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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Acts 21:39 But Paul answered, "I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people."</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/acts/21-39.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/2/44_Act_21_39.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Acts 21:39 - Paul Speaks to the People" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="But Paul answered, I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. 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Please let me speak to the people.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/acts/21.htm">New Living Translation</a> “No,” Paul replied, “I am a Jew and a citizen of Tarsus in Cilicia, which is an important city. Please, let me talk to these people.” <a href="/esv/acts/21.htm">English Standard Version</a> Paul replied, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no obscure city. I beg you, permit me to speak to the people.” <a href="/bsb/acts/21.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But Paul answered, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people.” <a href="/blb/acts/21.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But Paul said, "I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. Now I implore you, allow me to speak to the people." <a href="/kjv/acts/21.htm">King James Bible</a> But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people. <a href="/nkjv/acts/21.htm">New King James Version</a> But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.” <a href="/nasb_/acts/21.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” <a href="/nasb/acts/21.htm">NASB 1995</a> But Paul said, &#8220I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/acts/21.htm">NASB 1977 </a> But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” <a href="/lsb/acts/21.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” <a href="/amp/acts/21.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia (Mersin Province, Turkey), a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” <a href="/csb/acts/21.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Paul said, “I am a Jewish man from Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of an important city. Now I ask you, let me speak to the people.” <a href="/hcsb/acts/21.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Paul said, &#8220I am a Jewish man from Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of an important city. Now I ask you, let me speak to the people.&#8221 <a href="/asv/acts/21.htm">American Standard Version</a> But Paul said, I am a Jew, of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beseech thee, give me leave to speak unto the people. <a href="/cev/acts/21.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> "No!" Paul replied. "I am a Jew from Tarsus, an important city in Cilicia. Please let me speak to the crowd." <a href="/erv/acts/21.htm">English Revised Version</a> But Paul said, I am a Jew, of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beseech thee, give me leave to speak unto the people. <a href="/gwt/acts/21.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Paul answered, "I'm a Jew, a citizen from the well-known city of Tarsus in Cilicia. I'm asking you to let me talk to the people." <a href="/gnt/acts/21.htm">Good News Translation</a> Paul answered, "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of an important city. Please let me speak to the people." <a href="/isv/acts/21.htm">International Standard Version</a> Paul replied, "I'm a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. Please let me speak to the people." <a href="/msb/acts/21.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But Paul answered, ?I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people.? <a href="/net/acts/21.htm">NET Bible</a> Paul answered, "I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of an important city. Please allow me to speak to the people." <a href="/nheb/acts/21.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> But Paul said, "I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. I beg you, allow me to speak to the people." <a href="/wbt/acts/21.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But Paul said, I am a man who am a Jew of Tarsus, a city of Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beseech thee suffer me to speak to the people. <a href="/wey/acts/21.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "I am a Jew," replied Paul, "belonging to Tarsus in Cilicia, and am a citizen of no unimportant city. Give me leave, I pray you, to speak to the people." <a href="/web/acts/21.htm">World English Bible</a> But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/acts/21.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And Paul said, “I, indeed, am a man, a Jew, of Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.” <a href="/blb/acts/21.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But Paul said, "I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. Now I implore you, allow me to speak to the people." <a href="/ylt/acts/21.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And Paul said, 'I, indeed, am a man, a Jew, of Tarsus of Cilicia, of no mean city a citizen; and I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.' <a href="/slt/acts/21.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And Paul said, I am truly a man a Jew, a Tarsean of Cilicia, a citizen of no undistinguished city: and I beseech of thee to give way for me to speak to the people.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/acts/21.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But Paul said to him: I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city. And I beseech thee, suffer me to speak to the people. <a href="/cpdv/acts/21.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But Paul said to him: “I am a man, indeed a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of a well-known city. So I petition you, permit me to speak to the people.” <a href="/nabre/acts/21.htm">New American Bible</a> Paul answered, “I am a Jew, of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; I request you to permit me to speak to the people.” <a href="/nrsvce/acts/21.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Paul replied, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of an important city; I beg you, let me speak to the people.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/acts/21.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But Paul said, I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cili’cia, a citizen of a well-known city: I beg you, permit me to speak to the people. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/acts/21.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Paulus said to him, “I am a man, a Jew from Tarsus, the notable city of Qiliqia in which I was born. I beg of you, let me speak to the people.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/acts/21.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> But Paul replied: I am a Jew of Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no unknown city; and I beseech you, permit me to speak to the people. <a href="/godbey/acts/21.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> But Paul said, I am indeed a Jewish man, a Tarsean, a citizen of Cilicia, no mean city: but, I pray you, permit me to speak to the people. <a href="/haweis/acts/21.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But Paul replied, I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus, of Cilicia, a citizen of no contemptible city: and, I entreat thee, permit me to speak to the people. <a href="/mace/acts/21.htm">Mace New Testament</a> Paul replied, I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of that famous city: and I beg you would give me leave to speak to the people: which being granted, <a href="/wey/acts/21.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "I am a Jew," replied Paul, "belonging to Tarsus in Cilicia, and am a citizen of no unimportant city. Give me leave, I pray you, to speak to the people." <a href="/worrell/acts/21.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> But Paul said, "I am a Jew, of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I beseech you, permit me to speak to the people." <a href="/worsley/acts/21.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> But Paul said, I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beg thou wouldest permit me to speak to the people. <a href="/parallel/acts/21-39.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/in5WTRQ9BSQ?start=7317" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/acts/21.htm">Paul Speaks to the People</a> …38“Aren’t you the Egyptian who incited a rebellion some time ago and led four thousand members of the ‘Assassins’ into the wilderness?” 39<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">But</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3972.htm" title="3972: Paulos (N-NMS) -- Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle.">Paul</a> <a href="/greek/2036.htm" title="2036: Eipen (V-AIA-3S) -- Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.">answered,</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: Egō (PPro-N1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">“I</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: eimi (V-PIA-1S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">am</a> <a href="/greek/3303.htm" title="3303: men (Conj) -- A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de."></a> <a href="/greek/2453.htm" title="2453: Ioudaios (Adj-NMS) -- Jewish. From Iouda; Judaean, i.e. Belonging to Jehudah.">a Jew</a> <a href="/greek/444.htm" title="444: anthrōpos (N-NMS) -- A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being."></a> <a href="/greek/5018.htm" title="5018: Tarseus (N-NMS) -- Belonging to Tarsus, a Tarsian. From Tarsos; a Tarsean, i.e. Native of Tarsus.">from Tarsus</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2791.htm" title="2791: Kilikias (N-GFS) -- Probably of foreign origin; Cilicia, a region of Asia Minor.">in Cilicia,</a> <a href="/greek/4177.htm" title="4177: politēs (N-NMS) -- A citizen, fellow-citizen. From polis; a townsman.">a citizen of</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">no</a> <a href="/greek/767.htm" title="767: asēmou (Adj-GFS) -- (lit: unmarked, unstamped), undistinguished, obscure, unknown. Unmarked, i.e. ignoble.">ordinary</a> <a href="/greek/4172.htm" title="4172: poleōs (N-GFS) -- A city, the inhabitants of a city. Probably from the same as polemos, or perhaps from polus; a town.">city.</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">Now</a> <a href="/greek/1189.htm" title="1189: deomai (V-PIM/P-1S) -- To want for myself; I want, need; I beg, request, beseech, pray. Middle voice of deo; to beg, i.e. Petition.">I beg</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: sou (PPro-G2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you</a> <a href="/greek/2010.htm" title="2010: epitrepson (V-AMA-2S) -- To turn to, commit, entrust; I allow, yield, permit. From epi and the base of trope; to turn over, i.e. Allow.">to allow</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: moi (PPro-D1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me</a> <a href="/greek/2980.htm" title="2980: lalēsai (V-ANA) -- A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words.">to speak</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">to</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2992.htm" title="2992: laon (N-AMS) -- Apparently a primary word; a people.">people.”</a> 40Having received permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. A great hush came over the crowd, and he addressed them in Hebrew:…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/philippians/3-5.htm">Philippians 3:5</a> circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin; a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; <a href="/2_corinthians/11-22.htm">2 Corinthians 11:22</a> Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I. <a href="/acts/9-11.htm">Acts 9:11</a> “Get up!” the Lord told him. “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. <a href="/acts/22-3.htm">Acts 22:3</a> “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but raised in this city. I was educated at the feet of Gamaliel in strict conformity to the law of our fathers. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today. <a href="/acts/6-9.htm">Acts 6:9</a> But resistance arose from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and men from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. They disputed with Stephen, <a href="/acts/9-30.htm">Acts 9:30</a> When the brothers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus. <a href="/acts/11-25.htm">Acts 11:25-26</a> Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, / and when he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. So for a full year they met together with the church and taught large numbers of people. The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch. <a href="/acts/13-1.htm">Acts 13:1</a> Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch), and Saul. <a href="/acts/15-23.htm">Acts 15:23</a> and sent them with this letter: The apostles and the elders, your brothers, To the brothers among the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings. <a href="/acts/18-3.htm">Acts 18:3</a> and he stayed and worked with them because they were tentmakers by trade, just as he was. <a href="/acts/18-19.htm">Acts 18:19</a> When they reached Ephesus, Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue there and reasoned with the Jews. <a href="/acts/19-1.htm">Acts 19:1</a> While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the interior and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples <a href="/acts/19-21.htm">Acts 19:21</a> After these things had happened, Paul resolved in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. “After I have been there,” he said, “I must see Rome as well.” <a href="/acts/20-16.htm">Acts 20:16</a> Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus to avoid spending time in the province of Asia, because he was in a hurry to reach Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of Pentecost. <a href="/acts/23-34.htm">Acts 23:34</a> The governor read the letter and asked what province Paul was from. Learning that he was from Cilicia,</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech you, suffer me to speak to the people.I am.<a href="/acts/9-11.htm">Acts 9:11,30</a> And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, … <a href="/acts/22-3.htm">Acts 22:3</a> I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.<a href="/acts/23-34.htm">Acts 23:34</a> And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;Cilicia.<a href="/acts/6-9.htm">Acts 6:9</a> Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.<a href="/acts/15-23.htm">Acts 15:23,41</a> And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia: … a citizen.<a href="/acts/16-37.htm">Acts 16:37</a> But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.<a href="/acts/22-25.htm">Acts 22:25-29</a> And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned? … <a href="/acts/23-27.htm">Acts 23:27</a> This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.suffer.<a href="/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37</a> And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?<a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm">1 Peter 3:15</a> But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:<a href="/1_peter/4-15.htm">1 Peter 4:15,16</a> But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/acts/19-30.htm">Allow</a> <a href="/acts/3-10.htm">Beg</a> <a href="/acts/9-2.htm">Belonging</a> <a href="/acts/8-24.htm">Beseech</a> <a href="/acts/15-41.htm">Cilicia</a> <a href="/acts/15-41.htm">Cili'cia</a> <a href="/luke/15-15.htm">Citizen</a> <a href="/acts/21-31.htm">City</a> <a href="/acts/19-40.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/jeremiah/30-19.htm">Insignificant</a> <a href="/acts/19-34.htm">Jew</a> <a href="/acts/21-6.htm">Leave</a> <a href="/acts/21-13.htm">Mean</a> <a href="/acts/20-12.htm">Ordinary</a> <a href="/acts/21-37.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/acts/5-25.htm">People</a> <a href="/acts/13-15.htm">Please</a> <a href="/acts/21-12.htm">Request</a> <a href="/acts/21-37.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/acts/17-3.htm">Suffer</a> <a href="/acts/11-25.htm">Tarsus</a> <a href="/ezekiel/29-14.htm">Unimportant</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/acts/24-15.htm">Allow</a> <a href="/acts/23-21.htm">Beg</a> <a href="/acts/23-9.htm">Belonging</a> <a href="/acts/24-4.htm">Beseech</a> <a href="/acts/22-3.htm">Cilicia</a> <a href="/acts/23-34.htm">Cili'cia</a> <a href="/acts/22-25.htm">Citizen</a> <a href="/acts/22-3.htm">City</a> <a href="/acts/22-3.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/james/3-5.htm">Insignificant</a> <a href="/acts/22-3.htm">Jew</a> <a href="/acts/21-40.htm">Leave</a> <a href="/romans/1-4.htm">Mean</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-3.htm">Ordinary</a> <a href="/acts/21-40.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/acts/5-25.htm">People</a> <a href="/romans/8-8.htm">Please</a> <a href="/acts/23-18.htm">Request</a> <a href="/acts/22-2.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/acts/26-23.htm">Suffer</a> <a href="/acts/22-3.htm">Tarsus</a> <a href="/ezekiel/29-14.htm">Unimportant</a><div class="vheading2">Acts 21</div>1. <a href="/acts/21-1.htm">Paul calls at the house of Philip, whose daughters prophesy.</a> 10. <a href="/acts/21-10.htm">Agabus, foretelling what should befall him at Jerusalem, </a> 13. <a href="/acts/21-13.htm">he will not be dissuaded from going thither.</a> 17. <a href="/acts/21-17.htm">He comes to Jerusalem;</a> 27. <a href="/acts/21-27.htm">where he is apprehended, and in great danger, but by the chief captain is rescued;</a> 37. <a href="/acts/21-37.htm">and requests, and is permitted to speak to the people.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/acts/21.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/acts/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/acts/21.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>But Paul answered Paul's response is significant as it demonstrates his composure and strategic thinking in a tense situation. Throughout Acts, Paul often uses his Roman citizenship and Jewish heritage to navigate complex situations, showing his wisdom and understanding of both Roman and Jewish systems.I am a Jew Paul identifies himself as a Jew, which is crucial in this context as he is addressing a Jewish audience. His Jewish identity is central to his mission and message, as he often seeks to connect with Jewish audiences by emphasizing his shared heritage and understanding of the Law and the Prophets.from Tarsus in Cilicia Tarsus was a major city in the Roman province of Cilicia, known for its cultural and intellectual significance. It was a center of learning, rivaling Athens and Alexandria. Paul's background in Tarsus may have contributed to his education and ability to engage with diverse audiences, including Greek philosophers and Roman officials.a citizen of no ordinary city By highlighting Tarsus as "no ordinary city," Paul underscores its importance and his own status. Roman citizenship was a privilege that afforded certain legal protections and social advantages. This status would later play a crucial role in Paul's ministry and legal defenses, as seen in <a href="/acts/22-25.htm">Acts 22:25-29</a>.Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people Paul's request to speak demonstrates his desire to communicate the gospel message, even in the face of hostility. His boldness and commitment to his mission are evident, reflecting the apostolic calling to preach the gospel to all nations. This moment also parallels other instances in Acts where Paul seizes opportunities to witness, such as in <a href="/acts/17-22.htm">Acts 17:22-31</a> in Athens.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle and missionary, formerly known as Saul, who played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity among the Gentiles. In this passage, he is addressing a Roman commander. 2. <a href="/topical/t/tarsus.htm">Tarsus</a> A significant city in Cilicia, known for its cultural and educational influence. Paul emphasizes his citizenship here to establish his credibility and rights. 3. <a href="/topical/c/cilicia.htm">Cilicia</a> A region in modern-day Turkey, known in ancient times for its strategic location and cultural significance. It was part of the Roman Empire during Paul's time. 4. <a href="/topical/r/roman_commander.htm">Roman Commander</a> The military official responsible for maintaining order in Jerusalem. He is initially unaware of Paul's background and intentions. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_crowd.htm">The Crowd</a> The Jewish people in Jerusalem who were in an uproar against Paul, accusing him of defiling the temple and teaching against Jewish law.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/i/identity_and_heritage.htm">Identity and Heritage</a> Paul uses his background strategically to connect with different audiences. As Christians, understanding and using our identity in Christ can help us relate to others and share the Gospel effectively. <a href="/topical/c/courage_in_adversity.htm">Courage in Adversity</a> Despite the hostile crowd, Paul remains calm and requests to speak. This teaches us the importance of courage and composure when facing opposition for our faith. <a href="/topical/w/wisdom_in_communication.htm">Wisdom in Communication</a> Paul’s approach shows the importance of knowing when and how to speak. We should seek wisdom from God to communicate effectively in challenging situations. <a href="/topical/c/citizenship_and_rights.htm">Citizenship and Rights</a> Paul’s mention of his Roman citizenship reminds us of the importance of understanding and utilizing our rights responsibly, both in earthly and spiritual realms. <a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty.htm">God’s Sovereignty</a> Despite the chaos, God’s plan for Paul’s life continues to unfold. This reassures us that God is in control, even when circumstances seem dire.<a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/acts/21.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(39) A citizen of no mean city.--The boast was quite a legitimate one. In addition to all its fame for culture, the town of Tarsus bore on its coins the word METROPOLIS-AUTONOMOS (Independent).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/acts/21.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 39. - I am a Jew for I am a man which am a Jew, A.V.; in for a city in, A.V.; give me leave for suffer me, A.V. A citizen of no mean city; οὐκ ἀσήμου πόλεως, an elegant classical expression. Οὐκ ἄσημος Ἐλλήνων πόλις (Euripides, 'Ion.,' 8). <a href="/commentaries/acts/21-39.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. Paul Παῦλος (Paulos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3972.htm">Strong's 3972: </a> Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle. answered, Εἶπεν (Eipen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2036.htm">Strong's 2036: </a> Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. “I Ἐγὼ (Egō) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. am εἰμι (eimi) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. a Jew Ἰουδαῖος (Ioudaios) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2453.htm">Strong's 2453: </a> Jewish. From Iouda; Judaean, i.e. Belonging to Jehudah. from Tarsus Ταρσεὺς (Tarseus) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5018.htm">Strong's 5018: </a> Belonging to Tarsus, a Tarsian. From Tarsos; a Tarsean, i.e. Native of Tarsus. in Cilicia, Κιλικίας (Kilikias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2791.htm">Strong's 2791: </a> Probably of foreign origin; Cilicia, a region of Asia Minor. a citizen [of] πολίτης (politēs) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4177.htm">Strong's 4177: </a> A citizen, fellow-citizen. From polis; a townsman. no οὐκ (ouk) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. ordinary ἀσήμου (asēmou) Adjective - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_767.htm">Strong's 767: </a> (lit: unmarked, unstamped), undistinguished, obscure, unknown. Unmarked, i.e. ignoble. city. πόλεως (poleōs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4172.htm">Strong's 4172: </a> A city, the inhabitants of a city. Probably from the same as polemos, or perhaps from polus; a town. Now δέ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. I beg δέομαι (deomai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1189.htm">Strong's 1189: </a> To want for myself; I want, need; I beg, request, beseech, pray. Middle voice of deo; to beg, i.e. Petition. you σου (sou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. to allow ἐπίτρεψόν (epitrepson) Verb - Aorist Imperative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2010.htm">Strong's 2010: </a> To turn to, commit, entrust; I allow, yield, permit. From epi and the base of trope; to turn over, i.e. Allow. me μοι (moi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. to speak λαλῆσαι (lalēsai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_2980.htm">Strong's 2980: </a> A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words. to πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. the τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. people.? λαόν (laon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2992.htm">Strong's 2992: </a> Apparently a primary word; a people. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/acts/21-39.htm">NT Apostles: Acts 21:39 But Paul said I am a Jew (Acts of the Apostles Ac) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/acts/21-38.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Acts 21:38"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Acts 21:38" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/acts/21-40.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Acts 21:40"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Acts 21:40" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>