5 There was a plot afoot among both Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them.
5 And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them,
5 When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them,
5 One day, learning that both the Jews and non-Jews had been organized by their leaders to beat them up,
5 And when a violent attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone them,
5 Then a mob of Gentiles and Jews, along with their leaders, decided to attack and stone them.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 14:5
Commentary on Acts 14:1-7
(Read Acts 14:1-7)
The apostles spake so plainly, with such evidence and proof of the Spirit, and with such power; so warmly, and with such concern for the souls of men; that those who heard them could not but say, God was with them of a truth. Yet the success was not to be reckoned to the manner of their preaching, but to the Spirit of God who used that means. Perseverance in doing good, amidst dangers and hardships, is a blessed evidence of grace. Wherever God's servants are driven, they should seek to declare the truth. When they went on in Christ's name and strength, he failed not to give testimony to the word of his grace. He has assured us it is the word of God, and that we may venture our souls upon it. The Gentiles and Jews were at enmity with one another, yet united against Christians. If the church's enemies join to destroy it, shall not its friends unite for its preservation? God has a shelter for his people in a storm; he is, and will be their Hiding-place. In times of persecution, believers may see cause to quit a spot, though they do not quit their Master's work.