The acts of the apostles written by S. Luke

The first Chapter.

    In my first treatise (Dear friend Theophilus) I have written of all that Iesus began to do and teach, until the day in the which he was taken up, after that he thorow the holy ghost, had given commandments unto the Apostles, which he chose: to whom also he shewed himself alive, after his passion by many tokens, appearing unto them forty days, and spake of the kingdom of God, and gathered them together, and commanded them, that they should not depart from Ierusalem: but to wait for the promise of the father, whereof ye have heard of me. For Ihon baptised with water but ye shall be baptised with the holy ghost, and that within this few days.

    When they were come together, they asked of him, saying: Master wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israhel? 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: but ye shall receive power of the holy ghost which shall come on you. And ye shall be witnesses unto me in Ierusalem, and in all Iewery, and in Samary, and even unto the world's end.

    And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld he was taken up, and a cloud received him up out of their sight. And as they fastened their eyes in heaven, as he went, lo two men stood by them in white clothing, which also said: ye men of Galile, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Iesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come, even as ye have seen him go into heaven.

    Then returned they unto Ierusalem from mount Olivete, which is nigh to Ierusalem, containing a saboth day's journey. And when they were come in, they went up into a parlour, where abode both Peter and Iames, Ihon and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartlemew and Matthew, Iames the son of Alpheus, and Simon Zelotes, and Iudas Iames' son. These all continued with one accord, in prayer, and supplication with the women, and Mary the mother of Iesu. And with his brethren.

    And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples and said (The number of names were about an hundred and twenty) Ye men and brethren, this scripture must needs be fulfilled which the holy ghost thorow the mouth of David spake before of Iudas, which was guide to them that took Iesus. For he was now numbered with us and obtained fellowship in this ministration. And the same hath now possessed a plot of ground with the reward of iniquity. And when he was hanged, burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. And it is known unto all the inhabiters of Ierusalem. Insomuch that that field is called in their mother tongue, Acheldema, that is to say the blood field.

    It is written in the book of psalms: His habitation be void, and no man be dwelling therein: and his bishopricke let another take. Wherefore of these men which have companied with us (all the time that the lord Iesus went out and in among us, beginning at the baptism of Ihon unto that same day that he was taken up from us) must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.

    And they appointed two, Ioseph called Barsabas (whose surname was Iustus) and Matthias. And they prayed saying: Thou lord which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether thou hast chosen of these two, that the one may take the room of this ministration, and apostleship from the which Iudas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots, and the lot fell on Mathias. And he was counted with the eleven apostles.

The second Chapter.

    When the fiftieth day was come, they were all with one accord gathered together in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as it had been the coming of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they sat. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues, as they had been fire, and it sat upon each of them: and they were all filled with the holy ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, even as the spirit gave them utterance.

    There were dwelling at Ierusalem jewes, devout men, which were of all nations under heaven. When this was noised about, the multitude came together and were astonied, because that every man heard them speak his own tongue. They wondered all, and marvelled saying among themselves: Look, are not all these which speak of Galile? And how hear we every man his own tongue wherein we were born? Parthians, Medes, and Elamites and the inhabiters of Mesopotamia, of Iury, Capadocia, Ponthus, and of Asia, Phrigia, Pamphlia, and of Egypt, and of the parts of Libia, which is beside Syrene, And strangers of Rome, Iewes and Proselites, greeks and Arabians: We have heard them speak with our own tongues the great works of God. They were all amazed, and wondered saying one to another: what meaneth this? Other mocked them saying: They are full of new wine.

    Peter stepped forth with the eleven, and lift up his voice, and said unto them: Ye men of Iewry, and all ye that inhabit Ierusalem: be this known unto you, and with your ears hear my words. These are not drunken, as ye wene: For it is yet but the third hour of the day: but this is that which was spoken by the prophet Ioel: It shall be in the last days (saith God) of my spirit I will pour out upon all flesh. And your sons, and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions. And your old men shall dream dreams. And on my servants, and on my hand maidens I will pour out of my spirit in those days, And they shall prophesy. And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and tokens in the earth beneath, blood and fire, and the vapour of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great, and notable day of the lord come. And the time shall come that whosoever shall call on the name of the lord, shall be saved. Ye men of Israhel, hear these words. Iesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you with miracles and wonders, and signs which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves know: him have ye taken by the hands of unrighteous persons, after he was delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, and have crucified and slain him, whom God hath raised up and lowsed the sorrows of death, because it was impossible that he should be holden of it. David speaketh of him: Aforehand, saw I God always before me: For he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad. Moreover also, my flesh shall rest in hope because thou shalt not leave my soul in hell, neither shalt suffer thy saint to see corruption. Thou hast shewed me the ways of life, Thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.

    Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David: For he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre remaineth with us unto his day. Therefore since he was a prophet, and knew that God had sworn with an oath to him, that the fruit of his loins should sit on his seat: He saw before, and spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul should not be left in hell: neither his flesh should see corruption. This Iesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.

    Since now that he by the right hand of God exalted is, and hath received of the father the promise of the holy Ghost, he hath shed forth that which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into heaven, but he said: The lord said to my lord sit on my right hand, until I make thy foes, thy foot stool. So therefore let all the house of Israhel know for a surety, that God hath made the same Iesus whom ye have crucified, lord and Christ.

    When they heard this, they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter, and unto the other apostles: Ye men and brethren, what shall we do? Peter said unto them: Repent and be baptised every one of you in the name of Iesus Christ, For the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the holy ghost. For the promise was made unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar, even as many as our lord God shall call. And with many other words bare he witness, and exhorted them saying: Save yourselves from this untoward generation. They that gladly received his preaching were baptised, And the same day, there were added unto them about a three thousand souls.

    And they continued in the Apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayer. And fear came over every soul. And many wonders and signs were shewed by the Apostles. And all that believed gathered then together, and had all things common. And sold their possessions and goods, and departed them to all men, as every man had need. And they continued daily with one accord in the temple, and brake bread in every house, and ate their meat together with gladness, and singleness of heart praising God, and had favour with all the people, and the lord added to the congregation daily them that should be saved.

The .iij. Chapter.

    Peter and Ihon went up together into the temple at the ninth hour of prayer: And there was a certain man halt from his mother's womb, whom they brought and laid at the gate of the temple called beautiful, to ask his alms of them that entered into the temple. When he saw Peter and Ihon, that they would into the temple, he desired to receive an alms, Peter fastened his eyes on him with Ihon and said: look on us, and he gave heed unto them, trusting to receive something of them. Then said Peter: Silver and gold have I none, such as I have give I thee. In the name of Iesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up. And immediately his feet and anklebones received strength, and he sprang, stood, and also walked, and entered with them into the temple walking, and leaping, and lauding God.

    And all the people saw him walk and laud God. And they knew him, that it was he which sat and begged at the beautiful gate of the temple. And they wondered, and were sore astonied at that which had happened unto him. As the halt which was healed held Peter and Ihon, all the people ran amazed unto them in Solomon's hall.

    When Peter saw that, he answered unto the people: Ye men of Israhell, why marvel ye at this? Or why look ye so steadfastly on us, as though by our own power, or holiness we had made this man go? God of Abraham, Isaac, and Iacob, the God of our fathers hath glorified his son Iesus, whom ye betrayed, and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had judged him to be lowsed: but ye denied the holy and just, and desired that he should give you a murderer, and killed the lord of life whom God hath raised from death, of the which we are witnesses: And his name thorow the faith of his name hath made this man sound whom ye see and know. And the faith which is by him, hath to this man given this health, in the presence of you all.

    And now brethren I wot well that thorow ignorance ye have done it, as did also your heads. But God which shewed before by the mouth of all his prophets that Christ should suffer, hath thuswise fulfilled it. Repent ye therefore and turn that your sins may be done away when the time of comfort cometh, which we shall have of the presence of the lord, and when God shall send him, which before was preached unto you, that is to wit Iesus Christ, which must heaven receive until the time that all things be restored again, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.

    For Moses said unto the fathers: A prophet shall your lord God raise up unto you, one of your brethren, like unto me, him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. For the time will come, that every soul which shall not hear that same prophet, shall be exiled from the people. Also all the prophets from Samuel, and thenceforth, as many as have spoken, have in likewise told of these days. Ye are the children of the prophets, and to you pertaineth the testament that God hath made unto our fathers saying to Abraham: Even in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. First unto you hath God raised up his son Iesus, and him he hath sent to bless you, that every one of you should turn from his wickedness.

The .iiij. Chapter.

    As they spake unto the people, the priests and the ruler of the temple, and the saduces came upon them, taking grievously that they taught the people and preached in the name of Iesus the resurrection from death. And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold until the next day. For it was now eventide. Many of them which heard the words believed, and the number of the men was about five thousand.

    It chanced on the morrow that their rulers, and seniors, and scribes, as Annas the chief priest, and Caiaphas, and Ihon and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Ierusalem, and set them in the midst, and asked by what power, or in what name have ye done this sirs? Then Peter full of the holy ghost said unto them. Ye rulers of the people, and seniors of Israhel, if we this day are examined of the good deed done to the sick man by what means he is made whole: be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israhel, that in the name of Iesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, and whom God raised from death again, this man standeth here present before you whole. This is the stone cast aside of you builders which is set in the chief place of the corner. Neither is there health in any other. Nor yet also is there any other name given to men wherein we must be saved.

    When they saw the boldness of Peter and Ihon, And knew that they were unlearned men and lay people, they marvelled, and they knew them, that they were with Iesu: Seeing also the man which was healed standing with them, they could not say against it, but commanded them to go aside out of the council, And counselled among themselves saying: what shall we do to these men? For a manifest sign is done by them, and is openly known to all them that dwell in Ierusalem, and we cannot deny it: But that it be noised no farther among the people, let us threaten and charge them that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.

    And they called them, and commanded them that in no wise they should speak or teach in the name of Iesu. But Peter and Ihon answered unto them and said: whether it be right in the sight of God to obey you more than God judge ye. For we cannot but speak that which we have seen and heard. So threatened they them and let them go, And found no thing how to punish them, because of the people: For all men lauded God for the miracle which was done. For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.

    As soon as they were let go they came to their fellows, and shewed all that the high priests and seniors had said. When they heard that, with one mind they lift up their voices to God and said: lord, thou art God which hast made heaven and earth, the sea and all that in them is, which by the mouth of thy servant David hast said: Why did the heathen grudge, and the people imagine vain things. The kings of the earth stood up and the rulers came together against the lord, And against his Christ.

    For of a truth against thy holy child Iesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod and also Pontius Pilate with the gentiles, and the people of Israhel, gathered themselves to gether for to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. And now lord behold their threatenings, and grant unto thy servants with all confidence to speak thy word. So that thou stretch forth thy hand that healing, and signs, and wonders be done by the name of thy holy child Iesus. And as soon as they had prayed, the place moved where they were assembled together, and they were all filled with the holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God boldly.

    The multitude of them that believed, were of one heart, And of one soul. Also none of them said, that any thing of those which he possessed was his own: But had all things common. And with great power gave the Apostles witness of the resurrection of the lord Iesu. And great grace was with them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked. For as many as were possessors of lands or houses, sold them and brought the price of the things that were sold, and laid it down at the Apostles' feet. And distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.

    And Ioses which was also called of the Apostles Barnabas (that is to say the son of consolation, being a Levite, and of the country of Cipers) had land, and sold it, and laid the price down at the Apostles' feet.

The .v. Chapter.

    A certain man named Ananias with Saphira his wife sold a possession, and kept away part of the price (his wife also being of counsel) and brought a certain part, and laid it down at the Apostles' feet. Then said Peter: Ananias how is it that Satan hath filled thine heart, that thou shouldest lie unto the holy ghost, and keep away part of the price of thy livelihood: Pertained it not unto thee only? And after it was sold, was not the price in thine own power? How is it that thou hast conceived this thing in thine heart? Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and gave up the ghost. And great fear came on all them that these things heard. And the young men rose up, and put him apart, and carried him out, and buried him. It fortuned as it were about the space of iij. hours after, that his wife came in ignorant of that which was done. Peter said unto her: Tell me, sold ye the land for so much? And she said: ye for so much. Peter said unto her: why have ye agreed together, to tempt the spirit of the lord? Lo, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out, Then she fell down straightway at his feet and yielded up the ghost. The young men came in and found her dead, and carried her out and buried her by her husband. And great fear came on all the congregation. And on as many as heard it.

    By the hands of the Apostles were many signs and wonders shewed among the people. And they were all together with one accord in Solomon's hall. And of other durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. The number of them that believed in the lord both of men and women grew more and more insomuch that they brought their sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and pallets, that at the leastway the shadow of Peter when he came by, might shadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Ierusalem, bringing with them sick and them which were vexed with unclean spirits. And they were healed every one.

    The chief priest rose up and they that were with him (which is the sect of the Saduces) and were full of indignation, and laid hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison: but the angel of the lord by night opened the prison door, and brought them forth, and said: go step forth, and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. When they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning and taught.

    The chief priest came and they that were with him and called a council together, and all the seniors of the children of Israhel, and sent to the prison to fetch them. When the ministers came and found them not in the prison, they came again and told saying: The prison found we shut with all diligence, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened we found no man within. When the chief priest of all and the ruler of the temple, and the high priests heard these things, they doubted of them, whereunto this would grow.

    Then came one and shewed them: Lo the men that ye put in prison stand in the temple, and preach to the people. Then went the ruler of the temple with ministers, and brought them without violence. For they feared the people lest they should have been stoned. And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the chief priest asked them saying: did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and behold ye have filled Ierusalem with your doctrine, and ye intend to bring this man's blood upon us.

    Peter and the other Apostles answered, and said: We ought more to obey God than men. The God of our fathers raised up Iesus, whom ye slew and hanged on tree. Him being a ruler and a saviour hath God exalted with his right hand, for to give repentance to Israhell and forgiveness of sins. And we are his records as concerning these things: and also the holy ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. When they heard that they clave asunder, and sought means to slay them. Then stood there up one in the council, a pharisee named Gamaliel, a doctor of law, had in authority among the people and commanded to put the Apostles aside a little space, and said unto them: Men of Israhell take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. Before these days rose up one Theudas boasting himself, to whom resorted a number of men, about a four hundred, which was slain, and they all which believed him were scattered abroad, and brought to nought. After this man arose there up one Iudas of Galile, in the time when tribute began, and drew away much people after him. He also perished: and all even as many as harkened to him are scattered a broad.

    And now I say unto you: refrain yourselves from these men, let them alone: For if this counsel or work be of men, it will come to nought: but and if it be of God, ye cannot destroy it, lest haply ye be found to strive against God. And to him they agreed, and called the apostles, and beat them, and commanded that they should not speak in the name of Iesu, and let them go.

    And they departed from the council rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer rebuke for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house they ceased not, teaching and preaching Iesus Christ.

The .vj. Chapter.

    In those days as the number of the disciples grew, there arose a grudge among the greeks against the Hebrews, because their widows were despised in the daily ministration. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples together and said: it is not meet that we should leave the word of God and serve at the tables, wherefore brethren look ye out among you seven men of honest report, and full of the holy ghost and wisdom, which we may appoint to this needful business: but we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministration of the word. And the saying pleased the whole multitude well. And they chose Stephen a man full of faith, and of the holy ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nichanor, and Timon, and Permenas, and Nicholas a proselite of Antioch, which they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.

    And the word of God increased, and the number of the disciples multiplied in Ierusalem greatly. And a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. Stephen full of faith and power did great wonders, and miracles among the people. Then there arose certain of the Synagogue, which are called libertines, and Sirenens, and Alexandrians, and Cilicilians, and Asians, and disputed with Steven. And they could not resist the wisdom, and the spirit, with which he spake. Then sent they in men which said: we have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God, and they moved the people, and the seniors, and the scribes: and they came upon him and caught him, and brought him to the council, and brought forth false witnesses which said: This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law, for we heard him say: This Iesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the ordinances which Moses gave unto us. And all that sat in the council looked steadfastly on him, and saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

The .vij. Chapter.

    Then said the chief priest: is it even so? And he said: ye men, brethren, and fathers, hearken to. The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham while he was yet in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, and said unto him: come out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew unto thee. Then came he out of the land of Caldey, and dwelt in Charran. And after that as soon as his father was dead, he brought him into this land, wherein ye now dwell, and he gave him none inheritance in it, no not one foot of ground. And promised that he would give it to him and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.

    God verily spake on this wise, thy seed shall be a dweller in a strange land, and they shall put them in bondage, and entreat them evil .iiij. C. years. 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. And gave him the testament of circumcision, and he begat Isaac, and circumcised him the viij. day, and Isaac begat Iacob, and Iacob the twelve patriarchs.

    And the patriarchs having indignation sold Ioseph into Egypt, and God was with him, and delivered him out of all his adversities, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharao king of Egypt, And Pharao made him governor over Egypt, and over all his household.

    Then came there a dearth over all the land of Egypt, and Canaan, and great affliction, that our fathers found no sustenance. When Iacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent our fathers first, and when he had sent them the second time, Ioseph was known of his brethren, and Ioseph's kindred was made known unto Pharao. Then sent Ioseph and caused his father to be brought and all his kin, three score and xv. souls. And Iacob descended into Egypt, and died both he and our fathers, and were translated into Sichem, and were put in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for money of the sons of Emor, at Sichem.

    When the time of the promise drew nigh (which God had promised with an oath to Abraham) the people grew and multiplied in Egypt till another king arose which knew not of Ioseph. The same dealt subtly with our kindred, and evil intreated our fathers, and made them to cast out their children, that they should not remain alive. The same time was Moses born, and was a proper child in the sight of God, which was nourished up in his father's house three months. When he was cast out Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him up for her own son. And Moses was learned in all manner wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in deeds and in words.

    When he was full forty year old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren, the children of Israhel. And when he saw one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged his quarrel that had the harm done to him, and smote the Egyptian. For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hands should give them health: but they understood not.

    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 hurt ye one another? But he that did his neighbour wrong, thrust him away saying: Who made thee a ruler and a judge among us? What wilt thou kill me, as thou didst the Egyptian yesterday? Then fled Moses at that word, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, Where he begat two sons.

    When xl. years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina the angel of the lord in a flame of fire in a bush. When Moses saw it he wondered at the sight, and as he drew near to behold it. And the voice of the lord came unto him: I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Iacob. Moses trembled and durst not behold. Then said the lord to him put off thy shoes from thy feet, for the place where thou standest is holy ground. I have perfectly 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 and I will send thee into Egypt.

    The same Moses whom they forsook saying: who made the a ruler and a judge: God sent both a ruler and a deliverer, by the hands of the angel which appeared to him in the bush. This man brought them out shewing wonders and signs in Egypt, and in the reed sea, and in the wilderness xl. years. This is that Moses which said unto the children of Israhell: A prophet shall your lord God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me, him shall ye hear.

    This is he that was in the congregation, in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers. This man received the word of life to give unto us, to whom our fathers would not obey: But cast it from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt, saying unto Aaron: Make us gods to go before us. For we wot not what is become of this Moses that brought us out of the land of Egypt. And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the image, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.

    Then God turned himself, and gave them up, that they should worship the stars of the sky, as it is written in the book of the prophets: O ye of the house of Israhell: have ye given unto me offerings or sacrifice, by the space of xl. years in the wilderness? And ye took unto you the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them. And I will translate you beyond Babylon.

    Our fathers had the tabernacle of testimony in the wilderness, as he had appointed them speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen, which tabernacle our fathers received, and brought it in with Iosue into the possession of the gentiles, which gentiles God drave out before the face of our fathers unto the time of David, which found favour before God, and desired that he might find a tabernacle for the God of Iacob. And Solomon built him an house.

    But he that is highest of all dwelleth not in temples made with hands, as saith the prophet: Heaven is my seat, and earth is my foot stool, what house will ye build for me saith the lord? or what resting place? hath not my hand made all these things? Ye stiffnecked and of uncircumcised hearts and ears: ye have allways resisted the holy ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? And they have slain them, which shewed before of the coming of that Just, whom ye have betrayed and murdered. And ye also have received a law by the ordinance of angels, and have not kept it.

    When they heard these things, their hearts clave asunder, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. He being full of the holy ghost looked up with his eyes into heaven and saw the majesty of God, and Iesus standing on the right hand of God, and said: lo, I see the heavens open, and the son of man stand on the right hand of God. Then they gave a shout with a loud voice, and stopped their ears and all ran upon him at once, and cast him out of the city, and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet named Saul. And they stoned Steven calling on and saying: lord Iesu receive my spirit. And he kneeled down and cried with a loud voice: lord impute not this sin unto them, For they wote not what they do. And when he had thus spoken he fell asleep.

The .viij. Chapter.

    Saul had pleasure in his death. At that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Ierusalem, and they were all scattered abroad thorowout the regions of Iury and Samaria, except the apostles. Then devout men dressed Steven, and made great lamentation over him. Saul made havoc of the congregation entering into every house, and drew out both man and woman, and thrust them into prison. They that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. Then came Philip into a city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people gave heed unto those things which Philip spake with one accord, in that they heard and saw the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits crying with loud voice, came out of many which were possessed of them. Many taken with palsies, and many that halted were healed. And there was great joy in that city. And there was a certain man called Simon, which beforetime in the same city, used witchcraft and bewitched the people, saying that he was a man that could do great things. Whom they regarded, from the least to the greatest saying: this fellow is that power of God, which is called great. Him they set much by, because of long time with sorcery he had deluded their wits. As soon as they believed Philips preaching of the kingdom of God and of the name of Iesu Christ, they were baptised both men and women. Then Simon himself believed and was baptised. And continued with Philip, and wondered beholding the miracles and signs, which were shewed.

    When the Apostles which were at Ierusalem heard say that Samaria had received the word of God: they sent unto them Peter and Ihon, which when they were come, prayed for them, that they might receive the holy ghost. For as yet he was come on none of them: But they were baptised only in the name of Christ Iesu. Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the holy ghost.

    When Simon saw that thorow laying on of the Apostles' hands on them, the holy ghost was given: he offered them money saying: Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the holy ghost. Then said Peter unto him: Perish thou and thy money together. For thou wenest that the gift of God may be obtained with money? thou hast neither part nor fellowship in this business. For thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God that the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art full of bitter gall, and wrapped in iniquity.

    Then answered Simon and said: Pray ye to the lord for me that none of these things which ye have spoken fall on me. And they when they had testified, and preached the word of the lord returned to Ierusalem and preached the gospel in many cities of the Samaritans.

    Then the angel of the lord spake unto Philip saying: Arise and go towards midday unto the way which leadeth from Ierusalem unto Gaza, which is in the desert. He arose and went on, and behold a man of Ethiopia which was gelded, and of great authority with Candace queen of the Ethiophians, which had the rule of all her treasure, came to Ierusalem for to pray. As he returned home again sitting in his chariot he read Esay the prophet.

    Then the spirit said unto Philip: Go near and join thyself to yonder chariot. Philip ran to him, and heard him read Esay the prophet and said: Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said: how can I, except I had a guide? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The tenor of the scripture which he read was this. He was led as a sheep to be slain: And like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth, in that he submitted himself, his judgement was exalted: who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. The gelded man answered Philip and said: I pray thee of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself? or of some other man?

    Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Iesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water, and the gelded man said: See here is water, what shall let me to be baptised? Philip said unto him: If thou believe with all thine heart, thou mayst. He answered saying: I believe that Iesus Christ is the son of God. And commanded the chariot to stand still. And they went down both into the water: both Philip and also the gelded man. And he baptised him. As soon as they were come out of the water the spirit of the lord caught away Philip. And the gelded man saw him no more. And he went on his way rejoicing: but Philip was found at Azotus. And he walked thorow out the country preaching in their cities, till he came to Cesarea.

The .ix. Chapter.

    Saul yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the lord, went unto the high priest, 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 Ierusalem. As he went on his journey, it fortuned that he drew nigh to Damascus, and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven. And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying to him: Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said what art thou lord? The lord said, I am Iesus whom thou persecutest, it shall be hard for thee to kick against the prick. He both trembling and astonied 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 shalt do.

    The men which accompanied him on his way stood amazed, for they heard a voice, but saw no man. Saul arose from the earth, And when he had opened his eyes he saw no man. Then led they him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was iij. days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

    There was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias, to him said the lord in a vision: Ananias. And he said: I am here lord. And the lord said to him: arise and go into the street which is called straight, and seek in the house of Iudas after one called Saul of the city of Tharsus. For behold he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in unto him, And putting his hands on him, that he might receive his sight.

    Ananias answered: lord I have heard by many of this man, how much hurt he hath done to thy saints at Ierusalem: and in this place he hath authority of the high priests to bind all that call on thy name. The lord said unto him: Go thy ways: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the gentiles, and kings and the children of Israhel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.

    Ananias went his way and entered into the house and put his hands on him and said: brother Saul, the lord 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. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales and he received his sight, and arose and was baptised. And received meat and was comforted.

    Then was Saul a certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the Synagogues how that he was the son of God. All that heard him were amazed and said: is not this he that spoiled them which called on this name in Ierusalem? And came hither for the intent that he should bring them bound unto the high priests? Saul increased in strength, And confounded the jews which dwelt at Damascus affirming that this was very Christ.

    After a good while, the jews took counsel together among themselves to kill him. But their layings wait were known of Saul. And they watched at the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and put him thorow the wall and let him down in a basket.

    When Saul came to Ierusalem he assayed to couple himself with the disciples, and they were all afraid of him and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and told them how he had seen the lord in the way and had spoken with him: and how he had done boldly at Damascus in the name of Iesu, And he had his conversation with them at Ierusalem, and quit himself boldly in the name of the lord Iesu. And he spake and disputed with the greeks and they went about to slay him. When the brethren knew of that, they brought him to Cesarea, and sent him forth to Tharsus. Then had the congregations rest thorowout all jewry and Galile and Samary, and were edified, and walked in the fear of the lord, And multiplied by the comfort of the holy ghost.

    It chanced that as Peter walked throughout all quarters, he came to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Eneas, which had kept his bed viij. years sick of the palsy. Then said Peter unto him: Eneas, the lord Iesus Christ make thee whole: Arise and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Assaron, saw him, and turned to the lord.

    There was at Ioppa a certain woman (which was a disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas) she was full of good works and alms deeds, which she did. It chanced in those days that she was sick and died. When they had washed her and laid her in a chamber: Because Lydda was nigh to Ioppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him, desiring him that he would not be grieved to come unto them.

    Peter arose and came with them: when he was come, they brought him into the chamber, and all the widows stood round about him weeping and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made while she was with them. Peter put them all forth and kneeled down and prayed and turned him to the body, and said: Tabitha, arise. She opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and lift her up, and called the saints and widows and shewed her alive. And it was known thorow out all Ioppa, and many believed on the lord. And it fortuned that he tarried many days in Ioppa with one Simon a tanner.

The .x. Chapter.

    There was a certain man in Cesarea called Cornelius, a captain of the soldiers of Italy, a devout man, and one that feared God with all his household, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed God always. The same man saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day the angel of God coming in unto him, and saying unto him: Cornelius, when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said: what is it lord? He said unto him: Thy prayers and thy alms are come up into remembrance in the presence of God. And now send men to Ioppa, and call for one Simon named also Peter. He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the seaside. He shall tell thee, what thou oughtest to do. When the Angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him, to whom he told all the matter, and sent them to Ioppa.

    On the morrow as they went on their journey and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up into the uppermost part of the house to pray, about the vj. hour. Then waxed he an hungered, and would have eaten. while they made ready for him. He fell into a trance, and saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel come down unto him, as it had been a great sheet, knit at the iiij. corners, and was let down to the earth, wherein were all manner of iiij. footed beasts of the earth and vermin and worms, and fouls of the air. And a voice spake unto him from heaven: Rise Peter Kill and eat. Peter said: God forbid lord, for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. And the voice spake unto him again the second time: What God hath cleansed that make thou not common. This was done thrice, And the vessel was received up again into heaven.

    While Peter mused in himself what this vision which he had seen meant, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius, had made inquirance for Simon's house, and stood before the door. And called out one and asked whether Simon which was also called Peter, were lodged there. While Peter thought on this vision, the spirit said unto him: Lo, men seek thee: arise therefore, get thee down, and go with them, and doubt not. For I have sent them. Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius, and said: Lo, I am he, whom ye seek, what is the cause wherefore ye are come? They said unto him: Cornelius the captain a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the people of the jews was warned by an holy angel, to send for thee in to his house, and to hear words of thee. Then called he them in, and lodged them.

    On the morrow Peter went with them, and certain brethren from Ioppa accompanied him. And the third day entered they into Cesaria. Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen, and special friends. And as it chanced Peter to come in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. Peter took him up, saying: Even I myself am a man. And as he talked with him he came in, and found many that were come together. And he said unto them: Ye do know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a jew to company or come unto an alien: But God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean: therefore came I unto you without scruple, as soon as I was sent for. I ask therefore: for what intent have ye sent for me?

    And Cornelius said: This day now. iiij. days I fasted, and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, and said: Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms deeds are had in remembrance in the sight of God. Send therefore to Ioppa, and call for Simon which is also called Peter. He is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the seaside, the which as soon as he is come, shall speak unto thee. Then sent I for thee immediately, and thou hast well done for to come. Now are we all here, present before God to hear all things that are commanded unto thee of God.

    Peter opened his mouth and said: Of a truth I perceive, that God is not partial, but in all people he that feareth him and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

    Ye know the preaching that God sent unto the children of Israhell, preaching peace by Iesus Christe (which is lord over all things.) which preaching was published thorowout all Iewery, and began in Galile, after the baptism preached by Ihon, After that God had anointed Iesus of Nazareth with the holy ghost, and with power, he went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed with devils, for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did in the land of the jewes and at Ierusalem, whom they slew, and hung on tree. Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly, not to all the people, but unto us witnesses chosen before of God, which ate and drank with him, after he arose from death. And he commanded us to preach unto the people and testify, that it is he that is ordained of God a judge of quick and dead. To him giveth all the prophets witness, that thorow his name shall receive remission of sins all that believe in him.

    While Peter yet spake these words, the holy ghost fell on all them which heard his preaching. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonied, as many as came with Peter, because that on the gentiles also was shed out the gift of the holy ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter: can any man forbid water that these should not be baptised, which have received the holy ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptised in the name of the lord. Then prayed they him, to tarry a few days.

The .xj. Chapter.

    It came to the ears of the Apostles and the brethren which were in jewry, that the heathen also had received the word of God. When Peter was come up to Ierusalem, they of the circumcision disputed with him, saying: Thou wentest in unto men uncircumcised, and atest with them.

    Peter began and expounded the thing in order to them saying: I was in the city of Ioppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a large linen cloth, let down from heaven by the four corners, And it came to me: into the which when I had fastened mine eyes I considered and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and vermin and worms, and fowls of the air. I heard also a voice saying unto me: Arise Peter, slay and eat. And I said: God forbid lord, for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. The voice answered me again from heaven count not thou those things common, which God hath cleansed. And this was done three times. And all were taken up again into heaven.

    And behold immediately were there three men come unto the house where I was, sent from Cesarea unto me. And the spirit said unto me, that I should go with them, without doubting. Moreover the six brethren accompanied me. And we entered into the man's house. And he shewed us, how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said to him: Send men to Ioppa, and call for Simon, named also Peter he shall tell thee words, whereby both thou and all thine house shall be saved. And as I began to preach, the holy ghost fell on them, as he did on us at the beginning. Then came to my remembrance the words of the lord, how he said: Ihon baptised with water, but ye shall be baptised with the holy ghost. Forasmuch then as God gave them like gifts, as he did unto us, when we believed on the lord Iesus Christ: what was I that I should have withstood God? when they heard this, they held their peace and glorified God, saying: Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

    They which were scattered abroad thorow the affliction that arose about Steven, walked thorow out till they came unto Phenice and Cypers and Antioche, preaching the word to no man, but unto the jews only. Some of them were men of Cypers and of Syrene, which when they were come into Antioch, spake unto the greeks, and preached the lord Iesus. And the hand of the lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned unto the lord.

    Tidings of this came unto the ears of the congregation, which was in Ierusalem, And they sent forth Barnabas that he should go unto Antioche. Which when he was come, and had seen the grace of the lord, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would continually cleave unto the lord. For he was a perfect man, and full of the holy ghost and of faith. And much people was added unto the lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioche. And it chanced that a whole year they had their conversation with the congregation there, and taught much people insomuch that the disciples of Antioche were the first that were called Christen.

    In those days came prophets from Ierusalem unto Antioche. 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 Emperor Claudius days. Then the disciples every man according to his ability, purposed to send succour unto the brethren which dwelt in jewry, which thing they also did, and sent it to the seniors, by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

The .xij. Chapter.

    In that time Herod the king layed hands on certain of the congregation, to vex them. And he killed Iames the brother of Ihon with a sword: and because he saw that it pleased the jews, he proceeded further, to take Peter also. Then were the days of unleavened bread, and when he had caught him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to iiij. quaternions of soldiers to be kept, intending after ester to bring him forth to the people. Then was Peter kept in prison. But prayer was made without ceasing of the congregation unto God for him. When Herod would have brought him out unto the people, the same night slept Peter between ij. soldiers, bound with two chains, And the keepers before the door kept the prison.

    And behold the angel of the lord was there present, and a light shined in the lodge. And he smote Peter on the side, and stirred him up saying: arise up quickly. And the chains fell off from his hands. And the Angel said unto him: gird thyself and bind on thy sandals, And so he did. And he said unto him: cast on thy mantle about thee, and follow me. And he came out and followed him, and wist not, that it was truth which was done by the angel, but thought he had seen a vision. When they were past the first and the second watch, they came unto the iron gate, that leadeth unto the city, which opened to them by his own accord. And they went out and passed thorow one street, and by and by the angel departed from him.

    And when Peter was come to himself, he said: now I know of a surety, that the lord hath sent his Angel, and hath delivered me from the hand of Herod, and from all the waiting for of the people of the jewes. And as he considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of one Ihon, which was called Mark also, where many were gathered together in prayer. As Peter knocked at the entry door, a damsel came forth to hearken, named Rhoda. And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the entry for gladness, but ran in and told how Peter stood before the entry. And they said unto her: thou art mad. And she bare them down that it was even so. Then said they: it is his angel. Peter continued knocking: When they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonied. He beckoned unto them with his hand to hold their peace, and told them by what means the lord had brought him out of the prison. And said: go shew this unto Iames and to the brethren. And he departed and went into another place.

    As soon as it was day there was no little ado among the soldiers, what was become of Peter. When Herod had called for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded to depart. And he descended from Iewry to Cesarea, and there abode. Herod was displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon. And they came all at once, and made intercession unto Blastus the king's chamberlain, and desired peace, because their country was nourished by the king's land. Upon a day appointed, the king arrayed him in royal apparel, and set him in his seat, and made an oration unto them. And the people gave a shout, saying: It is the voice of a God and not of a man. And immediately the angel of the lord smote him, because he gave not God the honour, and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.

    And the word of God grew and multiplied. And Barnabas and Saul returned to Ierusalem, and fulfilled their office, and took with them Ihon, which was also called Marcus.

The .xiij. Chapter.

There were at Antioche, in the congregation, prophets and doctors, as Barnabas and Simeonb called Nyger, And Lucius of Cerene, and Manahen Herod the tetrarkes nursefellow, and Saul. As they served God, and fasted, The holy ghost said: separate me Barnabas and Saul, for the work whereunto I have called them. Then fasted they and prayed, and put their hands on them, and let them go.

    And they after they were sent of the holy ghost, came unto Seleutia, and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. And when they were come to Solamine, they shewed the word of God in the synagogues, unto the jewes. And they had Ihon to their minister.

    When they had gone over all the Isle unto the city of Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet which was a jewe, named Bariesu, which was with the ruler of the country one Sergius Paulus a prudent man. The same ruler called unto him Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God. The sorcerer Elemas (for so was his name by interpretation) withstood them, and sought to turn away the ruler from the faith. Then Saul which also is called Paul being full of the holy ghost, set his eyes on him, and said: O full of all subtlety and deceitfulness the child of the devil, and the enemy of all righteousness thou ceasest not to pervert the straight ways of the lord. And now behold the hand of the lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind and not see the sun for a season. And immediately fell on him a mist and a darkness, And he went about seeking, them that should lead him by the hand. Then the ruler when he saw what had happened, believed, and wondered at doctrine of the lord.

    When Paul and they that were with him, had shipped from Paphus, they came to Perga a city of Pamphilia. There departed Ihon from them, and returned to Ierusalem. But they wandered thorow the countries, from Perga to Antioche a city of the country of Pisidia, and went into the synagoge on the saboth day, and sat down. After the lecture of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them saying: Ye men and brethren, if ye have any sermon to exhort the people, say on.

    Paul stood up and beckoned with his hand and said: Men of Israhel, and ye that fear God, give audience. The God of this people chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with a mighty arm brought them out of it, and about the time of. xl. years, suffered he their manners in the wilderness. And he destroyed vij. nations in the land of Canaan, and divided their land to them by Lott. And afterward he gave unto them judges about the space of. iiij.C. and l. years unto the time of Samuel the prophet. And after that they desired a king, and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of xl. years. And after he had put him down, he set up David to be their king, to whom he gave witness, saying: I have found David the son of Iesse, a man after mine own heart, he shall fulfil all my will.

    Of this man's seed hath God (according to his promise) brought forth to the people of Israel a saviour, one Iesus, when Ihon had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to Israhel. When Ihon had fulfilled his course, he said: Whom ye think that I am? the same am I not, but behold there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to lowse.

    Ye men and brethren, children of the generation off Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is this word of health sent. The inhabiters of Ierusalem, and their rulers because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every saboth day, have fulfilled them in condemning him. And when they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate to kill him. And when they had fulfilled all that were written of him, they took him down from the tree and put him in a sepulchre: But God raised him again from death, and he was seen many days of them, which came with him from Galile to Ierusalem which are his witnesses unto the people.

    And we declare unto you, how that the promise made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled unto us the children, in that he raised up Iesus again, even as it is written in the first {other second} psalm: Thou art my son, this same day begat I thee. As concerning that he so raised him up from death, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise: The holy promises made to David I will keep faithfully. Wherefore he saith also in another place: Thou shalt not suffer thy saincte to see corruption. For David after he had in his time fulfilled the will of God, he slept, and was laid with his fathers, and saw corruption. But he whom God raised again, saw no corruption.

    Be it known unto you therefore ye men and brethren, that thorow this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins, And by him are all that believe justified from all things from the which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. Beware therefore lest that fall on you, which is spoken of in the prophets: Behold ye despisers, and wonder, and perish ye: for I do a work in your days, which ye shall not believe, if a man would declare it you.

    When the jews were gone out of the Synagogue, the gentiles besought them that they would preach the word to them between the saboth days. When the congregation was broken up, many of the jews and virtuous proselites followed Paul and Barnabas, which spake to them and exhorted them to continue in the grace of God.

    And the next saboth day came Almost the whole city together to hear the word of God. When the jews saw the people, they were full of indignation and spake against those things which were spoken of Paul, They spake against it, and dispraised it, rayling on it. Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said: it was meet that the word of God should first have been preached to you. But seeing ye put it from you, and think yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the gentiles. For so hath the lord commanded us: I have made thee a light to the gentiles, that thou be health unto the end of the world.

    The gentiles heard, and were glad and glorified the word of the lord, and believed even as many as were ordained unto eternal life. And the word of the lord was published thorowout all the region. But the jews moved the worshipful and honorable women, and the chief men of the city. And raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts. But they shook off the dust off their feet against them, and came unto Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the holy ghost.

The .xiiij. Chapter.

    It fortuned in Iconium that they went both together into the synagogue of the jewes, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the jewes and also of the greeks believed. But the unbelieving jews, stirred up and unquieted the minds of the gentiles against the brethren. Long time abode they there and quit themselves boldly with the help of the lord, the which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, And caused signs and wonders to be done by their hands. The people of city were divided: and part held with the jews, and part with the Apostles.

    When there was a fault made both of the gentiles and also of the jewes with their rulers, to put them to shame and to stone them, they were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derba, cities of Licaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about, and there preached the gospell. And there sat a certain man at Lystra weak in his feet, being halt from his mother's womb, and never walked. The same heard Paul preach, which beheld him and perceived that he had faith to be whole, and said with a loud voice: stand upright on thy feet. And he started up, and walked. When the people saw what Paul had done, they lift up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia: Goddes are come down to us in the likeness of men. And they called Barnabas, Iupiter, and Paul Mercurius, because he was the preacher. Then Iupiters priest, which dwelt before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the church porch, and would have done sacrifice with the people. When the Apostles, Barnabas and Paul heard that, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying and saying: sirs, why do ye this? We are mortal men like unto you, and preach unto you, that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven and earth and the sea and all that in them is, the which in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he shewed his benefits, in giving us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. And with these sayings, scarce refrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.

    Thither came certain jews from Antioche and Iconium, and obtained the peoples' consent and stoned Paul, and drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. As the disciples stood round about him, he arose up and came into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derba. After they had preached to that city, and taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium and Antioche, and strengthened the disciples souls, exhorting them to continue in the faith, affirming that we must thorow much adversity enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them seniors by election in every congregation, after they had prayed and fasted, they commended them to God on whom they believed.

    And they went over all Pisidia and came into Pamphilia, and when they had preached the word of God in Perga, they descended into Attalia, and thence departed by ship to Antioche, from whence they were delivered unto the grace of God, to the work which they had fulfilled. When they were come and had gathered the congregation together, they rehearsed all that God had done by them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. And there they abode long time with the disciples.

The .xv. Chapter.

    And there came certain from jewry and taught the brethren: except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses ye cannot be saved. Then arose there dissension and disputing not a little unto Paul and Barnabas against them. And they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain other of them should ascend to Ierusalem unto the Apostles and seniors about this question. After they were brought on their way by the congregation, they passed over Phenices and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles, and they brought great joy unto all the brethren. When they were come to Ierusalem they were received of the congregation and of the apostles and seniors. And they declared what things God had done by them. Then arose there up certain of the sect of the pharisees, which did believe saying that it was needful to circumcise them and to enjoin them to keep the law of Moses. The Apostles and seniors came together to reason of this matter.

    When there was much disputing, Peter rose up and said unto them: Ye men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago, God chose among us that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospell and believe. And God which knoweth the heart, bare them witness, and gave unto them the holy ghost, even as he did unto us, And he put no difference between them and us, and with faith purified their hearts. Now therefore why tempt ye God, that ye would put a yoke on the disciples necks which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear: But we believe that thorow the grace of the lord Iesu Christ we shall be saved as they do. Then all the multitude was peaced and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul which told what signs and wonders God had shewed among the gentiles by them. As soon as they held their peace, Iames answered saying: Men and brethren hearken unto me, Simeon told how God at the beginning did visit the gentiles, and received of them people unto his name. And to this agreeth the words of the prophets, as it is written: After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down, and that which is fallen in decay of it will I build again and I will set it up, that the residue of men might seek after the lord, and also the Gentiles upon whom my name is called saith the lord, which doth all these things: known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them which of the gentiles are turned to God: but that we write unto them, that they abstain themselves from filthiness of images, from fornication, from strangled, and from blood. For Moses of old time in every city hath them that preach him, and he is read in the synagogues every saboth day.

    Then pleased it the apostles and seniors with the whole congregation to send chosen men of their own company to Antioche with Paul and Barnabas. They sent Iudas called also Barsabas and Silas which were chief men among the brethren and gave them letters in their hands after this manner.

    The Apostles, seniors and brethren send greetings unto the brethren which are of the gentiles in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia. Forasmuch as we have heard that certain which departed from us, have troubled you with words, and cumbered your minds saying: Ye must be circumcised and keep the law, to whom we gave no such commandment. It seemed therefore to us a good thing, when we were come together with one accord, to send chosen men unto you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men that have jeoparded their lives, for the name of our lord Iesus Christ. We have sent therefore Iudas and Sylas, which shall also tell you the same things by mouth. For it seemed good to the holy ghost and to us, to put no grievous thing to you more than these necessary things, that is to say, that ye abstain from things offered unto images, from blood, from strangled and fornication. From which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. So fare ye well.

    When they were departed, they came to Antioche and gathered the multitude together and delivered the pistel. When they had read it, they rejoiced of that consolation. Iudas and Silas being prophets, exhorted the people with much preaching, and strengthened them. After they had tarried there a certain space, they were let go in peace of the brethren unto the Apostles. Notwithstanding it pleased Sylas to abide there still. Paul and Barnabas continued in Antioche teaching, and preaching the word of the lord with other many.

    But after a certain space Paul said unto Barnabas: Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city, where we have shewed the word of the lord, and see how they do. Barnabas gave counsel, to take with them Ihon called also Marke: But Paul thought it not meet to take him unto their company which departed from them at Pamphilia, and went not with them to the worke. So sharp was the dissension between them, that they departed asunder one from the other. And Barnabas took Mark and sailed unto Cypers. Paul chose Sylas and departed delivered of the brethren unto the grace of God. And he went thorow all Cyria and Cilicia, stablishing the congregations.

The .xvj. Chapter.

    Then came he to Derba and Listra. And behold a certain disciple was there named Timotheus, a womans son which was a jewess and believed, but his father was a greek. Of whom reported well, the brethren of Listra and of Iconium. Paul would that he should go forth with him, and took and circumcised him because of the jewes which were in those quarters, for they knew all that his father was a greek. As they went thorow the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, ordained of the apostles and seniors which were at Ierusalem. So were the congregations stablished in the faith, and increased in number daily.

    When they had gone thorowout Phrigia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the holy ghost to preach the word in Asia, they came to Misia, and sought to go into Bethinia, and the spirit suffered them not. When they went over Misia, and came down to Troada and a vision appeared to Paul in the night. There stood a man of Macedonia and prayed him saying: Come into Macedonia and help us. After he had seen the vision immediately we prepared to go into Macedonia certified that the lord had called us for to preach the gospell unto them. Then loosed we forth from Troada, and with a straight course came we to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolim, and from thence to Philippos, which is the chiefest city in the parts of Macedonia and a free city.

    We were in that city abiding a certain days. And on the saboth days we went out of the city besides a river where men were wont to pray, and we sat down and spake unto the women which thither resorted. And a certain woman named Lidia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira which worshipped God, gave us audience, whose heart God opened that she attended unto those things which Paul spake. When she was baptised, and her household, she besought us saying: If ye think that I believe on the lord come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

    It fortuned as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit that prophesied met us, which brought her master and masters much vantage with prophesying. The same followed Paul and us saying: These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of health. And this did she many days. But Paul not content turned about and said to the spirit: I command thee in the name of Iesu Christ that thou come out of her. And he came out the same hour.

    When her master and masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and brought them into the market place unto the rulers, and delivered them to the officers saying: These men trouble our city, which are jews and shew new decrees, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe seeing we are romans. And the people ran on them, and the officers rent their clothes, and commanded them to be beaten with rods, and when they had beaten them sore, they cast them into prison commanding the jailer to keep them surely. Which when he had received such commandment thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

    At midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and lauded God. And the prisoners heard them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundation of the prison was shaken, and by and by all the doors opened, and every man's bonds were lowsed. When the keeper of the prison waked out of his sleep, and saw the prison doors open, he drew out his sword and would have killed himself, supposing the prisoners had been fled. Paul cried with a loud voice saying: Do thyself no harm, for we are all here.

    He called for a light and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out and said, Sirs what must I do to be saved? And they said: believe on the lord Iesus, and thou shalt be saved and thy household. And they preached unto him the word of the lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds, and was baptised with all that belonged unto him straight way. When he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and joyed that he with all his household believed on God.

    And when it was day the officers sent the ministers saying: Let those men go. The keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul: the officers have sent word to loose you. Now therefore get you hence and go in peace. Then said Paul unto them: They have beaten us openly uncondemned, for all that we are Romans, and have cast us into prison: and now would they send us away privily? Nay not so, but let them come themselves and fetch us out. The ministers told these words unto the officers and they feared when they heard that they were Romans, and came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city. They went out of the prison and entered into the house of Lidia, and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them and departed.

The .xvij. Chapter.

    As they made their journey thorow Amphipolis, and Apolonia, they came to Thessalonica where was a synagogue of the jewes. Paul as his manner was went in unto them, and three saboth days declared out of the scripture unto them, opening and alleging that Christ must needs have suffered and risen again from death. And that this Iesus was Christ, whom (said he) I preach to you. And some of them believed and came and companied with Paul and Silas. Also of the honorable greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women, not a few.

    The jewes which believed not having indignation took unto them evil men which were vagabonds, and gathered a company, and set all the city on a roar, and made assault unto the house of Iason, and sought to bring them out to the people. and when they found them not, they drew Iason and certain brethren unto the heads of the city crying: These that trouble the world are come hither also, which Iason hath received privily. And these all do contrary to the ordinations of Cesar, affirming another king, one Iesus. And they troubled the people and the officers of the city when they heard these things. And when they were sufficiently answered of Iason, and of the other they let them go.

    The brethren immediately sent away Paul, and Silas by night unto Berrea. When they were come thither they entered into the Synagogue of the jews. These were the noblest among them of Thessalonia, which received the word with all diligence of mind, and searched the scriptures daily whether those things were even so. And many of them believed, and of worshipful women which were greeks, and of men not a few. When the jews of Thessalonia had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berrea, they came thither and moved the people, and then by and by the brethren sent away Paul to go unto the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still. They that guided Paul brought him unto Athens, and received a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him at once. And came their way.

    While Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was moved in him to see the city given to worshipping of images. Then he disputed in the synagogue with the jews, and with the devout persons, And in the market daily with them that came unto him. Certain Philosophers of the Epicures, and of the Stoyckes disputed with him. And some there were which said: what will this babbler say. Other said: he seemeth to be a tidings bringer of new devils, because he preached unto them Iesus, and the resurrection, and they took him, and brought him into Marce street saying: may we not know what is this new doctrine whereof thou speakest. For thou bringest strange tidings to our ears. We would know therefore what these things mean. For all the Athenians and strangers which were there gave themselves to nothing else, but either to tell or to hear new tidings.

    Paul stood in the midst of Marce street and said, ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are somewhat superstitious. For as I passed by and beheld the manner how ye worship your gods, I found an altar wherein was written: unto the unknown God. Whom ye then ignorantly worship, him shew I unto you: God that made the world, and all that are in it, seeing that he is lord of heaven and earth, he dwelleth not in temples made with hands neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed of any thing. Forasmuch as he giveth to all men life and breath every where, and hath made of one blood all nations of men, for to dwell on all the face of the earth. And hath assigned times appointed before, And the ends of their inhabitation, that they should seek God, if they might feel and find him, though he be not far from every one of us. For in him we live, move, and have our being, as certain of your own poets said. For we are also his generation. Forasmuch then as we are the generation of God, we ought not to think that the godhead is like unto gold, silver, or stone, graven by craft and imagination of man.

    And the time of this ignorance God regarded not: but now he biddeth all men everywhere repent, because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world according to righteousness, by that man, whom he hath appointed, and hath given faith to all men, after that he had raised him from death. When they heard of the resurrection from death, some mocked, and other said: we will hear thee again of this matter. So Paul departed from among them. Certain men clave unto Paul and believed, among the which was Dionysius a senator, and a woman named Damaris, and other with them.

The .xviij. Chapter.

    After that, Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinthum, and found a certain jew named Aquila, born in Ponthus, lately come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because that the Emperor Claudius had commanded all jewes to depart from Rome) and he drew unto them. And because he was of the same craft he abode with them and wrought (their craft was to make tents.) and he preached in the synagogue every saboth day, And exhorted the jewes and the gentiles.

    When Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia Paul was pained by the spirit, as he testified to the jewes that Iesus was Christ. When they said contrary and blasphemed, he shook his raiment and said unto them: your blood upon your own heads. For henceforth I go unto the gentiles, and he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house named Iustus which worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue. One Crispus a ruler of the synagogue believed on the lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians gave audience and believed, and were baptised.

    Then spake the lord to Paul in the night by a vision: be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: for I am with thee, and no man shall invade thee that shall hurt thee. For I have much people in this city. And he rested there a year and six months, and taught them the word of God.

    When Gallio was ruler of the country of Acaia. The jewes made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judge's seat, saying: This man teacheth to worship God contrary to the law. And as Paul was about to open his mouth Gallio said unto the jews: if it were a matter of wrong, or an evil deed (o ye jews) reason would that I should hear you: but if it be a question of words, or of names, or of your law, look ye to it yourselves. For I will be no judge in such matters, and he drave them from his seat. Then took all the greeks Sosthenes a ruler of the Synagogue and smote him before the judge's seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.

    Paul after this, tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Ciria, Priscilla and Aquila accompanying him after that he shore his head in Cenchrea. For he had a vow. And he came to Ephesus and left them there: but he himself entered into the Synagogue, and reasoned with the jewes. When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not, but bade them fare well saying: I must needs at this feast that cometh be in Ierusalem: but I will return again unto you if God will. And departed from Ephesus and came unto Cesarea: and ascended and saluted the congregation, and departed unto Antioche, and when he had tarried there a while, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatacia and Phrigia by order, strengthening all the disciples.

    And a certain jewe named Apollos, born at Alexandria came to Ephesus. An eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures. The same was informed in the way of the lord, and he spake fervently in the spirit, and taught diligently the things of the lord, and knew but the baptism of Ihon only. And the same began to speak boldly in the Synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila had heard him: they took him unto them, And expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

    When he was disposed to go into Acaia, the brethren exhorted him thereto, and wrote unto the disciples that they should receive him. After he was come thither he helped them much, which had believed thorow grace. And mightily he overcame the jews openly shewing by the scriptures that Iesus was Christ.

The .xix. Chapter.

    It fortuned, while Apollos was at Corinthum, that Paul passed over the upper coasts, and came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples and said unto them: have ye received the holy ghost after ye believed? And they said unto him: No, neither have we heard if there be any holy ghost or no. And he said unto them: wherewith were ye then baptised? And they said: with Ihon's baptism. Then said Paul: Ihon verily baptised with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people that they should believe on him, which should come after him. That is on Christ Iesus. When they heard that, they were baptised in the name of the lord Iesu, and when Paul laid his hands upon them, the holy ghost came on them. And they spake with tongues and prophesied, All the men were about xij.

    And he went into the synagogue, and behaved himself boldly for the space of three months, disputing, and giving them exhortations of the kingdom of God. When diverse waxed hard hearted, and believed not, but spake evil of the way of the lord before the multitude: he departed from them, And severed the disciples away, And taught daily in the school of one called Tirannus. And this continued by the space of two years: So that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the lord Iesu, both jewes and greeks. And God wrought not small miracles by the hands of Paul. So that from his body were brought unto the sick, napkins or partlets, and the diseases and evil spirits departed from them.

    Certain of the vagabond jewes exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the lord Iesus saying: We adjure you by Iesu whom Paul preacheth.

    There were seven sons of one Sceva a ruler of the synagogue which did so: and the evil spirit answered and said: Iesus I know, and Paul I know: but who are ye? And the man in whom the wicked devil was, ran on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of the house naked and wounded. This was known to all the jewes and greeks also, which dwelt at Ephesus, and fear came on them all. And they magnified the name of the lord Iesus.

    And many that believed came, and confessed and shewed their works. Many of them which used curious crafts, brought their books and burned them before all men, and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand silverlings. So mightily grew the word of God, and prevailed. After these things were ended Paul purposed in the spirit, to pass over Macedonia and Acaia, and to go to Ierusalem saying: After I have been there I must also see Rome. So sent he into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him: Timotheus and Erastus: but he himself remained in Asia. For a season.

    The same time there arose no little a do about that way. For a certain man named Demetrius, a goldsmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, was not a little beneficial unto the craftsmen: which he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said: Sirs ye know that by this craft we have vantage. Moreover ye see and hear that not alone at Ephesus: but almost thorow out all Asia, this Paul entiseth, and turned away much people saying: that they be not gods which are made with hands: so that not only this our craft cometh into peril to be set at nought: but that also the temple of great Diana should be despised. And her majesty should be destroyed, which all Asia, and the world worshippeth.

    When they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out saying: Great is Diana of the Ephesians. And all the city was on a roar, and they rushed into the common hall with one assent, and caught Gaius, and Aristarcus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions. When Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not. Certain also of the chief of Asia which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not press into the common hall. Some cried one thing, and some another and the congregation was all out of quiet, and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.

    Some of the company drew forth Alexander (the jewes thrusting him forwards) Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have given the people an answer. When they knew that he was a jewe, there arose a shout almost for the space of two hours of all men crying, great is Diana of the Ephesians.

    When the town clerk had ceased the people he said: ye men of Ephesus: what man is it that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which came from heaven. Seeing then that no man saith here against, ye ought to be content, and to do nothing rashly, For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet despisers of your goddess. Wherefore if Demetrius and the craftsmen which are with him, have any saying to any man, the law is open, and there are rulers, let them accuse one another. If ye go about any other thing, it may be determined in a lawful congregation. For we are in jeopardy to be accused of this day's business. For as much as there is no cause whereby we may give a reckoning of this concourse of people. And when he had thus spoken, he let the congregation depart.

The .xx. Chapter.

    After the rage was ceased, Paul called the disciples unto him, and took his leave of them, and departed for to go into Macedonia. And when he had gone over those parts, and given them large exhortations, he came into Greece. And there abode .iij. months. When the jewes laid wait for him as he was about to sail into Syria, He purposed to return through Macedonia. There accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berrea: And of Thessalonia Aristarcus and Secundus, and Gaius of Derba, and Timotheus: Out of Asia Tychicus, and Trophimos. These went before, and tarried us at Troas. We sailed away from Philippos after the ester holidays, and came unto them to Troas in five days, where we abode seven days.

    On a saboth day the disciples came together for to break bread, and Paul preached unto them (ready to depart on the morrow) and continued the preaching unto midnight. There were many lights in the chamber where we were gathered together, and there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutichus, fallen into a deep sleep. And as Paul declared he was the more overcome with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. Paul went down and fell on him, and embraced him, and said: Make nothing ado. For his life is in him. When he was come up again, he brake bread, and tasted, and communed a long while even till the morning, and so departed. They brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.

    Then took we shipping, and departed unto Asson, there to receive Paul. For so had he appointed, and would himself go by land. When he was come to us unto Asson, we took him in, and came to Mittilenes. And sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios. And the day following we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogilon. The next day we came to Mileton. For Paul had determined to leave Ephesus as they sailed, because he would not spend the time in Asia. For he hasted to be (if he were possible) at Ierusalem at the day of Pentecost.

    From Mileton he sent to Ephesus, and called the seniors of the congregation. When they were come to him, he said to them: Ye know from the first day that I came unto Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, serving God with all humbleness of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which happened unto me by the layings wait of the jewes, and how I kept back nothing that might be for your profit: but that I have shewed you, and taught you openly and at home in your houses, witnessing both to the jewes, and also to the greeks, the repentance toward God, and faith toward our lord Iesu.

    And now behold I go bound in the spirit unto Ierusalem, and know not what shall come on me there, but that the holy ghost witnesseth in every city saying: that bonds and trouble abide me: but none of those things move me. Neither is my life dear unto myself, that I might fulfil my course with joy, and the ministration which I have received of the lord Iesu to testify the gospell of the grace of God.

    And now behold, I am sure that henceforth ye all (thorow whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God) shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to record this same day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have kept nothing back: but have shewed you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, whereof the holy ghost hath made you overseers, to rule the congregation of God, which he hath purchased with his blood. For I am sure of this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, which will not spare the flock. And of your ownselves shall men arise speaking perverse things, to draw disciples after them. Therefore awake and remember, that by the space of iij. years I ceased not to warn every one of you, both night and day with tears.

    And now dear brethren I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build further, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. I have desired no man's silver, gold, or vesture. Ye know well that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have shewed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to receive the weak, and to remember the words of the lord Iesu, how that he said: It is more blessed to give, than to receive.

    When he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. And they wept all abundantly, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him sorrowing, most of all, for the words, which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

The .xxj. Chapter.

    And it chanced that as soon as we had launched forth, and were departed from them, we came with a straight course unto Choon, and the day following unto the Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara. And we found a ship ready to sail unto Phenices, and went aboard and set forth. Then appeared unto us Cyprus, and we left it on the left hand, and sailed unto Syria, and came unto Tyre. For there the ship unladed her burden. And when we had found brethren, we tarried there. vij. days. And they told Paul thorow the spirit, that he should not go up to Ierusalem. And when the days were ended we departed, and went our ways, and they all brought us on our way, with their wives and children, till we were come out of the city. And we kneeled down in the shore and prayed. And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship, and they returned home again.

    When we had full ended the course, from Tyre, we arrived at Ptholomaida, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day. The next day, we that were of Paulus company, came unto Cesarea. And we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven, and abode with him. The same man had four daughters virgins, which did prophesy. And as we tarried there a good many days, there came a certain prophet from jewry, named Agabus. When he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his hands and feet and said: Thus saith the holy ghost: So shall the jewes at Ierusalem, bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the gentiles.

    When we heard this, both we and other of the same place, besought him, that he would not go up to Ierusalem. Then Paul answered, and said: What do ye weeping, and breaking mine heart? I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Ierusalem for the name of the lord Iesu. When we could not turn his mind, we ceased saying: The will of the lord be fulfilled. After those days we made ourselves ready, and went up to Ierusalem. There went with us also certain of his disciples of Cesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an olde disciple, with whom we should lodge. And when we were come to Ierusalem, the brethren received us gladly. On the morrow Paul went in with us unto Iames. And all the seniors came together. And when he had saluted them, he told by order, what things God had wrought among the gentiles by his ministration. When they heard it, they glorified the lord, and said unto him: Thou seest brother, how many thousand jewes there are which believe, and they are all zealous over the law. And they are informed of thee that thou teachest all the jewes which are among the gentiles to forsake Moses, and sayest that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to live after the customs. What is it therefore? The multitude must needs come together. For they shall hear that thou art come. Do therefore this that we say to thee.

    We have iiij. men, which have a vow on them. Them take and purify thyself with them, and do cost on them, that they may shave their heads and all shall know that those things which they have heard of thee are nothing: but that thou thyself also walkest and keepest the law. As touching the gentiles which believe we have written and concluded, that they observe no such things: but that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from strangled, and from fornication. Then the next day Paul took the men and purified himself with them, and entered into the temple, declaring the fulfilling of the days of purification, until that an oblation should be offered for every one of them.

    And as the seven days should have been ended, the jewes which were of Asia when they saw him in the temple, they moved all the people and laid hands on him crying: Men of Israhell help. This is the man that teacheth all men everywhere against the people, and the law, and this place. Moreover also he hath brought greeks into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place. For they saw one Trophimus an Ephesian with him in the city. Him they supposed Paul had brought into the temple. And all the city was moved, and the people swarmed together. And they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple, and forthwith the doors were shut to.

    As they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the high captain of the soldiers, that all Ierusalem was moved. Which immediately took soldiers and undercaptains, and ran down unto them. When they saw the uppercaptain and the soldiers, They left smiting of Paul. Then the captain came near and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains, and demanded what he was, and what he had done. One cried this, another that, among the people. And when he could not know the certainty, for the rage: He commanded him to be carried into the castle. When he came unto a grece, it fortuned that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people. The multitude of the people followed after crying: away with him.

    And as Paul should have been carried into the castle, He said unto the high captain: May I speak unto thee? Which said: Canst thou speak greek? Art not thou that Egyptian which before these days, made an uproar, and led out into the wilderness iiij. thousand men that were murderers? Paul said: I am a man which am a jewe of Tharsus a city in Cicill, a citizen of no vile city, I beseech thee suffer me to licence, Paul stood on the steps, and beckoned with the hand unto the people, and there was made a great silence. And he spake unto them in Hebrew saying:

The .xxij. Chapter.

    Ye men, brethren, and fathers, hear mine answer which I make unto you. When they heard that he spake Hebrew unto them, they kept the more silence. And he said: I am verily a man which am a jewe, born in Tharsus, a city in Cicill, nevertheless yet brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, and informed diligently in the law of the fathers, and was fervent minded to Godward, as ye all are this same day, and I persecuted this way unto the death binding, and delivering into prison both men and women, as the chief priest doth bear me witness, and all the seniors: of whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring them which were there bound unto Ierusalem for to be punished.

    And it fortuned that as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus, about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me, and I fell unto the earth, and heard a voice saying unto me. Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And I answered: what art thou lord? and he said unto me? I am Iesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. And they that were with me saw verily a light and were afraid: but they heard not the voice of him that spake with me. And I said: what shall I do lord? And the lord said unto me: Arise and go into Damascus and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. And when I saw nothing for the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand of them that were with me, and came into Damascus. One Ananias a perfect man, and as pertaining to the law having good report of all the jewes which there dwelt, came unto me, and stood and said unto me: Brother Saul receive thy sight. And that same hour I received my sight and saw him. And he said unto me, the God of our fathers hath ordained thee before, that thou shouldest know his will, and shouldest see that which is rightful, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth: for thou shalt be his witness unto all men of those things which thou hast seen and heard. And now: why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptised, and wash away thy sins, in calling on the name of the lord.

    And it fortuned, when I was come again to Ierusalem and prayed in the temple, that I was in a trance, And saw him saying unto me: Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Ierusalem: for they will not receive the witness that thou bearest of me. And I said: lord they know that I prisoned, and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee. And when the blood of thy witness Stephen was shed, I also stood by, and consented unto his death and kept the raiment of them that slew him. And he said unto me: depart for I will send thee afar hence unto the gentiles.

    They gave him audience unto this word, and lifted up their voices and said: away with such a fellow from the earth: it is pity that he should live. And they cried and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air. The captain bade him to be brought into the castle, and commanded him to be scourged, and to be examined, that he might know wherefore they cried on him. And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto an undercaptain: Is it lawful for you to scourge a Roman uncondemned? When the centurion heard that, he went to the uppercaptain, and told him saying: What intendest thou to do? This man is a Roman.

    The uppercaptain came to him, and said: Tell me, art thou a Roman? He said: Yee. And the captain answered: With much money obtained I this freedom. And Paul said: I was freeborn. Then straightway departed from him they which should have examined him. And the captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman: because he had bound him.

    On the morrow he lowsed him from his bonds desiring to know the certainty for what cause he was accused of the jewes, and commanded the high priests and all the council to come together, and brought Paul, and set him before them.

The .xxiij. Chapter.

    Paul beheld the council and said: Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day. The high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by, to smite him on the mouth. Then said Paul to him: God shall smite thee thou painted wall. Sittest thou and judgest me after the law: and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law? And they that stood by said: Revilest thou god's high priest? Then said Paul: I wist not brethren, that he was the high priest. For it is written thou shalt not speak evil to the ruler of thy people.

    When Paul perceived that the one part were Saduces, and the other Pharises: He cried out in the council. Men and brethren I am a pharisaye, the son of a pharisaye. Of hope, and of resurrection from death I am judged. And when he had so said, there arose a debate between the pharises and the saduces, and t