Acts 5:33-42 - Gamaliel's Advice
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 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.