# Day 346

# Paul Is Dragged out of the Temple

Acts 21:27–22:1

Everything went well for Paul in the temple. At least, until the men from Asia found him. “Israelites, help!” they cried, grabbing Paul. “This is the man who is against Moses’ law and this temple. Look! He’s brought Gentiles here and made this holy place filthy!” The people rushed together and dragged Paul out of the temple.

Paul was about to be killed, but Roman soldiers rescued him. Then the captain arrested Paul and chained him. “Who’s this man?” asked the captain. “What’s he done?” Some in the crowd shouted one thing. Some shouted another. There was such an uproar that he couldn’t hear. Paul had to be carried off by the soldiers. “Away with him!” shouted the crowd.

At a safe distance from the crowd, Paul spoke to the captain. “I’m a Jew, a citizen of Tarsus. That’s an important Roman city. Please let me speak to the people.” The captain gave his permission.

Paul stood on the steps and signaled the crowd for silence. “Brothers and fathers,” he began, “listen to what I have to say.”

Questions: What did the men from Asia say Paul had done to the temple? What did Paul call his listeners when he began to speak?