Acts 21:31

"All the city was moved and the people ran together. They seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple. Immediately the doors were shut."

Key Reflection

The scene describes a sudden and chaotic response by the crowd, symbolizing the intense emotional and social upheaval often triggered by unexpected events or figures seen as threats to established order. The immediate closure of the temple doors suggests a divine judgment on the actions of those who sought to harm Paul, highlighting the divine protection and providential control over the narrative.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 31. And as they were about to kill him. Gr., They seeking to kill him. This was evidently done in a popular tumult, as had been done in the case of Stephen, Ac 7. They could not pretend that they had a right to do it by law. Tidings came. The news, or rumour came; he was told of it. The chief captain of the band. This band or body of Roman soldiers was stationed in the tower Antonia, on the north of the temple. This tower was built by John Hyrcanus, high priest of the Jews, and was by him called Baris. It was beautified and strengthened by Herod the Great, and was called Antonia, in honour of his friend Mark Antony.

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