The Book of Acts

Paul Speaks to the Crowd

Acts 21: 37-40 _NLT

“As Paul was about to be taken inside, he said to the commander, ‘May I have a word with you?’” (verse 37)

            These four verses are the prelude to Paul’s speech to the crowd who had just had him arrested. The commander’s query regarding Paul knowing the Greek language was meant to reveal whether “he was a cultured, educated man or a common rebel who was starting riots in the streets” *. The Jewish historian Josephus wrote of an Egyptian who had led a revolt of 4,000 people in Jerusalem in A.D. 54, then disappeared. It appears the commander made the assumption that Paul was that man. Paul informed the commander that he was a Jew from Tarsus, adding that Tarsus was an important city, perhaps to impress the Roman. Instead of using the word ‘important’ the NIV translation referred to Tarsus as “no ordinary city”, indicating Paul’s pride in his city of birth. Once the commander found he was not a commoner, he protected Paul from the crowd and agreed to let him speak. 

            The commander agreed to allow Paul to speak in his own defense, so Paul stood on the stairs** and made a motion to quiet down the people. Just then the entire area was cloaked in silence as Paul addressed them in Aramaic (their own language). This was probably frustrating for the commander because he didn’t speak or understand that language; however, speaking in the people’s native tongue seemed to please the crowd, so the commander extended to Paul a measure of goodwill.  Next time we will look at Chapter 22, which reveals what the apostle said to the crowd of people. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His name & for His glory,

Rich Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible; Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): New Testament.

* From verse 37-38 note on page 2448.

** Paul was standing at the head of the stone stairway leading into the Fortress of Antonia.