28
"We strictly forbad you to teach in that name--did we not?" he said. "And see, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and are trying to make us responsible for that man's death!"
29
Peter and the other Apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than man.
30
The God of our forefathers has raised Jesus to life, whom you crucified and put to death.
31
God has exalted Him to His right hand as Chief Leader and as Saviour, to give Israel repentance and forgiveness of sins.
32
And we--and the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him--are witnesses as to these things."
33
Infuriated at getting this answer, they were disposed to kill the Apostles.
34
But a Pharisee of the name of Gamaliel, a teacher of the Law, held in honour by all the people, rose from his seat and requested that they should be sent outside the court for a few minutes.
35
"Israelites," he said, "be careful what you are about to do in dealing with these men.
36
Years ago Theudas appeared, professing to be a person of importance, and a body of men, some four hundred in number, joined him. He was killed, and all his followers were dispersed and annihilated.
37
After him, at the time of the Census, came Judas, the Galilaean, and was the leader in a revolt. He too perished, and all his followers were scattered.
38
And now I tell you to hold aloof from these men and leave them alone--for if this scheme or work is of human origin, it will come to nothing.