Acts 21:27-40 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people… 1. It is an intolerant spirit (vers. 27, 28). These "Jews of Asia" had refused to give careful, candid thought to Paul's teachings, but judged them by their own narrow standards. 2. It is a perverting spirit (vers. 28, 29). "They had seen...and they supposed." These Jews deftly mingled facts with falsehoods, and cast false lights on true statements. 3. It is often a spirit of formalism (ver. 30). They were a company of worshippers in the rites of service, yet they were ready to murder an unoffending man. 4. It is a spirit of cruelty (ver. 31). "They went about to kill him." 5. It is an ignorant spirit (ver. 34). They could not tell why the tumult had arisen, nor what was the crime charged upon the victim. Such is the blind, unreasoning hatred in the heart of persecutors.Notice in contrast with these Jews the traits of the Christian under persecution. 1. While they were law breaking he was law abiding. He was obeying the very laws and conforming to the very usages which they accused him of violating, at the very moment while they were seeking his life. 2. While they were furious he was calm. His perfect faith gave him perfect peace. 3. While they were cowardly he was courageous. He was brave, for only a man with a heart like a lion would have thought to address the crowd clamouring for his blood. 4. While they were full of hate he was full of love. (J. L. Hurlbut, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him, |
    |