Acts 14:4

4 But then there was a split in public opinion, some siding with the Jews, some with the apostles.

Acts 14:4 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 14:4

But the multitude of the city was divided
In their sentiments, about the apostles, their doctrines, and miracles; some approving them, others condemning their doctrines as false, and their miracles as delusions:

and part held with the Jews;
that did not believe, but rejected the apostles, despised their doctrines, and disparaged their miracles:

and part with the apostles;
these were the Jews and Greeks, that believed; which divisions in families, towns, and cities, though the common consequence of the preaching of the Gospel, are not owing to any fault in that, but to the depravity and corruption of human nature; and are what our Lord declared was, and foretold would be the case, ( Luke 12:51 ) .

Acts 14:4 In-Context

2 But the unbelieving Jews worked up a whispering campaign against Paul and Barnabas, sowing mistrust and suspicion in the minds of the people in the street.

3 The two apostles were there a long time, speaking freely, openly, and confidently as they presented the clear evidence of God's gifts, God corroborating their work with miracles and wonders.

4 But then there was a split in public opinion, some siding with the Jews, some with the apostles.

5 One day, learning that both the Jews and non-Jews had been organized by their leaders to beat them up,

6 they escaped as best they could to the next towns - Lyconia, Lystra, Derbe, and that neighborhood -