The Holy Bible

Part 65 out of 74



commandment:

15:25. It hath seemed good to us, being assembled together, to choose
out men and to send them unto you, with our well beloved Barnabas and
Paul:

15:26. Men that have given their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus
Christ.

15:27. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who themselves also
will, by word of mouth, tell you the same things.

15:28. For it hath seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us to lay no
further burden upon you than these necessary things:

15:29. That you abstain from things sacrificed to idols and from blood
and from things strangled and from fornication: from which things
keeping yourselves, you shall do well. Fare ye well.

From blood, and from things strangled. . .The use of these things,
though of their own nature indifferent, was here prohibited, to bring
the Jews more easily to admit of the society of the Gentiles; and to
exercise the latter in obedience. But this prohibition was but
temporary, and has long since ceased to oblige; more especially in the
western churches.

15:30. They therefore, being dismissed, went down to Antioch and,
gathering together the multitude, delivered the epistle.

15:31. Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.

15:32. But Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, with many
words comforted the brethren and confirmed them.

15:33. And after they had spent some time there, they were let go with
peace by the brethren unto them that had sent them.

15:34. But it seemed good unto Silas to remain there: and Judas alone
departed to Jerusalem.

15:35. And Paul and Barnabas continued at Antioch, teaching and
preaching, with many others, the word of the Lord.

15:36. And after some days, Paul said to Barnabas: Let us return and
visit our brethren in all the cities wherein we have preached the word
of the Lord, to see how they do.

15:37. And Barnabas would have taken with them John also, that was
surnamed Mark.

15:38. But Paul desired that he (as having departed from them out of
Pamphylia and not gone with them to the work) might not be received.

15:39. And there arose a dissension so that they departed one from
another. And Barnabas indeed, taking Mark, sailed to Cyprus.

15:40. But Paul, choosing Silas, departed, being delivered by the
brethren to the grace of God.

15:41. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches,
commanding them to keep the precepts of the apostles and the ancients.



Acts Chapter 16


Paul visits the churches. He is called to preach in Macedonia. He is
scourged at Philippi.

16:1. And he came to Derbe and Lystra. And behold, there was a certain
disciple there named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman that believed:
but his father was a Gentile.

16:2. To this man the brethren that were in Lystra and Iconium gave a
good testimony.

16:3. Him Paul would have to go along with him: and taking him, he
circumcised him, because of the Jews who were in those places. For they
all knew that his father was a Gentile.

16:4. And as they passed through the cities, they delivered unto them
the decrees for to keep, that were decreed by the apostles and ancients
who were at Jerusalem.

16:5. And the churches were confirmed in faith and increased in number
daily.

16:6. And when they had passed through Phrygia and the country of
Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Ghost to preach the word in
Asia.

16:7. And when they were come into Mysia, they attempted to go into
Bithynia: and the Spirit of Jesus suffered them not.

16:8. And when they had passed through Mysia, they went down to Troas.

16:9. And a vision was shewed to Paul in the night, which was a man of
Macedonia standing and beseeching him and saying: Pass over into
Macedonia and help us.

16:10. And as soon as he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to
go into Macedonia: being assured that God had called us to preach the
gospel to them.

16:11. And sailing from Troas, we came with a straight course to
Samothracia, and the day following to Neapolis.

16:12. And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of part of
Macedonia, a colony. And we were in this city some days conferring
together.

16:13. And upon the Sabbath day, we went forth without the gate by a
river side, where it seemed that there was prayer: and sitting down, we
spoke to the women that were assembled.

16:14. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city
of Thyatira, one that worshipped God, did hear: whose heart the Lord
opened to attend to those things which were said by Paul.

16:15. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us,
saying: If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my
house and abide there. And she constrained us.

16:16. And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain girl having
a pythonical spirit met us, who brought to her masters much gain by
divining.

A pythonical spirit. . .That is, a spirit pretending to divine, and tell
fortunes.

16:17. This same following Paul and us, cried out, saying: These men
are the servants of the Most High God, who preach unto you the way of
salvation.

16:18. And this she did many days. But Paul being grieved, turned and
said to the spirit: I command thee, in the name of Jesus Christ, to go
from her. And he went out the same hour.

16:19. But her masters, seeing that the hope of their gain was gone,
apprehending Paul and Silas, brought them into the market place to the
rulers.

16:20. And presenting them to the magistrates, they said: These men
disturb our city, being Jews:

16:21. And preach a fashion which it is not lawful for us to receive
nor observe, being Romans.

16:22. And the people ran together against them: and the magistrates,
rending off their clothes, commanded them to be beaten with rods.

16:23. And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them
into prison, charging the gaoler to keep them diligently.

16:24. Who having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner
prison and made their feet fast in the stocks.

16:25. And at midnight, Paul and Silas, praying, praised God. And they
that were in prison heard them.

16:26. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the
foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors
were opened and the bands of all were loosed.

16:27. And the keeper of the prison, awakening out of his sleep and
seeing the doors of the prison open, drawing his sword, would have
killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.

16:28. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying: Do thyself no harm,
for we all are here.

16:29. Then calling for a light, he went in: and trembling, fell down
at the feet of Paul and Silas.

16:30. And bringing them out, he said: Masters, what must I do, that I
may be saved?

16:31. But they said: believe in the Lord Jesus: and thou shalt be
saved, and thy house.

16:32. And they preached the word of the Lord to him and to all that
were in his house.

16:33. And he, taking them the same hour of the night, washed their
stripes: and himself was baptized, and all his house immediately.

16:34. And when he had brought them into his own house, he laid the
table for them: and rejoiced with all his house, believing God.

16:35. And when the day was come, the magistrates sent the serjeants,
saying: Let those men go.

16:36. And the keeper of the prison told these words to Paul: The
magistrates have sent to let you go. Now therefore depart. And go in
peace.

16:37. But Paul said to them: They have beaten us publicly,
uncondemned, men that are Romans, and have cast us into prison. And now
do they thrust us out privately? Not so: but let them come.

16:38. And let us out themselves. And the serjeants told these words to
the magistrates. And they were afraid: hearing that they were Romans.

16:39. And coming, they besought them: and bringing them out, they
desired them to depart out of the city.

16:40. And they went out of the prison and entered into the house of
Lydia: and having seen the brethren, they comforted them and departed.



Acts Chapter 17


Paul preaches to the Thessalonians and Bereans. His discourse to the
Athenians.

17:1. And when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they
came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews.

17:2. And Paul, according to his custom, went in unto them. And for
three sabbath days he reasoned with them out of the scriptures:

17:3. Declaring and insinuating that the Christ was to suffer and to
rise again from the dead; and that this is Jesus Christ, whom I preach
to you.

17:4. And some of them believed and were associated to Paul and Silas:
and of those that served God and of the Gentiles a great multitude: and
of noble women not a few.

17:5. But the Jews, moved with envy and taking unto them some wicked
men of the vulgar sort and making a tumult, set the city in an uproar:
and besetting Jason's house, sought to bring them out unto the people.

17:6. And not finding them, they drew Jason and certain brethren to the
rulers of the city, crying: They that set the city in an uproar are
come hither also:

City. Urbem. . .In the Greek, the world.

17:7. Whom Jason hath received. And these all do contrary to the
decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus.

17:8. And they stirred up the people: and the rulers of the city,
hearing these things,

17:9. And having taken satisfaction of Jason and of the rest, they let
them go.

17:10. But the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night
unto Berea. Who, when they were come thither, went into the synagogue
of the Jews.

17:11. Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, who
received the word with all eagerness, daily searching the scriptures,
whether these things were so.

More noble. . .The Jews of Berea are justly commended, for their eagerly
embracing the truth, and searching the scriptures, to find out the
texts alleged by the apostle: which was a far more generous proceeding
than that of their countrymen at Thessalonica, who persecuted the
preachers of the gospel, without examining the grounds they alleged for
what they taught.

17:12. And many indeed of them believed: and of honourable women that
were Gentiles and of men, not a few.

17:13. And when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of
God was also preached by Paul at Berea, they came thither also,
stirring up and troubling the multitude.

17:14. And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul, to go unto the
sea: but Silas and Timothy remained there.

17:15. And they that conducted Paul brought him as far as Athens: and
receiving a commandment from him to Silas and Timothy, that they should
come to him with all speed, they departed.

17:16. Now whilst Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was
stirred within him, seeing the city wholly given to idolatry.

17:17. He disputed, therefore, in the synagogue with the Jews and with
them that served God: and in the market place, every day, with them
that were there.

17:18. And certain philosophers of the Epicureans and of the Stoics
disputed with him. And some said: What is it that this word sower would
say? But others: He seemeth to be a setter forth of new gods. Because
he preached to them Jesus and the resurrection.

17:19. And taking him, they brought him to the Areopagus, saying: May
we know what this new doctrine is, which thou speakest of?

17:20. For thou bringest in certain new things to our ears. We would
know therefore what these things mean.

17:21. (Now all the Athenians and strangers that were there employed
themselves in nothing else, but either in telling or in hearing some
new thing.)

17:22. But Paul, standing in the midst of the Areopagus, said: Ye men
of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are too superstitious.

17:23. For passing by and seeing your idols, I found an altar also, on
which was written: To the Unknown God. What therefore you worship
without knowing it, that I preach to you:

17:24. God, who made the world and all things therein, he being Lord of
heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands.

Dwelleth not in temples. . .God is not contained in temples; so as to
need them for his dwelling, or any other uses, as the heathens
imagined. Yet by his omnipresence, he is both there and everywhere.

17:25. Neither is he served with men's hands, as though he needed any
thing: seeing it is he who giveth to all life and breath and all
things:

17:26. And hath made of one, all mankind, to dwell upon the whole face
of the earth, determining appointed times and the limits of their
habitation.

17:27. That they should seek God, if haply they may feel after him or
find him, although he be not far from every one of us.

17:28. For in him we live and move and are: as some also of your own
poets said: For we are also his offspring.

17:29. Being therefore the offspring of God, we must not suppose the
divinity to be like unto gold or silver or stone, the graving of art
and device of man.

17:30. And God indeed having winked at the times of this ignorance, now
declareth unto men that all should every where do penance.

17:31. Because he hath appointed a day wherein he will judge the world
in equity, by the man whom he hath appointed: giving faith to all, by
raising him up from the dead.

17:32. And when they had heard of the resurrection of the dead, some
indeed mocked. But others said: We will hear thee again concerning this
matter.

17:33. So Paul went out from among them.

17:34. But certain men, adhering to him, did believe: among whom was
also Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with
them.



Acts Chapter 18


Paul founds the church of Corinth and preaches at Ephesus and in other
places. Apollo goes to Corinth.

18:1. After these things, departing from Athens, he came to Corinth.

18:2. And finding a certain Jew, named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately
come from Italy, with Priscilla his wife (because that Claudius had
commanded all Jews to depart from Rome), he came to them.

18:3. And because he was of the same trade, he remained with them and
wrought. (Now they were tentmakers by trade.)

18:4. And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, bringing in the
name of the Lord Jesus. And he persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

18:5. And when Silas and Timothy were come from Macedonia, Paul was
earnest in preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.

18:6. But they gainsaying and blaspheming, he shook his garments and
said to them: Your blood be upon your own heads: I am clean. From
henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

18:7. And departing thence, he entered into the house of a certain man,
named Titus Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house was adjoining
to the synagogue.

18:8. And Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord,
with all his house. And many of the Corinthians hearing, believed and
were baptized.

18:9. And the Lord said to Paul in the night, by a vision: Do not fear,
but speak. And hold not thy peace,

18:10. Because I am with thee and no man shall set upon thee, to hurt
thee. For I have much people in this city.

18:11. And he stayed there a year and six months, teaching among them
the word of God.

18:12. But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one
accord rose up against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat,

18:13. Saying: This man persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the
law.

18:14. And when Paul was beginning to open his mouth, Gallio said to
the Jews: If it were some matter of injustice or an heinous deed, O
Jews, I should with reason bear with you.

18:15. But if they be questions of word and names and of your law, look
you to it. I will not be judge of such things.

18:16. And he drove them from the judgment seat.

18:17. And all laying hold on Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue,
beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those
things.

18:18. But Paul, when he had stayed yet many days, taking his leave of
the brethren, sailed thence into Syria (and with him Priscilla and
Aquila), having shorn his head in Cenchrae. For he had a vow.

18:19. And he came to Ephesus and left them there. But he himself,
entering into the synagogue, disputed with the Jews.

18:20. And when they desired him that he would tarry a longer time, he
consented not:

18:21. But taking his leave and saying: I will return to you again, God
willing, he departed from Ephesus.

18:22. And going down to Caesarea, he went up to Jerusalem and saluted
the church: and so came down to Antioch.

18:23. And after he had spent some time there, he departed and went
through the country of Galatia and Phrygia, in order, confirming all
the disciples.

18:24. Now a certain Jew, named Apollo, born at Alexandria, an eloquent
man, came to Ephesus, one mighty in the scriptures.

18:25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord: and being
fervent in spirit, spoke and taught diligently the things that are of
Jesus, knowing only the baptism of John.

18:26. This man therefore began to speak boldly in the synagogue. Whom
when Priscilla and Aquila had heard, they took him to them and
expounded to him the way of the Lord more diligently.

18:27. And whereas he was desirous to go to Achaia, the brethren
exhorting wrote to the disciples to receive him. Who, when he was come,
helped them much who had believed.

18:28. For with much vigour he convinced the Jews openly, shewing by
the scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.



Acts Chapter 19


Paul establishes the church at Ephesus. The tumult of the silversmiths.

19:1. And it came to pass, while Apollo was at Corinth, that Paul,
having passed through the upper coasts, came to Ephesus and found
certain disciples.

19:2. And he said to them: Have you received the Holy Ghost since ye
believed? But they said to him: We have not so much as heard whether
there be a Holy Ghost.

19:3. And he said: In what then were you baptized? Who said: In John's
baptism.

19:4. Then Paul said: John baptized the people with the baptism of
penance saying: That they should believe in him, who was to come after
him, that is to say, in Jesus.

19:5. Having heard these things, they were baptized in the name of the
Lord Jesus.

19:6. And when Paul had imposed his hands on them, the Holy Ghost came
upon them: and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.

19:7. And all the men were about twelve.

19:8. And entering into the synagogue, he spoke boldly for the space of
three months, disputing and exhorting concerning the kingdom of God.

19:9. But when some were hardened and believed not, speaking evil of
the way of the Lord before the multitude, departing from them, he
separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

19:10. And this continued for the space of two years, so that all who
dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Gentiles.

19:11. And God wrought by the hand of Paul more than common miracles.

19:12. So that even there were brought from his body to the sick,
handkerchiefs and aprons: and the diseases departed from them: and the
wicked spirits went out of them.

19:13. Now some also of the Jewish exorcists, who went about, attempted
to invoke over them that had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus,
saying: I conjure you by Jesus, whom Paul preacheth.

19:14. And there were certain men, seven sons of Sceva, a Jew, a chief
priest, that did this.

19:15. But the wicked spirit, answering, said to them: Jesus I know:
and Paul I know. But who are you?

19:16. And the man in whom the wicked spirit was, leaping upon them and
mastering them both, prevailed against them, so that they fled out of
that house naked and wounded.

19:17. And this became known to all the Jews and the Gentiles that
dwelt a Ephesus. And fear fell on them all: and the name of the Lord
Jesus was magnified.

19:18. And many of them that believed came, confessing and declaring
their deeds

19:19. And many of them who had followed curious arts brought together
their books and burnt them before all. And, counting the price of them,
they found the money to be fifty thousand pieces of silver.

19:20. So mightily grew the word of God and was confirmed.

19:21. And when these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit,
when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem,
saying: After I have been there, I must see Rome also.

19:22. And sending into Macedonia two of them that ministered to him,
Timothy and Erastus, he himself remained for a time in Asia.

19:23. Now at that time there arose no small disturbance about the way
of the Lord.

19:24. For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made
silver temples for Diana, brought no small gain to the craftsmen.

19:25. Whom he calling together with the workmen of like occupation,
said: Sirs, you know that our gain is by this trade.

19:26. And you see and hear that this Paul, by persuasion hath drawn
away a great multitude, not only of Ephesus, but almost of all Asia,
saying: they are not gods which are made by hands.

19:27. So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at
nought, but also the temple of great Diana shall be reputed for
nothing! Yea, and her majesty shall begin to be destroyed, whom all
Asia and the world worshippeth.

19:28. Having heard these things, they were full of anger and cried
out, saying: Great is Diana of the Ephesians!

19:29. And the whole city was filled with confusion. And having caught
Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions, they rushed
with one accord into the theatre.

19:30. And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the
disciples suffered him not.

19:31. And some also of the rulers of Asia, who were his friends, sent
unto him, desiring that he would not venture himself into the theatre.

19:32. Now some cried one thing, some another. For the assembly was
confused: and the greater part knew not for what cause they were come
together.

19:33. And they drew forth Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews
thrusting him forward. And Alexander, beckoning with his hand for
silence, would have given the people satisfaction,

19:34. But as soon as they perceived him to be a Jew, all with one
voice, for the space of about two, hours, cried out: Great is Diana of
the Ephesians!

19:35. And when the town clerk had appeased the multitudes, he said: Ye
men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not that the city of the
Ephesians is a worshipper of the great Diana and of Jupiter's
offspring?

19:36. For as much therefore as these things cannot be contradicted,
you ought to be quiet and to do nothing rashly.

19:37. For you have brought hither these men, who are neither guilty of
sacrilege nor of blasphemy against your goddess.

19:38. But if Demetrius and the craftsmen that are with him have a
matter against any man, the courts of justice are open: and there are
proconsuls. Let them accuse one another.

19:39. And if you inquire after any other matter, it may be decided in
a lawful assembly.

19:40. For we are even in danger to be called in question for this
day's uproar, there being no man guilty (of whom we may give account)
of this concourse. And when he had said these things, he dismissed the
assembly.



Acts Chapter 20


Paul passes through Macedonia and Greece. He raises a dead man to life
at Troas. His discourse to the clergy of Ephesus.

20:1. And after the tumult was ceased, Paul calling to him the
disciples and exhorting them, took his leave and set forward to go into
Macedonia.

20:2. And when he had gone over those parts and had exhorted them with
many words, he came into Greece:

20:3. Where, when he had spent three months, the Jews laid wait for
him, as he was about to sail into Syria. So he took a resolution to
return through Macedonia.

20:4. And there accompanied him Sopater, the son of Pyrrhus, of Berea:
and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus: and Gaius of Derbe
and Timothy: and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

20:5. These, going before, stayed for us at Troas.

20:6. But we sailed from Philippi after the days of the azymes and came
to them to Troas in five days, where we abode seven days.

20:7. And on the first day of the week, when we were assembled to break
bread, Paul discoursed with them, being to depart on the morrow. And he
continued his speech until midnight.

And on the first day of the week. . .Here St. Chrysostom and many other
interpreters of the scripture explain, that the Christians even at this
time, must have changed the sabbath into the first day of the week,
(the Lord's day,) as all Christians now keep it. This change was
undoubtedly made by the authority of the church; hence the exercise of
the power, which Christ had given to her: for he is Lord of the
sabbath.

20:8. And there were a great number of lamps in the upper chamber where
we were assembled.

20:9. And a certain young man named Eutychus, sitting on the window,
being oppressed with a deep sleep (as Paul was long preaching), by
occasion of his sleep fell from the third loft down and was taken up
dead.

20:10. To whom, when Paul had gone down, he laid himself upon him and,
embracing him, said: Be not troubled, for his soul is in him.

20:11. Then going up and breaking bread and tasting and having talked a
long time to them, until daylight, so he departed.

20:12. And they brought the youth alive and were not a little
comforted.

20:13. But we going aboard the ship, sailed to Assos, being there to
take in Paul. For so he had appointed, himself purposing to travel by
land.

20:14. And when he had met with us at Assos, we took him in and came to
Mitylene.

20:15. And sailing thence, the day following we came over against
Chios: and the next day we arrived at Samos: and the day following we
came to Miletus.

20:16. For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, lest he should be
stayed any time in Asia. For he hasted. if it were possible for him, to
keep the day of Pentecost at Jerusalem.

20:17. And sending from Miletus to Ephesus, he called the ancients of
the church.

20:18. And when they were come to him and were together, he said to
them: You know from the first day that I came into Asia, in what manner
I have been with you, for all the time.

20:19. Serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and
temptations which befell me by the conspiracies of the Jews:

20:20. How I have kept back nothing that was profitable to you, but
have preached it to you, and taught you publicly, and from house to
house,

20:21. Testifying both to Jews and Gentiles penance towards God and
faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

20:22. And now, behold, being bound in the spirit, I go to Jerusalem:
not knowing the things which shall befall me there:

20:23. Save that the Holy Ghost in every city witnesseth to me, saying:
That bands and afflictions wait for me at Jerusalem.

20:24. But I fear none of these things, neither do I count my life more
precious than myself, so that I may consummate my course and the
ministry of the word which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify
the gospel of the grace of God.

20:25. And now behold, I know that all you, among whom I have gone
preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.

20:26. Wherefore I take you to witness this day that I am clear from
the blood of all men.

20:27. For I have not spread to declare unto you all, the counsel of
God.

20:28. Take heed to yourselves and to the whole flock, wherein the Holy
Ghost hath placed you bishops, to rule the Church of God which he hath
purchased with his own blood.

20:29. I know that after my departure ravening wolves will enter in
among you, not sparing the flock.

20:30. And of your own selves shall arise men speaking perverse things,
to draw away disciples after them.

20:31. Therefore watch, keeping in memory that for three years I ceased
not with tears to admonish every one of you, night and day.

20:32. And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, who
is able to build up and to give an inheritance among all the
sanctified.

20:33. I have not coveted any man's silver, gold or apparel, as

20:34. You yourselves know. For such things as were needful for me and
them that are with me, these hands have furnished.

20:35. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring you ought to
support the weak and to remember the word of the Lord Jesus, how he
said: It is a more blessed thing to give, rather than to receive.

20:36. And when he had said these things, kneeling down, he prayed with
them all.

20:37. And there was much weeping among them all. And falling on the
neck of Paul, they kissed him,

20:38. Being grieved most of all for the word which he had said, that
they should see his face no more. And they brought him on his way to
the ship.



Acts Chapter 21


Paul goes up to Jerusalem. He is apprehended by the Jews in the temple.

21:1. And when it came to pass that, being parted from them, we set
sail, we came with a straight course to Coos, and the day following to
Rhodes: and from thence to Patara.

21:2. And when we had found a ship sailing over to Phenice, we went
aboard and set forth.

21:3. And when we had discovered Cyprus, leaving it on the left hand,
we sailed into Syria, and came to Tyre: for there the ship was to
unlade her burden.

21:4. And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to
Paul, through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

21:5. And the days being expired, departing we went forward, they all
bringing us on our way, with their wives and children, till we were out
of the city. And we kneeled down on the shore: and we prayed.

21:6. And when we had bid one another farewell, we took ship. And they
returned home.

21:7. But we, having finished the voyage by sea, from Tyre came down to
Ptolemais: and saluting the brethren, we abode one day with them.

21:8. And the next day departing, we came to Caesarea. And entering
into the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, we
abode with him.

The evangelist. . .That is, the preacher of the gospel; the same that
before converted the Samaritans, and baptized the eunuch, chap. 8.,
being one of the first seven deacons.

21:9. And he had four daughters, virgins, who did prophesy.

21:10. And as we tarried there for some days, there came from Judea a
certain prophet, named Agabus.

21:11. Who, when he was come to us, took Paul's girdle: and binding his
own feet and hands, he said: Thus saith the Holy Ghost: The man whose
girdle this is, the Jews shall bind in this manner in Jerusalem and
shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.

21:12. Which when we had heard, both we and they that were of that
place desired him that he would not go up to Jerusalem.

21:13. Then Paul answered and said: What do you mean, weeping and
afflicting my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but to die
also in Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus.

21:14. And when we could not persuade him, we ceased, saying: The will
of the Lord be done.

21:15. And after those days, being prepared, we went up to Jerusalem.

21:16. And there went also with us some of the disciples from Caesarea,
bringing with them one Mnason a Cyprian, an old disciple, with whom we
should lodge.

21:17. And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us
gladly.

21:18. And the day following, Paul went in with us unto James: and all
the ancients were assembled.

21:19. Whom when he had saluted, he related particularly what things
God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.

21:20. But they hearing it, glorified God and said to him: Thou seest,
brother, how many thousands there are among the Jews that have
believed: and they are all zealous for the law.

21:21. Now they have heard of thee that thou teachest those Jews, who
are among the Gentiles to depart from Moses: saying that they ought not
to circumcise their children, nor walk according to the custom.

21:22. What is it therefore? The multitude must needs come together:
for they will hear that thou art come.

21:23. Do therefore this that we say to thee. We have four men, who
have a vow on them.

21:24. Take these and sanctify thyself with them: and bestow on them,
that they may shave their heads. And all will know that the things
which they have heard of these are false: but that thou thyself also
walkest keeping the law.

Keeping the law. . .The law, though now no longer obligatory, was for a
time observed by the Christian Jews: to bury, as it were, the synagogue
with honour.

21:25. But, as touching the Gentiles that believe, we have written,
decreeing that they should only refrain themselves from that which has
been offered to idols and from blood and from things strangled and from
fornication.

21:26. Then Paul took the men and, the next day being purified with
them, entered into the temple, giving notice of the accomplishment of
the days of purification, until an oblation should be offered for every
one of them.

21:27. But when the seven days were drawing to an end, those Jews that
were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the
people and laid hands upon him, crying out:

21:28. Men of Israel, help: This is the man that teacheth all men every
where against the people and the law and this place; and moreover hath
brought in Gentiles into the temple and hath violated this holy place.

21:29. (For they had seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him.
whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

21:30. And he whole city was in an uproar: and the people ran together.
And taking Paul, they drew him out of the temple: and immediately the
doors were shut.

21:31. And as they went about to kill him, it was told the tribune of
the band that all Jerusalem was in confusion.

21:32. Who, forthwith taking with him soldiers and centurions, ran down
to them. And when they saw the tribune and the soldiers, they left off
beating Paul.

21:33. Then the tribune, coming near, took him and commanded him to be
bound with two chains: and demanded who he was and what he had done.

21:34. And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude. And
when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him
to be carried into the castle.

21:35. And when he was come to the stairs, it fell out that he was
carried by the soldiers, because of the violence of the people.

21:36. For the multitude of the people followed after, crying: Away
with him!

21:37. And as Paul was about to be brought into the castle, he saith to
the tribune: May I speak something to thee? Who said: Canst thou speak
Greek?

21:38. Art not thou that Egyptian who before these days didst raise a
tumult and didst lead forth into the desert four thousand men that were
murderers?

21:39. But Paul said to him: I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen
of no mean city. And I beseech thee, suffer me to speak to the people.

21:40. And when he had given him leave, Paul standing on the stairs,
beckoned with his hand to the people. And a great silence being made,
he spoke unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying:



Acts Chapter 22


Paul declares to the people the history of his conversion. He escapes
scourging by claiming the privilege of a Roman citizen.

22:1. Men, brethren and fathers, hear ye the account which I now give
unto you.

22:2. (And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew tongue,
they kept the more silence.)

22:3. And he saith: I am a Jew, born at Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought
up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the truth
of the law of the fathers, zealous for the law, as also all you are
this day:

22:4. Who persecuted this way unto death, binding and delivering into
prisons both men and women,

22:5. As the high priest doth bear me witness and all the ancients.
From whom also receiving letters to the brethren, I went to Damascus,
that I might bring them bound from thence to Jerusalem to be punished.

22:6. And it came to pass, as I was going and drawing nigh to Damascus,
at mid-day, that suddenly from heaven there shone round about me a
great light:

22:7. And falling on the ground, I heard a voice saying to me: Saul,
Saul, why persecutest thou me?

22:8. And I answered: Who art thou, Lord? And he said to me: I am
Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.

22:9. And they that were with me saw indeed the light: but they heard
not the voice of him that spoke with me.

Heard not the voice. . .That is, they distinguished not the words;
though they heard the voice. Acts 9. 7.

22:10. And I said: What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said to me:
Arise and go to Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things
that thou must do.

22:11. And whereas I did not see for the brightness of that light,
being led by the hand by my companions, I came to Damascus,

22:12. And one Ananias, a man according to the law, having testimony of
all the Jews who dwelt there,

22:13. Coming to me and standing by me, said to me: Brother Saul, look
up. And I, the same hour, looked upon him.

22:14. But he said: The God of our fathers hath preordained thee that
thou shouldst know his will and see the Just One and shouldst hear the
voice from his mouth.

Just One. . .Our Saviour, who appeared to St. Paul, Acts 9. 17.

22:15. For thou shalt be his witness to all men of those things which
thou hast seen and heard.

22:16. And now why tarriest thou? Rise up and be baptized and wash away
thy sins, invoking his name.

22:17. And it came to pass, when I was come again to Jerusalem and was
praying in the temple, that I was in a trance,

22:18. And saw him saying unto me: Make haste and get thee quickly out
of Jerusalem: because they will not receive thy testimony concerning
me.

22:19. And I said: Lord, they know that I cast into prison and beat in
every synagogue them that believed in thee.

22:20. And when the blood of Stephen thy witness was shed, I stood by
and consented: and kept the garments of them that killed him.

22:21. And he said to me: Go, for unto the Gentiles afar off will I
send thee.

22:22. And they heard him until this word and then lifted up their
voice, saying: Away with such an one from the earth. For it is not fit
that he should live.

22:23. And as they cried out and threw off their garments and cast dust
into the air,

22:24. The tribune commanded him to be brought into the castle, and
that he should be scourged and tortured: to know for what cause they
did so cry out against him.

22:25. And when they had bound him with thongs, Paul saith to the
centurion that stood by him: Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that
is a Roman and uncondemned?

22:26. Which the centurion hearing, went to the tribune and told him,
saying: What art thou about to do? For this man is a Roman citizen.

22:27. And the tribune coming, said to him: Tell me. Art thou a Roman?
But he said: Yea.

22:28. And the tribune answered: I obtained the being free of this city
with a great sum. And Paul said: But I was born so.

22:29. Immediately therefore they departed from him that were about to
torture him. The tribune also was afraid after he understood that he
was a Roman citizen and because he had bound him.

22:30. But on the next day, meaning to know more diligently for what
cause he was accused by the Jews, he loosed him and commanded the
priests to come together and all the council: and, bringing forth Paul,
he set him before them.



Acts Chapter 23


Paul stands before the council. The Jews conspire his death. He is sent
away to Cesarea.

23:1. And Paul, looking upon the council, said: Men, brethren, I have
conversed with all good conscience before God until this present day.

23:2. And the high priest, Ananias, commanded them that stood by him to
strike him on the mouth.

23:3. Then Paul said to him: God shall strike thee, thou whited wall.
For, sittest thou to judge me according to the law and, contrary to the
law, commandest me to be struck?

23:4. And they that stood by said: Dost thou revile the high priest of
God?

23:5. And Paul said: I knew not, brethren, that he is the high priest.
For it is written: Thou shalt not speak evil of the prince of thy
people.

23:6. And Paul, knowing that the one part were Sadducees and the other
Pharisees, cried out in the council: Men, brethren, I am a Pharisee,
the son of Pharisees: concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead
I am called in question.

23:7. And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the
Pharisees and the Sadducees. And the multitude was divided.

23:8. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither
angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.

23:9. And there arose a great cry. And some of the Pharisees rising up,
strove, saying: We find no evil in this man. What if a spirit hath
spoken to him, or an angel?

23:10. And when there arose a great dissension, the tribune, fearing
lest Paul should be pulled in pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to
go down and to take him by force from among them and to bring him into
the castle.

23:11. And the night following, the Lord standing by him, said: Be
constant: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou
bear witness also at Rome.

23:12. And when day was come, some of the Jews gathered together and
bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor
drink till they killed Paul.

23:13. And they were more than forty men that had made this conspiracy.

23:14. Who came to the chief priests and the ancients and said: We have
bound ourselves under a great curse that we will eat nothing till we
have slain Paul.

23:15. Now therefore do you with the council signify to the tribune,
that he bring him forth to you, as if you meant to know something more
certain touching him. And we, before he come near, are ready to kill
him.

23:16. Which when Paul's sister's son had heard, of their lying in
wait, he came and entered into the castle and told Paul.

23:17. And Paul, calling to him one of the centurions, said: Bring this
young man to the tribune: for he hath some thing to tell him.

23:18. And he, taking him, brought him to the tribune and said: Paul,
the prisoner, desired me to bring this young man unto thee, who hath
some thing to say to thee.

23:19. And the tribune, taking him by the hand, went aside with him
privately and asked him: What is it that thou hast to tell me?

23:20. And he said: The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou
wouldst bring forth Paul to-morrow into the council, as if they meant
to inquire some thing more certain touching him.

23:21. But do not thou give credit to them: for there lie in wait for
him more than forty men of them, who have bound themselves by oath
neither to eat nor to drink, till they have killed him. And they are
now ready, looking for a promise from thee.

23:22. The tribune therefore dismissed the young man, charging him that
he should tell no man that he had made known these things unto him.

23:23. Then having called two centurions, he said to them: Make ready
two hundred soldiers to go as far as Caesarea: and seventy horsemen and
two hundred spearmen, for the third hour of the night.

23:24. And provide beasts, that they may set Paul on and bring him safe
to Felix the governor.

23:25. (For he feared lest perhaps the Jews might take him away by
force and kill him: and he should afterwards be slandered, as if he was
to take money.) And he wrote a letter after this manner:

23:26. Claudius Lysias to the most excellent governor, Felix, greeting:

23:27. This man, being taken by the Jews and ready to be killed by
them, I rescued, coming in with an army, understanding that he is a
Roman.

23:28. And meaning to know the cause which they objected unto him, I
brought him forth into their council.

23:29. Whom I found to be accused concerning questions of their law;
but having nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bands.

23:30. And when I was told of ambushes that they had prepared for him,
I sent him to thee, signifying also to his accusers to plead before
thee. Farewell.

23:31. Then the soldiers, according as it was commanded them, taking
Paul, brought him by night to Antipatris.

23:32. And the next day, leaving the horsemen to go with him, they
returned to the castle.

23:33. Who, when they were come to Caesarea and had delivered the
letter to the governor, did also present Paul before him.

23:34. And when he had read it and had asked of what province he was
and understood that he was of Cilicia:

23:35. I will hear thee, said he, when thy accusers come. And he
commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.



Acts Chapter 24


Paul defends his innocence before Felix the governor. He preaches the
faith to him.

24:1. And after five days, the high priest, Ananias, came down with
some ancients and one Tertullus, an orator, who went to the governor
against Paul.

24:2. And Paul being called for, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying:
Whereas, through thee we live in much peace and many things are
rectified by thy providence,

24:3. We accept it always and in all places, most excellent Felix, with
all thanksgiving.

24:4. But that I be no further tedious to thee, I desire thee of thy
clemency to hear us in a few words.

24:5. We have found this to be a pestilent man and raising seditions
among all the Jews throughout the world: and author of the sedition of
the sect of the Nazarenes.

24:6. Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom, we having
apprehended, would also have judged according to our law.

24:7. But Lysias the tribune, coming upon us with great violence, took
him away out of our hands;

24:8. Commanding his accusers to come to thee. Of whom thou mayest
thyself, by examination, have knowledge of all these things whereof we
accuse him.

24:9. And the Jews also added and said that these things were so.

24:10. Then Paul answered (the governor making a sign to him to speak):
Knowing that for many years thou hast been judge over this nation, I
will with good courage answer for myself.

24:11. For thou mayest understand that there are yet but twelve days
since I went up to adore in Jerusalem:

24:12. And neither in the temple did they find me disputing with any
man or causing any concourse of the people: neither in the synagogues,
nor in the city.

24:13. Neither can they prove unto thee the things whereof they now
accuse me.

24:14. But this I confess to thee that according to the way which they
call a heresy, so do I serve the Father and my God, believing all
things which are written in the law and the prophets:

24:15. Having hope in God, which these also themselves look for, that
there shall be a resurrection of the just and unjust.

24:16. And herein do I endeavour to have always a conscience without
offence, towards God and towards men.

24:17. Now after many years, I came to bring alms to my nation and
offerings and vows.

24:18. In which I was found purified in the temple: neither with
multitude nor with tumult.

24:19. But certain Jews of Asia, who ought to be present before thee
and to accuse, if they had anything against me:

24:20. Or let these men themselves say if they found in me any
iniquity, when standing before the council,

24:21. Except it be for this one voice only that I cried, standing
among them: Concerning the resurrection of the dead am I judged this
day by you.

24:22. And Felix put them off, having most certain knowledge of this
way, saying: When Lysias the tribune shall come down, I will hear you.

24:23. And he commanded a centurion to keep him: and that he should be
easy and that he should not prohibit any of his friends to minister
unto him.

24:24. And after some days, Felix, coming with Drusilla his wife, who
was a Jew, sent for Paul and heard of him the faith that is in Christ
Jesus.

24:25. And as he treated of justice and chastity and of the judgment to
come, Felix, being terrified, answered: For this time, go thy way: but
when I have a convenient time, I will send for thee.

24:26. Hoping also withal that money should be given him by Paul: for
which cause also oftentimes sending for him, he spoke with him.

24:27. But when two years were ended, Felix had for successor Portius
Festus. And Felix being willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul
bound.



Acts Chapter 25


Paul appeals to Caesar. King Agrippa desires to hear him.

25:1. Now when Festus was come into the province, after three days, he
went up to Jerusalem from Cesarea.

25:2. And the chief priests and principal men of the Jews went unto him
against Paul: and they besought him,

25:3. Requesting favour against him, that he would command him to be
brought to Jerusalem, laying wait to kill him in the way.

25:4. But Festus answered: That Paul was kept in Caesarea: and that he
himself would very shortly depart thither.

25:5. Let them, therefore, saith he, among you that are able, go down
with me and accuse him, if there be any crime in the man.

25:6. And having tarried among them no more than eight or ten days, he
went down to Caesarea. And the next day, he sat in the judgment seat
and commanded Paul to be brought.

25:7. Who being brought, the Jews stood about him, who were come down
from Jerusalem, objecting many and grievious causes, which they could
not prove:

25:8. Paul making answer for himself: Neither against the law of the
Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar, have I offended in
any thing.

25:9. But Festus, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, answering Paul,
said: Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem and there be judged of these things
before me?

25:10. Then Paul said: I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought
to be judged. To the Jews I have done no injury, as thou very well
knowest.

25:11. For if I have injured them or have committed any thing worthy of
death, I refuse not to die. But if there be none of these things
whereof they accuse me, no man may deliver me to them. I appeal to
Caesar.

25:12. Then Festus, having conferred with the council, answered: Hast
thou appealed to Caesar? To Caesar shalt thou go.

25:13. And after some days, king Agrippa and Bernice came down to
Caesarea, to salute Festus.

25:14. And as they tarried there many days, Festus told the king of
Paul, saying: A certain man was left prisoner by Felix.

25:15. About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the
ancients of the Jews came unto me, desiring condemnation against him.

25:16. To whom I answered: it is not the custom of the Romans to
condemn any man, before that he who is accused have his accusers
present and have liberty to make his answer, to clear himself of the
things laid to his charge.

25:17. When therefore they were come hither, without any delay, on the
day following, sitting in the judgment seat, I commanded the man to be
brought.

25:18. Against whom, when the accusers stood up, they brought no
accusation of this which I thought ill of:

25:19. But had certain questions of their own superstition against him,
and of one Jesus deceased, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

25:20. I therefore being in a doubt of this manner of question, asked
him whether he would go to Jerusalem and there be judged of these
things.

25:21. But Paul, appealing to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus,
I commanded him to be kept, till I might send him to Caesar.

25:22. And Agrippa said to Festus: I would also hear the man, myself.
To-morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him.

25:23. And on the next day, when Agrippa and Bernice were come with
great pomp and had entered into the hall of audience with the tribunes
and principal men of the city, at Festus' commandment, Paul was brought
forth.

25:24. And Festus saith: King Agrippa and all ye men who are here
present with us, you see this man, about whom all the multitude of the
Jews dealt with me at Jerusalem, requesting and crying out that he
ought not to live any longer.

25:25. Yet have I found nothing that he hath committed worthy of death.
But forasmuch as he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have
determined to send him.

25:26. Of whom I have nothing certain to write to my lord. For which
cause, I have brought him forth before you, and especially before thee,
O king Agrippa, that, examination being made, I may have what to write.

25:27. For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not to
signify the things laid to his charge.



Acts Chapter 26


Paul gives an account to Agrippa of his life, conversion and calling.

26:1. Then Agrippa said to Paul: Thou art permitted to speak for
thyself. Then Paul, stretching forth his hand, began to make his
answer.

26:2. I think myself happy, O king Agrippa, that I am to answer for
myself this day before thee, touching all the things whereof I am
accused by the Jews.

26:3. Especially as thou knowest all, both customs and questions, that
are among the Jews. Wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

26:4. And my life indeed from my youth, which was from the beginning
among my own nation in Jerusalem, all the Jews do know:

26:5. Having known me from the beginning (if they will give testimony)
that according to the most sure sect of our religion I lived, a
Pharisee.

26:6. And now for the hope of the promise that was made by God to the
fathers, do I stand subject to judgment:

26:7. Unto which, our twelve tribes, serving night and day, hope to
come. For which hope, O king, I am accused by the Jews.

26:8. Why should it be thought a thing incredible that God should raise
the dead?

26:9. And I indeed did formerly think that I ought to do many things
contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.

26:10. Which also I did at Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut
up in prison, having received authority of the chief priests. And when
they were put to death, I brought the sentence.

26:11. And oftentimes punishing them, in every synagogue, I compelled
them to blaspheme: and being yet more mad against them, I persecuted
them even unto foreign cities.

26:12. Whereupon, when I was going to Damascus with authority and
permission of the chief priest,

26:13. At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above
the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them that were in
company with me.

26:14. And when we were all fallen down on the ground, I heard a voice
speaking to me in the Hebrew tongue: Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou
me? It is hard for thee to kick against the good.

26:15. And I said: Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord answered: I am
Jesus whom thou persecutest.

26:16. But rise up and stand upon thy feet: for to this end have I
appeared to thee, that I may make thee a minister and a witness of
those things which thou hast seen and of those things wherein I will
appear to thee,

26:17. Delivering thee from the people and from the nations unto which
now I send thee:

26:18. To open their eyes, that they may be converted from darkness to
light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive
forgiveness of sins and a lot among the saints, by the faith that is in
me.

26:19. Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not incredulous to the heavenly
vision.

26:20. But to them first that are at Damascus and at Jerusalem, and
unto all the country of Judea, and to the Gentiles did I preach, that
they should do penance and turn to God, doing works worthy of penance.

26:21. For this cause, the Jews, when I was in the temple, having
apprehended me, went about to kill me.

26:22. But being aided by the help of God, I stand unto this day,
witnessing both to small and great, saying no other thing than those
which the prophets and Moses did say should come to pass:

26:23. That Christ should suffer and that he should be the first that
should rise from the dead and should shew light to the people and to
the Gentiles.

26:24. As he spoke these things and made his answer, Festus said with a
loud voice: Paul, thou art beside thyself: much learning doth make thee
mad.

26:25. And Paul said: I am not mad, most excellent Festus, but I speak
words of truth and soberness.

26:26. For the king knoweth of these things, to whom also I speak with
confidence. For I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden
from him. For neither was any of these things done in a corner.

26:27. Believest thou the prophets, O king Agrippa? I know that thou
believest.

26:28. And Agrippa said to Paul: In a little thou persuadest me to
become a Christian.

26:29. And Paul said: I would to God that both in a little and in much,
not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, should become such
as I also am, except these bands.

26:30. And the king rose up, and the governor and Bernice and they that
sat with them.

26:31. And when they were gone aside, they spoke among themselves,
saying: This man hath done nothing worthy of death or of bands.

26:32. And Agrippa said to Festus: This man might have been set at
liberty, if he had not appealed to Caesar.



Acts Chapter 27


Paul is shipped for Rome. His voyage and shipwreck.

27:1. And when it was determined that he should sail into Italy and
that Paul, with the other prisoners, should be delivered to a
centurion, named Julius, of the band Augusta,

27:2. Going on board a ship of Adrumetum, we launched, meaning to sail
by the coasts of Asia, Aristarchus, the Macedonian of Thessalonica,
continuing with us.

27:3. And the day following, we came to Sidon. And Julius, treating
Paul courteously, permitted him to go to his friends and to take care
of himself.

27:4. And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus,
because the winds were contrary.

27:5. And sailing over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to
Lystra, which is in Lycia.

27:6. And there, the centurion, finding a ship of Alexandria sailing
into Italy, removed us into it.

27:7. And when for many days we had sailed slowly and were scarce come
over against Gnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed near Crete by
Salmone.

27:8. And with much ado sailing by it, we came into a certain place,
which is called Good-havens, nigh to which was the city of Thalassa.

27:9. And when much time was spent and when sailing now was dangerous,
because the fast was now past, Paul comforted them,

27:10. Saying to them: Ye men, I see that the voyage beginneth to be
with injury and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also
of our lives.

27:11. But the centurion believed the pilot and the master of the ship,
more than those things which were said by Paul.

27:12. And whereas it was not a commodious haven to winter in, the
greatest part gave counsel to sail thence, if by any means they might
reach Phenice, to winter there, which is a haven of Crete, looking
towards the southwest and northwest.

27:13. And the south wind gently blowing, thinking that they had
obtained their purpose, when they had loosed from Asson, they sailed
close by Crete.

27:14. But not long after, there arose against it a tempestuous wind,
called Euroaquilo.

27:15. And when the ship was caught and could not bear up against the
wind, giving up the ship to the winds, we were driven.

27:16. And running under a certain island that is called Cauda, we had
much work to come by the boat.

27:17. Which being taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship:
and fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, they let down
the sail yard and so were driven.

27:18. And we, being mightily tossed with the tempest, the next day
they lightened the ship.

27:19. And the third day they cast out with their own hands the tacking
of the ship.

27:20. And when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and no
small storms lay on us, all hope of our being saved was now taken away.

27:21. And after they had fasted a long time, Paul standing forth in
the midst of them, said: You should indeed, O ye men, have hearkened
unto me and not have loosed from Crete and have gained this harm and
loss.

27:22. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer. For there shall be no
loss of any man's life among you, but only of the ship.

27:23. For an angel of God, whose I am and whom I serve, stood by me
this night,

27:24. Saying: Fear not, Paul, thou must be brought before Caesar; and
behold, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.

27:25. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it
shall so be, as it hath been told me.

27:26. And we must come unto a certain island.

27:27. But after the fourteenth night was come, as we were sailing in
Adria, about midnight, the shipmen deemed that they discovered some
country.

27:28. Who also sounding, found twenty fathoms: and going on a little
further, they found fifteen fathoms.

27:29. Then fearing lest we should fall upon rough places, they cast
four anchors out of the stern: and wished for the day.

27:30. But as the shipmen sought to fly out of the ship, having let
down the boat into the sea, under colour, as though they would have
cast anchors out of the forepart of the ship,

27:31. Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers: Except these
stay in the ship, you cannot be saved.

27:32. Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat and let her fall
off.

27:33. And when it began to be light, Paul besought them all to take
meat, saying: This day is the fourteenth day that you have waited and
continued fasting, taking nothing.

27:34. Wherefore, I pray you to take some meat for your health's sake:
for there shall not an hair of the head of any of you perish.

27:35. And when he had said these things, taking bread, he gave thanks
to God in the sight of them all. And when he had broken it, he began to
eat.

27:36. Then were they all of better cheer: and they also took some
meat.

27:37. And we were in all in the ship two hundred threescore and
sixteen souls.

27:38. And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, casting
the wheat into the sea.

27:39. And when it was day, they knew not the land. But they discovered
a certain creek that had a shore, into which they minded, if they
could, to thrust in the ship.

27:40. And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed
themselves to the sea, loosing withal the rudder bands. And hoisting up
the mainsail to the wind, they made towards shore.

27:41. And when we were fallen into a place where two seas met, they
run the ship aground. And the forepart indeed, sticking fast, remained
unmoveable: but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the
sea.

27:42. And the soldiers' counsel was that they should kill the
prisoners, lest any of them, swimming out should escape.

27:43. But the centurion, willing to save Paul, forbade it to be done.
And he commanded that they who could swim should cast themselves first
into the sea and save themselves and get to land.

27:44. And the rest, some they carried on boards and some on those
things that belonged to the ship. And so it came to pass that every
soul got safe to land.



Acts Chapter 28


Paul, after three months' stay in Melita, continues his voyage and
arrives at Rome. His conference there with the Jews.

28:1. And when we had escaped, then we knew that the island was called
Melita. But the barbarians shewed us no small courtesy.

28:2. For kindling a fire, they refreshed us all, because of the
present rain and of the cold.

28:3. And when Paul had gathered together a bundle of sticks and had
laid them on the fire, a viper, coming out of the heat, fastened on his
hand.

28:4. And when the barbarians saw the beast hanging on his hand, they
said one to another: Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, who, though he
hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance doth not suffer him to live.

28:5. And he indeed, shaking off the beast into the fire, suffered no
harm.

28:6. But they supposed that he would begin to swell up and that he
would suddenly fall down and die. But expecting long and seeing that
there came no harm to him, changing their minds, they said that he was
a god.

28:7. Now in these places were possessions of the chief man of the
island, named Publius: who, receiving us for three days, entertained us
courteously.

28:8. And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever
and of a bloody flux. To whom Paul entered in. And when he had prayed
and laid his hands on him, he healed him.

28:9. Which being done, all that had diseases in the island came and
were healed.

28:10. Who also honoured us with many honours: and when we were to set
sail, they laded us with such things as were necessary.

28:11. And after three months, we sailed in a ship of Alexandria, that
had wintered in the island, whose sign was the Castors.

28:12. And when we were come to Syracusa, we tarried there three days.

28:13. From thence, compassing by the shore, we came to Rhegium: and
after one day, the south wind blowing, we came the second day to
Puteoli:

28:14. Where, finding brethren, we were desired to tarry with them
seven days. And so we went to Rome.

28:15. And from thence, when the brethren had heard of us, they came to
meet us as far as Appii Forum and the Three Taverns. Whom when Paul
saw, he gave thanks to God and took courage.

28:16. And when we were come to Rome, Paul was suffered to dwell by
himself, with a soldier that kept him.

28:17. And after the third day, he called together the chief of the
Jews. And when they were assembled, he said to them: Men, brethren, I,
having done nothing against the people or the custom of our fathers,
was delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.

28:18. Who, when they had examined me, would have released me, for that
there was no cause of death in me.

28:19. But the Jews contradicting it, I was constrained to appeal unto
Caesar: not that I had anything to accuse my nation of.

28:20. For this cause therefore I desired to see you and to speak to
you. Because that for the hope of Israel, I am bound with this chain.

28:21. But they said to him: We neither received letters concerning
thee from Judea: neither did any of the brethren that came hither
relate or speak any evil of thee.

28:22. But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as
concerning this sect, we know that it is every where contradicted.

28:23. And when they had appointed him a day, there came very many to
him unto his lodgings. To whom he expounded, testifying the kingdom of
God and persuading them concerning Jesus, out of the law of Moses and
the prophets, from morning until evening.

28:24. And some believed the things that were said: but some believed
not.

28:25. And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, Paul
speaking this one word: Well did the Holy Ghost speak to our fathers by
Isaias the prophet,

28:26. Saying: Go to this people and say to them: With the ear you
shall hear and shall not understand: and seeing you shall see and shall
not perceive.

28:27. For the heart of this people is grown gross, and with their ears
have they heard heavily and their eyes they have shut, lest perhaps
they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand
with their heart and should be converted: and I should heal them.

28:28. Be it known therefore to you that this salvation of God is sent
to the Gentiles: and they will hear it.

28:29. And when he had said these things, the Jews went out from him,
having much reasoning among themselves.

28:30. And he remained two whole years in his own hired lodging: and he
received all that came in to him,

28:31. Preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which
concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, without
prohibition.




THE EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL THE APOSTLE TO THE ROMANS



St. Paul wrote this epistle at Corinth, when he was preparing to go to
Jerusalem with the charitable contributions collected in Achaia and
Macedonia for the relief of the Christians in Judea; which was about
twenty-four years after Our Lord's Ascension. It was written in Greek;
but at the same time translated into Latin, for the benefit of those
who did not understand that language. And though it is not the first of
his Epistles in the order of time, yet it is first placed on account of
sublimity of the matter contained in it, of the preeminence of the
place to which it was sent, and in veneration of the Church.



Romans Chapter 1


He commends the faith of the Romans, whom he longs to see. The
philosophy of the heathens, being void of faith and humility, betrayed
them into shameful sins.

1:1. Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle,
separated unto the gospel of God.

1:2. Which he had promised before, by his prophets, in the holy
scriptures,

1:3. Concerning his Son, who was made to him of the seed of David,
according to the flesh,

1:4. Who was predestinated the Son of God in power, according to the
spirit of sanctification, by the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ
from the dead:

Predestinated, etc. . .Christ as man, was predestinated to be the Son of
God: and declared to be so (as the apostle here signifies) first, by
power, that is, by his working stupendous miracles; secondly, by the
spirit of sanctification, that is, by his infinite sanctity; thirdly,
by his ressurection, or raising himself from the dead.

1:5. By whom we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to
the faith, in all nations, for his name:

1:6. Among whom are you also the called of Jesus Christ:

1:7. To all that are at Rome, the beloved of God, called to be saints.
Grace to you and peace, from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus
Christ.

1:8. First, I give thanks to my God, through Jesus Christ, for you all:
because your faith is spoken of in the whole world.

1:9. For God is my witness, whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of
his Son, that without ceasing I make a commemoration of you:

1:10. Always in my prayers making request, if by any means now at
length I may have a prosperous journey, by the will of God, to come
unto you.

1:11. For I long to see you that I may impart unto you some spiritual
grace, to strengthen you:

1:12. That is to say, that I may be comforted together in you by that
which is common to us both, your faith and mine.

1:13. And I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that I have often
purposed to come unto you (and have been hindered hitherto) that I
might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.

1:14. To the Greeks and to the barbarians, to the wise and to the
unwise, I am a debtor.

1:15. So (as much as is in me) I am ready to preach the gospel to you
also that are at Rome.

1:16. For I am not ashamed of the gospel. For it is the power of God
unto salvation to every one that believeth: to the Jew first and to the
Greek.

1:17. For the justice of God is revealed therein, from faith unto
faith, as it is written: The just man liveth by faith.

1:18. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all
ungodliness and injustice of those men that detain the truth of God in
injustice:

1:19. Because that which is known of God is manifest in them. For God
hath manifested it unto them.

1:20. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world
are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made. His
eternal power also and divinity: so that they are inexcusable.

1:21. Because that, when they knew God, they have not glorified him as
God or given thanks: but became vain in their thoughts. And their
foolish heart was darkened.

1:22. For, professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.

1:23. And they changed the glory of the incorruptible God into the
likeness of the image of a corruptible man and of birds, and of
fourfooted beasts and of creeping things.

1:24. Wherefore, God gave them up to the desires of their heart, unto
uncleanness: to dishonour their own bodies among themselves.

1:25. Who changed the truth of God into a lie and worshipped and served
the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

1:26. For this cause, God delivered them up to shameful affections. For
their women have changed the natural use into that use which is against
nature.

God delivered them up. . .Not by being author of their sins, but by
withdrawing his grace, and so permitting them, in punishment of their
pride, to fall into those shameful sins.

1:27. And, in like manner, the men also, leaving the natural use of the
women, have burned in their lusts, one towards another: men with men,
working that which is filthy and receiving in themselves the recompense
which was due to their error.

1:28. And as they liked not to have God in their knowledge, God
delivered them up to a reprobate sense, to do those things which are
not convenient.

1:29. Being filled with all iniquity, malice, fornication, avarice,
wickedness: full of envy, murder, contention, deceit, malignity:
whisperers,

1:30. Detractors, hateful to God, contumelious, proud, haughty,
inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

1:31. Foolish, dissolute: without affection, without fidelity, without
mercy.

1:32. Who, having known the justice of God, did not understand that
they who do such things, are worthy of death: and not only they that do
them, but they also that consent to them that do them.



Romans Chapter 2


The Jews are censured, who make their boast of the law and keep it not.
He declares who are the true Jews.

2:1. Wherefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that
judgest. For wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself. For
thou dost the same things which thou judgest.

2:2. For we know that the judgment of God is, according to truth,
against them that do such things.

2:3. And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them who do such
things and dost the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?

2:4. Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and patience and
longsuffering? Knowest thou not that the benignity of God leadeth thee
to penance?

2:5. But according to thy hardness and impenitent heart, thou
treasurest up to thyself wrath, against the day of wrath and revelation
of the just judgment of God:

2:6. Who will render to every man according to his works.

2:7. To them indeed who, according to patience in good work, seek glory
and honour and incorruption, eternal life:

2:8. But to them that are contentious and who obey not the truth but
give credit to iniquity, wrath and indignation.

2:9. Tribulation and anguish upon every soul of man that worketh evil:
of the Jew first, and also of the Greek.

2:10. But glory and honour and peace to every one that worketh good: to
the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

2:11. For there is no respect of persons with God.

2:12. For whosoever have sinned without the law shall perish without
the law: and whosoever have sinned in the law shall be judged by the
law.

2:13. For not the hearers of the law are just before God: but the doers
of the law shall be justified.

2:14. For when the Gentiles, who have not the law, do by nature those
things that are of the law; these, having not the law, are a law to
themselves.

2:15. Who shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their
conscience bearing witness to them: and their thoughts between
themselves accusing or also defending one another,

2:16. In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus
Christ, according to my gospel.

2:17. But if thou art called a Jew and restest in the law and makest
thy boast of God,

2:18. And knowest his will and approvest the more profitable things,
being instructed by the law:

2:19. Art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light
of them that are in darkness,

2:20. An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of infants, having the
form of knowledge and of truth in the law.

2:21. Thou therefore, that teachest another, teachest not thyself:
thou, that preachest that men should not steal, stealest.

2:22. Thou, that sayest men should not commit adultery, committest
adultery: thou, that abhorrest idols, committest sacrilege:

2:23. Thou, that makest thy boast of the law, by transgression of the
law dishonourest God.

2:24. (For the name of God through you is blasphemed among the
Gentiles, as it is written.)

2:25. Circumcision profiteth indeed, if thou keep the law: but if thou
be a transgressor of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.

2:26. If then, the uncircumcised keep the justices of the law, shall
not this uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

2:27. And shall not that which by nature is uncircumcision, if it
fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision art a
transgressor of the law?

2:28. For it is not he is a Jew, who is so outwardly: nor is that
circumcision which is outwardly in the flesh.

2:29. But he is a Jew that is one inwardly and the circumcision is that
of the heart, in the spirit not in the letter: whose praise is not of
men, but of God.



Romans Chapter 3




 


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