Acts 22:2Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

That many then acted from irrational zeal is also evident from the fact that they listened to the apostle’s speech in their native language with special attention.

“See,” says Saint John Chrysostom, “with what meekness he speaks. This also is the greatest proof of his innocence, that he is so ready to defend himself and resolves to withstand the crowd of Jews by word.

Look at this man’s prudence. The place greatly favored him, since he spoke from above, as did the fact that he was bound. What can compare with this sight, when Paul spoke bound with two chains?

How was he not troubled, how was he not thrown into confusion, when such a multitude of people had risen against him and the commander stood before him? But first he allowed their rage to grow quiet, and then he began to speak.

And see how wisely. First of all, he disposes them toward himself by their native language, then by meekness. See how his words are free from flattery.

He did not say, ‘lords’ or ‘masters,’ but ‘brethren,’ which especially could please them. It is as though he said, ‘I am not a stranger to you and not against you.’

He did not say, ‘Hear a teaching’ or ‘a speech,’ but ‘a defense.’ He presents himself as one under judgment. After saying much about himself, he then adds, ‘as all of you are this day.’

By this he shows that they acted not from human reasoning, but from divine zeal. He speaks thus in order to gain their goodwill, prepare their mind, and hold them to that in which there was as yet no harm.”