John Calvin Commentary Acts 23:27

"This man was seized by the Jews, and was about to be slain of them, when I came upon them with the soldiers and rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman." — Acts 23:27 (ASV)

This man being taken. This statement was made to the discredit of the Jews, so that he (the chief captain) might secure more favor for Paul by emphasizing that a man, a Roman, had been severely beaten by them and almost killed. He also commends Paul for the right and privilege of his citizenship, so that Paul might be treated more courteously.

Furthermore, this favorable treatment was not obtained by entreaty or flattery, nor was it bought with money. How did it happen, then, that the chief captain showed himself so courteous, and that freely, to an obscure man whom everyone hated, if not because the Lord had appointed him to be His servant’s protector? Therefore, we see how He governs the tongues and hands of unbelievers for the benefit of His own people.