Acts 21:40

Having received permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. A great hush came over the crowd, and he addressed them in Hebrew:

Study Bible

Having received permission
This phrase indicates the authority and order present in the situation. Paul, despite being a prisoner, respects the Roman authority by seeking permission to speak. The Greek word for "permission" (ἐπιτρέπω, epitrepō) implies a granting of authority or allowance. This reflects the Christian principle of respecting governmental authority as seen in Romans 13:1, where believers are encouraged to submit to governing authorities.

Paul stood on the steps
The steps here likely refer to the stairs leading from the Antonia Fortress to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Archaeological evidence suggests these steps were a common place for public addresses. Paul's position on the steps symbolizes a place of visibility and authority, reminiscent of Jesus teaching from elevated places, emphasizing the importance of proclaiming the Gospel boldly.

and motioned to the crowd for silence
The act of motioning for silence (Greek: κατασείω, kataseiō) is a gesture of authority and control. Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, commands the attention of the crowd, demonstrating the power of God to bring order and peace even in chaotic situations. This mirrors the peace that surpasses understanding, as described in Philippians 4:7.

When a great hush came over them
The "great hush" signifies a moment of divine intervention where God prepares the hearts of the listeners. The Greek word for "hush" (σιγή, sigē) indicates a profound silence, suggesting a readiness to hear something significant. This silence is reminiscent of the reverence and awe that often precedes a divine revelation, as seen in the Old Testament when God speaks to His people.

he addressed them in Hebrew
Paul's choice to speak in Hebrew (or Aramaic, as some scholars suggest) is significant. It shows his deep connection to his Jewish heritage and his desire to communicate effectively with his audience. By speaking in their native tongue, Paul demonstrates respect and a desire to connect on a cultural and spiritual level. This act reflects the Christian mission to meet people where they are, as Paul later writes in 1 Corinthians 9:20-22, becoming "all things to all people" to win them to Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
A key figure in the early Christian church, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus. He was a Pharisee and a Roman citizen who converted to Christianity after an encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. In this passage, Paul is about to address a hostile crowd in Jerusalem.

2. The Crowd
The people gathered in Jerusalem, many of whom were Jews who had become agitated due to misunderstandings about Paul's teachings and actions.

3. The Steps
Likely the steps of the Antonia Fortress, a military barracks in Jerusalem where Roman soldiers were stationed. This location provided Paul a platform to address the crowd.

4. The Hebrew Language
Paul chose to speak in Hebrew (or Aramaic, the common language of the Jews at the time) to connect with the Jewish audience, showing respect and understanding of their culture and heritage.

5. Jerusalem
The city where this event takes place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple.

Teaching Points

Cultural Sensitivity in Evangelism
Paul’s choice to speak in Hebrew demonstrates the importance of understanding and respecting the cultural and linguistic context of those we are trying to reach with the Gospel.

Courage in the Face of Opposition
Despite the hostility of the crowd, Paul stands firm in his mission. This teaches us to be bold and steadfast in sharing our faith, even when facing adversity.

The Power of Personal Testimony
Paul uses his personal account to connect with his audience. Our testimonies can be powerful tools in witnessing to others about the transformative power of Christ.

Seeking Peaceful Engagement
By motioning for silence and addressing the crowd calmly, Paul exemplifies the importance of seeking peaceful and respectful dialogue, even in tense situations.

God’s Sovereignty in Our Circumstances
Paul’s ability to speak to the crowd, despite the chaos, shows how God can provide opportunities for His message to be shared, even in challenging circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul’s use of the Hebrew language in Acts 21:40 demonstrate his strategic approach to evangelism, and how can we apply this principle in our own efforts to share the Gospel?

2. In what ways does Paul’s courage in addressing a hostile crowd inspire you to be bold in your faith? Can you think of a situation where you need to stand firm in your beliefs?

3. Reflect on a time when your personal testimony made an impact on someone. How can you use your account to further God’s kingdom?

4. How does Paul’s approach to the crowd in Acts 21:40 illustrate the importance of peaceful engagement? What are some practical ways you can apply this in your interactions with others?

5. Consider the role of God’s sovereignty in Paul’s situation. How can trusting in God’s control over your circumstances encourage you in your current challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 9
Paul's conversion account, which provides context for his mission and the transformation that led him to preach the Gospel.

Acts 22
The continuation of Paul's speech, where he shares his testimony and defends his mission.

Philippians 3:5-6
Paul describes his Jewish heritage and former zeal for the law, which is relevant to his ability to address the Jewish crowd effectively.

Romans 11:1
Paul affirms his identity as an Israelite, which is significant in understanding his approach to the Jewish audience in Acts 21:40.