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But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, "If indeed it were a matter of wrong or of wicked crime, Jews, it would be reasonable that I should bear with you;

Verse Takeaways

1

A Pivotal Legal Victory

Commentators emphasize the profound importance of Gallio's decision. By dismissing the case as an internal Jewish religious dispute, he effectively set a legal precedent across the Roman Empire. This ruling treated Christianity as a legal religion (religio licita), protecting it from persecution and allowing the gospel to be preached freely for nearly a decade. This moment is seen as a crucial turning point for the early church.

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Book Overview

Acts

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Commentaries

7

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Acts 18:14

18th Century

Theologian

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

A matter of wrong. Injustice, or crime; such as coul…

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On Acts 18:14

When Paul was about to open his mouth (μελλοντος του Παυλου ανοιγειν το στομα). Genitive absolute again. Before Paul could speak, …

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Acts 18:14

19th Century

Bishop

When Paul was now about to open his mouth.—The phrase always implies, as has been noticed (see Note on Acts 8:35), the beginning of a set …

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Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Acts 18:13–15

19th Century

Preacher

Persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law. And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matte…

Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On Acts 18:14

The word “law” (GK 3795) in v.13 is somewhat ambiguous. Undoubtedly when it was first used by Paul’s antagonists in their synagogue, it referred to…

John Gill

John Gill

On Acts 18:14

17th Century

Pastor

And when Paul was now about to open his mouth
In his own defence, and plead his own cause, and answer to the charge …

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Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Acts 18:12–17

17th Century

Minister

Paul was about to show that he did not teach people to worship God contrary to the law; but the judge would not allow the Jews to complain to him a…