Acts 21:37

"for the multitude of the people followed after, crying out, “Away with him!”"

Key Reflection

In Acts 21:37, when a large crowd cries out to "Away with him!" it reflects the intense emotional and public reaction against Paul during his trial in Jerusalem. This scene captures the volatility of crowds in first-century Palestine, where emotions could quickly turn hostile, as was common at political or religious gatherings. The Hebrew phrase " Away with him! " (εξαγωγή εμαυτου) underscores the urgency and forcefulness of the crowd's demand, highlighting the precarious situation Paul faced amidst such a tumultuous mob.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 37. May I speak unto thee? May I have the privilege of making my defence before thee; or of stating the case truly, the cause of my accusation, of this tumult, etc. Canst thou speak Greek? Implying that if he could, he might be permitted to speak to him. The Greek language was that which was then almost universally spoken, and it is not improbable that it was the native tongue of the chief captain. It is evident that he was not a Roman by birth, for he says, Ac 22:28 that he had obtained the privilege of citizenship by paying a great sum.

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