And we entered into a ship of Adramyttium, and loosed from land, appointed to sail by the coasts of Asia: one Aristarchus out of Macedonia, of the country of Thessalonica, being with us.
And all the city was on a roar, and they rushed into the common hall with one assent, and caught Gaius, and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions.
There accompanied him into Asia, Sopater of Beroea: And of Thessalonica, Aristarchus and Secundus, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy: And out of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
Aristarchus my prison fellow saluteth you; And Mark, Barnabas' sister's son: touching whom, ye received commandments. If he come unto you receive him:
Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my helpers.
When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me unto Nicopolis. For I have determined there to winter.
For Christ is to me life, and death is to me advantage.
At my first answering for myself, no man assisted me, but all forsook me. I pray God, that it may not be laid to their charges:
circumcised the eighth day, of the kindred of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew born of the Hebrews; as concerning the law, a Pharisee,
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and brother Timothy. Unto the congregation of God, which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:
Paul, by vocation an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and brother Sosthenes.
Paul an apostle, not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and by God the father which raised him from death,
And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" And he said, "What art thou, Lord?" And the Lord said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it shall be hard for thee to kick against the prick." And he, both trembling and astonished, said, "Lord what wilt thou have me to do?" And the Lord said unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou shalt do."
The Lord said unto him, "Go thy ways: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the gentiles, and kings and the children of Israel: For I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake."
As they ministered to the Lord and fasted; The holy ghost said, "Separate me Barnabas and Saul, for the work whereunto I have called them." Then fasted they and prayed, and put their hands on them, and let them go.
Paul, the servant of Jesus Christ, called unto the office to be an apostle, put apart to preach the Gospel of God,
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God. To the saints which are at Ephesus, and to them which believe on Jesus Christ.
Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and brother Timothy.
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our saviour, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope.
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Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, to preach the promise of life, which life is in Christ Jesus.
And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, and know not what shall come on me there, but that the holy ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and trouble abide me. But none of those things move me. Neither is my life dear unto myself; that I might fulfill my course with joy, and the ministration which I have received of the Lord Jesus to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." When we could not turn his mind, we ceased, saying, "The will of the Lord be fulfilled."
Chastity » Instances of » Paul
Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
Yet the tokens of an apostle were wrought among you with all patience; with signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.
For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and also in the holy ghost and in much certainty, as ye know after what manner we behaved ourselves among you, for your sakes.
holding fast the word of life, unto my rejoicing in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither have laboured in vain.
Then Paul stood up and beckoned with the hand and said, "Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience. The God of this people chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with a mighty arm brought them out of it. And about the time of forty years, suffered he their manners in the wilderness.
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And he destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, and divided their land to them by lot. And afterward he gave unto them judges, about the space of four hundred and fifty years, unto the time of Samuel the prophet. And after that they desired a king, and God gave unto them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years. And after he had put him down, he set up David to be their king: of whom he gave reported, saying, 'I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, he shall fulfill all my will.' Of this man's seed hath God, according to his promise, brought forth to the people of Israel a saviour, one Jesus, when John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to Israel. And when John had fulfilled his course, he said, 'Whom ye think that I am? The same am I not, but behold there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.' Ye men and brethren, children of the generation off Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is this word of salvation sent. The inhabiters of Jerusalem, and their rulers: because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every Sabbath day; they have fulfilled them in condemning him. And when they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate to kill him. And when they had fulfilled all that were written of him, they took him down from the tree and put him in a sepulchre: But God raised him again from death, and he was seen many days of them, which came with him from Galilee to Jerusalem which are his witnesses unto the people. And we declare unto you, how that the promise made unto the fathers; God hath now fulfilled unto us their children, in that he raised up Jesus again, even as it is written in the second psalm, 'Thou art my son, this same day begat I thee.' As concerning that he so raised him up from death, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, 'The holy promises made to David I will give them faithfully to you.' Wherefore he saith also in another place, 'Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy to see corruption.' Howbeit David, after he had in his time fulfilled the will of God, he slept, and was laid with his fathers, and saw corruption. But he whom God raised again, saw no corruption. Be it known unto you therefore, ye men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins; And that by him are all that believe justified from all things, from the which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. Beware therefore lest that fall on you, which is spoken of in the prophets, 'Behold ye despisers, and wonder, and perish ye: for I do a work in your days, which ye shall not believe, if a man would declare it you.'" When they were come out of the Synagogue of the Jews, the gentiles besought them that they would preach the word of god to them between the Sabbath days. When the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and virtuous converts followed Paul and Barnabas, which spake to them and exhorted them to continue in the grace of God.
For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ: yet have ye not many fathers. In Christ Jesus, I have begotten you through the gospel.
If I be not an apostle unto others, yet am I unto you. For the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
Whether it were I or they, so have we preached, and so have ye believed.
Ye are our epistle, written in our hearts, which is understood and read of all men; in that ye are known, how that ye are the epistle of Christ, ministered by us and written not with ink, but with the spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart.
And verily, though it came of weakness that he was crucified, yet liveth he through the power of God: and we no doubt are weak in him; but we shall live with him, by the might of God among you.
Wherefore I take you to record this same day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have kept nothing back: but have showed you all the counsel of God.
as ye learned of Epaphras our dear fellow servant, which is for you a faithful minister of Christ,
circumcised the eighth day, of the kindred of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew born of the Hebrews; as concerning the law, a Pharisee,
When he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. And they wept all abundantly, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him: sorrowing, most of all, for the words, which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
To the weak became I as weak, to win the weak. In all thing I fashioned myself to all men, to save, at the leastway, some.
and quit himself boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus. And he spake and disputed with the Greeks; and they went about to slay him.
Confidence » Instances of » Paul
And this am I sure of, that I shall abide, and with you all continue, for the furtherance and joy of your faith,
Him I hope to send as soon as I know how it will go with me. I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.
Conspiracy » Instances of » Paul
When Gallio was ruler of the country of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,
When day was come, certain of the Jews gathered themselves together, and made a vow saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. They were about forty which had made this conspiration. And they came to the chief priest and elders, and said, "We have bound ourselves with a vow, that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul.
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Now therefore give ye knowledge to the upper captain, and to the council that he bring him forth unto us tomorrow, as though we would know some thing more perfectly of him. But we, or ever he come near, are ready in the mean season to kill him."
I speak not because of necessity. For I have learned in whatsoever estate I am, therewith to be content. I can both cast down myself, I can also exceed. Everywhere, and in all things I am instructed, both to be full, and to be hungry: to have plenty, and to suffer need.
Continence » Instances of » Paul
I say unto the unmarried men, and widows: it is good for them if they abide even as I do,
And herefore sigh we, desiring to be clothed with our mansion which is from heaven:
Nevertheless we are of good comfort, and had rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.
as I heartily look for and hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed: but that with all confidence, as always in times past, even so now Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be through life, or else death. For Christ is to me life, and death is to me advantage. If it chance me to live in the flesh, that is to me fruitful for to work, and what to choose I know not.
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I am constrained of two things. I desire to be loosed, and to be with Christ, which thing is best of all:
Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my helpers.
Dear Luke the physician greeteth you, and Demas.
But Saul increased in strength; And confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus affirming that this was very Christ.
Ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail. For we laboured day and night, because we would not be grievous unto any of you, and preached unto you the gospel of God.
Ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail. For we laboured day and night, because we would not be grievous unto any of you, and preached unto you the gospel of God.
But when it pleased God, which separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace,
as ye learned of Epaphras our dear fellow servant, which is for you a faithful minister of Christ,
Epaphras the servant of Christ, which is one of you, saluteth you, and always laboureth fervently for you in prayers that ye may stand perfect, and full in all that is the will of God.
There salute thee, Epaphras my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus;
Likewise, greet all the congregation that is in their house. Salute my well beloved Epaenetes, which is the firstfruit among them of Achaia.
So sent he into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him: Timothy and Erastus: but he himself remained in Asia for a season.
Erastus abode at Corinth. Trophimus I left at Miletus sick.
Make speed to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.
And when he had thus spoken he took bread and gave thanks to God in presence of them all, and brake it, and began to eat. Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took meat.
Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God that so it shall be even as it was told me;
He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief: But was made strong in the faith, and gave honour to God,
I have fought a good fight, and have fulfilled my course, and have kept the faith.
For I have kept nothing back: but have showed you all the counsel of God.
and how I kept back nothing that was profitable: but that I have showed you, and taught you openly and at home in your houses,
And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
And Cornelius said, "This day now four days I fasted, and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,
in labour and travail, in watching often, in hunger, in thirst, in fastings often, in cold and in nakedness.
At my first answering for myself, no man assisted me, but all forsook me. I pray God, that it may not be laid to their charges:
For of him, and through him, and for him are all things. To him be glory forever Amen.
But rise and stand up on thy feet. For I have appeared unto thee for this purpose: to make thee a minister, and a witness both of those things which thou hast seen, and of those things in thee which I will appear unto thee,
But Saul increased in strength; And confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus affirming that this was very Christ.
This thou knowest, how that all they which are in Asia be turned from me; Of which sort are Phygelus and Hermogenes.
Ye are witnesses, and so is God, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:
and have hope towards God, that the same resurrection from death, which they themselves look for also, shall be both of just and unjust.
This is a true saying, and by all means worthy to be received, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief:
Humility » Instances of » Paul
Salute Andronicus, and Junia, my cousins, which were prisoners with me also, which are well taken among the apostles, and were in Christ before me.
That is: that I might have consolation together with you, through the common faith, which both ye and I have.
serving the Lord with all humbleness of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which happened unto me by the layings wait of the Jews,
when before I was a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and a tyrant. But I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly, through unbelief:
which Jason hath received privily. And these all do contrary to the elders of Caesar, affirming another King: one Jesus."
We have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of debate unto all the Jews throughout the world; And a maintainer of sedition, of the sect of the Nazarenes;
saying, "This fellow counceleth men to worship God contrary to the law."
Against whom, when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed: But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus which was dead; whom Paul affirmed to be alive.
Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him unto you, and especially unto thee, king Agrippa, that after examination had, I might have somewhat to write. For me thinketh it unreasonable for to send a prisoner, and not to show the causes, which are laid against him."
Industry » Instances of » Paul
And because he was of the same craft he abode with them and wrought: their craft was to make tents.
I have desired no man's silver, gold, or vesture. Ye know well that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
Neither took we bread of any man for nought: but wrought with labour and travail night and day, because we would not be grievous to any of you:
And when he had thus spoken he took bread and gave thanks to God in presence of them all, and brake it, and began to eat. Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took meat.
Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole congregation, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They sent Judas, called also Barsabbas, and Silas, which were chief men among the brethren: and gave them letters in their hands after this manner, "The apostles, elders, and brethren send greetings unto the brethren which are of the gentiles in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia. Forasmuch as we have heard that certain which departed from us, have troubled you with words, and cumbered your minds saying ye must be circumcised and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment.
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It seemed therefore to us a good thing, when we were come together with one accord, to send chosen men unto you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul: men that have jeopardized their lives, for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, which shall also tell you the same things by mouth. For it seemed good to the holy ghost and to us, to put no grievous thing to you more than these necessary things, that is to say: that ye abstain from things offered to images, from blood, from strangled and fornication. From which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. So fare ye well." When they were departed, they came to Antioch and gathered the multitude together and delivered the epistle. When they had read it, they rejoiced of that consolation. And Judas and Silas being prophets, exhorted the brethren with much preaching, and strengthened them.
Yea I think all things but loss for that excellent knowledge's sake of Christ Jesus my Lord. For whom I have counted all thing loss, and do judge them but dung, that I might win Christ, and might be found in him, not having mine own righteousness which is of the law: But that which springeth of the faith which is in Christ. I mean, the righteousness which cometh of God through faith
Ye know well that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
for this cause was mercy given unto me, that Jesus Christ should first show on me all long patience, unto the example of them which shall, in time to come, believe on him unto eternal life.
Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you. Our heart is made large: ye are in no strait in us, but are in a strait in your own hearts.
Meekness » Instances of » Paul
At my first answering for myself, no man assisted me, but all forsook me. I pray God, that it may not be laid to their charges:
But were tender among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children,
And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, "Thou seest brother, how many thousand Jews there are which believe, and they are all zealous over the law. And they are informed of thee that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the gentiles to forsake Moses, and sayest that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to live after the customs. What is it therefore? The multitude must needs come together. For they shall hear that thou art come.
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Do therefore this that we say to thee. We have four men, which have a vow on them. Them take and purify thyself with them, and do cost on them, that they may shave their heads and all shall know that those things which they have heard concerning thee are nothing: but that thou thyself also walkest and keepest the law. For as touching the gentiles which believe: we have written, and concluded, that they observe no such things - but that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from strangled, and from fornication." Then the next day, Paul took the men and purified himself with them, and entered into the temple, declaring that he observed the days of the purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.
At my first answering for myself, no man assisted me, but all forsook me. I pray God, that it may not be laid to their charges:
when before I was a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and a tyrant. But I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly, through unbelief:
preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concerned the Lord Jesus with all confidence, unforbidden.
And this did she many days. But Paul, not content, turned about and said to the spirit, "I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ that thou come out of her." And he came out the same hour.
And God wrought not small miracles by the hands of Paul. So that from his body were brought unto the sick, napkins or partlets, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.
And it fortuned that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever, and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in and prayed, and laid his hands on him and healed him. When this was done, others also which had diseases in the isle, came and were healed:
and there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, fallen into a deep sleep. And as Paul declared, he was the more overcome with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. Paul went down and fell on him, and embraced him, and said, "Make nothing ado. For his life is in him." When he was come up again, he brake bread, and tasted, and communed a long while: even till the morning, and so departed.
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And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.
And now behold the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind and not see the sun for a season." And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; And he went about, seeking them that should lead him by the hand.
and said with a loud voice, "Stand upright on thy feet." And he started up, and walked.
But he shook off the vermin into the fire, and felt no harm.
And God wrought not small miracles by the hands of Paul. So that from his body were brought unto the sick, napkins or partlets, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.
Paul went down and fell on him, and embraced him, and said, "Make nothing ado. For his life is in him." When he was come up again, he brake bread, and tasted, and communed a long while: even till the morning, and so departed. And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.
And now behold the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind and not see the sun for a season." And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; And he went about, seeking them that should lead him by the hand.
And this did she many days. But Paul, not content, turned about and said to the spirit, "I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ that thou come out of her." And he came out the same hour.
and said with a loud voice, "Stand upright on thy feet." And he started up, and walked.
But he shook off the vermin into the fire, and felt no harm.
And it fortuned that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever, and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in and prayed, and laid his hands on him and healed him.
Then Saul, which also is called Paul, being full of the holy ghost, set his eyes on him, and said,
Obedience » Instances of » Paul
Paul beheld the council and said, "Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day."
I thank God, whom I serve from mine elders with pure conscience, that without ceasing I make mention of thee in my prayers night and day,
"My living of a child, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews: which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify it. For after the most straitest sect of our lay, lived I a Pharisee.
for your obedience extendeth to all men. I am glad no doubt of you. But yet I would have you wise unto that which is good. And to be innocent as concerning evil.
"Wherefore king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:
"Wherefore king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:
with one Onesimus a faithful, and a beloved brother, which is one of you. They shall show you of all things which are a doing here.
I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I begat in my bonds,
But thou hast seen the experience of my doctrine, fashion of living, purpose, faith, long suffering, love, patience,
Patience » Instances of » Paul
But thou hast seen the experience of my doctrine, fashion of living, purpose, faith, long suffering, love, patience,
Paul, by vocation an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and brother Sosthenes.
Paul an apostle, not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and by God the father which raised him from death,
But when it pleased God, which separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, for to declare his son by me, that I should preach him among the heathen: Immediately I commended not of the matter with flesh and blood,
Paul, the servant of Jesus Christ, called unto the office to be an apostle, put apart to preach the Gospel of God,
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God. To the saints which are at Ephesus, and to them which believe on Jesus Christ.
Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and brother Timothy.
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our saviour, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope.
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, to preach the promise of life, which life is in Christ Jesus.
whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle - I tell the truth in Christ and lie not - being the teacher of the gentiles in faith and verity.
Paul, the servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to preach the faith of God's elect, and the knowledge of that truth,
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For I am the least of all the apostles, which am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the congregation of God:
but hath opened his word at the time appointed, through preaching; which preaching is committed unto me, by the commandment of God our saviour.
whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the gentiles:
And he said unto me, 'The God of our fathers hath ordained thee before, that thou shouldest know his will, and shouldest see that which is rightful, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth: for thou shalt be his witness unto all men of those things which thou hast seen and heard. And now: why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptised, and wash away thy sins, in calling on the name of the Lord.'
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And it fortuned, when I was come again to Jerusalem and prayed in the temple, that I was in a trance; And saw him saying unto me, 'Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy witness that thou bearest of me.' And I said, 'Lord they know that I prisoned, and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee. And when the blood of thy witness Stephen was shed, I also stood by, and consented unto his death and kept the raiment of them that slew him.' And he said unto me, 'Depart for I will send thee afar hence unto the gentiles.'"
But rise and stand up on thy feet. For I have appeared unto thee for this purpose: to make thee a minister, and a witness both of those things which thou hast seen, and of those things in thee which I will appear unto thee, delivering thee from the people, and from the gentiles, unto thee which now I send thee, to open their eyes that they might turn from darkness unto light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith in me.'
Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? Are not ye my work in the Lord? If I be not an apostle unto others, yet am I unto you. For the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
as sorrowing and yet always merry, as poor and yet make many rich, as having nothing and yet possessing all things.
At midnight, Paul and Silas prayed, and lauded God. And the prisoners heard them.
I am very bold over you, and rejoice greatly in you. I am filled with comfort and am joyous in all our tribulations.
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.
Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? Are not ye my work in the Lord?
And last of all he was seen of me, as of one that was born out of due time.
And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord which hath made me strong: for he counted me true, and put me in office, when before I was a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and a tyrant. But I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly, through unbelief:
For ye have heard of my conversation in times past in the Jews' ways, how that beyond measure I persecuted the congregation of God, and spoiled it:
But as he journeyed, it fortuned that he drew nigh to Damascus, and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven. And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" And he said, "What art thou, Lord?" And the Lord said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it shall be hard for thee to kick against the prick."
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And he, both trembling and astonished, said, "Lord what wilt thou have me to do?" And the Lord said unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou shalt do." The men which journeyed with him on his way stood amazed, for they heard a voice, but saw no man. And Saul arose from the earth, and opened his eyes, but saw no man. Then led they him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank. And there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias, and to him said the Lord in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Behold, I am here Lord." And the Lord said to him, "Arise, and go into the street which is called straight, and seek in the house of Judas after one called Saul of the city of Tarsus. For behold, he prayeth; And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in unto him; And putting his hands on him, that he might receive his sight." Then Ananias answered, "Lord I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: and here he hath authority of the high priests to bind all that call on thy name." The Lord said unto him, "Go thy ways: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the gentiles, and kings and the children of Israel: For I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake." Ananias went his way and entered into the house and put his hands on him and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight and be filled with the holy ghost." And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales and he received his sight, and arose and was baptised. And received meat and was comforted. Then was Saul a certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the Synagogues how that he was the son of God. All that heard him were amazed and said, "Is not this he that spoiled them which called on this name in Jerusalem? And came hither for the intent that he should bring them bound unto the high priests?" But Saul increased in strength; And confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus affirming that this was very Christ.
and I persecuted this way unto the death: binding, and delivering into prison both men and women, as the chief priest doth bear me witness, and all the elders: of whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem for to be punished. And it fortuned that as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus, about noon, that suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me,
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and I fell unto the earth, and heard a voice saying unto me, 'Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?' And I answered, 'What art thou Lord?' And he said unto me, 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.' And they that were with me saw verily a light and were afraid: but they heard not the voice of him that spake with me. And I said, 'What shall I do Lord?' And the Lord said unto me, 'Arise and go into Damascus and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.' And when I saw nothing for the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand of them that were with me, and came into Damascus. And one Ananias, a perfect man, and as pertaining to the law having good report of all the Jews which there dwelt, came unto me, and stood and said unto me, 'Brother Saul, look up.' And that same hour I received my sight and saw him. And he said unto me, 'The God of our fathers hath ordained thee before, that thou shouldest know his will, and shouldest see that which is rightful, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth: for thou shalt be his witness unto all men of those things which thou hast seen and heard. And now: why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptised, and wash away thy sins, in calling on the name of the Lord.' And it fortuned, when I was come again to Jerusalem and prayed in the temple, that I was in a trance; And saw him saying unto me, 'Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy witness that thou bearest of me.' And I said, 'Lord they know that I prisoned, and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee.
I also verily thought in myself, that I ought to do many contrary things, clean against the name of Jesus of Nazareth: which things I also did in Jerusalem. Where many of the saints shut I up in prison, and had received authority of the high priests: And when they were put to death I gave the sentence. "And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme: and was yet more mad upon them, and persecuted them even unto strange cities.
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About the which things: as I went to Damascus with authority, and commission from license of the high priests, even at mid day, o King, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shine round about me and them, which journeyed with me. When we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, 'Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? It is hard for thee to kick against the prick.' And I said, 'Who art thou Lord?' And he said, 'I am Jesus whom thou persecutest:
As they ministered to the Lord and fasted; The holy ghost said, "Separate me Barnabas and Saul, for the work whereunto I have called them." Then fasted they and prayed, and put their hands on them, and let them go.
for this purpose: that I should be the minister of Jesus Christ among the gentiles, and should minister the glad tidings of God, that the gentiles might be an acceptable offering, sanctified by the holy ghost.
But when it pleased God, which separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, for to declare his son by me, that I should preach him among the heathen: Immediately I commended not of the matter with flesh and blood, neither returned to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me: but went my ways into Arabia, and came again unto Damascus.
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Then after three years, I returned to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. No other of the apostles saw I, save James the Lord's brother. The things which I write, behold, God knoweth I lie not. After that I went into the coasts of Syria and Cilicia: and was unknown, as touching my person, unto the congregations of Jewry, which were in Christ. But they heard only, that he which persecuted us in time past, now preacheth the faith, which before he destroyed. And they glorified God on my behalf.
I speak to you gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the gentiles I will magnify mine office
For so hath the Lord commanded us, 'I have made thee a light to the gentiles, that thou be salvation unto the end of the world.'" The gentiles heard, and were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord, and believed even as many as were ordained unto eternal life.
And it fortuned, when I was come again to Jerusalem and prayed in the temple, that I was in a trance; And saw him saying unto me, 'Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy witness that thou bearest of me.' And I said, 'Lord they know that I prisoned, and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee.
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And when the blood of thy witness Stephen was shed, I also stood by, and consented unto his death and kept the raiment of them that slew him.' And he said unto me, 'Depart for I will send thee afar hence unto the gentiles.'"
circumcised the eighth day, of the kindred of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew born of the Hebrews; as concerning the law, a Pharisee,
And he said, "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia: nevertheless yet brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, and informed diligently in the law of the fathers, and was fervent minded to Godward, as ye all are this same day,
When Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, "Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. Of hope, and of resurrection from death I am judged."
They are Hebrews, so am I. They are Israelites, even so am I. They are the seed of Abraham, even so am I.
which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify it. For after the most straitest sect of our lay, lived I a Pharisee.
and prevailed in the Jews' law, above many of my companions, which were of mine own nation, and was a much more fervent maintainer of the traditions of the elders.
For I have wished myself to be cursed from Christ, for my brethren and my kinsmen as pertaining to the flesh:
Therefore awake and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one of you, both night and day with tears.
For many walk - of whom I have told you often, and now tell you weeping - that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ,
My love be with you all in Christ Jesus, Amen. {The end of the First Epistle unto the Corinthians, Sent from Philippi, by Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus, and Timothy.}
For in great affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears: not to make you sorry, but that ye might perceive the love which I have most specially unto you.
And as he preached of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come; Felix trembled, and answered, "Thou hast done enough at this time: depart. When I have a convenient time, I will send for thee."
And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, "Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman and uncondemned?"
The keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, "The officers have sent word to loose you. Now therefore get you hence and go in peace." Then said Paul unto them, "They have beaten us, openly un-condemned, for all that we are Romans, and have cast us into prison: and now would they send us away privily? Nay not so, but let them come themselves and fetch us out."
in stripes, in prisonment, in strife, in labour, in watching, in fasting,
but even after that we had suffered before and were shamefully entreated at Philippi - as ye well know - then were we bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God, with much striving.
And when it was day, the officers sent the ministers saying, "Let those men go." The keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, "The officers have sent word to loose you. Now therefore get you hence and go in peace." Then said Paul unto them, "They have beaten us, openly un-condemned, for all that we are Romans, and have cast us into prison: and now would they send us away privily? Nay not so, but let them come themselves and fetch us out."
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When the ministers told these words unto the officers, they feared when they heard that they were Romans; and came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.
Thrice was I beaten with rods. I was once stoned. I suffered thrice shipwreck. Night and day have I been in the deep of the sea.
Ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail. For we laboured day and night, because we would not be grievous unto any of you, and preached unto you the gospel of God.
Ye know well that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil, the Lord reward him according to his deeds,
The same time there arose no little ado about that way. For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith which made silver shrines for Diana, was not a little beneficial unto the craftsmen: which he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, "Sirs ye know that by this craft we have vantage.
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Moreover, ye see and hear that not alone at Ephesus: but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be not gods which are made with hands: so that not only this our craft cometh into peril to be set at nought: but that also the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised. And her magnificence should be destroyed, which all Asia, and the world worshippeth." When they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out saying, "Great is Diana of the Ephesians." And all the city was on a roar, and they rushed into the common hall with one assent, and caught Gaius, and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions. When Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not. Certain also of the chief of Asia which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not press into the common hall. Some cried one thing, and some another and the congregation was all out of quiet, and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together. Some of the company drew forth Alexander, the Jews thrusting him forwards. Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have given the people an answer. When they knew that he was a Jew, there arose a shout almost for the space of two hours of all men crying, "Great is Diana of the Ephesians." When the town clerk had ceased the people he said, "Ye men of Ephesus: what man is it that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which came from heaven? Seeing then that no man saith here against, ye ought to be content, and to do nothing rashly; For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet despisers of your goddess. Wherefore if Demetrius and the craftsmen which are with him, have any saying to any man: the law is open, and there are rulers. Let them accuse one another. If ye go about any other thing, it may be determined in a lawful congregation. For we are in jeopardy to be accused of this day's business: forasmuch as there is no cause whereby we may give a reckoning of this concourse of people." And when he had thus spoken, he let the congregation depart.
Brethren, I would not have you ignorant of our trouble, which happened unto us in Asia. For we were grieved out of measure passing strength, so greatly that we despaired even of life.
Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
But the things that were vantage unto me I counted loss for Christ's sake. Yea I think all things but loss for that excellent knowledge's sake of Christ Jesus my Lord. For whom I have counted all thing loss, and do judge them but dung, that I might win Christ, and might be found in him, not having mine own righteousness which is of the law: But that which springeth of the faith which is in Christ. I mean, the righteousness which cometh of God through faith
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in knowing him, and the virtue of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his passions, that I might be conformable unto his death, if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained to it, either were already perfect: but I follow, if that I may comprehend that, wherein I am comprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself that I have gotten it: but one thing I say: I forget that which is behind me, and stretch myself unto that which is before me; and press unto that mark appointed, to obtain the reward of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
persecutions, and afflictions which happened unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra: which persecutions I suffered patiently; And from them all the Lord delivered me.
Thither came certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, and obtained the peoples' consent, and stoned Paul: and drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.
Thrice was I beaten with rods. I was once stoned. I suffered thrice shipwreck. Night and day have I been in the deep of the sea.
But as he journeyed, it fortuned that he drew nigh to Damascus, and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven. And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" And he said, "What art thou, Lord?" And the Lord said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it shall be hard for thee to kick against the prick."
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And he, both trembling and astonished, said, "Lord what wilt thou have me to do?" And the Lord said unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou shalt do."
even at mid day, o King, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shine round about me and them, which journeyed with me. When we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, 'Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? It is hard for thee to kick against the prick.' And I said, 'Who art thou Lord?' And he said, 'I am Jesus whom thou persecutest:
But Saul made havoc of the congregation, entering into every house: and drew out both man and woman, and thrust them into prison.
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,
Saul had pleasure in his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Jewry and Samaria, except the apostles.
and cast him out of the city, and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, named Saul.
and I persecuted this way unto the death: binding, and delivering into prison both men and women,
And when we had found brethren, we tarried there seven days. And they told Paul through the spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
And as we tarried there a good many days, there came a certain prophet from Jewry, named Agabus. When he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his hands and feet and said, "Thus saith the holy ghost, 'So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the gentiles.'" When we heard this, both we and others of the same place, besought him, that he would not go up to Jerusalem.
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Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." When we could not turn his mind, we ceased, saying, "The will of the Lord be fulfilled."
And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, and know not what shall come on me there, but that the holy ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and trouble abide me.
Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus saying, "We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth." And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew and chief of the priests, which did so: and the evil spirit answered and said, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know: but who are ye?"
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And the man in whom the evil spirit was, ran on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also, which dwelt at Ephesus, and fear came on them all. And they magnified the name of the Lord Jesus. And many that believed came, and confessed and showed their works. Many of them which used curious crafts, brought their books and burned them before all men, and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand silverlings. So mightily grew the word of God, and prevailed.
I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost: For a great door and a fruitful is opened unto me: and there are many adversaries.
And this did she many days. But Paul, not content, turned about and said to the spirit, "I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ that thou come out of her." And he came out the same hour.
And God wrought not small miracles by the hands of Paul.
in death often. Of the Jews, five times received I, every time, forty stripes, save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods. I was once stoned. I suffered thrice shipwreck. Night and day have I been in the deep of the sea. In journeying often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers; in jeopardies of mine own nation, in jeopardies among the heathen. I have been in perils in cities, in perils in wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren;
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in labour and travail, in watching often, in hunger, in thirst, in fastings often, in cold and in nakedness. And beside the things which outwardly happen unto me, I am cumbered daily and do care for all congregations. Who is sick: and I am not sick? Who is hurt in the faith: and my heart burneth not? If I must needs rejoice, I will rejoice of mine infirmities. The God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. In the city of Damascus, the governor of the people under king Aretas, laid watch in the city of the Damascenes, and would have caught me, and at a window was I let down in a basket through the wall, and so escaped his hands.
Then the disciples took him by night, and put him through the wall and let him down in a basket. And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to couple himself with the disciples, and they were all afraid of him and believed not that he was a disciple.
Then after three years, I returned to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. No other of the apostles saw I, save James the Lord's brother.
And lest I should be exalted out of measure through the abundance of revelations, there was given unto me of God unquietness of the flesh: the messenger of Satan to buffet me, because I should not be exalted out of measure. For this thing besought I the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me, and he said unto me, "My grace is sufficient for thee. For my strength is made perfect through weakness." Very gladly therefore will I rejoice of my weakness, that the strength of Christ may dwell in me.
Ye know well how that through infirmity of the flesh, I preached the gospel unto you at the first. And my temptation which I suffered by reason of my flesh, ye despised not, neither abhorred, but received me as an angel of God: yea as Christ Jesus.
Long time abode they there and quit themselves boldly with the help of the Lord, the which gave testimony unto the word of his grace; And caused signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
And God wrought not small miracles by the hands of Paul.
For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all men, that I might win the more. And unto the Jews, I became as a Jew, to win the Jews. To them that were under the law, was I made as though I had been under the law, to win them that were under the law. To them that were without law, became I as though I had been without law - when I was not without law as pertaining to God, but under a law as concerning Christ - to win them that were without law.
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To the weak became I as weak, to win the weak. In all thing I fashioned myself to all men, to save, at the leastway, some.
It is not expedient for me, no doubt, to rejoice; Nevertheless I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I know a man in Christ above fourteen years agone - whether he were in the body I cannot tell, or whether he were out of the body I cannot tell; God knoweth - which was taken up into the third heaven. And I know the same man - whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell; God knoweth -
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how that he was taken up into paradise, and heard words not to be spoken, which no man can utter.
And he said, "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia: nevertheless yet brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, and informed diligently in the law of the fathers, and was fervent minded to Godward, as ye all are this same day,
But Paul said, "I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no vile city, I beseech thee suffer me to speak unto the people."
And the Lord said to him, "Arise, and go into the street which is called straight, and seek in the house of Judas after one called Saul of the city of Tarsus. For behold, he prayeth;
But the Jews which believed not, having indignation, took unto them evil men which were vagabonds, and gathered a company, and set all the city on a roar, and made assault unto the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people. But when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the heads of the city crying, "These that trouble the world are come hither also, which Jason hath received privily. And these all do contrary to the elders of Caesar, affirming another King: one Jesus."
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And they troubled the people and the officers of the city when they heard these things. And when they were sufficiently answered of Jason, and of the others they let them go.
Paul, Silvanus and Timothy. Unto the congregation of the Thessalonians, which are in God our father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with you and peace from God our father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. We are bound to thank God always for you brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and every one of you swimmeth in love toward another between yourselves,
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so that we ourselves rejoice of you in the congregations of God, over your patience and faith in all your persecutions, and tribulations that ye suffer:
Then the captain came near and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains, and demanded what he was, and what he had done. And one cried this, another that, among the people. And when he could not know the certainty, for the rage, he commanded him to be carried into the castle. And when he came unto a grece, it fortuned that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people:
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For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, "Away with him." And as Paul should have been carried into the castle; He said unto the high captain, "May I speak unto thee?" Which said, "Canst thou speak Greek? Art not thou that Egyptian which before these days, made an uproar, and led out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?" But Paul said, "I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no vile city, I beseech thee suffer me to speak unto the people." When he had given him licence, Paul stood on the steps, and beckoned with the hand unto the people, and there was made a great silence. And he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying:
"Ye men, brethren, and fathers, hear mine answer which I make unto you." When they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence. And he said, "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia: nevertheless yet brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, and informed diligently in the law of the fathers, and was fervent minded to Godward, as ye all are this same day,
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and I persecuted this way unto the death: binding, and delivering into prison both men and women, as the chief priest doth bear me witness, and all the elders: of whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem for to be punished. And it fortuned that as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus, about noon, that suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me, and I fell unto the earth, and heard a voice saying unto me, 'Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?' And I answered, 'What art thou Lord?' And he said unto me, 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.' And they that were with me saw verily a light and were afraid: but they heard not the voice of him that spake with me. And I said, 'What shall I do Lord?' And the Lord said unto me, 'Arise and go into Damascus and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.' And when I saw nothing for the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand of them that were with me, and came into Damascus. And one Ananias, a perfect man, and as pertaining to the law having good report of all the Jews which there dwelt, came unto me, and stood and said unto me, 'Brother Saul, look up.' And that same hour I received my sight and saw him. And he said unto me, 'The God of our fathers hath ordained thee before, that thou shouldest know his will, and shouldest see that which is rightful, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth: for thou shalt be his witness unto all men of those things which thou hast seen and heard. And now: why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptised, and wash away thy sins, in calling on the name of the Lord.' And it fortuned, when I was come again to Jerusalem and prayed in the temple, that I was in a trance; And saw him saying unto me, 'Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy witness that thou bearest of me.' And I said, 'Lord they know that I prisoned, and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee. And when the blood of thy witness Stephen was shed, I also stood by, and consented unto his death and kept the raiment of them that slew him.' And he said unto me, 'Depart for I will send thee afar hence unto the gentiles.'"
Yet the tokens of an apostle were wrought among you with all patience; with signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.
Then said Paul unto them, "They have beaten us, openly un-condemned, for all that we are Romans, and have cast us into prison: and now would they send us away privily? Nay not so, but let them come themselves and fetch us out."
And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, "Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman and uncondemned?" When the centurion heard that, he went to the upper-captain, and told him saying, "What intendest thou to do? This man is a citizen of Rome." Then the upper-captain came to him, and said, "Tell me, art thou a Roman?" He said, "Yea."
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And the high captain answered, "With a great sum obtained I this freedom." And Paul said, "I was freeborn."
For ye suffered also with my bonds, and took in worth the spoiling of your goods, and that with gladness, knowing in yourselves how that ye had in heaven a better, and an enduring substance.
but even after that we had suffered before and were shamefully entreated at Philippi - as ye well know - then were we bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God, with much striving.
Then Saul, which also is called Paul, being full of the holy ghost, set his eyes on him, and said,
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,
Saul had pleasure in his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Jewry and Samaria, except the apostles.
And because he was of the same craft he abode with them and wrought: their craft was to make tents.
I have desired no man's silver, gold, or vesture. Ye know well that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to receive the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how that he said, 'It is more blessed to give, than to receive.'"
I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and softness of Christ, which when I am present among you, am of no reputation, but am bold toward you being absent.
"For the epistles," saith he, "are sore and strong: but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech homely."
Though I be rude in speaking, yet I am not so in knowledge. Howbeit, among you we are known to the utmost what we are in all things.
On the morrow he loosed him from his bonds, desiring to know the certainty for what cause he was accused of the Jews, and commanded the high priests and all the council to come together, and brought Paul, and set him before them.
Paul beheld the council and said, "Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day." The high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by, to smite him on the mouth. Then said Paul to him, "God shall smite thee, thou painted wall. Sittest thou and judgest me after the law: and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?"
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And they that stood by said, "Revilest thou God's high priest?" Then said Paul, "I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest. For it is written, 'Thou shalt not curse the ruler of thy people.'"
Ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail. For we laboured day and night, because we would not be grievous unto any of you, and preached unto you the gospel of God.
Neither took we bread of any man for nought: but wrought with labour and travail night and day, because we would not be grievous to any of you:
I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For even I verily am an Israelite of the seed of Abraham, and of the tribe of Benjamin;
circumcised the eighth day, of the kindred of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew born of the Hebrews; as concerning the law, a Pharisee,
I have fought a good fight, and have fulfilled my course, and have kept the faith. From henceforth is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord that is a righteous judge shall give me at that day: not to me only: but unto all them that love his coming.
After a certain days, King Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus. And when they had been there a good season, Festus rehearsed Paul's cause unto the king saying, "There is a certain man left in prison of Felix, about whom when I came to Jerusalem the high priests, and elders of the Jews informed me, and desired to have judgment against him.
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To whom I answered, 'It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man that he should perish, before that he which is accused, have the accusers before him, and have license to answer for himself, concerning the crime laid against him.' "When they were come hither, without delay on the morrow I sat to give judgment, and commanded the man to be brought forth. Against whom, when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed: But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus which was dead; whom Paul affirmed to be alive. And because I doubted of such manner questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters. Then when Paul had appealed to be kept unto the knowledge of Caesar, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar." Agrippa said unto Festus, "I would also hear the man myself." "Tomorrow," said he, "thou shalt hear him." And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and were entered into the council house with the captains and chief men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul was brought forth, and Festus said, "King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us: Ye see this man about whom all the multitude of the Jews have been with me, both at Jerusalem and also here, crying that he ought not to live any longer. Yet found I nothing worthy of death that he had committed. Nevertheless, seeing that he hath appealed to Caesar, I have determined to send him. Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him unto you, and especially unto thee, king Agrippa, that after examination had, I might have somewhat to write. For me thinketh it unreasonable for to send a prisoner, and not to show the causes, which are laid against him."
Herefore I suffer all things, for the elects' sakes, that they might also obtain that salvation which is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
And he departed from Ephesus and came unto Caesarea: and ascended and saluted the congregation,
But when the brethren knew of that, they brought him to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.
And now: why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptised, and wash away thy sins, in calling on the name of the Lord.'
And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales and he received his sight, and arose and was baptised.
And he said, "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia: nevertheless yet brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, and informed diligently in the law of the fathers, and was fervent minded to Godward, as ye all are this same day,
"My living of a child, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews:
Thither came certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, and obtained the peoples' consent, and stoned Paul: and drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he arose up and came into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. After they had preached to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium and Antioch,
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and strengthened the disciples souls: exhorting them to continue in the faith, affirming that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders by election in every congregation, after they had prayed and fasted, they commended them to God on whom they believed.
Thither came certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, and obtained the peoples' consent, and stoned Paul: and drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he arose up and came into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. After they had preached to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium and Antioch,
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and strengthened the disciples souls: exhorting them to continue in the faith, affirming that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders by election in every congregation, after they had prayed and fasted, they commended them to God on whom they believed.
And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, and know not what shall come on me there, but that the holy ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and trouble abide me. But none of those things move me. Neither is my life dear unto myself; that I might fulfill my course with joy, and the ministration which I have received of the Lord Jesus to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
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And now behold, I am sure that henceforth ye all, through whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to record this same day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have kept nothing back: but have showed you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, whereof the holy ghost hath made you overseers: to rule the congregation of God, which he hath purchased with his blood. For I am sure of this: that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, which will not spare the flock. Moreover, of your own selves shall men arise speaking perverse things, to draw disciples after them. Therefore awake and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one of you, both night and day with tears. And now dear brethren I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build further, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. I have desired no man's silver, gold, or vesture. Ye know well that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to receive the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how that he said, 'It is more blessed to give, than to receive.'" When he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. And they wept all abundantly, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him: sorrowing, most of all, for the words, which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
When Gallio was ruler of the country of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, saying, "This fellow counceleth men to worship God contrary to the law." And as Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, "If it were a matter of wrong, or an evil deed to ye, reason would that I should hear you:
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but if it be a question of words, or of names, or of your law, look ye to it yourselves. For I will be no judge in such matters." And he drave them from the seat. Then took all the Greeks Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the Synagogue, and smote him before the judge's seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things. Paul, after this, tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, Priscilla and Aquila accompanying him. And he shore his head in Cenchreae. For he had a vow.
When Gallio was ruler of the country of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, saying, "This fellow counceleth men to worship God contrary to the law." And as Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, "If it were a matter of wrong, or an evil deed to ye, reason would that I should hear you:
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but if it be a question of words, or of names, or of your law, look ye to it yourselves. For I will be no judge in such matters." And he drave them from the seat. Then took all the Greeks Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the Synagogue, and smote him before the judge's seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things. Paul, after this, tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, Priscilla and Aquila accompanying him. And he shore his head in Cenchreae. For he had a vow.
where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so came we to Rome. And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came against us to Appius, and to the three taverns, and met us. When Paul saw them he thanked God, and waxed bold. And when he came to Rome, the under-captain delivered the prisoners to the chief captain of the host: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with one Soldier that kept him.
Wherefore from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the congregation. And when they were come to him, he said unto them, "Ye know from the first day that I came unto Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, serving the Lord with all humbleness of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which happened unto me by the layings wait of the Jews,
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and how I kept back nothing that was profitable: but that I have showed you, and taught you openly and at home in your houses, witnessing both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, the repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus.
And it fortuned, after three days, that Paul called the chief of the Jews together. And when they were come, he said unto them, "Men and brethren, though I have committed no thing against the people, or laws of our fathers: yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. Which, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because they found no cause of death in me. But when the Jews cried contrary, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar. Not because I had ought to accuse my people of.
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For this cause have I called for you, even to see you, and to speak with you. Because that for the hope of Israel, I am bound with this chain." And they said unto him, "We neither received letters out of Jewry pertaining unto thee, neither came any of the brethren that showed or spake any harm of thee. But we will hear of thee what thou thinkest. For we have heard of this sect, that everywhere it is spoken against." And when they had appointed him a day, there came many unto him into his lodging: to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God; and preached unto them of Jesus: both out of the law of Moses, and also out of the prophets, even from morning to night. And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not. When they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, "Well spake the holy ghost by Isaiah the prophet unto our fathers, saying, 'Go unto this people and say: with your ears shall ye hear, and shall not understand: and with your eyes shall ye see and shall not perceive. For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears were thick of hearing, and their eyes have they closed, lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and should be converted, and I should heal them.' Be it known therefore unto you, that this salvation of God is sent to the gentiles, and they shall hear it." And when he had said that, the Jews departed from him, and had great disputations among themselves.
After three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose badge was Castor and Pollux. And when we came to Syracuse, we tarried there three days, and from thence we set a compass and came to Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli,
And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. And on the morrow, Paul went in with us unto James. And all the elders came together. And when he had saluted them, he told, by order, all things that God had wrought among the gentiles by his ministration.
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And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, "Thou seest brother, how many thousand Jews there are which believe, and they are all zealous over the law. And they are informed of thee that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the gentiles to forsake Moses, and sayest that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to live after the customs. What is it therefore? The multitude must needs come together. For they shall hear that thou art come. Do therefore this that we say to thee. We have four men, which have a vow on them. Them take and purify thyself with them, and do cost on them, that they may shave their heads and all shall know that those things which they have heard concerning thee are nothing: but that thou thyself also walkest and keepest the law. For as touching the gentiles which believe: we have written, and concluded, that they observe no such things - but that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from strangled, and from fornication."
And we went afore to ship, and loosed unto Assos, there to receive Paul. For so had he appointed, and would himself go a foot. When he was come to us unto Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene. And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios. And the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium. The next day we came to Miletus.
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For Paul had determined to leave Ephesus as they sailed, because he would not spend the time in Asia. For he hasted to be, if he could possibly, at Jerusalem at the day of Pentecost.
But after a certain space, Paul said unto Barnabas, "Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have showed the word of the Lord, and see how they do." And Barnabas gave counsel, to take with them John called also Mark: But Paul thought it not meet to take him unto their company which departed from them at Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.
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And so sharp was the dissension between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: so that Barnabas took Mark and sailed unto Cyprus. And Paul chose Silas and departed, delivered of the brethren unto the grace of God. And he went through all Syria and Cilicia, establishing the congregations.
And the brethren immediately sent away Paul, and Silas by night unto Berea. Which, when they were come thither, they entered into the Synagogue of the Jews. These were the noblest of birth among them of Thessalonica, which received the word with all diligence of mind, and searched the scriptures daily whether those things were even so. And many of them believed, also of worshipful women which were Greeks; and of men, not a few.
And it fortuned as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit that prophesied met us, which brought her master and masters much vantage with prophesying. The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, "These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation." And this did she many days. But Paul, not content, turned about and said to the spirit, "I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ that thou come out of her." And he came out the same hour.
Then the next day, Paul took the men and purified himself with them, and entered into the temple, declaring that he observed the days of the purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them. And as the seven days should have been ended, the Jews which were of Asia when they saw him in the temple, they moved all the people and laid hands on him crying, "Men of Israel, help. This is the man that teacheth all men everywhere against the people, and the law, and this place. Moreover also he hath brought Greeks into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place."
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For they saw one Trophimus, an Ephesian, with him in the city: Him they supposed Paul had brought into the temple. And all the city was moved, and the people swarmed together. And they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple, and forthwith the doors were shut to. As they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the high captain of the soldiers, that all Jerusalem was moved. Which immediately took soldiers and under-captains, and ran down unto them. When they saw the upper-captain and the soldiers; They left smiting of Paul. Then the captain came near and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains, and demanded what he was, and what he had done.
And when her master and mistress saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers, and brought them to the officers, saying, "These men trouble our city, which are Jews and preach ordinances which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, seeing we are Romans."
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And the people ran on them, and the officers rent their clothes, and commanded them to be beaten with rods, and when they had beaten them sore, they cast them into prison commanding the jailer to keep them surely. Which jailer, when he had received such commandment, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. At midnight, Paul and Silas prayed, and lauded God. And the prisoners heard them. And suddenly, there was a great earthquake, so that the foundation of the prison was shaken, and by and by all the doors opened, and every man's bonds were loosed. When the keeper of the prison waked out of his sleep, and saw the prison doors open, he drew out his sword and would have killed himself, supposing the prisoners had been fled. But Paul cried with a loud voice saying, "Do thyself no harm, for we are all here." Then he called for a light and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" And they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved and thy household." And they preached unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds, and was baptised, with all that belonged unto him, straightway. When he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and joyed that he with all his household believed on God.
While Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was moved in him to see the city given to worshipping of images. Then he disputed in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons; And in the market daily with them that came unto him. Certain Philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoics, disputed with him. And some there were which said, "What will this babbler say?" Others said, "He seemeth to be a tidings-bringer of new devils," because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.
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And they took him, and brought him into Mars Street, saying, "May we not know what is this new doctrine whereof thou speakest? For thou bringest strange tidings to our ears. We would know therefore what these things mean." For all the Athenians and strangers which were there gave themselves to nothing else, but either to tell or to hear new tidings. Paul stood in the midst of Mars Street and said, "Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by and beheld the manner how ye worship your gods, I found an altar wherein was written, Unto the unknown God. Whom ye then ignorantly worship, him show I unto you: God, that made the world, and all that are in it, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, he dwelleth not in temples made with hands, neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed of any thing. Seeing he himself giveth life and breath to all men everywhere, and hath made of one blood all nations of men, for to dwell on all the face of the earth; and hath assigned before: how long time, and also the ends of their inhabitation. That they should seek God, if they might feel and find him: though he be not far from every one of us. For in him we live, move, and have our being, as certain of your own poets said. For we are also his generation. Forasmuch then as we are the generation of God, we ought not to think that the godhead is like unto gold, silver, or stone, graven by craft and imagination of man. And the time of this ignorance God regarded not: but now he biddeth all men everywhere to repent, because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world according to righteousness, by that man, whom he hath appointed, and hath offered faith to all men, after that he had raised him from death." When they heard of the resurrection from death, some mocked, and others said, "We will hear thee again of this matter." So Paul departed from among them. Howbeit, certain men clave unto Paul and believed, among the which was Dionysius a senator, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
Then loosed we forth from Troas, and with a straight course came we to Samothrace, and the next day to Neapolis, and from thence to Philippi, which is the chiefest city in the parts of Macedonia: and a free city. We were in that city abiding a certain days. And on the Sabbath days, we went out of the city besides a river where men were wont to pray, and we sat down and spake unto the women which thither resorted.
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And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, gave us audience: whose heart the Lord opened that she attended unto the things which Paul spake. When she was baptised, and her household, she besought us saying, "If ye think that I believe on the Lord come into my house, and abide there." And she constrained us.
But anon after there arose, against their purpose, a flaw of wind out of the northeast. And when the ship was caught, and could not resist the wind, we let her go and drave with the weather. And we came unto an isle named Cauda; And had much work to come by a boat,
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which they took up, and used help undergirding the ship, fearing lest we should have fallen into Syrtis, and we let down a vessel and so were carried. The next day when we were tossed with an exceeding tempest, they lightened the ship, and the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. When at the last neither sun nor star in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay upon us, all hope that we should be saved, was then taken away. Then after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them and said, "Sirs, ye should have hearkened to me, and not have loosed from Crete, neither to have brought unto us this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer, for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you: save of the ship only. For there stood by me this night the angel of God: whose I am, and whom I serve: saying, 'Fear not Paul, for thou must be brought before Caesar. And lo, God hath given unto thee all that sail with thee.' Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God that so it shall be even as it was told me; Howbeit, we must be cast into a certain island." But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were carried in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that there appeared some country unto them, and they sounded, and found it twenty fathoms; And when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found fifteen fathoms. Then fearing, lest they should have fallen on some rock, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day. As the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, and had let down the boat into the sea, under a colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship: Paul said unto the under-captain and the soldiers, "Except these abide in the ship ye cannot be safe." Then the soldiers cut off the rope of the boat, and let it fall away. And in the meantime, betwixt that and day, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying, "This is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting receiving nothing at all, wherefore I pray you to take meat: for this no doubt is for your health, for there shall not a hair fall from the head of any of you." And when he had thus spoken he took bread and gave thanks to God in presence of them all, and brake it, and began to eat. Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took meat. We were all together in the ship, two hundred and three score and sixteen souls. And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship and cast out the wheat into the sea. When it was day they knew not the land, but they spied a certain haven with a bank, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship. And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bonds and hoisted up the main sail to the wind and drew to land. But they chanced on a place, which had the sea on both the sides, and thrust in the ship. And the fore part stuck fast, and moved not, but the hinder part brake with the violence of the waves. The soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners: lest any of them, when he had swum out, should flee away. But the under-captain, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that they that could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and escape to land. And the others he commanded to go, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they came all safe to land.
Paul, after this, tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, Priscilla and Aquila accompanying him. And he shore his head in Cenchreae. For he had a vow. And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the Synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not,
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but bade them fare well saying, "I must needs, at this feast that cometh, be in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you if God will." And he departed from Ephesus and came unto Caesarea: and ascended and saluted the congregation, and departed unto Antioch, and when he had tarried there a while, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia by order, strengthening all the disciples.
After three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose badge was Castor and Pollux. And when we came to Syracuse, we tarried there three days, and from thence we set a compass and came to Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli,
When the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came there and moved the people: and then, by and by, the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea. But Silas and Timothy abode there still. And they that guided Paul brought him unto Athens, and received a commandment unto Silas and Timothy for to come to him at once. And came their way.
After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, to pass over Macedonia and Achaia, and to go to Jerusalem, saying, "After I have been there I must also see Rome." So sent he into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him: Timothy and Erastus: but he himself remained in Asia for a season.
Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole congregation, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They sent Judas, called also Barsabbas, and Silas, which were chief men among the brethren:
It seemed therefore to us a good thing, when we were come together with one accord, to send chosen men unto you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul:
In those days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit, that there should be great dearth throughout all the world, which came to pass in the Emperor Claudius' days. Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, purposed to send succour unto the brethren which dwelt in Jewry,
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which thing they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
And they went throughout Pisidia and came into Pamphylia, and when they had preached the word of God in Perga, they descended into Attalia, and thence departed by ship to Antioch, from whence they were delivered unto the grace of God, to the work which they had fulfilled.
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When they were come and had gathered the congregation together, they rehearsed all that God had done by them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. And there they abode long time with the disciples.
But anon after there arose, against their purpose, a flaw of wind out of the northeast. And when the ship was caught, and could not resist the wind, we let her go and drave with the weather. And we came unto an isle named Cauda; And had much work to come by a boat,
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which they took up, and used help undergirding the ship, fearing lest we should have fallen into Syrtis, and we let down a vessel and so were carried. The next day when we were tossed with an exceeding tempest, they lightened the ship, and the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. When at the last neither sun nor star in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay upon us, all hope that we should be saved, was then taken away. Then after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them and said, "Sirs, ye should have hearkened to me, and not have loosed from Crete, neither to have brought unto us this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer, for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you: save of the ship only. For there stood by me this night the angel of God: whose I am, and whom I serve: saying, 'Fear not Paul, for thou must be brought before Caesar. And lo, God hath given unto thee all that sail with thee.' Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God that so it shall be even as it was told me; Howbeit, we must be cast into a certain island." But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were carried in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that there appeared some country unto them, and they sounded, and found it twenty fathoms; And when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found fifteen fathoms. Then fearing, lest they should have fallen on some rock, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day. As the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, and had let down the boat into the sea, under a colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship: Paul said unto the under-captain and the soldiers, "Except these abide in the ship ye cannot be safe." Then the soldiers cut off the rope of the boat, and let it fall away. And in the meantime, betwixt that and day, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying, "This is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting receiving nothing at all, wherefore I pray you to take meat: for this no doubt is for your health, for there shall not a hair fall from the head of any of you." And when he had thus spoken he took bread and gave thanks to God in presence of them all, and brake it, and began to eat. Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took meat. We were all together in the ship, two hundred and three score and sixteen souls. And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship and cast out the wheat into the sea. When it was day they knew not the land, but they spied a certain haven with a bank, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship. And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bonds and hoisted up the main sail to the wind and drew to land. But they chanced on a place, which had the sea on both the sides, and thrust in the ship. And the fore part stuck fast, and moved not, but the hinder part brake with the violence of the waves. The soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners: lest any of them, when he had swum out, should flee away. But the under-captain, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that they that could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and escape to land. And the others he commanded to go, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they came all safe to land.
And Paul dwelt full two years in his lodging. And received all that came to him, preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concerned the Lord Jesus with all confidence, unforbidden.
But they wandered through the countries, from Perga to Antioch a city of the country of Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and sat down. And after the law and the prophets were read, the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them saying, "Ye men and brethren, if ye have any sermon to exhort the people, say on." Then Paul stood up and beckoned with the hand and said, "Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.
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The God of this people chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with a mighty arm brought them out of it. And about the time of forty years, suffered he their manners in the wilderness. And he destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, and divided their land to them by lot. And afterward he gave unto them judges, about the space of four hundred and fifty years, unto the time of Samuel the prophet. And after that they desired a king, and God gave unto them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years. And after he had put him down, he set up David to be their king: of whom he gave reported, saying, 'I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, he shall fulfill all my will.' Of this man's seed hath God, according to his promise, brought forth to the people of Israel a saviour, one Jesus, when John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to Israel. And when John had fulfilled his course, he said, 'Whom ye think that I am? The same am I not, but behold there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.' Ye men and brethren, children of the generation off Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is this word of salvation sent. The inhabiters of Jerusalem, and their rulers: because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every Sabbath day; they have fulfilled them in condemning him. And when they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate to kill him. And when they had fulfilled all that were written of him, they took him down from the tree and put him in a sepulchre: But God raised him again from death, and he was seen many days of them, which came with him from Galilee to Jerusalem which are his witnesses unto the people. And we declare unto you, how that the promise made unto the fathers; God hath now fulfilled unto us their children, in that he raised up Jesus again, even as it is written in the second psalm, 'Thou art my son, this same day begat I thee.' As concerning that he so raised him up from death, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, 'The holy promises made to David I will give them faithfully to you.' Wherefore he saith also in another place, 'Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy to see corruption.' Howbeit David, after he had in his time fulfilled the will of God, he slept, and was laid with his fathers, and saw corruption. But he whom God raised again, saw no corruption. Be it known unto you therefore, ye men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins; And that by him are all that believe justified from all things, from the which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. Beware therefore lest that fall on you, which is spoken of in the prophets, 'Behold ye despisers, and wonder, and perish ye: for I do a work in your days, which ye shall not believe, if a man would declare it you.'"
When they were come out of the Synagogue of the Jews, the gentiles besought them that they would preach the word of god to them between the Sabbath days.
And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.
And he called unto him two under captains, saying, "Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten. And spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night. And deliver them beasts that they may put Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the high deputy; and wrote a letter in this manner,
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"Claudius Lysias unto the most mighty ruler Felix sendeth greetings. This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: Then came I with soldiers, and rescued him, and perceived that he was a Roman. And when I would have known the cause, wherefore they accused him, I brought him forth into their council. There perceived I that he was accused of questions of their law: but was not guilty of any thing worthy of death, or of bonds. Afterward, when it was showed me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent him straightway to thee: and gave commandment to his accusers, if they had ought against him, to tell it unto thee. Farewell." Then the soldiers as it was commanded them, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris. On the morrow they left horsemen to go with him, and returned unto the castle. Which when they came to Caesarea, they delivered the epistle to the deputy, and presented Paul before him.
When day was come, certain of the Jews gathered themselves together, and made a vow saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. They were about forty which had made this conspiration. And they came to the chief priest and elders, and said, "We have bound ourselves with a vow, that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul.
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Now therefore give ye knowledge to the upper captain, and to the council that he bring him forth unto us tomorrow, as though we would know some thing more perfectly of him. But we, or ever he come near, are ready in the mean season to kill him."
When Paul's sister's son heard of their laying await, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul. And Paul called one of the under captains unto him, and said, "Bring this young man unto the high captain: for he hath a certain thing to show him." And he took him, and led him to the high captain, and said, "Paul the prisoner called me unto him and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee, which hath a certain matter to show thee."
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The high captain took him by the hand, and went apart with him out of the way, and asked him, "What hast thou to say unto me?" And he said, "The Jews are determined to desire thee that thou wouldest bring forth Paul tomorrow into the council, as though they would enquire somewhat of him more perfectly. But follow not their minds: for there lie in wait for him of them, more than forty men, which have bound themselves with a vow, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him. And now are they ready, and look for thy promise." The upper captain let the young man depart and charged him, "See thou tell it out to no man that thou hast showed these things to me."
And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lift up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, "Gods are come down to us in the likeness of men." And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercury, because he was the preacher. Then Jupiter's priest, which dwelt before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gate, and would have done sacrifice with the people.
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But when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul heard that, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying and saying, "Sirs, why do ye this? We are mortal men like unto you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven and earth and the sea and all that in them is, the which in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless, he left not himself without witness, in that he showed his benefits, in giving us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness." And with these sayings, scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.
Then said Paul, "I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. To the Jews have I no harm done, as thou verily well knowest. If I have hurt them, or committed anything worthy of death, I refuse not to die. If none of these things are, whereof they accuse me, no man ought to deliver me to them. I appeal unto Caesar." Then spake Festus with deliberation, and answered, "Thou hast appealed unto Caesar: unto Caesar shalt thou go."
Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it chanced that a whole year they had their conversation with the congregation there, and taught much people insomuch that the disciples of Antioch were the first that were called Christian.
the captain bade him to be brought into the castle: and commanded him to be scourged, and to be examined, that he might know wherefore they cried on him. And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, "Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman and uncondemned?" When the centurion heard that, he went to the upper-captain, and told him saying, "What intendest thou to do? This man is a citizen of Rome."
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Then the upper-captain came to him, and said, "Tell me, art thou a Roman?" He said, "Yea." And the high captain answered, "With a great sum obtained I this freedom." And Paul said, "I was freeborn." Then straightway departed from him they which should have examined him. And the high captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman: because he had bound him. On the morrow he loosed him from his bonds, desiring to know the certainty for what cause he was accused of the Jews, and commanded the high priests and all the council to come together, and brought Paul, and set him before them.
But the Jews moved the worshipful and honorable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas: and expelled them out of their coasts. And they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium.
And he preached in the synagogue every Sabbath day; And exhorted the Jews and the gentiles. When Silas and Timothy were come from Macedonia, Paul was constrained by the spirit, to testify to the Jews that Jesus was very Christ. And when they said contrary, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment and said unto them, "Your blood upon your own heads. And from henceforth I go blameless unto the gentiles."
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And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house named Justus, a worshipper of God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue. Howbeit, one Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians gave audience and believed, and were baptised. Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, "Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: for I am with thee, and no man shall invade thee that shall hurt thee. For I have much people in this city." And he continued there a year and six months, and taught them the word of God.
And he preached in the synagogue every Sabbath day; And exhorted the Jews and the gentiles. When Silas and Timothy were come from Macedonia, Paul was constrained by the spirit, to testify to the Jews that Jesus was very Christ. And when they said contrary, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment and said unto them, "Your blood upon your own heads. And from henceforth I go blameless unto the gentiles."
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And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house named Justus, a worshipper of God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue. Howbeit, one Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians gave audience and believed, and were baptised. Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, "Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: for I am with thee, and no man shall invade thee that shall hurt thee. For I have much people in this city." And he continued there a year and six months, and taught them the word of God.
The next day, we that were of Paul's company, departed and came unto Caesarea. And we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven deacons, and abode with him. The same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy. And as we tarried there a good many days, there came a certain prophet from Jewry, named Agabus.
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When he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his hands and feet and said, "Thus saith the holy ghost, 'So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the gentiles.'" When we heard this, both we and others of the same place, besought him, that he would not go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." When we could not turn his mind, we ceased, saying, "The will of the Lord be fulfilled." After those days we made ourselves ready, and went up to Jerusalem.
Then they went over Mysia, and came down to Troas, and a vision appeared to Paul in the night. There stood a man of Macedonia and prayed him saying, "Come into Macedonia and help us." After he had seen the vision, immediately we prepared to go into Macedonia: certified that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.
Paul went down and fell on him, and embraced him, and said, "Make nothing ado. For his life is in him."
and said with a loud voice, "Stand upright on thy feet." And he started up, and walked.
And now behold the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind and not see the sun for a season." And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; And he went about, seeking them that should lead him by the hand.
But none of those things move me. Neither is my life dear unto myself; that I might fulfill my course with joy, and the ministration which I have received of the Lord Jesus to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
"Wherefore king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:
The night following God stood by him, and said, "Be of good cheer Paul: For as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness at Rome."
For there stood by me this night the angel of God: whose I am, and whom I serve:
And saw him saying unto me, 'Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy witness that thou bearest of me.'
When much time was spent and sailing was now jeopardous, because also that we had overlong fasted, Paul put them in remembrance, and said unto them, "Sirs I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not of the lading and ship only: but also of our lives." Neverthelater, the under-captain believed the governor, and the master, better than those things which were spoken of Paul.
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And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, many took counsel to depart thence, if by any means they might attain to Phoenix and there to winter, which is a haven of Crete, and serveth to the southwest, and northwest wind. When the south wind blew, they supposing to obtain their purpose loosed unto Assos, and sailed past all Crete.
named Barjesus: which was with the ruler of the country, one Sergius Paulus, a prudent man. The same ruler called unto him Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God. But the sorcerer Elymas - for so was his name by interpretation - withstood them, and sought to turn away the ruler from the faith. Then Saul, which also is called Paul, being full of the holy ghost, set his eyes on him, and said,
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"O full of all subtlety and deceitfulness, and child of the devil, and the enemy of all righteousness: thou ceasest not to pervert the straight ways of the Lord. And now behold the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind and not see the sun for a season." And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; And he went about, seeking them that should lead him by the hand. Then the ruler, when he saw what had happened, believed: and wondered at the doctrine of the Lord.
When they had gone throughout the Isle unto the city of Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer: a false prophet, which was a Jew, named Barjesus: which was with the ruler of the country, one Sergius Paulus, a prudent man. The same ruler called unto him Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God. But the sorcerer Elymas - for so was his name by interpretation - withstood them, and sought to turn away the ruler from the faith.
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Then Saul, which also is called Paul, being full of the holy ghost, set his eyes on him, and said, "O full of all subtlety and deceitfulness, and child of the devil, and the enemy of all righteousness: thou ceasest not to pervert the straight ways of the Lord. And now behold the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind and not see the sun for a season." And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; And he went about, seeking them that should lead him by the hand. Then the ruler, when he saw what had happened, believed: and wondered at the doctrine of the Lord.
And straightway he preached Christ in the Synagogues how that he was the son of God.
But Saul increased in strength; And confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus affirming that this was very Christ.
And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to couple himself with the disciples, and they were all afraid of him and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared to them how he had seen the Lord in the way and had spoken with him: and how he had done boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus; And he had his conversation with them at Jerusalem,
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and quit himself boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus. And he spake and disputed with the Greeks; and they went about to slay him.
In the same quarters, the chief man of the isle whose name was Publius, had a lordship: the same received us, and lodged us three days courteously. And it fortuned that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever, and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in and prayed, and laid his hands on him and healed him. When this was done, others also which had diseases in the isle, came and were healed:
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and they did us great honour. And when we departed, they laded us with things necessary.
When Festus was come into the province, after three days, he ascended from Caesarea unto Jerusalem. Then informed him the high priests, and the chief of the Jews, of Paul. And they besought him, and desired favour against him that he would send for him to Jerusalem, and laid wait for him in the way to kill him.
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Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea: but that he himself would shortly depart thither. "Let them therefore," said he, "which among you are able to do it come down with us and accuse him, if there be any fault in the man." When he had tarried there more than ten days he departed unto Caesarea, and the next day sat down in the judgment seat, and commanded Paul to be brought. When he was come, the Jews which were come from Jerusalem came about him and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul: which they could not prove as long as he answered for himself, that he had neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar offended anything at all. Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, "Wilt thou go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?" Then said Paul, "I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. To the Jews have I no harm done, as thou verily well knowest. If I have hurt them, or committed anything worthy of death, I refuse not to die. If none of these things are, whereof they accuse me, no man ought to deliver me to them. I appeal unto Caesar." Then spake Festus with deliberation, and answered, "Thou hast appealed unto Caesar: unto Caesar shalt thou go."
It is not expedient for me, no doubt, to rejoice; Nevertheless I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I know a man in Christ above fourteen years agone - whether he were in the body I cannot tell, or whether he were out of the body I cannot tell; God knoweth - which was taken up into the third heaven. And I know the same man - whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell; God knoweth -
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how that he was taken up into paradise, and heard words not to be spoken, which no man can utter.
And after a good while, the Jews took counsel together among themselves, to kill him. But their layings wait was known of Saul. And they watched at the gates day and night to kill him.
And there sat a certain man at Lystra weak in his feet, being cripple from his mother's womb, and never walked. The same heard Paul preach: which beheld him, and perceived that he had faith to be whole, and said with a loud voice, "Stand upright on thy feet." And he started up, and walked.
Brethren, I would not have you ignorant of our trouble, which happened unto us in Asia. For we were grieved out of measure passing strength, so greatly that we despaired even of life. Also we received an answer of death in ourselves, and that was done because we should not put our trust in ourselves, but in God, which raiseth the dead to life again - and which delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver - on whom we trust, that yet hereafter he will deliver us,
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by the help of your prayer for us: That by the means of many occasions, thanks may be given of many on our behalf, for the grace given unto us.
And when we had found brethren, we tarried there seven days. And they told Paul through the spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem. And when the days were ended we departed, and went our ways, and they all brought us on our way, with their wives and children, till we were come out of the city. And we kneeled down in the shore and prayed. And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship, and they returned home again.
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When we had full ended the course from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.
When it was concluded that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, an under-captain of Caesar's soldiers. And we entered into a ship of Adramyttium, and loosed from land, appointed to sail by the coasts of Asia: one Aristarchus out of Macedonia, of the country of Thessalonica, being with us. And the next day came we to Sidon, and Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends, and to refresh himself.
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And from thence launched we and sailed hard by Cyprus, because the winds were contrary. Then sailed we over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, and came to Myra a city in Lycia.
When they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the holy ghost to preach the word in Asia, they came to Mysia, and sought to go into Bithynia, but the spirit suffered them not.
After that, Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth, and found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy with his wife Priscilla: because that the Emperor Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome. And he drew unto them. And because he was of the same craft he abode with them and wrought: their craft was to make tents.
And it fortuned in Iconium that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up and unquieted the minds of the gentiles against the brethren. Long time abode they there and quit themselves boldly with the help of the Lord, the which gave testimony unto the word of his grace; And caused signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
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The people of city were divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles. When there was a fault made, both of the gentiles and also of the Jews with their rulers, to put them to shame and to stone them: they were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about,
And there the under-captain found a ship of Alexandria ready to sail into Italy, and put us therein, and when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, because the wind withstood us, we sailed hard by the coast of Crete, over against Salmone, and with much work sailed beyond it, and came unto a place called Good Port, nigh whereunto was a city called Lasea.
After the rage was ceased, Paul called the disciples unto him, and took his leave of them, and departed for to go into Macedonia. And when he had gone over those parts, and given them large exhortations, he came into Greece: and there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria; He purposed to return through Macedonia.
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There accompanied him into Asia, Sopater of Beroea: And of Thessalonica, Aristarchus and Secundus, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy: And out of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus. These went before, and tarried us at Troas. And we sailed away from Philippi after the holy days, and came unto them to Troas in five days, where we abode seven days.
When they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the holy ghost to preach the word in Asia, they came to Mysia, and sought to go into Bithynia, but the spirit suffered them not.
And it fortuned that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever, and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in and prayed, and laid his hands on him and healed him.
But he shook off the vermin into the fire, and felt no harm.
Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, "Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:
and a vision appeared to Paul in the night. There stood a man of Macedonia and prayed him saying, "Come into Macedonia and help us."
And when we had found brethren, we tarried there seven days. And they told Paul through the spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem. And when the days were ended we departed, and went our ways, and they all brought us on our way, with their wives and children, till we were come out of the city. And we kneeled down in the shore and prayed. And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship, and they returned home again.
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When we had full ended the course from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.
And when there was risen dissension and disputing not a little unto Paul and Barnabas, against them: they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should ascend to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.
And when they were come to Jerusalem they were received of the congregation and of the apostles and elders. And they declared what things God had done by them.
As they made their journey through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica where was a synagogue of the Jews. And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them: and three Sabbath days declared out of the scripture unto them, opening and alleging that Christ must needs have suffered and risen again from death. And that this Jesus was Christ, whom, said he, "I preach to you."
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And some of them believed and came and companied with Paul and Silas. Also of the honorable Greeks, a great multitude; and of the chief women, not a few.
Then came certain from Jewry and taught the brethren, "Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses ye cannot be saved." And when there was risen dissension and disputing not a little unto Paul and Barnabas, against them: they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should ascend to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.
And it chanced that as soon as we had launched forth, and were departed from them, we came with a straight course unto Cos, and the day following unto the Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara. And we found a ship ready to sail unto Phoenicia, and went aboard and set forth. Then appeared unto us Cyprus, and we left it on the left hand, and sailed unto Syria, and came unto Tyre. For there the ship unladed her burden.
And when they were escaped, then they knew that the isle was called Melita. and the people of the country showed us no little kindness, for they kindled a fire and received us every one because of the present rain, and because of cold.
And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, And put them into the fire, there came a viper out of the heat and leapt on his hand. When the men of the country saw the worm hang on his hand, they said among themselves, "This man must needs be a murderer: Whom, though he have escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live." But he shook off the vermin into the fire, and felt no harm.
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Howbeit, they waited when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly. But after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
Then came he to Derbe and to Lystra. And behold, a certain disciple was there named Timothy, a woman's son which was a Jewess and believed: but his father was a Greek. Of whom reported well, the brethren of Lystra and of Iconium. The same, Paul would that he should go forth with him, and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters, for they knew all that his father was a Greek.
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As they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem. And so were the congregations established in the faith, and increased in number daily.
Then all the multitude was peaced and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul which told what signs and wonders God had showed among the gentiles by them.
So that from his body were brought unto the sick, napkins or partlets, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.
The night following God stood by him, and said, "Be of good cheer Paul: For as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness at Rome."
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to Damascus, to the synagogues: that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.
And Barnabas and Saul returned to Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their office, and took with them John, which was also called Mark.
When Paul, and they that were with him, had departed by ship from Paphos, they came to Perga a city of Pamphylia. And there departed John from them, and returned to Jerusalem.
"I will hear thee," said he, "when thine accusers are come also." And commanded him to be kept in Herod's palace.
But after a certain space, Paul said unto Barnabas, "Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have showed the word of the Lord, and see how they do."
and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it chanced that a whole year they had their conversation with the congregation there, and taught much people insomuch that the disciples of Antioch were the first that were called Christian.
And they went out of the prison and entered into the house of Lydia, and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them and departed.
But after two years came Festus Porcius into Felix's room: and Felix, willing to show the Jews a pleasure, left Paul in prison bound.
And when there arose great debate, the captain fearing lest Paul should have been plucked asunder of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him from among them, and to bring him into the castle.
When Paul, and they that were with him, had departed by ship from Paphos, they came to Perga a city of Pamphylia. And there departed John from them, and returned to Jerusalem.
The next day, we that were of Paul's company, departed and came unto Caesarea. And we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven deacons, and abode with him.
And when they were come to Salamis, they showed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John to their minister.
When they had gone throughout the Isle unto the city of Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer: a false prophet, which was a Jew,
And they, after they were sent of the holy ghost, came unto Seleucia, and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
And they, after they were sent of the holy ghost, came unto Seleucia, and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
Now go I unto Jerusalem, and minister unto the saints.
Now go I unto Jerusalem, and minister unto the saints.
as sorrowing and yet always merry, as poor and yet make many rich, as having nothing and yet possessing all things.
Ye know the liberality of our Lord Jesus Christ, which though he were rich, yet for your sakes became poor: that ye through his poverty might be made rich.
And the Lord said to him, "Arise, and go into the street which is called straight, and seek in the house of Judas after one called Saul of the city of Tarsus. For behold, he prayeth;
And it fortuned that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever, and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in and prayed, and laid his hands on him and healed him.
And the Lord said to him, "Arise, and go into the street which is called straight, and seek in the house of Judas after one called Saul of the city of Tarsus. For behold, he prayeth;
But when it pleased God, which separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace,
And when her master and mistress saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers, and brought them to the officers, saying, "These men trouble our city, which are Jews and preach ordinances which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, seeing we are Romans."
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And the people ran on them, and the officers rent their clothes, and commanded them to be beaten with rods, and when they had beaten them sore, they cast them into prison commanding the jailer to keep them surely. Which jailer, when he had received such commandment, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. At midnight, Paul and Silas prayed, and lauded God. And the prisoners heard them. And suddenly, there was a great earthquake, so that the foundation of the prison was shaken, and by and by all the doors opened, and every man's bonds were loosed. When the keeper of the prison waked out of his sleep, and saw the prison doors open, he drew out his sword and would have killed himself, supposing the prisoners had been fled. But Paul cried with a loud voice saying, "Do thyself no harm, for we are all here." Then he called for a light and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" And they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved and thy household." And they preached unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds, and was baptised, with all that belonged unto him, straightway. When he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and joyed that he with all his household believed on God. And when it was day, the officers sent the ministers saying, "Let those men go." The keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, "The officers have sent word to loose you. Now therefore get you hence and go in peace." Then said Paul unto them, "They have beaten us, openly un-condemned, for all that we are Romans, and have cast us into prison: and now would they send us away privily? Nay not so, but let them come themselves and fetch us out." When the ministers told these words unto the officers, they feared when they heard that they were Romans; and came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city. And they went out of the prison and entered into the house of Lydia, and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them and departed.
And as the seven days should have been ended, the Jews which were of Asia when they saw him in the temple, they moved all the people and laid hands on him crying, "Men of Israel, help. This is the man that teacheth all men everywhere against the people, and the law, and this place. Moreover also he hath brought Greeks into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place." For they saw one Trophimus, an Ephesian, with him in the city: Him they supposed Paul had brought into the temple.
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And all the city was moved, and the people swarmed together. And they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple, and forthwith the doors were shut to. As they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the high captain of the soldiers, that all Jerusalem was moved. Which immediately took soldiers and under-captains, and ran down unto them. When they saw the upper-captain and the soldiers; They left smiting of Paul. Then the captain came near and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains, and demanded what he was, and what he had done. And one cried this, another that, among the people. And when he could not know the certainty, for the rage, he commanded him to be carried into the castle. And when he came unto a grece, it fortuned that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people: For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, "Away with him." And as Paul should have been carried into the castle; He said unto the high captain, "May I speak unto thee?" Which said, "Canst thou speak Greek? Art not thou that Egyptian which before these days, made an uproar, and led out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?" But Paul said, "I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no vile city, I beseech thee suffer me to speak unto the people." When he had given him licence, Paul stood on the steps, and beckoned with the hand unto the people, and there was made a great silence. And he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying:
The spirit speaketh evidently that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, and shall give heed unto spirits of error,
And they wept all abundantly, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him: sorrowing, most of all, for the words, which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
And as we tarried there a good many days, there came a certain prophet from Jewry, named Agabus. When he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his hands and feet and said, "Thus saith the holy ghost, 'So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the gentiles.'" When we heard this, both we and others of the same place, besought him, that he would not go up to Jerusalem.
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Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." When we could not turn his mind, we ceased, saying, "The will of the Lord be fulfilled."
And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, and know not what shall come on me there, but that the holy ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and trouble abide me. But none of those things move me. Neither is my life dear unto myself; that I might fulfill my course with joy, and the ministration which I have received of the Lord Jesus to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
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And now behold, I am sure that henceforth ye all, through whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
And the brethren immediately sent away Paul, and Silas by night unto Berea. Which, when they were come thither, they entered into the Synagogue of the Jews. These were the noblest of birth among them of Thessalonica, which received the word with all diligence of mind, and searched the scriptures daily whether those things were even so. And many of them believed, also of worshipful women which were Greeks; and of men, not a few.
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When the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came there and moved the people: and then, by and by, the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea. But Silas and Timothy abode there still. And they that guided Paul brought him unto Athens, and received a commandment unto Silas and Timothy for to come to him at once. And came their way.
And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, "Thou seest brother, how many thousand Jews there are which believe, and they are all zealous over the law. And they are informed of thee that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the gentiles to forsake Moses, and sayest that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to live after the customs. What is it therefore? The multitude must needs come together. For they shall hear that thou art come.
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Do therefore this that we say to thee. We have four men, which have a vow on them. Them take and purify thyself with them, and do cost on them, that they may shave their heads and all shall know that those things which they have heard concerning thee are nothing: but that thou thyself also walkest and keepest the law. For as touching the gentiles which believe: we have written, and concluded, that they observe no such things - but that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from strangled, and from fornication." Then the next day, Paul took the men and purified himself with them, and entered into the temple, declaring that he observed the days of the purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.
When Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, "Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. Of hope, and of resurrection from death I am judged."
For this we eschew, that any man should rebuke us in this plenteous distribution that is ministered by us,
they were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about,
The same, Paul would that he should go forth with him, and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters, for they knew all that his father was a Greek.
When Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, "Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. Of hope, and of resurrection from death I am judged."
But they heard only, that he which persecuted us in time past, now preacheth the faith, which before he destroyed.
Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
And last of all he was seen of me, as of one that was born out of due time.
But the things that were vantage unto me I counted loss for Christ's sake. Yea I think all things but loss for that excellent knowledge's sake of Christ Jesus my Lord. For whom I have counted all thing loss, and do judge them but dung, that I might win Christ, and might be found in him, not having mine own righteousness which is of the law: But that which springeth of the faith which is in Christ. I mean, the righteousness which cometh of God through faith
Sarcasm » Instances of » Paul
But cast away unghostly and old wives' fables. Exercise thyself unto godliness.
And he, both trembling and astonished, said, "Lord what wilt thou have me to do?" And the Lord said unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou shalt do."
Our rejoicing is this: the testimony of our conscience, that in singleness of heart and with godly pureness - and not in fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God - we have had our conversation in the world, and most of all to you-wards.
Our rejoicing is this: the testimony of our conscience, that in singleness of heart and with godly pureness - and not in fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God - we have had our conversation in the world, and most of all to you-wards.
Timothy my work fellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen salute you.
Then Paul answered, and said, "What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
But Saul increased in strength; And confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus affirming that this was very Christ.
Thither came certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, and obtained the peoples' consent, and stoned Paul: and drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.
Thrice was I beaten with rods. I was once stoned. I suffered thrice shipwreck. Night and day have I been in the deep of the sea.
I do you to wit, brethren, of the grace of God, which is given in the congregations of Macedonia: how that the abundance of their rejoicing is, that they are tried with much tribulation. And thereto, though they were exceeding poor, yet have they given exceeding richly, and that in singleness. For to their powers - I bear them record - yea and beyond their power, they were willing of their own accord,
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and prayed us with great instance, that we would receive their benefit, and suffer them to be partakers with others in ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we looked for; but gave their own selves first to the Lord, and after unto us by the will of God: so that we could not but desire Titus to accomplish the same benevolence among you also, even as he had begun. Now therefore, as ye are rich in all parts, in faith, in word, in knowledge, in all ferventness, and in love, which ye have to us: even so see that ye be plenteous in this benevolence. This say I not as commanding: but because others are so fervent, therefore prove I your love, whether it be perfect or no.
Of the ministering to the saints, it is but superfluous for me to write unto you: for I know your readiness of mind, whereof I boast myself unto them of Macedonia, and say that Achaia was prepared a year ago, and your ferventness hath provoked many. Nevertheless, yet have I sent these brethren, lest our rejoicing over you should be in vain in this behalf, and that ye - as I have said - prepare yourselves,
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lest peradventure if they of Macedonia come with me and find you unprepared, the boast that I made in this matter should be a shame to us: I say not unto you. Wherefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, to come before hand unto you, for to prepare your good blessing promised afore, that it might be ready: so that it be a blessing, and not a defrauding.
that ye might accept things most excellent, that ye might be pure and such as should hurt no man's conscience, until the day of Christ; filled with the fruits of righteousness, which fruits come by Jesus Christ unto the glory and laud of God. I would ye understood, brethren, that my business is happened unto the greater furthering of the gospel.
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So that my bonds in Christ are manifest throughout all the judgment hall: and in all other places; Insomuch that many of the brethren in the Lord are boldened through my bonds, and dare more largely speak the word without fear. Some there are which preach Christ of envy and strife, and some of goodwill. The one part preacheth Christ of strife, and not purely, supposing to add more adversity to my bonds. The other part of love, because they see that I am set to defend the gospel. What then? So that Christ be preached all manner ways, whether it be by occasion, or of true meaning, I therein joy: Yea and will joy. For I know that this shall chance to my salvation, through your prayer, and ministering of the spirit of Jesus Christ, as I heartily look for and hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed: but that with all confidence, as always in times past, even so now Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be through life, or else death. For Christ is to me life, and death is to me advantage. If it chance me to live in the flesh, that is to me fruitful for to work, and what to choose I know not.
When Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, "Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. Of hope, and of resurrection from death I am judged." And when he had so said, there arose a debate between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the multitude was divided. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit. But the Pharisees grant both.
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And there arose a great cry, and the scribes which were of the Pharisees' part arose and strove, saying, "We find none evil in this man. Though a spirit, or an angel hath appeared to him, let us not strive against God." And when there arose great debate, the captain fearing lest Paul should have been plucked asunder of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him from among them, and to bring him into the castle.
The same, Paul would that he should go forth with him, and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters, for they knew all that his father was a Greek.
The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: but when he was at Rome he sought me out very diligently, and found me. The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy with the Lord at that day. And in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus thou knowest very well.
I commend unto you Phoebe our sister, which is a minister of the congregation of Cenchreae, that ye receive her in the Lord as it becometh saints, and that ye assist her, in whatsoever business she needeth of your aid. For she hath succored many, and mine own self also. Greet Prisca and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus,
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which have for my life laid down their own necks. Unto which not I only give thanks: but also the congregations of the gentiles.
And when he had thus spoken he took bread and gave thanks to God in presence of them all, and brake it, and began to eat.
And when he had thus spoken he took bread and gave thanks to God in presence of them all, and brake it, and began to eat.
And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came against us to Appius, and to the three taverns, and met us. When Paul saw them he thanked God, and waxed bold.
And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came against us to Appius, and to the three taverns, and met us. When Paul saw them he thanked God, and waxed bold.
And he, both trembling and astonished, said, "Lord what wilt thou have me to do?" And the Lord said unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou shalt do."
for the which cause I also suffer these things. Nevertheless, I am not ashamed. For I know whom I have believed, and am sure that he is able keep that which I have committed to his keeping against that day.
Even as I please all men in all things not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they might be saved.
not that I desire gifts: but I desire abundant fruit on your part.
Neither took we bread of any man for nought: but wrought with labour and travail night and day, because we would not be grievous to any of you:
What then? So that Christ be preached all manner ways, whether it be by occasion, or of true meaning, I therein joy: Yea and will joy.
Even as I please all men in all things not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they might be saved.
in labour and travail, in watching often, in hunger, in thirst, in fastings often, in cold and in nakedness.