevolence to all the people. and the Lord encreased the church daily with new converts.

1   One day as Peter and John were going together to the temple, at the ninth hour,

which was the hour of prayer, 2   they were carrying a man who had been lame from his birth, one whom they daily laid at the gate of the temple called, Beauty-gate, to ask alms of those that pass'd into the temple. 3   he seeing Peter and John going into the temple, asked alms of them. 4   Peter and John having their eyes upon him, Peter said, look on us. 5   at which he look'd very attentively, expecting to receive something of them. 6   then Peter said, silver and gold have I none; but such as I have I give thee: in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, rise up and walk. 7   and taking him by the right hand, he lift him up; and immediately his feet and ancle-bones received strength. 8   so that he fell a leaping, and walking, and entred with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. 9   all the people saw him walking and praising God. 10   and knowing it was he who us'd to sit begging at the Beauty-gate of the temple, they were filled with wonder and amazement at such an event.

11   As the lame man who was cured, held Peter and John,

the people all in surprize ran to Solomon's porch, where they were. 12   which Peter observing, thus addressed them, ye men of Israel, why are ye so surprized at this event? or why do you look so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or piety, we had caus'd this man to walk? 13   the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and renounced in opposition to Pilate, who was determined to let him go. 14   but ye renounced him that was holy and just; you interceeded for the life of a murderer, 15   but killed the prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. 16   it is the faith which we have in him, that has procured strength to this man 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 know it was through ignorance, that both you and your rulers, have acted thus. 18   but thus it is that God has accomplished what he had foretold by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer. 19   repent therefore, and

be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshment shall come from the presence of the Lord, who shall send Jesus Christ, 20    who has been beforehand prepar'd thereto, 21   but must reside in heaven, till the time of the restitution of all things, of which God has spoken from the beginning by the mouth of his holy prophets. 22   for Moses said to the fathers ^note, “a prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you, of your brethren, like unto me; observe whatever he shall say to you. 23   and whoever he be that will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.” 24   afterwards Samuel and all that prophesied after him, have likewise foretold these times. 25   ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, when he said to Abraham, “all the families of the earth shall be blessed in your posterity.” ^note 26   it is to you that God first of all sent his son Jesus, having raised him up to bless you, provided you all renounce your iniquities.

1   While they were speaking to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadduces came upon them, 2   being displeas'd that they taught the people, and maintain'd the resurrection from the dead in the person of Jesus. 3   and they laid hands on them, and put them in prison, till the next day: for it was now evening. 4   however, many who heard Peter's discourse, believed, to the number of about five thousand people.

5   On the morrow, the rulers, senators, and doctors of the law, then at Jerusalem, assembled, 6   with Annas the high priest, Caiphas, John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the pontifical family. 7   and having caused Peter and John to appear, they asked, by what influence, or by what authority have you done this? 8   then Peter filled with the holy spirit, said to them, Rulers of the people, and senators of Israel, 9   since we are this day to be examined about the cure of a cripple, and by what means he was recovered; be it known to you all, 10    and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him

doth this man stand here before you entirely recover'd. 11   this is the stone which was rejected by you builders, but is become the chief of the angle. 12   salvation is not to be had by any other: for there is no other name under heaven given to men whereby we can be saved.

13   Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were illiterate, and of the lower rank of men, they were surpriz'd; but tho' they knew that they had been Jesus's disciples, 14   yet seeing the man who was cured standing with them, they could not tell what to reply. 15   having therefore order'd them to withdraw from 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 that dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. 17   but to prevent its spreading any further among the people, let us charge them with threats not to speak for the future to any man in that name. 18   so they called them in, and commanded them not to speak or teach upon any account, in the name of Jesus. 19   but Peter and John made

answer, do you yourselves judge, whether it be right in the sight of God, to obey you rather than God. 20   for we cannot avoid publishing what we have seen and heard. 21   so when they had further threatned them, they let them go, not finding it practicable to punish them, because of the people, who all glorified God for that which was done. 22   for the man who was so miraculously cured, was above forty years old.

23   As soon as they were discharg'd, they went to their brethren, and reported all that the chief priests and senators had said to them: 24   at the relation of which they unanimously lift up their voice to God, and said, Lord, thou art the God who hast made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all that is therein: 25   who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said ^note, “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 it was truly against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, that Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles,

and the people of Israel, united themselves in this city, 28   to effect what thy power and thy wisdom pre-determined to be done. 29   and now, Lord, behold their threatnings: and enable thy servants to deliver thy word with freedom, 30   by displaying thine hand in miraculous cures, and prodigies, which by the name of thy holy child Jesus shall be done.

31   When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled, trembled; they were all filled with the holy spirit, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

32   Now the whole body of believers were but one heart, and one soul: no one look'd upon what he possessed, as his own, but every thing was held in common.

33   Great was the power by which the apostles attested the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and they were all greatly favoured by the people. 34   for there was no poor among them, because as many as bad lands or houses, sold them, and brought the value, 35   which they laid down at the apostles feet: and they distributed it to every man as his occasions required. 36   among the rest one Joseph, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas (that is to say, the

son of consolation) a Levite, and a native of Cyprus, 37   sold an estate he had, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles feet.

1   Now there was a certain man named Ananias who with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2   and kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought the rest which he laid at the apostles feet. 3   upon which Peter said, Ananias, how could satan inspire thine heart to lye to the holy ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 4   was not the estate your own estate? and was not the price for which it was sold, all in your own hands? how came such a design as this in your heart? thou hast not lyed unto men, but unto God. 5   at these words Ananias fell down dead upon the spot: which struck the minds of all that heard of it with great dread. 6   and some young men came and wound him up, then carried him out, and buried him. 7   about the space of three hours after, his wife, not knowing what had happen'd, came in. 8   when Peter addressing himself to her, tell me, said he, have you sold the land for such a price?

yes, said she, for so much. 9   then Peter said to her, how comes it that you have conspir'd together, to tempt the spirit of the Lord? see there at the door the men that are come from burying thy husband, and they shall carry thee out likewise. 10   in the instant she fell down dead at his feet: and the young men came in, found her dead, carried her out, and buried her by her husband. 11   which affected the whole assembly, and all that heard of it with great dread.

12   Thus were many signs and wonders wrought among the people, by the apostles, who us'd to meet in Solomon's porch with great unanimity: 13   but the people who reverenc'd them, 14   did not venture to approach near them. the number of those who believed in the Lord, both men and women, increas'd more and more. 15   insomuch that they brought the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least, the shadow of Peter might cover some of them, as he pass'd by. 16   multitudes came likewise from the neighbouring cities to Jerusalem, bringing their sick, and those who were tormented with impure spirits: who were all cured.

17   Then the high priest, and all that accompanied him, who were of the sect of the Sadducees, being filled with indignation, 18   went and seized on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. 19   but an angel of the Lord opened the prison-doors by night, and having brought them out, said to them, 20   go, stand in the temple, and declare to the people, the whole doctrine of life. 21   when they heard that, they entred into the temple early in the morning, and taught. in the mean time, the high priest, and those of his party, being arrived at the council-chamber, summon'd all the Jewish senate to meet, and sent to the prison to bring the apostles before them. 22   but the officers who went there not finding them in the prison, returned, and made this report, 23   the prison we found shut very secure, and the keepers posted before the doors: but when we had opened it, we found no body within.

24   Upon hearing this, the high priest, the captain of the temple, and the chief priests wonder'd bow this could be. 25   when somebody came and told them, the men whom ye order'd to prison, are standing in the temple,

and teaching the people. 26   upon which the captain went with his officers, and brought them, without offering any violence, for fear of being stoned, he and his men by the people. 27   when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, 28   saying, did not we strictly command you, not to teach in this name? and yet you have spread your doctrine through Jerusalem, and you endeavour to make us responsible for this man's blood. 29   then Peter and the other apostles made answer, 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 rais'd by his power to be the author of salvation, by giving repentance to Israel, and the remission of their sins. 32   and we are his witnesses in what we say, and so is the holy spirit, whom God hath given to those that obey him.

33   When they heard that, they were so enraged, they consulted to take away their lives. 34   when a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of law, who was respected by all the people, rose up in the council, and moved the apostles

might withdraw for some time. 35   and then he said, “ye men of Israel, be cautious how you proceed with regard to these men. 36   for some time ago one Theudas started up, pretending to be something extraordinary, who was join'd indeed by about four hundred men: but he was no sooner put to death, than his followers all dispers'd, and were reduc'd to nothing. 37   after this man, Judas of Galilee appear'd, at the time of ^note the registry, and seduc'd many people: he also perished, and all his followers were dispersed. 38   my opinion therefore is, not to meddle with these men, but to let them go on: for if the design be a human project, it will fall of it self. but if it be from God, 39   you cannot defeat it; perhaps you may be found warring against heaven.”

To him they agreed: and 40   after the apostles were called in, and scourged, they charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and then releas'd them. out they went from the council, 41   full of joy, that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of

Jesus. 42   and every day either in the temple or in private houses they continued to preach and proclaim Jesus to be the Christ.

1   At that time, as the number of the disciples was multiplied, the Hellenists murmured against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the distribution that was made daily. 2   the twelve therefore assembled all the disciples, and said, it is not fit that we should leave the word of God, to mind what relates to your meals. 3   wherefore, brethren, chuse out of your number seven persons of good reputation, full of the holy spirit and wisdom, who may have the management of this affair: 4   whilst we shall continue our applications to prayer, and to preaching. 5   this proposition pleased the whole assembly: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the holy spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch. 6   these they presented to the apostles: who after prayer gave them imposition of hands. 7   thus the word of God was spread; and the number of disciples encreased very much at Jerusalem;

and a numerous body of priests embrac'd the faith.

8   Now Stephen full of grace and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. 9   when some out of the several synagogues, belonging to the freed men, to the Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and to those of Cilicia, and of Asia, came to dispute with Stephen. 10   but as they were not able to withstand the force of that sublime knowledge which appeared in his discourse, 11   they suborned men, who said, we have heard him speak irreverently of Moses, and of God. 12   and they stirred up the people, the senators, and the doctors of law, who came and seiz'd him, and brought him to the council, 13   where they produc'd false witnesses, who said, this man is continually inveighing against the holy place, and against the law. 14   for we have heard him say, that Jesus the Nazarene shall destroy this place, and change the customs which Moses delivered us. 15   and all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw an air of majesty in his aspect.

1   Then said the high priest, are these things so? 2   Stephen

answer'd, my brethren, and you my fathers, lend your attention. The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, 3   and said to him, quit your country, and your kindred, to go to the land which I shall shew thee. 4   thereupon he went out of Chaldea, and dwelt in Charran: from thence, after his father's death, he removed him to this very country where you now dwell. 5   he gave him no inheritance in it, not even a foot of land: yet he promised to give it to him for a possession, and to his posterity after him, tho' he had then no child. 6   God declar'd likewise, ^note “that his posterity should sojourn in a strange land, where they should be enslaved and abused 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   at length he gave him the covenant of circumcision: accordingly Abraham circumcised his son Isaac eight days after he was born, Isaac was father of Jacob, who was father of the twelve patriarchs. 9   the patriarchs being

jealous of Joseph, sold him into Egypt: but God was with him, 10   he delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him wisdom to become acceptable to Pharaoh king of Egypt; who made him governor of Egypt, and all his houshold. 11   in the mean time a famine spread over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, so that our fathers did not know where to get provisions. 12   but when Jacob heard there was corn in Egypt, he sent our fathers there. 13   at the second voyage Joseph discover'd himself to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred were made known to Pharaoh. 14   after this, Joseph sent to invite his father Jacob to come with all his kindred, being threescore and fifteen persons. 15   so Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he and our fathers, 16   and were transported to Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem. 17   now while the time was approaching to accomplish what God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew numerous in Egypt, 18   till another king arose who knew not Joseph. 19   this prince employ'd all his arts against

our nation, and persecuted our fathers, by obliging them to expose their young children, in order to extirpate the race. 20   in which time Moses was born, who was exceeding fair, and nourished in his father's house three months: 21   and when he was exposed, Pharaoh's daughter caused him to be taken up, and maintain'd for her adopted son. 22   at length Moses was instructed in all the sciences of the Egyptians, and had great influence by his counsels and actions. 23   when he was full forty years old, he took the resolution to visit his brethren the children of Israel. 24   and seeing one of them abus'd, he defended him, and avenged the injury by killing the Egyptian: 25   for he supposed his brethren would have perceiv'd by this, that God design'd to make him the instrument of their deliverance; but they did not perceive it. 26   the next day seeing some that were fighting, he would have persuaded them to agree, saying, sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye injure one another? 27   but he that did his neighbour the injury repelled Moses, saying, who made thee a ruler and a judge over us? 28   will you kill me as you kill'd the Egyptian yesterday?

at these words Moses fled, 29    and went to reside in the land of Madian, where he became the father of two sons. 30   when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina, an angel of the Lord in a flaming bush. 31   Moses was astonished at this vision: and as he drew near to observe it, he heard the voice of the Lord, which said to him, ^note 32   “I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” and Moses trembled so, he durst not observe any longer. 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; I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. come immediately, and I will send you into Egypt.” 35   this Moses whom they refused, saying, who made thee a ruler and a judge? the very same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hands of the angel that appeared to him in the bush. 36   he it was, who delivered them by doing prodigies and miracles in the land of Egypt,

in the red sea, and in the wilderness for forty years. 37   this is that Moses who said to the children of Israel ^note, “a prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.” 38   'twas he that was in the assembly with our fathers in the wilderness, and with the angel that spoke to him on mount Sina: and delivered the oracles to him by word of mouth for our use. 39   him our fathers would not obey, but rejected him, and they return'd to their Egyptian disposition. ^note 40   “make us gods, said they to Aaron, to be our guides: for as for this Moses, who brought us out of the land of Egypt, we know not what is become of him.” 41   'twas then they made a calf, and offered sacrifice to the idol, triumphing in the works of their own hands. 42   then God left them, and abandon'd them to the worship of the celestial army; as it is written in the book of the prophets ^note, “O ye house of Israel, is it to me that ye have offered victims, and sacrifices, for the space of forty years in the wilderness? 43   on the contrary, ye carried

the tabernacle of ^note Moloch, and the star of your god ^note Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: wherefore I will transport you beyond Babylon.” 44   our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, ordering Moses to make it according to the model that he had seen. 45   which our fathers and Joshua having receiv'd, they carry'd it into the territory of those nations whom God drove out upon their arrival: where it staid to the time of David, who was favoured by God, 46    and desired to have a settled tabernacle for the God of Jacob. 47   it was Solomon however that built him a temple. 48   altho' the most high does not dwell in temples made with hands; as the prophet said ^note, “heaven is my throne, 49   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   stubborn people, whose hearts and ears like the uncircumcised, are always averse to the holy spirit: as your fathers did, so do ye. 52   was there ever any prophet whom your fathers did not persecute? have they

not slain those who predicted the coming of that just person whom you have so lately betrayed and murder'd? 53   you, I say, who received the law by the administration of angels, but have not however observ'd it.

54   When they heard these things, they were transported with rage, and gnashed their teeth against him. 55   but he, full of the holy spirit, fix'd his eyes towards heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56   and he said, there I see the heavens open, and the son of man standing on the right hand of God. 57   then they broke out into a loud cry, and stopping their ears, fell upon him all at once. 58   then they dragg'd him out of the city, and stoned him: the false witnesses having laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.

59   Thus they stoned Stephen, while he was calling upon God, and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60   and on his knees he cried with a loud voice, “Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.” and having said this, he expired.

1   and Saul was accessory to his death.

At that time the persecution was so violent against the church at Jerusalem, they were all dispers'd through the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles, 2   and some devout men who carried Stephen to his burial, making great lamentation over him. 3   as for Saul, he made havock of the Church, entring into their houses, whence he dragg'd away both men and women, to throw them into prison. 4   but they that were dispers'd, preach'd the gospel wherever they went.

5   Philip being arrived at Samaria, preached Christ to them. 6   the people attended with great unanimity, hearing his discourses, and observing the miracles he wrought. 7   for the impure spirits, with great outcries, came out of many that were possessed: many paralytic, and lame people were cured. 8   which caused great joy in that city.

9   One Simon was then resident in that place, who pretended to be something extra-ordinary, and by his magical practices had so enchanted the people of Samaria, 10   that they all followed him, both old

and young. this man, said they, is the plenipotentiary of God. 11   no wonder they were so attach'd to one, who had for a long time infatuated them with his arts. 12   but when they had embraced the doctrine of Philip, concerning the kingdom of the Messias, and the authority of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13   nay, Simon himself became a proselyte: and after he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and was transported at the sight of the miracles and prodigies which he perform'd.

14   Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem, heard that the Samaritans had embraced the word of God, they sent Peter and John, 15   who upon their arrival, prayed for them that they might receive the holy spirit. 16   (for as yet he had not descended on any of them: they having only been baptized in the name of the Lord 17   Jesus) the apostles therefore gave them imposition of hands, and they received the holy spirit. 18   when Simon saw that the holy spirit was given by imposition of the hands of the apostles, he offered them money, saying, 19   give me too this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands he may receive

the holy spirit. 20   but Peter said unto him, thy money perish with thee, for thinking that the gift of God may be purchased with money. 21   thou hast no manner of share in this gift: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22   repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray to God, to forgive, if it be possible, this suggestion you have entertain'd. 23   for I perceive you are upon the brink of misery, led captive by your sin. 24   Simon answered, do you pray to the Lord for me, that nothing like what you mention may befall me. 25   after this the apostles having certified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel by the way in many villages of the Samaritans.

26   Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, arise, and go toward the south, by the way that leads from Jerusalem to Gaza, in the desart. 27   accordingly he departed: and met a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under ^note Candace queen of the Ethiopians, and was her high-treasurer: he had been at Jerusalem, to perform the duties of a proselyte, 28   but was now upon his return, and sat in his chariot,

reading the prophet Esaias. 29   then the spirit said unto Philip, go near, and advance to his chariot. 30   Philip ran to him, and hearing him read the prophet Esaias, said, do you understand what you read? 31   how can I, answer'd he, without some expositor? and he desired Philip to mount, and sit with him. 32   the passage of the scripture which he read, was this, “he was led as a sheep to the slaughter, and like a lamb before his shearer, was dumb, so opened he not his mouth: 33   in his humiliation he was judged, he was taken off: and who shall describe the men of his time? for the land has taken away his life.” 34   and the eunuch answered Philip, and said, pray, of whom does the prophet say this? of himself, or of some other? 35   then Philip enter'd upon the subject, and show'd how the whole passage was applicable to Jesus. 36   as they pursued their journey, they came to a place of water: and the eunuch said, see, here is water; what should hinder my being baptized? 37   [and Philip said, if you believe with all your heart, you may. and he answered, I do believe that Jesus Christ is the

son of God.] 38   so he order'd the charioteer to stop: and they went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. 39   when they were come out of the water, the spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he pursued his way with joy. 40   but Philip was found at Azotus: and passing on, he preached in all the cities, till he came to Cesarea.

1   Saul still breathing out nothing but threats and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, 2   went to the high priest, and demanded letters for the synagogues of Damascus, that if he found any of this sect, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

3   As he was on his journey, and near Damascus, on a sudden, a light from heaven surrounded him, 4   and he fell to the ground, and heard a voice which said to 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 goad. 6   then trembling with the fright Saul said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? and the Lord said to him,] but rise, and go into the city, and you shall be told what you must do. 7   the mean while the men who accompany'd him, remain'd astonish'd, hearing a voice, but seeing no one. 8   at length Saul rose from the ground; and when he opened his eyes, he could not see: so that they led him by the hand, and brought him to Damascus, 9   where he was three days without sight, and did neither eat nor drink.

10   Now there was a disciple at Damascus, named Ananias, to whom the Lord said

in a vision, Ananias! and he said, Lord, here I am. 11   and the Lord said unto him, arise, and go to the street called Straight, and enquire at the house of Judas, for one Saul of Tarsus: for he is there at prayer. 12   (at that very instant Saul saw in a vision the said Ananias come in, and put his hand on him, to restore his sight.) 13   then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard from many that this man has done a world of mischief to thy saints at Jerusalem: he is now here, 14    and is impower'd by the chief priests, to imprison all that make profession of thy name. 15   go, said the Lord to him: for he is the instrument I have chosen, to bear my name to the Gentiles, to kings, and to the children of Israel. 16   for I will make him see how much he must suffer for my name. 17   Ananias therefore departed, and being arrived at the house, he put his hands on Saul, and said, brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus that appeared to you on your journey hither, hath sent me, that you might obtain your sight, and be filled with the holy spirit. 18   immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he recover'd his sight; upon which

he instantly arose, and was baptized. 19   and when he had taken some food, he was refresh'd. after which Saul staid some time with the disciples at Damascus.

20   Immediately he maintained in the synagogues, that Jesus was the son of God. 21   the audience were all amazed, and said, is not this he that persecuted the professors of this doctrine at Jerusalem, and came here on purpose to carry them prisoners to the chief priests? 22   however Saul still gain'd ground, and confounded the Jews of Damascus, proving that Jesus was the Messias.

23   A good while after, the Jews conspir'd to kill him: 24   but Saul was appriz'd of their plot. and as they were night and day upon the watch at the gates, in order to kill him, 25   the disciples took him by night, and let him down the wall in a basket. 26   when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he try'd to associate himself with the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and could not be persuaded that he was a disciple. 27   thereupon Barnabas took him with him to the apostles, and related to them how the Lord

had appear'd to him on his journey, and had spoken to him, and how publickly Saul had preach'd at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28   then he convers'd freely with the apostles at Jerusalem: 29   and he openly preach'd in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Hellenists, who therefore plotted against his life: 30   which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Cesarea, and sent him away to Tarsus.

31   Then the churches in all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, were unmolested and establish'd, and by their religious conduct, and the assistance of the holy spirit, grew more extensive. 32   now as Peter was making a general visitation, he went to Lydda to see the converts in that city, 33   where finding a man named Eneas, a paralytic, who had kept his bed eight years, 34   Peter said to him, Eneas, Jesus, who is the Messiah, gives thee health: rise, and make your bed your self: upon which he immediately rose. 35   and all that dwelt at Lydda, and Saron, saw him, and became converts to the Lord.

36   At Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, that

is in Greek, ^note Dorcas: this woman was very active in all the offices of benevolence and charity. 37   she happen'd to fall sick at that time, and died: after they had bath'd her body, they laid her out in an upper chamber. 38   as Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples having heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him to desire he would come to them without delay.

39   Peter immediately went with them, and when he was come, they conducted him to the upper chamber: and all the widows advanc'd to him weeping, and shew'd the robes and garments which Dorcas made while she was with them. 40   but Peter turn'd them all out, and kneeled down and prayed, then turning towards the body, Tabitha, said he, arise immediately. she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41   Peter lent her his hand, and lift her up; and having called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42   this was soon spread thro' all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. 43   so that Peter staid there a considerable time with one Simon a tanner.

1   In Cesarea there was a centurion of a cohort in the Italic legion, whose name was Cornelius, a religious man, 2   and was a proselyte, together with all his family: he gave much alms to the people, and was assiduous in his prayers to God. 3   one day about the ninth hour, he clearly saw in a vision an angel of God, who addrest himself to him, and said, Cornelius! 4   and when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, what is it, Lord? and he said to him, thy prayers and thine alms have been observ'd and approv'd by God. 5   send messengers immediately to Joppa, for one Simon, whose sirname is Peter: 6   he lodges with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea-side.

7   As soon as the angel that spoke to Cornelius was departed, he called two of his domesticks, and a devout soldier, one of those that were in waiting: 8   and after he had related to them the whole affair, he sent them to Joppa.

9   On the morrow as they were on their journey, and drew nigh the city, Peter went upon the leads to pray, about the sixth hour. 10   and being seiz'd with hunger, he

would have had something to eat: but while they were making it ready, he fell into a trance, 11   when he saw the heaven open, and something descending in the form of a great sheet, ty'd at the four corners, and let down to the earth: 12   in it were all sorts of quadrupeds, reptiles, and birds. 13   and a voice said 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 to him again the second time, don't call that common, which God calls clean. 16   this was done thrice: and then the sheet was taken up into heaven.

17   While Peter was perplexed about the signification of this vision, the messengers from Cornelius having enquir'd out Simon's house, arriv'd at the gate, 18   and calling somebody, ask'd, whether Simon Peter lodg'd there.

19   As Peter was still pondering upon the vision, the spirit said to him, there are people below, who enquire for you. 20   rise therefore, get thee down, and go with them, without hesitating: for I have sent them. 21   then Peter

went down to the messengers; and said, I am the person you look for: what occasion brought you hither? 22   they answered, Cornelius the centurion, a man of probity and piety, one that has an universal good character among the Jews, was divinely admonish'd by an holy angel to send for you to his house, to hear what you had to say to him. 23   then he invited them in, and they lodged there.

On the morrow, Peter departed with them, and some of his brethren from Joppa accompanied him. 24   the next day they arriv'd at Cesarea: where Cornelius expected them, having invited his kinsmen and intimate friends, to his house. 25   as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and prostrated himself at his feet, 26   but Peter rais'd him, saying, stand up; I am but a man, as well as you. 27   and as he discours'd with him, he went in, where finding many persons assembled; you know, 28   said he, how unlawful it is for a Jew, to frequent a stranger, or even to go to his house: but God hath shewed me, that I should not look upon any man as common and unclean. 29   for which reason I came without demur, as soon as I knew

your message: I ask therefore upon what account you sent for me? 30   then Cornelius said, it is now four days ago that I was fasting, and while I was at prayers in my house, about the ninth hour, a man in bright attire presented himself before me, 31   and said, “Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and God has approved thine alms. 32   send therefore to Joppa, for one Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner, by the sea-side, who, when he is arriv'd, will give you information.” 33   immediately I sent to you; and you have done well to come. now here we are all in the presence of God, to hear whatever he has given you in charge. 34   then Peter thus began, now I plainly perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35   but in every nation, he that feareth him, and acts justly, is acceptable to him. 36   this was what he communicated to the children of Israel, proclaiming salvation by Jesus Christ, who is the Lord of all mankind. 37   you know, how his fame spread from Galilee through all Judea, after the baptism which John had preach'd:

38   how Jesus of Nazareth divinely inspired by the holy spirit, and with miraculous power, went about doing good, and healing all that were under the oppression of the devil: because God was with him. 39   we are witnesses of all his transactions, both in Judea, and at Jerusalem. however, they put him to death, even that of the cross. 40   but God raised him up the third day, and shewed him openly, 41   not to all the people, but to those witnesses, which God had before chosen: to us, I say, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42   and he commanded us to publish, and to testify to the people, that he was the person whom God had constituted to be the judge of the living, and of the dead. 43   he is the person to whom all the prophets give this attestation, that all who believe in him, shall receive remission of sins, by his authority.

44   Peter was yet speaking, when the holy spirit descended on all that heard him. 45   all the Jewish converts, who came with Paul, were astonished to see that the gift of the holy spirit was diffused likewise among the Gentiles. 46   for they heard them express

their praises to God in divers languages. 47   then Peter said, can we refuse the water of baptism to such as have received the holy spirit as well as we? 48   so he directed they should be baptized in the name of the Lord. after which they desired him to stay some time with them.

1   In the mean time, the apostles, and the brethren, who were in Judea, heard that the Gentiles had likewise receiv'd the word of God. 2   and when Peter was return'd to Jerusalem, the Jewish converts objected to his conduct, 3   and ask'd him, why did you go to eat with the uncircumcised? 4   but Peter represented the whole affair to them, 5   saying, as I was at prayers in Joppa, I saw something like a great sheet, tied at the four corners, which descended from heaven, and came just to me. 6   as I was considering it very attentively, I saw several quadrupeds, wild beasts, reptiles and birds. 7   then I heard a voice, which said, rise, Peter; kill and eat. 8   but I said, Lord, by no means: for I never did eat any thing impure, and defiled. 9   but the voice from heaven address'd it self to me again,

and said, don't call that impure, which God has purified. 10   this was done three times, and then the whole scene was mounted to heaven. 11   at that very instant three men, dispatch'd from Cesarea to me, were just arrived at the house, where I was. 12   and the spirit bid me make no difficulty of going with them. these six brethren accompany'd me, and we went together to the man's house. 13   he told us how he had seen an angel, who had presented himself to him, and had said, send to Joppa, to fetch Simon, surnam'd Peter: 14   who will give you such instructions, as will be the means of saving both you and all your family. 15   and while I was speaking to them, the holy spirit descended upon them, as it did on us, at the beginning. 16   then I remember'd that ^note expression of the Lord, “John baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the holy spirit.” 17   if therefore God has bestow'd the same favour upon them, as on us, after we had believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, how could I make any opposition to the divine will?

18   Having heard this, they were appeas'd, and glorified God, saying, God has then

granted salvation likewise to the gentiles, on the terms of their repentance.

19   In the mean time they who were dispers'd upon the persecution that arose after Stephen's time, had travell'd as far as Phenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, without preaching the gospel to any, but Jews only. 20   some of them were of Cyprus and Cyrene, and upon their arrival at Antioch they address'd themselves to the Greeks, and preach'd to them the Lord Jesus. 21   and as the divine assistance accompany'd them, a great number of persons believed and became converts.

22   Of this the church at Jerusalem being appriz'd, they order'd Barnabas to go to Antioch; 23   who upon his arrival there, was glad to see such effects of the divine grace, and exhorted them all to remain firmly attach'd to the christian profession: 24   for he was a good man, and full of the holy spirit and of faith: so that many converts were added to the church. 25   at length Barnabas departed to Tarsus in quest of Saul, and having found him, he conducted him to Antioch: 26   where they resided a whole year with that church, and instructed abundance of disciples,

and these disciples were the first that were denominated Christians.

27   About that time some prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch: 28   and one of them named Agabus foretold by the spirit, that there should be a great famine, thro' all the world: which accordingly happen'd in the reign of Claudius Cesar. 29   then the disciples determin'd to send, each of them answerably to his abilities, some relief to the brethren residing in Judea: which they actually perform'd, 30    and sent it by the hands of Saul and Barnabas to the presbyters at Jerusalem.

1   About that time, king Herod Agrippa began to persecute some of the church. 2   he caus'd James the brother of John to be beheaded. 3   and perceiving that the Jews were pleas'd with this, he proceeded to secure Peter during the feast of unleavened bread: 4   having apprehended Peter, he put him into prison, appointing a detachment of sixteen soldiers to guard him, intending to have him brought to publick execution, after Easter. 5   thus Peter was kept in prison, but the Church prayed to God, without ceasing,

for him, 6   now the very night preceding the day which Herod design'd for his execution, Peter bound with two chains, was sleeping between two soldiers, while the other guards secured the prison door; when an angel of 7   the Lord suddenly appear'd and fill'd the room with light, and touching Peter on the side, awak'd him, saying, rise, be quick. and immediately his chains fell from his hands. 8   put on your girdle, continu'd the angel, and bind on your sandals: which he did. throw your cloak over you, said the angel, and follow me. 9   so he went out after the angel without knowing that what the angel had done, was real; but thinking it was all a vision. 10   when they had pass'd the first and second guard, they came to the iron-gate that leads to the city, which open'd to them of itself: so they went out and pass'd together thro' one street: when all of a sudden the angel quitted Peter.

Then coming to himself; now, 11   said he, I know for certain, that the Lord has sent his angel, and has deliver'd me from the hands of Herod, and from what the Jews were in expectation of. 12   then recollecting where he was, he went to the house of Mary the

mother of John, surnam'd Mark, where many were assembled at prayers. 13   when he had knock'd at the door of the gate, a servant named Rhoda came to ask who was there. 14   upon hearing Peter tell his name, instead of opening the gate, she ran, out of joy, to tell them, that Peter was there. 15   are you mad? said they. but she persisting that it was even so, they reply'd, it is then his angel. 16   as Peter still continued knocking, they let him in, and seeing it was he, they were extremely surpriz'd: 17   but he made a sign to them with his hand, to be silent: and related to them, how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. go, said he, and acquaint James and the other brethren with this affair. after which he departed and went to another place.

18   As soon as it was day, the soldiers were in a world of confusion to know what was become of Peter. 19   Herod having caus'd diligent search to be made, without being able to find him, after examining the guards, he order'd them to execution. after which he departed from Judea, and went to Cesarea, where he resided.

20   Herod was then making warlike preparations against the Tyrians, and Sidonians: but they unanimously sent a deputation to court: where having gain'd Blastus the king's chamberlain, they brought matters to an accommodation: for their country was subsisted by the king's territorys. 21   one court-day, Herod array'd in his robes of state, and seated upon the throne, made a publick oration: 22   at which the people gave a shout, saying, it is the voice of a God, and not of a man. 23   but at the instant an angel of the Lord smote him, because he did not glorify God: so that he became a prey to worms and died.

In the mean time, the 24   word of God made continual progress. and after Barnabas 25   and Saul had executed their commission, they return'd to Jerusalem, and took with them John who was surnam'd Mark.

1   Now there were several prophets and teachers in the church of Antioch, as Barnabas, Simeon surnam'd Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2   as they were ministring to the Lord, and

fasting, the holy spirit said to them, separate me Barnabas and Saul, for the work to which I have destin'd them. 3   accordingly, after having fasted and prayed they gave them imposition of hands, and dismiss'd them. 4   being thus appointed missionarys by the holy spirit, they went to Seleucia, where they embark'd for Cyprus. 5   when they were arrived at Salamis, they preach'd the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews, and had John for their assistant.

6   Having travers'd the isle as far as to Paphos, they found a Jew there nam'd Barjesus, who was a false prophet and magician: 7   he was with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, a man of prudence: who sent for Barnabas and Saul, desiring to hear the word of God. 8   but Elymas (a name which signifies ^note Magus) opposed them, endeavouring to seduce the proconsul from the faith. 9   then Saul, who was nam'd likewise Paul, full of the holy spirit, look'd fixedly upon him, 10   and said, “thou heap of imposture and mischief, offspring of the devil, and enemy to all justice, wilt thou not cease to pervers

men from the right ways of the Lord? 11   his hand is falling upon thee, thou shalt be blind, and not see the sun for some time.” immediately his eyes were covered with obscurity and darkness; so that he grop'd about for somebody to lead him by the hand. 12   the proconsul seeing the fact, embraced the faith, being struck with admiration of the christian doctrine. 13   after which Paul and his company set out from Paphos to Perga in Pamphilia, where John quitted them in order to return to Jerusalem.

14   From Perga they went to Antioch in Pisidia, and going to the synagogue on the sabbath-day, they took their places, 15   and after the lesson out of the law and the prophets was finish'd, the heads of the synagogue sent this message to them; Men and brethren, if you have any instruction to offer to the people, deliver it. 16   thereupon Paul stood up, and having made sign with his hand for their attention, he said, men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience. 17   the God of Israel made choice of our fathers, and exalted the people when they sojourn'd in Egypt, from whence he conducted

them by the terror of his arm. 18   for forty years he maintain'd them in the wilderness. 19   after that he distributed to them by lot the territorys of seven nations, which he destroyed in Canaan. 20   after these transactions, which lasted about four hundred and fifty years, he gave them judges to the time of the prophet Samuel: 21   when having demanded a king, God gave them Saul the son of Cis, of the tribe of Benjamin: the government of both having lasted forty years, 22   God removed Saul, and rais'd up David to be their king, to whom he gave this testimonial, “ ^note I have found David the son of Jesse: he is a man most acceptable to me, and he will execute all my orders.” 23   it is of his posterity that God, pursuant to his promise, has rais'd up Jesus to be the saviour of Israel. 24   before his appearance, John had preach'd the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. 25   and in the discharge of his mission, he said, “who do you think I am? I am not the Messias. but there comes another after me, whose shoes I am not worthy to untie.”

26   It is to you, my brethren, who are the children of Abraham, ^note

and to all who fear God among you, that this salutary news is sent. 27   as for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and their senators, by their not knowing who he was, and by condemning him, they have accomplished the declarations of the prophets, which are read every sabbath-day: 28   although they could not convict him of any thing capital, yet they demanded of Pilate, that he should be put to death. 29   after they had accomplished all that was written concerning him, he was taken down from the cross, and laid in a sepulchre: 30   but God raised him from the dead: 31   and for many days he was seen by those, who had accompany'd him from Galilee to Jerusalem: and they are now his witnesses to the people. 32   to you therefore we declare, that the promise which God had made to the fathers, he has now perform'd to us, who are their children, by his having raised up Jesus again. 33   agreeable to what is written in the first psalm, “thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee.” 34   and to show that he rais'd him from the dead, never more to return to corruption, he said thus ^note, “I will faithfully

perform the promises, which I made to David.” 35   wherefore in another place ^note he says, “thou shalt not suffer thy holy one to see corruption.” 36   for David, after he had serv'd in his time the designs of providence, died and was buryed with his fathers, and was subject to corruption. 37   but he, whom God hath raised, was not subject to corruption. 38   know then, my brethren, it is by him, that the remission of sins is offer'd to you: 39   by him, every one who believes, is purged from all that guilt, for which the law of Moses had made no such provision. 40   take care then, that what the prophets predicted may not happen to you ^note, 41   “consider you despisers, be surpriz'd and turn pale, for I shall perform a work in your days, which you will not believe, whoever shall declare it unto you.”

42   When Paul and Barnabas were gone out of the Jewish synagogue, the Gentiles desired them to entertain them on the same subject, the following sabbath. 43   when the assembly was separated, many Jews and religious proselytes

followed after, to whom the apostles address'd themselves, and exhorted them to persevere in the divine dispensation.

44   The next sabbath-day almost the whole city assembled to hear the word of God. 45   when the Jews saw such a crowd, they were fill'd with resentment, and oppos'd what Paul had advanc'd, even to blasphemy. 46   but Paul and Barnabas told them boldly, you indeed were the first, to whom the word of God was to be preach'd: but since you reject it, and judge your own selves unworthy of eternal life, be assur'd, we shall make the same offer to the Gentiles: 47   for thus has the Lord commanded us ^note, “I have appointed you to be a light to the Gentiles, that you should bring salvation to the remotest parts of the earth.” 48   when the Gentiles heard this, they received the word with joy, glorifying the Lord: and as many as were dispos'd to eternal life, believed. 49   and the word of the Lord spread through the whole country. 50   but the Jews having animated the women of quality of their religion, and the leading men of the city, raised a persecution against Paul

and Barnabas, and banish'd them from their territorys. 51   so they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and went to Iconium. 52   and the disciples were filled with joy, and with the holy spirit.

1   Being arriv'd at Iconium, they went both together to the Jewish synagogue, where they discours'd in such a manner, that a great number both of Jews and of Greeks believed. 2   but the disbelieving Jews practis'd upon the Gentiles, and inflam'd their minds against the brethren. 3   however the apostles stay'd there a considerable time, being inspir'd with great resolution by the Lord, who gave his attestation to the evangelical doctrine, by the prodigys and miracles, which he did by their hands. 4   so that the people of the city were divided, some siding with the Jews, and others with the apostles. 5   upon this the Gentiles and the Jews, supported by their magistrates, made an insurrection in order to use violence against them, and even to stone them: 6   of which they were appriz'd, and fled to Lystra and Derbe, citys of Lycaonia, and to the adjacent country, 7   where they preach'd the gospel.

8   Now at Lystra there was a man, who could not stand upon his feet, he was born a cripple, and had never walked about. 9   one day he heard Paul preach, who fixing his eyes upon him, and perceiving that he expected to be cured, 10   he said to him aloud, rise and stand right upon your feet: upon which he leap'd up and walk'd.

11   When the people saw what Paul had done, they cry'd out in the Lycaonian tongue, the Gods have assum'd a human form, and are descended among us. 12   Barnabas, they stiled Jupiter; and Paul, Mercury, because he was the chief speaker. 13   even the priest of Jupiter, whose statue was at the city-gates, brought oxen and garlands there, and together with the people, would have offer'd sacrifice to the apostles. 14   but Paul and Barnabas being appriz'd of it, tore their clothes, and throwing themselves among the crowd, 15   cry'd out, “sirs, what are you going to do? we are but men as well as you, and we exhort you to renounce these vanities, and turn to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth and the sea, and all that they contain: 16   who in past ages

has let all Nations proceed in their own ways. 17   nevertheless he sufficiently display'd himself by his beneficence to mankind, in giving us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, replenishing our hearts with food and gladness.” 18   but whatever they could say, it was with difficulty that they restrain'd the people from sacrificing to them.

19   Now some Jews being arriv'd from Antioch and Iconium, work'd so upon the people, that they stoned Paul, and dragg'd him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. 20   but the disciples being gather'd about him, he rose up and went into the city, from whence he departed the next day with Barnabas to go to Derbe.

21   After they had preach'd the gospel in that city, and made many disciples, they retook the road to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, 22   encouraging the disciples, exhorting them to persevere in the faith, representing that it is thro' much tribulation that we must enter into the kingdom of God. 23   and after they had by prayers and fastings establish'd Pastors for them in every church, they recommended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.

24   at length they pass'd thro' Pisidia, and came to Pamphilia: 25   and having preach'd the word in Perga, they went to Attalia: 26   from thence they sailed to Antioch, where they had been recommended to the favour of God, for the commission, which they had now discharg'd. 27   when they were arrived, and had assembled the Church, they related what great things God had wrought by them, and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles: 28   and they resided there a considerable time with the disciples.

1   However some that arrived from Judea, told the Gentile converts, unless you are circumcised agreeably to the law of Moses, you cannot be saved. 2   upon which Paul and Barnabas having warmly contested the point with them, it was resolved, that Paul and Barnabas and some others should go to Jerusalem to consult the apostles upon this question. 3   so they set out, accompanied part of the way by the church, and pass'd thro' Phenicia and Samaria, relating the conversion of the Gentiles, which gave great joy to all the brethren. 4   and being arrived at Jerusalem, they were receiv'd by the church, by the apostles, and

presbyters, to whom they related all that God had done by them. 5   but some of the sect of the Pharisees who had embraced the faith, started up, pretending that the Gentiles ought to be circumcised, and observe the law of Moses.

6   The apostles therefore, and the presbyters assembled to deliberate upon this affair. 7   and after the question had been much canvass'd, Peter rose up, and said, my brethren, you know that a considerable time since God chose me from among you to preach the gospel to the Gentiles, and bring them to the faith. 8   God who knows their hearts has granted them a testimonial, by giving them the holy spirit, even as he did to us: 9   making no difference between us and them, having purified their hearts by the faith. 10   why therefore do you tempt God to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither we nor our forefathers were able to bear? 11   but we believe that it is by the favour of the Lord Jesus Christ, that we are to be sav'd, as well as they.

12   The whole assembly were very silent, whilst Barnabas and Paul related what miracles and prodigies God had

wrought among the Gentiles by their ministry.

13   After they had done speaking, James assum'd the discourse, and said, my brethren, give me your attention. 14   Simon has related how God began to visit the Gentiles, to chuse from among them a people consecrated to his name. 15   and this is agreeable to the oracles of the prophets: as it is written, ^note 16   “after this I will return and build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down: 17   I will repair its ruins, and raise it up: that the rest of mankind, even all the nations, that profess my name, may seek the Lord. 18   he that does all these things, is the Lord himself that has said it.” for the works of God are all known to him from the beginning of the world. 19   wherefore my opinion is not to disquiet the Gentile converts: but only to write to them, 20   that they abstain from the pollutions of idols, from fornication, from animals that are strangled, and from their blood. 21   for as to the law of Moses, that has been published in every city a considerable time, being read in the synagogues every sabbath-day.

22   Then the apostles, the presbyters, and the whole church thought it proper to select some out of their own body to accompany Paul and Barnabas to Antioch: such as Judas surnam'd Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren, 23   whom they charg'd with this letter.

The apostles, the presbyters, and the brethren, to the Gentile brethren at Antioch, in Syria, and Cilicia, send greeting. 24   Whereas we have been appriz'd, that some who went from us, have embarass'd you with their discourse, and unsettled your minds, maintaining, that you ought to be circumcised, and to observe the law, though we gave them no such injunction: after having been assembled, 25    we unanimously judg'd it proper to send particular deputies to you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26   men that have exposed their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27   we therefore send Judas and Silas to inform you in person of this affair. 28   for by the holy spirit it seemed good to us, to lay no greater burthen upon

you, than these necessary injunctions; 29   that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the flesh of strangled animals, and from fornication: you will do well to preserve your selves from these practices. farewel.

30   Being thus dispatch'd, they went to Antioch; where having assembled all the faithful, they deliver'd the letter: from the reading of which, 31    they were affected with joy at the comfortable contents, as for Judas and Silas, 32   they being also prophets, they consolated and confirm'd the brethren by several discourses. 33   and after they had stay'd there some time, with the good wishes of the brethren, they had leave to go to the apostles. 34   however Silas thought fit to stay at Antioch, 35   where Paul and Barnabas continued, teaching and preaching the doctrine of the Lord, with many others.

36   Some time after, Paul said to Barnabas, let us return to visit all those cities, where we have preach'd the word of the Lord, to see what condition the brethren are in.

37   upon which Barnabas propos'd to take John surnam'd Mark, with them. 38   but Paul did not think it proper to take one that had quitted them at Pamphylia, refusing to accompany them in their ministry. 39   and the contention was so sharp between them, that they separated: so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed to Cyprus. 40   but Paul chose Silas, and having been recommended by the brethren to the favour of God, 41   he departed, and passing through Syria and Cilicia, he settled the churches there.

1   Paul arrived then at Derbe and Lystra, where there was a disciple named Timothy, whose mother was a Jewish convert, but his father a Greek. 2   as the brethren of Lystra and Iconium gave him a good character, Paul had a mind he should accompany him. 3   so he took him and had him circumcised, out of regard to the Jews of that country, who all knew his father was a Greek. 4   as they pass'd through the cities, they recommended it to the faithful to observe the decisions, made by the apostles and presbyters at Jerusalem. 5   thus were the churches established in the faith, and daily grew

more numerous. 6   but after they had travers'd Phrygia and Galatia, they were order'd by the holy spirit not to preach the gospel in Asia: 7   being therefore arrived in Mysia, they essayed to go into Bithynia, but the spirit of Jesus would not allow it: so they pass'd by Mysia, 8   and came to Troas. 9   there Paul had a vision in the night. a Macedonian appear'd to him, and thus address'd him, “pass on to Macedonia, and come to our relief.” 10   immediately after he had had this vision, we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, concluding from thence, that the Lord had called us to publish the gospel there. we embark'd therefore at Troas, 11   and sail'd directly to Samothracia, and the next day landed at Neapolis. 12   from thence we marched to Philippi, the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony. having stopp'd there some days, 13   we went out of town on the sabbath towards the river, where the Jews were allowed to have an oratory. 14   so we took our places, and convers'd with the women, that came there. one of them was nam'd Lydia of Thyatira, a trader in purple, and a Jewish proselyte.

she heard us: and the Lord inclin'd her heart to attend to what Paul said. 15   so that having been baptized with her family, she made us this request, if you think me sincere in my profession, pray come and lodge at my house; and she prevail'd upon us.

16   One day as we went to the oratory, we happen'd to meet a slave, who had the spirit Python, and was very gainful to her masters by telling of fortunes. 17   as she followed Paul and the rest of us, she cried out, these men are the servants of the most high God, who show you the way

to salvation. 18   this she did for several days, till Paul tir'd with it turn'd about, and said to the spirit, in the name of Jesus Christ I command you to quit her; and instantly he came out. 19   her masters finding they had lost such a prospect of gain, seized upon Paul and Silas, and hawl'd them to the publick place before the magistrates. 20   having presented them to the Officers, they said, these men, who are Jews, raise great disorders in our city, and preach such maxims, 21   as it is not lawful for Romans, as we are, to admit or practise. 22   upon this the populace rose upon them, and the Officers order'd them to be stript and scourg'd. 23   after they had been severely lash'd, they were thrown into prison, the jayler being charg'd to keep them safe. 24   in consequence of this order he thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

25   At midnight Paul and Silas went to prayers, and sang praises to God, which the other prisoners heard: 26   when all of a sudden there was

such a great earthquake, that the foundations of the prison were shaken: immediately all the doors opened, and the setters dropp'd from the prisoners. 27   the jayler waking, and seeing the prison-doors open, drew his sword, designing to dispatch himself from the apprehension that the prisoners had escaped. 28   but Paul call'd to him aloud, and said, do thy self no harm, for we are all here. 29   then having called for a light, he ran in, and with trembling fell down before Paul and Silas; 30   and bringing them out, he said, sirs, what must I do to be saved? 31   believe, said they, on the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you, and your family. 32   then they declared the word of the Lord to him, and to all his family. 33   at the same time of night he washed their stripes, and immediately he was baptized, he, and all that belong'd to him. 34   then he conducted them to his house, and gave them an entertainment; and he and his family were affected with joy, for having believed in God.

35   When it was day the officers sent their serjeants to bid the jayler let the men go. 36   so the jayler told Paul, the magistrates had order'd them to

be discharg'd. depart then, said he, and go in peace. 37   but Paul replied, they have publickly scourg'd us, who are Romans, without any trial, they have thrown us into jayl, and now do they give us a private discharge? no, let them come themselves and release us. 38   the serjeants having reported what he said, to their officers, they began to be apprehensive upon hearing they were Romans. 39   so they came, and by persuasions brought them out, and desired them to leave the city. 40   then they quitted the prison, and went to Lydia's house, where finding the brethren, they gave them an exhortation, and departed.

1   Having pass'd thro' Amphipolis and Apollonia, they arriv'd at Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue. 2   Paul, as was his custom, us'd to go there, and for three sabbath-days discours'd to the Jews from the scriptures, 3   explaining them, and setting it to view, that the Messiah was to suffer and rise again from the dead: and that Jesus, whom he denounc'd to them, was that very Messiah.

4   Some of them believed, and join'd themselves to Paul and

Silas, besides a great number of Greek proselytes, and several women of distinction. 5   but the unbelieving Jews thro' envy, by the assistance of some loose strolers, rais'd a mob, set the whole city in an uproar, and attack'd Jason's house, thinking to find them there, and deliver them up to the populace. 6   but not finding them, they dragg'd Jason and some of the brethren to the magistrates, crying out, these that have been every where the disturbers of the publick peace, are come hither also, and have been entertain'd by Jason. 7   they all act in defiance of the edicts of Cesar, pretending there is another king, one Jesus. 8   the people, and the magistrates upon hearing this were alarm'd: 9   however having oblig'd Jason and the rest to give security, they let them go.

10   Immediately the brethren sent away Paul and Silas by night to Berea, where being arriv'd, they went into the synagogue. 11   the Jews there were of a more generous temper than those of Thessalonica: for they very readily embrac'd their doctrine, and daily examin'd, whether it was conformable to the scriptures. 12   so that many of them

believed, besides a considerable number of women of distinction, and of men, that were Greeks. 13   but when the Jews of Thessalonica were inform'd that Paul had preached the word of God at Berea, they went thither to stir up the populace.

14   Upon this the brethren immediately sent Paul away to the sea-coast, but Silas and Timothy staid there. 15   however Paul's guides attended him to Athens: where they left him, after having received his orders for Silas and Timothy to come to him with all speed.

16   While Paul was expecting them at Athens, he was grieved to the soul to see the whole city o'er-spread with idols. 17   he disputed therefore in the synagogue with the Jews, and the proselyted Greeks: and in the publick place daily with those he met. 18   there certain Epicurean and Stoick philosophers encountred him: “what does this mountebank mean?” said some: “he seems to proclaim some strange deitys,” said others: because he talk'd to them of Jesus and the resurrection.

19   One day they conducted him to the ^note Areopagus, and said to him, may we know what this new doctrine is, which you publish? 20   for what you say sounds so very strange, we should be glad to know what it means. 21   now the Athenians, and the foreigners residing at Athens generally amus'd themselves about nothing, but hearing and spreading of news.

22   Then Paul being plac'd in the middle of the Areopagus, said thus, “I observe, O Athenians, that you are in a manner too devout. 23   for considering, as I pass'd along, the deitys, which you adore, I met with an altar that had this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. now that GOD whom you worship without knowing him, is the same that I denounce to you. 24   the GOD who made the world and every thing therein, and is the Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples erected by men: 25   he receives no service from their officiousness: he is self-sufficient: it is he that gives to all their life and breath and every thing they have. 26   he

he has deduced all mankind from one parent, to inhabit the surface of the whole earth, having pre-establish'd the appointed periods, and the boundarys of their dominions: 27   by which they might enquire, and by due reflection investigate the supreme being, although he be not far from every one of us: for in him we live, 28   are moved, and do exist: even as some of your own ^note














poets have said, WE ARE EVEN HIS OFFSPRING. 29   since then we are the offspring of God, we should not imagine that the Deity bears any resemblance to the form which Gold, or Silver, or Stone has receiv'd from human art and industry. 30   God has

been pleas'd to over-look this state of ignorance: but now he enjoins all men every where to repent: 31   because he has fix'd the day, when he will judge in equity, by that man, whom he has appointed thereto: of which he has given full proof to all the world, by having raised him from the dead.”

32   When they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some made it a matter of ridicule: others said, we will hear you again upon this subject; 33   upon which Paul left the assembly. 34   however, there were some who adher'd to him, as Denis the ^note Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

1   After this Paul left Athens and arriv'd at Corinth: 2   where having found a Jew nam'd Aquila, a native of Pontus, who lately came from Italy, with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had order'd all the Jews to quit Rome; he went to them: 3   and being of the same trade, he liv'd with them, and follow'd the business of tent-making. every sabbath he disputed in the synagogue, 4    and try'd to gain upon the Jews and the Greek

proselytes: 5   and when Silas and Timothy were arriv'd from ^note Macedonia, Paul with great concern remonstrated to the Jews, that Jesus was the Messiah: 6   but as they oppos'd him with invectives, he shook ^note his garment, and said, “you your selves be answerable for your own destruction, I am clear: and for the future I shall address my self to the Gentiles.”

7   When he had left them, he went to the house of one Justus a proselyte to Judaism, who lived near the synagogue: however Crispus, 8   the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his family, as well as many of the Corinthians, who heard Paul, and were baptized. 9   then the Lord said to Paul in a vision by night, “be not afraid, but speak, and be not silenc'd: 10   (since I am with thee, and no man shall lift up his hand so as to hurt thee:) for my people in this city are numerous.” 11   so he continued there a year and a half preaching the word of God among them.

12   When ^note Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews

made a general insurrection against Paul, and carry'd him to his tribunal. 13   this fellow, said they, would persuade us to set up a way of worship inconsistent with our law. 14   and when Paul was going to speak, Gallio said to the Jews, “if it were a matter of some injustice or something immoral, O Jews, it would be reasonable to hear you out. 15   but since it is about disputable matters, about names, and your own law, you may decide that among yourselves: for I won't take cognizance of such affairs.” 16   upon which he order'd them to withdraw. 17   but the Greeks in a body fell upon Sosthenes the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the tribunal: whilst Gallio was unconcern'd about the matter.

18   Paul still continued a considerable time at Corinth, and then taking his leave of the brethren, he set sail for Syria, with Priscilla and Aquila, who had his head shav'd in Cenchrea upon account of a vow. 19   being arriv'd at Ephesus, he left them there, and went himself to the synagogue, where he disputed with the Jews, 20   who desired him to stay longer with them, but

he would not consent to it: for, 21   said he, in taking his leave, I must necessarily keep the approaching feast at Jerusalem: after which I will return to you if God permit. 22   having sail'd from Ephesus, he went ashore at Cesarea, where he saluted the church, and then proceeded to Antioch. 23   after he had stay'd there some time, he departed and pass'd through all Galatia and Phrygia, where he encourag'd the disciples.

24   In the mean time a Jew, nam'd Apollos, born at Alexandria, a man of letters, and vers'd in the scriptures, arriv'd at Ephesus. 25   he had been instructed in the doctrine of the gospel, and being full of zeal, he harangued with great assiduity about what related to Jesus, though he had been only instituted in the baptism of John. 26   having talk'd with great freedom in the synagogue, Aquila and Priscilla, who had heard him, invited him home, and gave him a more distinct view of the gospel. 27   and being determin'd to pass into Achaia, the brethren who advis'd him to it, writ to the disciples to

receive him. when he was arrived, he was, by the divine favour, very useful to those, who had receiv'd the faith. 28   for he strenuously disputed with the Jews in publick, proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.

1   Whilst Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having pass'd through the upper provinces of Asia, arrived at Ephesus, where finding some disciples, he said to them, 2   did you receive the holy spirit, when you made profession of your faith? they answer'd, we have not so much as heard of a holy spirit. 3   what baptism then, said he, did you receive? they replied, the baptism of John. 4   upon which Paul said, John indeed administer'd the baptism of repentance, but with this admonition, that they should believe in him, who was to come after, that is, in Jesus the Messias. 5   when they heard this, they were initiated by baptism into the christian profession. 6   and Paul having given them imposition of hands, the holy spirit came upon them, and they spoke foreign languages, and prophesied: the number of them being about twelve.

8   At length Paul went to the synagogue, where he spoke with great freedom, and for three months he conferr'd with them to persuade them of the truth of the evangelical kingdom. 9   but some of them being such obdurate infidels as to inveigh against the institution before the populace, he retired, and taking the disciples with him, he instructed them daily in the school of one ^note Tyrannus. 10   this he continued for two years; so that the Jews and proselytes of that part of Asia heard the doctrine of the Lord Jesus. 11   the miracles which God wrought by the ministry of Paul being of such an extraordinary nature, that by applying the handkerchiefs, 12    or aprons that had touch'd his skin, to the distemper'd, they were cured, and the evil spirits came out of the possessed.

13   Upon this, certain vagabond Jews, who were ^note exorcists, pretended to cure demoniacs by pronouncing the name of the Lord Jesus: their form being this, “I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul

preaches.” 14   these practitioners were seven in number, the sons of Sceva a Jew, one of the chief priests. 15   but the evil spirit said to them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?” 16   the man who was possess'd immediately leapt upon them, got the better, and used them so roughly, they were forc'd to fly out of the house, cover'd with nothing but their wounds. 17   this was known to all the Jews and Greeks, that liv'd at Ephesus, who were all seiz'd with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was exalted. 18   many that believed came to confess, and give an account of their past actions. 19   many that had practis'd magical arts, brought the books and publickly threw them into the fire: the value by computation amounting to ^note fifty thousand pieces of silver. 20   thus the christian doctrine flourish'd and prevail'd. 21   after this, Paul had a design to pass thro' Macedonia and Achaia in his way to Jerusalem: purposing when he had been there to make a visit to Rome. 22   he sent therefore Timothy and Erastus, two of his assistants in the ministry, before to Macedonia;

but stay'd himself in Asia for some time.

23   It was then a tumult happen'd at Ephesus upon account of the christian sect. 24   for one Demetrius, a silver-smith, who made little models of Diana's temple, and so furnish'd a deal of employment to the workmen in that trade, 25   summon'd the company, and thus address'd them, “tho' you know, sirs, it is by this craft that we are in such plight, 26   yet your own eyes and ears have inform'd you, that not only at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul by his persuasions has turn'd the heads of a world of people, asserting, that these are Gods of our own making, and not really such. 27   so that not only our profession runs the risk of being vilified; but the temple of the great goddess Diana will be depreciated, and her majesty, so rever'd thro' all Asia, and the whole world, will be discarded.” 28   at these words, they were fir'd with indignation, and cry'd out, “great is Diana of the Ephesians.” 29   and the whole city was fill'd with confusion: all crouded in a body to the

theatre, dragging with them Gaius and Aristarchus, both of Macedonia, who had travell'd with Paul. 30   upon this Paul was bent upon going. to the populace, 31   but was prevented by his disciples, and by the primates of Asia, who were his friends, and sent to desire he would not venture to the theatre: 32   there the mob were in the utmost riot, some bawling out in one cry, some in another, and the greatest part at a loss to know why they were met. 33   at last Alexander was disengag'd from the croud, and accus'd by the Jews. then he waved his hand, desiring to make his defence before them all. 34   but when they knew he was a Jew, they cry'd out one and all for the space of two hours, “great is Diana of the Ephesians.” 35   at length the town-clerk appeased the people, and thus began, “who is there, O Ephesians, that does not know, that the city of Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of the great Diana, and of her statue, which fell from heaven: 36   since this is incontestible, it behoves you to be easy, and free from any rash conduct: 37   for the men you have brought here, have neither plunder'd

your temples, nor inveigh'd against your goddess. 38   if Demetrius and the other artists, that are with him, can lay their action against any man, the law is open, and the proconsul is near; let them begin their process. 39   but if the contest be about other matters, it may be decided in a regular assembly. 40   for we run the risk of being answerable for this day's sedition: there being no justifiable occasion for such a commotion.” 41   having thus harangued them, he broke up the assembly.

1   This disturbance being over, Paul sent for the disciples, took his leave and departed for Macedonia. 2   after having visited the faithful in those parts, and given them many exhortations, he went to Greece. 3   there he stay'd three months; and then the Jews conspiring to surprize him at his embarkation for Syria, it was thought adviseable he should return thro' Macedonia. Sopater of Berea, 4   Aristarchus and Secundus of Thessalonica, Gaius of Derby and Timothy, Tychicus and Trophimus both Asiatics, all accompanied him to Asia, 5   and then advanc'd before and waited for us at Troas. 6   after the feast of unleaven'd bread

we sail'd from Philippi, and in five days we join'd them at Troas, where we stay'd seven. 7   on the first day of the week we assembled to break bread, when Paul, who was to depart on the morrow, gave them a sermon, which lasted till midnight. 8   in the upper chamber where we were assembled, ^note several lamps were burning: 9   and as Paul continued his discourse a great while, a young man, named Eutychus, who was sitting in the window, was seiz'd with a deep sleep, which quite o'er-came him; so that he fell down from the third story, and was taken up dead. 10   so Paul went down, and stooping over him, he embraced him, and said, don't trouble your selves; for his life is in him. 11   then Paul went up again, and having broken bread and eaten, he reassumed his discourse till break of day, and then departed. 12   but the young man was brought in alive and well, to the joy of the whole assembly.

As for us, we embark'd, and sail'd to Assos, 13   where by appointment Paul was to be taken aboard, designing himself to go thither by land. 14   meeting with him at Assos,

we took him in and arriv'd at Mitylene: 15   from thence we bore away: the next day we came off Chios, and the day after we pass'd by Samos, landing at Trogyllium, and arrived at Miletus the next day. 16   for Paul had determined not to go ashore at Ephesus, to avoid losing time in Asia: because he was eager to get to Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of pentecost.

17   At Miletus he sent a message to the pastors of the church at Ephesus, to come to him: 18   and when they were arriv'd he told them, you know how I have always behav'd towards you from the first day of my arrival in Asia: 19   how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: 20   that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: 21   remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing 22   in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem,

without any apprehension of what may befal me there: 23   save what the holy spirit in every city declares, “that bonds and afflictions wait for me.” 24   things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. 25   and now ^note I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: 26   I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: 27   for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. 28   be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. 29   for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. 30   nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. 31   be then

upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. 32   and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. 33   I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. 34   you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. 35   my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, “it is a greater happiness to give than to receive.”

36   After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. 37   then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, 38   being more particularly afflicted at his having said, “they should see his face no more.” and then they conducted him to the ship.

1   After we were parted from them, and clear of land, we made directly for Cos, the

next day to Rhodes, and from thence to Patara: 2   where finding a vessel bound to Phœnicia, we went aboard, and put off. 3   having made Cyprus, leaving it to the North, we took our course to Syria, and landed at Tyre, where the ship was to unlade her cargo. 4   we staid seven days with the disciples we met there: who told Paul from the holy spirit, that he should not go to Jerusalem. 5   that time being ended, we departed, being conducted by them in a body with the women and children quite out of the city, where we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. 6   then having taken our leave of one another, we embark'd and they went home.

7   From Tyre we sail'd to Ptolemais, which ended our voyage. we saluted the brethren there, and staid a day with them. 8   on the morrow we set out, and arriv'd at Cesarea, and went to the house of Philip the evangelist, with whom we lodg'd: 9   he was one of the seven deacons, and had four daughters all virgins, prophetesses. 10   after we had been there several days, a prophet arriv'd from Judea, one Agabus,

who made us a visit. 11   when taking Paul's girdle, he bound his own feet and hands, and said, “thus saith the holy spirit, so shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man, that owns this girdle, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.” 12   upon hearing this, we and some of the city intreated him not to go to Jerusalem. 13   but Paul replied, what do you mean by afflicting me thus with your tears? I am not only ready to meet my chains, but even to die at Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus. 14   he being then inflexible, we desisted, saying, the will of the Lord be done. 15   after this we prepar'd for our journey to Jerusalem. 16   some of the disciples of Cesarea accompany'd us, bringing with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, at whose house we were to lodge.

17   When we were arriv'd at Jerusalem, the brethren receiv'd us with joy. 18   the next day Paul went with us to James, where all the pastors assembled. 19   after having saluted them, he gave a particular account of what God

had wrought by his ministry among the Gentiles. 20   upon hearing this, they gave glory to God: and thus address'd Paul, you see, brother, how many thousand believing Jews there are, all however zealous for the law. 21   now they have heard that you instruct the Jews that are among the Gentiles to abandon Moses, by telling them they must not circumcise their children, nor observe the establish'd rites. 22   what then is to be done? they will necessarily be all assembled, for they can't but hear, you are come. 23   yield then to our advice: there are four men here, who have made a vow: 24   these take, and perform the rites ^note of purification with them, contributing to the expence of having their heads shav'd: this will convince them, what has been reported of you, is all groundless, and that you stick to the observances of the law. 25   as for the believing Gentiles, we have given them by letter this decision, “they need only take care to abstain from meats offered to idols, from blood, from the flesh of animals strangled, and from fornication.” 26   accordingly Paul went to the men, and the

next day was purified with them; then entring into the temple, he declar'd how long ^note the time of the purification was to last, and when the offering was to be made for each of them.

27   The seven days being almost expir'd, the Asiatic Jews seeing him in the temple, rais'd a tumult, and fell upon him, 28   bawling out, “men of Israel, help: this is the man that every where inveighs upon all occasions against the people, against the law, and against this place, where they have brought Greeks too to profane this holy place.” 29   (for having seen Trophimus an Ephesian with him in the city, they imagin'd Paul had conducted him into the temple.) 30   the whole city was in an uproar, the people crouded together: they seized Paul, dragg'd him out of the temple, and then shut the gates. 31   as they were busy upon his execution, news came to the commander of the cohort, that the whole city was in an uproar. 32   immediately he headed a detachment, with his centurions, and march'd briskly to them; who, upon seeing the officer and his men, left

off beating Paul. 33   the commander advanc'd, seiz'd him, and order'd to load him with two chains: then demanded who he was, and what he had done. 34   in the hubbub some cry'd one thing, some another: so that not being able to get any information for the tumult, he order'd him to be carried to the castle. 35   as he was mounting the stairs, the soldiers bore him up thro' the violence of the people, who were all pressing after, 36    roaring out, “away with him.” 37   just as he was entring into the castle, Paul said to the officer, may I be favour'd with a word? you can speak Greek then, said he? 38   are not you the Egyptian, who lately made an insurrection at the head of four thousand banditti in the desart? 39   Paul replied, I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of that famous city: and I beg you would give me leave to speak to the people: which being granted, 40   Paul then standing upon the stairs made a sign with his hand to the people, who being very silent, he rais'd his voice, and thus address'd them in the Hebrew tongue:

1   My brethren, and fathers, pray hear what I have to say for my self. 2   when they perceiv'd he talk'd Hebrew, they were the more silent. 3   then he said, I am a Jew, a native of Tarsus in Cilicia, but had my education in this city: at the feet of Gamaliel I was instructed in the law, and in the exact decisions of our fathers, and was as religiously zealous as you are at this time. 4   for I persecuted this sect even to death, throwing them into chains and prisons both men and women: 5   this the high-priest and the senate know too well: from them I receiv'd my warrant directed to the Jews of Damascus, where I went, to bring the converts there in chains to Jerusalem, in order to be punished. 6   as I was upon the road, advanc'd near Damascus, about mid-day, all of a sudden a great light from heaven broke all around me. 7   I fell to the ground, and heard a voice pronounce these words, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” 8   I answered, who art thou, Lord? it answered, “I am Jesus the Nazarene whom thou dost persecute.” 9   the company actually saw the light, but did not hear the voice

of him that spoke to me. 10   then I said, Lord, what must I do? and the Lord answer'd, arise, go to Damascus; there you will be inform'd what you are to do. 11   but as I had lost the use of my eyes by the splendor of that light, I was led by the hand to Damascus, by those who were with me. 12   there one Ananias a religious observer of the law, who had the good word of all the Jews in that place, came to see me, 13   and being introduc'd, he said, brother Saul, receive thy sight. and instantly I saw him. 14   then he said, the God of our fathers has singled you out to be acquainted with his will, to see the just one, and to hear the words of his mouth: 15   that you might testify to all men, what you have seen and heard. 16   why should you now delay? arise, be baptized, and cleansed from your sins, by invoking the name of the Lord. 17   at length being return'd to Jerusalem, one day as I was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance. 18   then I saw JESUS, who said to me, “make haste, and go out of Jerusalem immediately: for they will not receive the attestations you would give of me.”

Lord, 19   said I, ^note they know it is I that imprison'd those who believed on thee, and caus'd them to be scourg'd in the assemblies: 20   that I was present, when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, that I abetted the slaughter, and watch'd the clothes of those who slew him. 21   but the Lord said to me, “be gone, for I will send you far hence, even to the Gentiles.”

22   Till that word, the Jews had given their attention, but then they broke out into a full cry, “out of the world with such a fellow: for it is not fit he should live.” 23   thus they roar'd, and threw off their cloaks, and scatter'd dust in the air: 24   when the commanding officer order'd him to be brought into the castle, and put to the question by the lash, in order to find out the reason of their exclamations against him. 25   as they were tying him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion, does the law allow to scourge a Roman citizen, and without any trial? 26   upon hearing that, the centurion went to acquaint the head

officer, take care, said he, what you do; for this man is a Roman. 27   then the head officer came to him, and said, tell me, are you a Roman? 28   he answer'd, yes. the officer rejoin'd, my freedom cost me a considerable sum. but I had it, said Paul, by right of birth. 29   immediately those who were going to put him to the question, withdrew: the commander himself being under some apprehension for having order'd him to be bound. 30   as he was resolv'd to know for certain, the next day, what the Jews laid to his charge, he took off his chains, and summon'd the chief priests, and the council to appear, when Paul was brought, and presented before them.

1   Then Paul directing himself to the council, thus said, “hitherto I have liv'd strictly conscientious, as God knows.” 2   at which the high priest Ananias order'd those that were near him to strike him on the face: 3   which made Paul say, “may God strike thee, thou plaister'd wall: you sit to judge me according to law, and in defiance of the law you order me to be struck!” 4   what, said the standers-by, do you revile the high priest

of God? 5   Paul replied, I did not consider, brethren, that he was the high priest. it is indeed written ^note, “thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.”

6   But as Paul knew that one part of the Sanhedrim were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out, my brethren, “I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee, and I am now prosecuted for believing the resurrection of the dead.” 7   at these words the Pharisees and the Sadducees were all in confusion, the whole assembly being divided: 8   for the Sadducees maintain, there is neither resurrection, nor angel, or spirit, whereas the Pharisees acknowledge both: the clamour was great, 9   and the Scribes taking part with the Pharisees, grew warm in the debate, and said, “we find no harm in this man; perhaps a spirit or an angel has spoke to him.” 10   but the tumult growing worse, the tribune apprehensive that Paul might be torn to pieces among them, order'd detachment to secure him by force of arms, and bring him to the castle.

11   The night following, the Lord appear'd to him, and

said, Paul, take courage; for the same remonstrances that you have made concerning me at Jerusalem, you must likewise make at Rome. 12   when it was day, some Jews, that had form'd a conspiracy, engag'd themselves by an oath, not to eat, or drink, till they had kill'd Paul. 13   the conspirators, who were above forty in number, 14   went to the chief priests and senators, and said, “we have bound our selves by oath not to eat till we have slain Paul. 15   if you will move it then to the tribune in the name of the Sanhedrim, to send him here to-morrow, under colour of examining his affair with more solemnity, we shall take care to dispatch him, and make a short end of his journey.”

16   Paul's sister's son hearing of the ambuscade, went to the castle, and being admitted, told Paul; 17   who having sent for one of the centurions, said, introduce this young man to the tribune, for he has something to communicate to him. 18   accordingly he went along with him, and having introduc'd him to the tribune, he said, Paul,

who is in custody sent for me, and desired me to introduce this young man, who has something to tell you. 19   then the tribune taking him by the hand, retir'd with him in private, and ask'd, what he had to say. 20   the Jews, said he, have agreed to desire you would send Paul down to-morrow to the council, under the pretext of examining him more strictly. 21   but don't believe them: for above forty of them lie in ambush, having bound themselves by oath not to eat or drink till they have kill'd him: they are already prepar'd, and only wait your answer. 22   then the tribune dismiss'd the youth with this charge, don't tell any one, that you have given me this information. 23   then calling two of his centurions, draw out, said he, two hundred foot, seventy horse, and two hundred archers, ready to march to Cesarea by ^note the third hour of the night: 24   let them take care to see Paul mounted, and convoy him safe to governour Felix. 25   at the same time he writ a letter to Felix to this purport.

26   CLAUDIUS LYSIAS to the most excellent governour FELIX wishes health.

27   The Jews having seiz'd this man, were just upon the point to dispatch him, when I march'd with a body to his rescue; 28   having been informed he was a Roman, I had him brought before their Sanhedrim, to hear what crime they laid to his charge. 29   but I found their accusation turned upon certain topics of their law, and contain'd nothing that was capital, or that deserv'd imprisonment: 30   and having intelligence that the Jews had form'd a conspiracy against him, I immediately sent him to you, directing his accusers to lay their charge before you. farewel.

31   The soldiers pursuant to order took Paul, and conducted him by night to Antipatris. 32   on the morrow they march'd back to the castle, having left him to the custody of the horse: 33   who upon their arrival at Cesarea, delivered the letter to the governour, and presented Paul to him.

34   The governour having read the letter, ask'd Paul of what province he was, and being inform'd he was of Cilicia,

you shall be heard, 35   said he, when your accusers are come: and then order'd him to the guard-room at Herod's palace.

1   Five days after the sovereign pontiff Ananias arriv'd and some of the senators, who with one Tertullus a pleader, appear'd before the governour as plaintiffs against Paul. 2   so Paul was call'd, and Tertullus thus open'd the charge.

3   “The happiness our nation enjoys, most noble Felix, by the wisdom of your administration, affects us too sensibly not to be acknowledg'd every where, and upon all occasions, with the utmost gratitude. 4   but not to trespass upon you too far, be pleas'd to hear what I have to say in brief, with your usual indulgence. 5   this man is known to be a pernicious fellow that goes about the world to raise seditions among the Jews: he is the ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes, 6   and has attempted to prophane the temple: we secur'd him, and would have try'd him by our law: 7   but general Lysias interpos'd, and with open force took him out of our hands, 8   ordering his accusers to appear

before you. if you please to interrogate him yourself, you will find the whole charge to be truly laid.” 9   this the Jews confirm'd by declaring it was all fact.

10   Then the governour sign'd to Paul to reply; who said, I enter upon my defence with the greater confidence, by considering you have govern'd this nation several years: 11   possibly you are appriz'd, that it is not above twelve days since, that I went to Jerusalem to worship. 12   they neither found me in conference with any one in the temple, nor working up the people either in the assemblies or in the streets: 13   so far are they from proving what they lay to my charge. 14   I do indeed own, that I serve the God of our nation according to the discipline they call sect: and believe whatever is written in the law and in the prophets. 15   I have the same expectations from the DEITY, which they themselves entertain, that of the resurrection both of the just and of the unjust. 16   and 'tis my endeavour to preserve a conscience free from reproach both with respect to God, and with respect to men. 17   after several years absence I came

to Jerusalem, ^note with contributions for my brethren, and oblations for the temple: 18   there religiously employ'd some Asiatic Jews found me, without crowd or tumult: 19   and here they ought to have appear'd, if they had any thing to object against me. 20   or let these now declare, if they could convict me of any misdemeanor, when I was brought before the Sanhedrim: 21   unless it be, that I did indeed break out into this expression, ^note it “is for the resurrection of the dead, that I am now call'd into question.”

22   Then Felix adjourn'd them, saying, I shall inform myself more particularly of this sect, and when general Lysias comes, I will give you a full hearing.

23   Felix then order'd a centurion to take Paul into his custody, without confining him so as to hinder his friends from waiting upon him. 24   some time after he came to Cesarea with his wife Drusilla, a Jewess, when sending for Paul, he heard him discourse about the Christian faith. 25   but as he was treating of justice, temperance, and a future judgment, Felix greatly alarm'd, said, “withdraw

for the present; and when I am at leisure, I will send for you.” 26   this he frequently did, and convers'd with him upon the presumption that Paul would have 27   offer'd him mony in order to obtain his discharge. but two years after he was succeeded by Porcius Festus, who to oblige the Jews left Paul under confinement.

1   Three days after his arrival in the province, Festus went from Cesarea to Jerusalem: 2   when the high priest and the chief of the Jews waited upon him with an information against Paul, 3   “desiring the favour he might be sent for to Jerusalem.” they having prepar'd measures to assassinate him upon the road. 4   Festus answer'd, that Paul was in custody at Cesarea, where he design'd to be himself e'er long: 5   the most considerable, said he, among you may go with me, and if he has committed any crime, let 'em begin the process.

6   Having staid above eight, nay ten days, he went to Cesarea, and on the morrow mounting the tribunal, he order'd Paul to be brought before

him. 7   when he appear'd, the Jews, who were come from Jerusalem presented themselves before Festus, and loaded Paul with abundance of accusations, which they were not able to prove. 8   to this he answer'd, “I have not been guilty of any misdemeanour, either against the law, or against the temple, or against Cesar.” 9   but Festus willing to oblige the Jews ask'd him, will you consent to go to Jerusalem, and take your trial before me there? 10   “I stand, said Paul, to the tribunal of Cesar, where I ought to be judged. to the Jews I have done no wrong, as you yourself very well know. 11   if I am guilty of any capital crime, I am contented to die. but since their accusations are all groundless, that I may not be sacrificed to their humour, I appeal to Cesar.” 12   upon this, Festus having deliberated with his council, answer'd, “since you have appeal'd to Cesar, to Cesar you shall go.”

13   Some days after, king Agrippa and Bernice came to Cesarea to make Festus a visit. 14   as they continued there for some time, Festus represented Paul's case to the king: Felix,

said he, had left here a certain prisoner: 15   and when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and senators of the Jews made their appearance, and demanded to have justice against him. 16   I told them, it was not the custom of the Romans to deliver up any man, till he was accus'd and confronted by his accusers, and had an opportunity of pleading to the charge. 17   the next day after they were come, to avoid delay, I mounted the tribunal, and order'd the man to be brought. 18   when his accusers appear'd, they did not charge him with any such crimes as I imagined they would. 19   they objected certain articles that related only to their superstition, and to one Jesus that was dead, but Paul asserted he was alive. 20   being at a loss how to determine such an affair, I ask'd him if he would go to Jerusalem, and take his tryal there. 21   but Paul having made his appeal, insisting to have his cause refer'd to the cognizance of the emperor, I order'd him into custody, till I could send him to Cesar. 22   thereupon Agrippa told Festus, he himself should be glad to hear the man. to-morrow, said Festus, you shall hear him.

23   On the morrow Agrippa and Bernice came in great state, and being introduc'd into the court attended by the officers and the principal men of the city, Festus gave the word, and Paul was brought to the Bar. 24   then Festus said, “King Agrippa, and you that are here present, you see the man, against whom a numerous body of the Jews have been practising with me both at Jerusalem, and in this city, urging with vehemence, that he should not be suffer'd to live. 25   but finding he had done nothing that deserv'd death, I have resolved to send him to the emperor, to whom he had appealed. 26   as I have no certain account to communicate to the emperor my master, I caus'd him to appear before this assembly, and before you, king Agrippa, in particular, that after he is examin'd, I may know how to represent the affair; 27   for it seems to me absurd to send a prisoner without expressing the crimes laid to his charge.”

1   Then Agrippa said to Paul, you are at liberty to make your defence. upon which Paul disengaging his hand

from his cloak, thus made his plea. 2   I think myself happy, king Agrippa, in having this opportunity of vindicating myself in your presence, from every thing the Jews have laid to my charge: 3   for I know you are fully acquainted with the Jewish customs and controversies: and therefore I beg the indulgence of your attention. 4   what course of life I led at Jerusalem, where I was brought up from my youth among those of my own nation, is known to all the Jews. 5   they can testify, if they will, that I early profess'd myself a Pharisee, a member of the most rigorous sect of our religion: 6   and now I stand arraign'd for expecting the accomplishment of the divine promise made to our fathers, 7   which our twelve tribes by their continual services, night and day, hope themselves to obtain: yet for that hope, king Agrippa, do the Jews now accuse me. 8   you may think it something incredible that God should raise the dead: 9   I myself too once thought myself oblig'd strenuously to oppose the professors of Jesus the Nazarene, as I actually did at Jerusalem, 10    where numbers of converts I threw into jail, by warrant from the high priests: and when they were

put to death, I myself was an accomplice. 11   it was I that persecuted them from synagogue to synagogue, and tortured them even to blaspheme: and in the transport of my rage I pursued them to foreign cities. 12   with such views, authorized by commission from the high priests, I was on the road to Damascus: 13   when at mid-day, O king, a light from heaven exceeding the splendor of the sun, broke all around me, and those that accompanied me. 14   we were all struck down: when I heard a voice directed to me pronounce these words in the Hebrew tongue, “Saul, Saul, why dost thou persecute me? it is dangerous for thee to kick ^note against the goad.” 15   I answer'd, who art thou, Lord? he said, “I am Jesus, whom thou persecutest. 16   but rise upright upon thy feet: for I have appear'd to thee in order to establish you my minister in testifying both what you have seen, and what I shall hereafter show to you, 17   by delivering you from this people, and from the Gentiles to whom I now send thee, to open their eyes, 18   and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that

they may receive forgiveness of sins, and partake of the inheritance of the saints, by believing on me.” 19   this heavenly vision, king Agrippa, I presently obey'd: 20   first I warn'd the people of Damascus, of Jerusalem, of all Judea, and then the Gentiles, to repent, and turn to God, by acting suitably to their repentance. 21   for such a conduct the Jews seiz'd upon me in the temple, designing to assassinate me; 22   but by the divine favour I am still preserv'd alive, testifying to the small and to the great nothing but what Moses and the prophets have predicted should happen: “that Christ should suffer: 23    that he should be the first that was to rise from the dead: and that he should enlighten both the Jews and the Gentiles.”

24   As he was thus making his defence, Festus broke out into this exclamation, “Paul, you are mad: much study has turn'd your brain.” 25   I am not mad, said he, most noble Festus, but what I say, is very sound truth. 26   the king is inform'd of these things, to whom I address myself with the greater confidence, being persuaded he is fully apprized of these matters, that were far from being transacted

in private. 27   king Agrippa, don't you give credit to the prophetic writings? I know you do. 28   but Agrippa reply'd to Paul, you ^note almost persuade me I shall be a christian! 29   I pray God, said Paul, that not only you, but all that now hear me, were both almost and altogether such as I am, the circumstance of my bonds excepted.

30   When he had said this, the king, the governour, Bernice, and all that were seated near them, rose up: and being retired, 31   they declar'd to one another, “this man has done nothing that deserves either death or imprisonment:” 32   nay, Agrippa said to Festus, “this man might have been discharg'd if he had not appeal'd to Cesar.”

1   When it was resolv'd, that we should sail for Italy, Paul and other prisoners were delivered to the custody of one Julius, a centurion of 2   a cohort in Augustus's legion. we embark'd in a vessel of

Adramyttium, designing to coast it along Asia, and set sail with Aristarchus a Macedonian of Thessalonica. 3   the next day we touch'd at Sidon, where the centurion, who was very civil to Paul, gave him leave to go, and refresh himself at his friends. 4   from thence we put off, and made our coast north of Cyprus, the wind being contrary. 5   after having travers'd the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we arriv'd at Myra, a city of Lycia. 6   there the centurion met with a ship of Alexandria, bound for Italy, and put us on board.

7   For several days we made very little sail, and having scarce got sight of Cnidus, the wind being against us, we bore away between Salmone and Crete: 8   with much ado we weathered the cape and got to Belhaven near Lasea. 9   having lost a good deal of time, and sailing being now dangerous, for ^note the fast was now over, Paul gave them this warning, 10   “my friends, said he, I foresee our voyage will be attended with great difficulties,

and no small risk of losing not only the ship and cargo, but our lives too.” 11   however, the centurion minded the pilot and the ship's owner more than he did Paul's prediction. 12   for as that haven could not cover us from the storm, most were of opinion to bear away, and try to put in at Phenice, where we could ride safe, the port lying by south-west, and north-west. 13   a gentle breeze at south, secure of gaining their point, they weigh'd anchor, and coasted close under Crete: 14   but soon after it blew a storm from north-east, which bore so upon the ship, 15    we could not go upon the wind, but were forc'd to let her drive. 16   when we were nigh the isle Clauda, we had much ado to hoist in the skiff. 17   this done, all hands aloft they frapp'd the ship tought with her cables, and for fear of striking upon ^note the sands, they struck the main sail, and so drove. 18   the next day the storm work'd the ship with great fury; they threw some of her lading over board: 19   and the third day we lent our hands to send the tackling after.

20   For several days, we had not seen either sun or stars: the tempest still bore hard: all our hopes of escape quite sunk, 21   and our spirits droop with fasting: when Paul presented himself, and said, “well, my friends, it had been, if I could have prevail'd upon you, to have sav'd your selves all this perplexity and loss by staying at Crete. 22   yet now I advise you to discard your fears: your lives are all safe, though the vessel will be lost. 23   for an angel of that God ^note, whose minister I am, and whom I serve, this night appear'd to me, and said, Paul, be not afraid: 24    you must be brought before Cesar: and upon your account, the whole company now with you, will God preserve. 25   take courage then, my friends, for I have this confidence in God, that what has been told me, shall be effected, 26   notwithstanding we must be shipwrack'd upon some island.”

27   It was the fourteenth night that we had been driving up and down in the Adriatick sea, when the ship's crew about midnight suspected they were making to land: 28   they

threw the line and sounded twenty fathom water: a little further they sounded again, and came to fifteen fathom: 29   then for fear of striking upon the rocks, they dropt four anchors astern, and lay impatient for the day. 30   but the crew under pretext of dropping their anchors to moor, had hoisted out the boat; designing to make off: 31   upon this Paul said to the centurion and his men, “except the crew stay aboard, you can't be safe:” 32   and immediately the soldiers chopt the cable, and set the boat adrift. 33   while they were waiting for day, Paul advis'd the whole company to take some refreshment: “these fourteen days, said he, you have been very abstemious, and not made a meal: 34   therefore, pray, take something to recruit your strength: and be assur'd every one of you shall be preserv'd.” 35   having said this, he took bread, and gave thanks to God, the whole company present: then he broke it and began to eat, 36   at which they all took heart and fell a eating likewise, 37   the whole number then on board being two hundred and seventy

six. 38   when they had eat enough, they threw the wheat over board to ease the ship: 39   at day-break they made an unknown land, with a creek, where they resolv'd, if it were possible, to run the ship ashore. 40   accordingly, having heaved in their anchors, they drove with the sea, then loos'd the helm, bois'd the mizen-sail to wind, and made to shore: 41   when falling into the confluence of two currents, they ran the ship a-ground: where the fore-castle stuck fast and would not give, but her stern was shatter'd by the violence of the waves. 42   the soldiers propos'd to dispatch the prisoners, for fear any of them should swim for their lives; but the centurion, 43   who had a mind to save Paul, prevented their design: and order'd all that could swim immediately to get off to shore, 44   and the rest to get upon the planks, or other pieces of the wreck: and by this means it happen'd that they all came safe to land.

1   Having thus escap'd, we found we were upon the isle of Malta: 2   where the inhabitants,

as much barbarians, as they were, receiv'd us with great humanity. they kindled a fire, and secur'd us from the falling rains, as well as the cold: 3   when Paul having taken up some brush-wood and laid it upon the fire, a viper started out from the heat, and seiz'd upon his hand. 4   the barbarians seeing the venomous creature hang fast to his hand, said to one another, this man is a murderer, no doubt; for, escaped from the wreck, the divine justice still pursues him to death. 5   but Paul shook off the animal into the fire without having receiv'd any hurt. 6   however, they expected to have seen him swell, or suddenly die away. but when they had waited a good while, and saw no harm come to him, they were of another opinion, and said he was a God.

7   The chief of the island, one Publius, had his estate in that quarter: he entertain'd us with diet and lodging for three days with great civility. 8   Publius's father happening then to lie sick of a fever, and a dysentery, Paul made him a visit, pray'd by him, gave him imposition of hands, and cur'd him. 9   upon this several that were indispos'd

in the island came to Paul, and were cur'd, 10   showing their respect by many presents, and furnishing us with provisions upon our departure.

11   After having been there three months, we embark'd on board the Castor and Pollux from Alexandria, that had put in there by hard weather: 12   we landed at Syracuse, and stay'd there three days. 13   from thence we turn'd to the wind, and arriv'd at Rhegium: the next day the wind being at south, we came in two days to Puteoli: 14   where finding some brethren, they desir'd us to stay with them seven days, after which we set out for Rome: 15   the brethren there having had news of us, came as far as Appiiforum, and the Three inns to meet us: whom when Paul saw, he gave thanks to God, and was greatly encourag'd.

16   Upon our arrival at Rome, the centurion deliver'd the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was allow'd to be at private lodgings, under ^note the custody of a soldier. 17   three days after, Paul sent for the chief

of the Jews: and when they were assembled, he said to them, “my brethren, tho' I have done nothing against the Jews, or against the customs of our fathers, I was made a prisoner at Jerusalem, and put into the hands of the Romans: 18   who, after my examination, would have discharg'd me, as having done nothing that was capital. 19   but the Jews opposing it, I was oblig'd to appeal to the emperor: not having however any design to accuse them. 20   for this reason I desir'd to see and talk with you; it being for the expectation of Israel that I am subject to ^note this chain.” 21   they reply'd, we have receiv'd no letter from Judea concerning you; nor have any of our brethren that are arrived, said any harm of you. 22   but we should be glad to know your sentiments: for as to this sect, we are sensible it is every where inveigh'd against.

23   Having therefore set him a day, they came in great numbers to his lodgings; where he explain'd and confirm'd the reality of the gospel-dispensation, from morning

to night, enforcing what the writings of Moses and the prophets had affirm'd concerning Jesus. 24   some believed what he had said, but others did not believe: 25   so not being able to agree, they retir'd, upon Paul's having told them, that the holy spirit had very justly said to our fathers by the prophet Esaias ^note, 26   “go to this people and say, hearing you shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive. 27   for the heart of this people is become gross, 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 be converted and I should heal them.” 28   take notice therefore, that the offers of divine salvation are sent to the Gentiles, and they will receive them. 29   [ ^note having said this, the Jews went out, warmly debating it among themselves.]

30   After this, Paul staid two whole years in a house he had hired, and gave access to all that visited him, 31   preaching the kingdom of God, and instructing them in all things relating to the Lord Jesus Christ, with the utmost freedom, without being molested.

The End of the First Volume.

THE
NEW TESTAMENT
In Greek and English.
Containing the
ORIGINAL TEXT
Corrected from the Authority of the
most Authentic Manuscripts:
AND A
NEW VERSION
Form'd agreeably to the Illustrations
of the most Learned Commentators and Critics:
WITH
NOTES and VARIOUS READINGS,
AND
A Copious Alphabetical Index.
VOLUME the Second. May every part of you, your Spirit, Soul, and Body be preserv'd irreproveable. St. Paul. In Him we live, are moved, and do exist. Id. Hæc tractanti animo, & noctes & dies cogitanti, exsistit illa à Deo
Delphis præcepta cognitio, ut Ipsa se Mens agnoscat, conjunctamque
cum divina mente se sentiat: ex quo insatiabili gaudio completur.
M. T. Cicero Tusc. Quast. LONDON:
Printed for J. Roberts, near the Oxford-Arms in
Warwick-Lane. M.DCC.XXIX.

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