1:1
The former treatise have I made,
O Theophilus,
of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,
1:2
Until the day in which He was taken up,
after that He through the Holy Ghost had given commandments
unto the apostles whom He had chosen:
1:3
To whom also He shewed himself alive after his passion
by many infallible proofs,
being seen of them forty days,
and speaking of the things pertaining
to the kingdom of God:
1:4
And, being assembled together with them,
commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem,
but wait for the promise of the Father,
which, saith He, ye have heard of me.
1:5
For John truly baptized with water;
but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost
not many days hence.
1:6
When they therefore were come together,
they asked of Him, saying, Lord,
wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
1:7
And He said unto them,
It is not for you to know the times or the seasons,
which the Father hath put in His own power.
1:8
But ye shall receive power,
after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:
and ye shall be witnesses unto me
both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea,
and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
1:9
And when He had spoken these things,
while they beheld,
He was taken up;
and a cloud received Him out of their sight.
1:10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven
as He went up, behold,
two men stood by them in white apparel;
1:11
Which also said,
Ye men of Galilee,
why stand ye gazing up into heaven?
this same Jesus,
which is taken up from you into heaven,
shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.
1:12
Then returned they unto Jerusalem
from the mount called Olivet,
which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey.
1:13
And when they were come in,
they went up into an upper room,
where abode both Peter, and James, and John,
and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew,
and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus,
and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.
1:14
These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication,
with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus,
and with his brethren.
1:15
And in those days Peter
stood up in the midst of the disciples,
and said,
(the number of names together were about
an hundred and twenty,)
1:16
Men and brethren,
this scripture must needs have been fulfilled,
which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David
spake before concerning Judas,
which was guide to them that took Jesus.
1:17
For he was numbered with us,
and had obtained part of this ministry.
1:18
Now this man purchased a field
with the reward of iniquity;
and falling headlong,
he burst asunder in the midst,
and all his bowels gushed out.
1:19
And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem;
insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue,
Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.
1:20
For it is written in the book of Psalms,
Let his habitation be desolate,
and let no man dwell therein:
1:21
Wherefore of these men
which have companied with us all the time
that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,
1:22
Beginning from the baptism of John,
unto that same day that He was taken up from us,
must one be ordained
to be a witness with us of his resurrection.
1:23
And they appointed two,
Joseph called Barsabas,
who was surnamed
Justus,
and Matthias.
1:24
And they prayed, and said,
Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men,
shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,
1:25
That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship,
from which Judas by transgression fell,
that he might go to his own place.
1:26
And they gave forth their lots;
and the lot fell upon Matthias;
and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
CHAPTER TWO
2:1
And when the day of Pentecost was fully come,
they were all with one accord in one place.
2:2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty
wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
2:3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and
it sat upon each of them.
2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak
with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
2:5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of
every nation under heaven.
2:6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and
were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own
language.
2:7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another,
Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 2:8 And how hear we
every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? 2:9 Parthians, and
Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea,
and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 2:10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in
Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome,
Jews and proselytes, 2:11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak
in our tongues the wonderful works of God.
2:12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to
another, What meaneth this? 2:13 Others mocking said, These men are
full of new wine.
2:14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and
said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem,
be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: 2:15 For these are
not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the
day.
2:16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 2:17 And
it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of
my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall
prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall
dream dreams: 2:18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will
pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 2:19 And
I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath;
blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 2:20 The sun shall be turned
into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable
day of the Lord come: 2:21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever
shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
2:22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man
approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God
did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: 2:23 Him,
being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God,
ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: 2:24 Whom
God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was
not possible that he should be holden of it.
2:25 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always
before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be
moved: 2:26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad;
moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: 2:27 Because thou wilt not
leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see
corruption.
2:28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me
full of joy with thy countenance.
2:29 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch
David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us
unto this day.
2:30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an
oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh,
he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; 2:31 He seeing this
before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left
in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.
2:32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
2:33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having
received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed
forth this, which ye now see and hear.
2:34 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself,
The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 2:35 Until I
make thy foes thy footstool.
2:36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God
hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and
Christ.
2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and
said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren,
what shall we do? 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be
baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the
remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all
that are afar off, even as many as the LORD our God shall call.
2:40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save
yourselves from this untoward generation.
2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the
same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and
fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
2:43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were
done by the apostles.
2:44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
2:45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men,
as every man had need.
2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and
breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness
and singleness of heart, 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all
the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should
be saved.
CHAPTER THREE
3:1
Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the
hour of
prayer, being the ninth hour.
3:2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried,
whom
they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful,
to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; 3:3 Who seeing
Peter
and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.
3:4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look
on
us.
3:5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something
of
them.
3:6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as
I have
give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and
walk.
3:7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and
immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.
3:8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them
into
the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
3:9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God: 3:10
And they
knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of
the
temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that
which
had happened unto him.
3:11 And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John,
all the
people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's,
greatly wondering.
3:12 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men
of
Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on
us, as
though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?
3:13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of
our
fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and
denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to
let
him go.
3:14 But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer
to be granted unto you; 3:15 And killed the Prince of life, whom
God
hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.
3:16 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man
strong,
whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given
him
this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
3:17 And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it,
as did
also your rulers.
3:18 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth
of all
his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.
3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may
be
blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the
presence
of the Lord.
3:20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached
unto
you: 3:21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution
of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy
prophets since the world began.
3:22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the
Lord
your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him
shall
ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.
3:23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not
hear
that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.
3:24 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow
after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these
days.
3:25 Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant
which
God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed
shall
all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.
3:26 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent
him to
bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.
CHAPTER FOUR
4:1
And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain
of
the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, 4:2 Being grieved
that
they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection
from the dead.
4:3 And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the
next
day: for it was now eventide.
4:4 Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the
number
of the men was about five thousand.
4:5 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and
elders,
and scribes, 4:6 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and
John,
and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high
priest,
were gathered together at Jerusalem.
4:7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what
power, or by what name, have ye done this? 4:8 Then Peter, filled
with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people,
and
elders of Israel, 4:9 If we this day be examined of the good deed
done
to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; 4:10 Be it
known
unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name
of
Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from
the
dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
4:11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders,
which
is become the head of the corner.
4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none
other
name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived
that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and
they
took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
4:14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them,
they
could say nothing against it.
4:15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council,
they conferred among themselves, 4:16 Saying, What shall we do
to
these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by
them is
manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny
it.
4:17 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly
threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.
4:18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at
all nor
teach in the name of Jesus.
4:19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it
be
right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God,
judge ye.
4:20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and
heard.
4:21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go,
finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people:
for
all men glorified God for that which was done.
4:22 For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle
of
healing was shewed.
4:23 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported
all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.
4:24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God
with
one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven,
and
earth, and the sea, and all that in them is: 4:25 Who by the mouth
of
thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the
people
imagine vain things? 4:26 The kings of the earth stood up, and
the
rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his
Christ.
4:27 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast
anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and
the
people of Israel, were gathered together, 4:28 For to do whatsoever
thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.
4:29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto
thy
servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 4:30
By
stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders
may be
done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.
4:31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they
were
assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost,
and
they spake the word of God with boldness.
4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart
and of
one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which
he
possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
4:33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the
resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them
all.
4:34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many
as were
possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices
of the
things that were sold, 4:35 And laid them down at the apostles'
feet:
and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.
4:36 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which
is,
being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the
country of Cyprus, 4:37 Having land, sold it, and brought the
money,
and laid it at the apostles' feet.
CHAPTER FIVE
5:1
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold
a
possession, 5:2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also
being
privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles'
feet.
5:3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart
to lie
to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
5:4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was
sold,
was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing
in
thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
5:5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the
ghost:
and great fear came on all them that heard these things.
5:6 And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out,
and
buried him.
5:7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his
wife,
not knowing what was done, came in.
5:8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land
for
so much? And she said, Yea, for so much.
5:9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together
to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which
have
buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.
5:10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up
the
ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying
her forth, buried her by her husband.
5:11 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many
as
heard these things.
5:12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders
wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in
Solomon's porch.
5:13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the
people
magnified them.
5:14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes
both of
men and women.) 5:15 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick
into
the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least
the
shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.
5:16 There came also a multitude out of the cities round about
unto
Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with
unclean
spirits: and they were healed every one.
5:17 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with
him,
(which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with
indignation, 5:18 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put
them
in the common prison.
5:19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors,
and
brought them forth, and said, 5:20 Go, stand and speak in the
temple
to the people all the words of this life.
5:21 And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early
in
the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that
were
with him, and called the council together, and all the senate
of the
children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.
5:22 But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison,
they returned and told, 5:23 Saying, The prison truly found we
shut
with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors:
but when we had opened, we found no man within.
5:24 Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and
the
chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto
this
would grow.
5:25 Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom
ye put
in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.
5:26 Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them
without
violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been
stoned.
5:27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the
council:
and the high priest asked them, 5:28 Saying, Did not we straitly
command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold,
ye
have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring
this
man's blood upon us.
5:29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought
to
obey God rather than men.
5:30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and
hanged
on a tree.
5:31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and
a
Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of
sins.
5:32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also
the Holy
Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
5:33 When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took
counsel to slay them.
5:34 Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named
Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the
people,
and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space; 5:35 And
said
unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend
to
do as touching these men.
5:36 For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to
be
somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined
themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were
scattered, and brought to nought.
5:37 After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the
taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished;
and
all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.
5:38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them
alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come
to
nought: 5:39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest
haply
ye be found even to fight against God.
5:40 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles,
and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in
the name
of Jesus, and let them go.
5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing
that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
5:42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased
not to
teach and preach Jesus Christ.
CHAPTER SIX
6:1
And in those days, when the number of the disciples was
multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the
Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily
ministration.
6:2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto
them,
and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God,
and
serve tables.
6:3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest
report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint
over
this business.
6:4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the
ministry of the word.
6:5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose
Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip,
and
Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a
proselyte of Antioch: 6:6 Whom they set before the apostles: and
when
they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.
6:7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples
multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests
were obedient to the faith.
6:8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and
miracles among the people.
6:9 Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called
the
synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians,
and of
them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
6:10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit
by
which he spake.
6:11 Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak
blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.
6:12 And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes,
and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,
6:13 And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth
not to
speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:
6:14 For
we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy
this
place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.
6:15 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him,
saw
his face as it had been the face of an angel.
CHAPTER SEVEN
7:1
Then said the high priest, Are these things so? 7:2 And he
said,
Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared
unto
our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt
in
Charran, 7:3 And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and
from
thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee.
7:4 Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt
in
Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed
him
into this land, wherein ye now dwell.
7:5 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as
to set
his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for
a
possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.
7:6 And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in
a
strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and
entreat them evil four hundred years.
7:7 And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge,
said
God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this
place.
7:8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham
begat
Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob;
and
Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.
7:9 And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt:
but
God was with him, 7:10 And delivered him out of all his afflictions,
and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of
Egypt;
and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
7:11 Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan,
and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance.
7:12 But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent
out
our fathers first.
7:13 And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren;
and
Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh.
7:14 Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and
all his
kindred, threescore and fifteen souls.
7:15 So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers,
7:16 And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre
that
Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father
of
Sychem.
7:17 But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had
sworn
to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt, 7:18 Till
another
king arose, which knew not Joseph.
7:19 The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated
our
fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end
they
might not live.
7:20 In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and
nourished up in his father's house three months: 7:21 And when
he was
cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for
her
own son.
7:22 And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians,
and was
mighty in words and in deeds.
7:23 And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart
to
visit his brethren the children of Israel.
7:24 And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and
avenged
him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian: 7:25 For he supposed
his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would
deliver them: but they understood not.
7:26 And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove,
and
would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren;
why
do ye wrong one to another? 7:27 But he that did his neighbour
wrong
thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over
us?
7:28 Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?
7:29
Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land
of
Madian, where he begat two sons.
7:30 And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him
in the
wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire
in a
bush.
7:31 When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew
near
to behold it, the voice of the LORD came unto him, 7:32 Saying,
I am
the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac,
and
the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.
7:33 Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet:
for
the place where thou standest is holy ground.
7:34 I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people which
is in
Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver
them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt.
7:35 This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler
and a
judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by
the hand
of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.
7:36 He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and
signs
in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness
forty
years.
7:37 This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel,
A
prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren,
like unto me; him shall ye hear.
7:38 This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with
the
angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers:
who
received the lively oracles to give unto us: 7:39 To whom our
fathers
would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts
turned
back again into Egypt, 7:40 Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to
go
before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the
land of
Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.
7:41 And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice
unto
the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.
7:42 Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of
heaven;
as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel,
have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space
of
forty years in the wilderness? 7:43 Yea, ye took up the tabernacle
of
Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made
to
worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.
7:44 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness,
as
he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it
according to the fashion that he had seen.
7:45 Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus
into
the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the
face of
our fathers, unto the days of David; 7:46 Who found favour before
God,
and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.
7:47 But Solomon built him an house.
7:48 Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
as
saith the prophet, 7:49 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my
footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what
is the
place of my rest? 7:50 Hath not my hand made all these things?
7:51
Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always
resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.
7:52 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and
they
have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just
One; of
whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: 7:53 Who have
received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept
it.
7:54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart,
and
they gnashed on him with their teeth.
7:55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly
into
heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right
hand
of God, 7:56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the
Son
of man standing on the right hand of God.
7:57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their
ears,
and ran upon him with one accord, 7:58 And cast him out of the
city,
and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a
young
man's feet, whose name was Saul.
7:59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord
Jesus, receive my spirit.
7:60 And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay
not
this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
CHAPTER EIGHT
8:1
And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there
was
a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem;
and
they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea
and
Samaria, except the apostles.
8:2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great
lamentation over him.
8:3 As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every
house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.
8:4 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where
preaching the word.
8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached
Christ
unto them.
8:6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things
which
Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.
8:7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many
that
were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that
were
lame, were healed.
8:8 And there was great joy in that city.
8:9 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime
in the
same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving
out that himself was some great one: 8:10 To whom they all gave
heed,
from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great
power of
God.
8:11 And to him they had regard, because that of long time he
had
bewitched them with sorceries.
8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning
the
kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized,
both
men and women.
8:13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized,
he
continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and
signs
which were done.
8:14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that
Samaria
had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
8:15
Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might
receive the Holy Ghost: 8:16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none
of
them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
8:17
Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy
Ghost.
8:18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles'
hands
the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, 8:19 Saying,
Give me
also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive
the
Holy Ghost.
8:20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because
thou
hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.
8:21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart
is
not right in the sight of God.
8:22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if
perhaps
the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.
8:23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and
in
the bond of iniquity.
8:24 Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the LORD for me,
that
none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.
8:25 And they, when they had testified and preached the word of
the
Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages
of the Samaritans.
8:26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise,
and
go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem
unto
Gaza, which is desert.
8:27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an
eunuch
of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who
had the
charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,
8:28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the
prophet.
8:29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself
to
this chariot.
8:30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet
Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? 8:31
And he
said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired
Philip that he would come up and sit with him.
8:32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was
led as
a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer,
so
opened he not his mouth: 8:33 In his humiliation his judgment
was
taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life
is
taken from the earth.
8:34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of
whom
speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?
8:35
Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture,
and
preached unto him Jesus.
8:36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water:
and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to
be
baptized? 8:37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine
heart, thou mayest.
And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son
of
God.
8:38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went
down
both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized
him.
8:39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of
the
Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and
he went
on his way rejoicing.
8:40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached
in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.
CHAPTER NINE
9:1
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against
the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,
9:2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any
of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound
unto Jerusalem.
9:3
And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there
shined round about him a light from heaven: 9:4 And he fell to
the
earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest
thou me? 9:5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said,
I am
Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against
the
pricks.
9:6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou
have me
to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city,
and it
shall be told thee what thou must do.
9:7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing
a
voice, but seeing no man.
9:8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened,
he
saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into
Damascus.
9:9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor
drink.
9:10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias;
and
to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold,
I am
here, Lord.
9:11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street
which
is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one
called
Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 9:12 And hath seen in
a
vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on
him,
that he might receive his sight.
9:13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this
man,
how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 9:14 And
here
he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call
on thy
name.
9:15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen
vessel
unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the
children of Israel: 9:16 For I will shew him how great things
he must
suffer for my name's sake.
9:17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and
putting
his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that
appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that
thou
mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
9:18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales:
and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
9:19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then
was Saul
certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.
9:20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that
he is
the Son of God.
9:21 But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this
he that
destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came
hither
for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief
priests? 9:22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded
the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.
9:23 And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel
to
kill him: 9:24 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they
watched the gates day and night to kill him.
9:25 Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by
the
wall in a basket.
9:26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself
to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed
not
that he was a disciple.
9:27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and
declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that
he
had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus
in the
name of Jesus.
9:28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.
9:29 And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed
against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him.
9:30 Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea,
and sent him forth to Tarsus.
9:31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee
and
Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord,
and in
the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.
9:32 And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters,
he
came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda.
9:33 And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had
kept his
bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy.
9:34 And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee
whole:
arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately.
9:35 And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned
to the
Lord.
9:36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha,
which by
interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works
and
almsdeeds which she did.
9:37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and
died:
whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.
9:38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples
had
heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring
him
that he would not delay to come to them.
9:39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they
brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by
him
weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made,
while
she was with them.
9:40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed;
and
turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her
eyes:
and when she saw Peter, she sat up.
9:41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he
had
called the saints and widows, presented her alive.
9:42 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed
in the
Lord.
9:43 And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with
one
Simon a tanner.
CHAPTER TEN
10:1
There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion
of the band called the Italian band, 10:2 A devout man, and one
that
feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people,
and
prayed to God alway.
10:3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the
day an
angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.
10:4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What
is it,
Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come
up
for a memorial before God.
10:5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose
surname
is Peter: 10:6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house
is by
the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.
10:7 And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed,
he
called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of
them
that waited on him continually; 10:8 And when he had declared
all
these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.
10:9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh
unto
the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth
hour: 10:10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but
while
they made ready, he fell into a trance, 10:11 And saw heaven opened,
and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great
sheet
knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: 10:12 Wherein
were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts,
and creeping things, and fowls of the air.
10:13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.
10:14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any
thing
that is common or unclean.
10:15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What
God
hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
10:16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again
into
heaven.
10:17 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which
he had
seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius
had
made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, 10:18
And
called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were
lodged
there.
10:19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto
him,
Behold, three men seek thee.
10:20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting
nothing: for I have sent them.
10:21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him
from
Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the
cause
wherefore ye are come? 10:22 And they said, Cornelius the centurion,
a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among
all the
nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send
for
thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.
10:23 Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow
Peter
went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied
him.
10:24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius
waited for them, and he had called together his kinsmen and near
friends.
10:25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell
down at
his feet, and worshipped him.
10:26 But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am
a man.
10:27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that
were
come together.
10:28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful
thing
for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another
nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man
common
or unclean.
10:29 Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as
I was
sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?
10:30
And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour;
and
at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood
before me in bright clothing, 10:31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer
is
heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.
10:32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname
is
Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the
sea
side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.
10:33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well
done
that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before
God,
to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.
10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive
that God is no respecter of persons: 10:35 But in every nation
he that
feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
10:36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching
peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 10:37 That word, I
say, ye
know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from
Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 10:38 How God
anointed
Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went
about
doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil;
for God
was with him.
10:39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in
the land
of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a
tree:
10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
10:41
Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even
to
us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
10:42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify
that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick
and
dead.
10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name
whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
10:44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on
all
them which heard the word.
10:45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished,
as
many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was
poured
out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
10:46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God.
Then
answered Peter, 10:47 Can any man forbid water, that these should
not
be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
10:48
And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.
Then
prayed they him to tarry certain days.
CHAPTER ELEVEN
11:1
And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that
the Gentiles had also received the word of God.
11:2 And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of
the
circumcision contended with him, 11:3 Saying, Thou wentest in
to men
uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
11:4 But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded
it by order unto them, saying, 11:5 I was in the city of Joppa
praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend,
as
it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners;
and
it came even to me: 11:6 Upon the which when I had fastened mine
eyes,
I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild
beasts,
and creeping things, and fowls of the air.
11:7 And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and
eat.
11:8 But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath
at
any time entered into my mouth.
11:9 But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath
cleansed, that call not thou common.
11:10 And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again
into
heaven.
11:11 And, behold, immediately there were three men already come
unto
the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.
11:12 And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover
these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's
house: 11:13 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his
house,
which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for
Simon,
whose surname is Peter; 11:14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby
thou
and all thy house shall be saved.
11:15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as
on us
at the beginning.
11:16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said,
John
indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the
Holy
Ghost.
11:17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did
unto us,
who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could
withstand God? 11:18 When they heard these things, they held
their
peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles
granted repentance unto life.
11:19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution
that
arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and
Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
11:20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when
they
were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the LORD
Jesus.
11:21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number
believed, and turned unto the Lord.
11:22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church
which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he
should
go as far as Antioch.
11:23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad,
and
exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave
unto
the Lord.
11:24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of
faith:
and much people was added unto the Lord.
11:25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 11:26
And
when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came
to
pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church,
and
taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first
in
Antioch.
11:27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.
11:28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified
by
the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the
world:
which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
11:29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability,
determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:
11:30 Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands
of
Barnabas and Saul.