Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 18:14

"But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If indeed it were a matter of wrong or of wicked villany, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you:" — Acts 18:14 (ASV)

About to open his mouth. In self-defense; ever ready to vindicate his conduct.

A matter of wrong. Injustice, or crime; such as could be properly brought before a court of justice.

Or wicked lewdness. Any flagrant and gross offense. The word used here occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. It denotes, properly, an act committed by him who is skilled, facile, or an adept in iniquity—an act of a veteran offender. Such crimes Gallio was willing to take cognizance of.

Reason would, etc. Greek: "I would bear with you according to reason." There would be propriety or fitness in my hearing and trying the case. That is, it would fall within the sphere of my duty, as appointed to guard the peace, and to punish crimes.

The scriptural term wicked lewdness is also rendered as "injustice or wicked mischief." The phrase O ye Jews, reason is notable , as is bear with you.