Acts 21:28

crying out, "Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who teaches everywhere against our people and against our law and against this place. Furthermore, he has brought Greeks into the temple and defiled this holy place."

Study Bible

crying out
The phrase "crying out" indicates a loud, public proclamation, often associated with urgency or distress. In the Greek, the word used is "κραζω" (krazo), which conveys a sense of shouting or screaming. This reflects the intensity of the situation and the emotional state of those making the accusation. Historically, public outcries were common in ancient times as a means to rally support or draw attention to a perceived injustice.

Men of Israel
This address, "Men of Israel," is a call to the Jewish people, emphasizing their shared heritage and identity. It invokes a sense of national and religious unity. The phrase is reminiscent of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, highlighting the deep-seated cultural and religious bonds that the accusers are appealing to.

help us
The plea "help us" is a call for immediate assistance, suggesting that the accusers felt threatened or believed that a significant transgression was occurring. In the context of the temple, this would have been a serious matter, as the temple was the center of Jewish worship and identity. The Greek word "βοηθεω" (boetheo) implies coming to the aid of someone in need, underscoring the urgency and gravity of the situation.

This is the man
The phrase "This is the man" singles out Paul as the subject of their accusation. It is accusatory and direct, leaving no room for ambiguity. Paul, known for his missionary work and teachings, was a controversial figure among some Jewish groups, particularly those who viewed his teachings as a threat to traditional Jewish customs and laws.

who teaches all men everywhere
The accusation that Paul "teaches all men everywhere" suggests a widespread influence and reach of his teachings. The Greek word "διδασκω" (didasko) means to instruct or impart knowledge. This highlights the perceived threat of Paul's message, which was seen as undermining Jewish traditions and spreading a new doctrine that challenged established norms.

against our people and our law and this place
The phrase "against our people and our law and this place" encapsulates the core of the accusation: that Paul was opposing Jewish identity, religious law, and the sanctity of the temple. The "law" refers to the Torah, the foundational text of Jewish religious life. "This place" refers to the temple, the holiest site in Judaism. The accusation implies a deep violation of religious and cultural values.

And besides, he has brought Greeks into the temple
The claim that Paul "has brought Greeks into the temple" is a serious charge, as the temple had specific areas where Gentiles were not allowed. The Greek word "Ελληνες" (Hellenes) refers to non-Jews or Gentiles. This accusation would have been particularly inflammatory, as it suggested a desecration of the sacred space reserved for Jews.

and defiled this holy place
The phrase "and defiled this holy place" underscores the severity of the accusation. The Greek word "κοινοω" (koinoo) means to make common or unclean. The temple was considered the dwelling place of God, and any defilement was seen as a grave offense. This accusation would have resonated deeply with the Jewish audience, who held the sanctity of the temple in the highest regard.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who is being accused by the Jews of teaching against the Jewish people, the law, and the temple.

2. Men of Israel
The Jewish crowd in Jerusalem who are being incited against Paul.

3. The Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem where the Jews believed God's presence dwelled, and which they accused Paul of defiling.

4. Greeks
Non-Jews who were allegedly brought into the temple by Paul, which was considered a serious offense.

5. Jerusalem
The city where these events are taking place, a central location for Jewish worship and identity.

Teaching Points

Understanding Opposition
Just as Paul faced false accusations, believers today may face misunderstandings or misrepresentations of their faith. It's important to respond with truth and grace.

The Unity of Believers
The accusation of bringing Greeks into the temple highlights the early church's struggle with unity. Believers are called to break down barriers and embrace unity in Christ.

Respect for Sacred Spaces
While the physical temple was central to Jewish worship, Christians are reminded that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, deserving of respect and purity.

Courage in the Face of Persecution
Paul's experience encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, even when facing hostility or persecution.

The Role of the Law
Understanding the purpose of the law in light of the Gospel is crucial. The law points to Christ, who fulfills it, and believers are called to live in the freedom He provides.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's experience in Acts 21:28 reflect the challenges of sharing the Gospel in a culturally diverse environment?

2. In what ways can believers today work towards breaking down barriers between different cultural or ethnic groups within the church?

3. How can we ensure that our lives reflect the holiness and respect due to being temples of the Holy Spirit?

4. What are some practical ways to respond to false accusations or misunderstandings about our faith?

5. How does understanding the role of the law in the New Testament help us live out our faith in today's world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 6:13-14
Similar accusations were made against Stephen, showing a pattern of opposition against those who preached the Gospel.

Ephesians 2:14-16
Paul writes about the breaking down of the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles, which relates to the accusations of bringing Greeks into the temple.

Mark 14:58
Jesus was accused of threatening to destroy the temple, paralleling the accusations against Paul.

Romans 3:29-30
Paul emphasizes that God is the God of both Jews and Gentiles, which underlies the tension in Acts 21:28.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, which contrasts with the physical temple in Jerusalem.