Paul Seized In Jerusalem

After Paul went to extraordinary lengths to be purified according to Jewish law to attend the feast with two Jewish, Christian men, Paul's presence set off a riot despite his cautions. He was accused of bringing Gentiles into an area of the temple which did not allow Gentiles.

This accusation was false, but the emotional mob took action against Paul. We point to the narrative unity of Luke/Acts where Jesus, Stephen, and now Paul were so accused in regard to the temple. Jesus had predicted the destruction of the temple and that prediction was often used a grounds to attack Jesus' followers. We show how this was the case with Stephen.

Paul knew he was risking his life by taking the actions he did. Yet he was determined to bear witness to the gospel in Jerusalem and wherever else he would be taken as he appealed to Rome. We discuss archeological inscriptions which say that if any Gentile would pass a certain point he would die. The fact is that Paul did not bring any Gentile with him. Luke makes it clear that they had seen Paul with a Gentile earlier and made false assumptions.

I cite material from important scholars who help us understand what was going on in the larger context of Luke/Acts. Paul knew that he would bear witness before Jewish and Gentile authorities.

Stephen had been martyred in Paul's presence before Paul was converted. Now, Paul would be arrested and this will become the beginning of various opportunities to testify before Jews and Gentiles. He will end up in Rome.