Act 22:22 | KingComments | STEP | When Paul speaks about his mission to the Gentiles, the measure is filled up. A Jew wanted absolutely nothing to do with a mission to the Gentiles (cf. ). That it is precisely at this point that they explode into anger is because it is precisely this point that affects them in their exclusivity. Since childhood they have heard that they are the only people who have any connection with God. They alone are the chosen people. If there is blessing for other peoples, then only through them. The idea that the Messiah – and Paul says he believes in Him – instead of restoring Israel to its former glory, will make the Gentiles His people, is totally unacceptable to them. As if the Gentiles are on the same level, yes, even higher than Israel. It is impossible for them to make proselytes that do not belong to Judaism. It is all completely impossible to accept. We see that Paul’s testimony has no other result than a manifestation of hatred. The outburst of anger manifests itself in shouting, throwing off their cloaks and tossing dust into the air. This manifestation of hatred confirms what the Lord said to him twenty years earlier and what was also expressed recently by the Holy Spirit. But the grace of the Lord is also present here in support of Paul when he gives his testimony.

‏ Acts 22:22

The Reaction of the Jews

When Paul speaks about his mission to the Gentiles, the measure is filled up. A Jew wanted absolutely nothing to do with a mission to the Gentiles (cf. Deu 32:21). That it is precisely at this point that they explode into anger is because it is precisely this point that affects them in their exclusivity. Since childhood they have heard that they are the only people who have any connection with God. They alone are the chosen people. If there is blessing for other peoples, then only through them.

The idea that the Messiah – and Paul says he believes in Him – instead of restoring Israel to its former glory, will make the Gentiles His people, is totally unacceptable to them. As if the Gentiles are on the same level, yes, even higher than Israel. It is impossible for them to make proselytes that do not belong to Judaism. It is all completely impossible to accept.

We see that Paul’s testimony has no other result than a manifestation of hatred. The outburst of anger manifests itself in shouting, throwing off their cloaks and tossing dust into the air. This manifestation of hatred confirms what the Lord said to him twenty years earlier and what was also expressed recently by the Holy Spirit. But the grace of the Lord is also present here in support of Paul when he gives his testimony.