Acts 21:36

KJV

For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} the multitude {G4128} of the people {G2992} followed after {G190}, crying {G2896}, Away {G142} with him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

the crowd kept following and screaming, “Kill him!”

Berean Standard Bible

For the crowd that followed him kept shouting, “Away with him!”

American Standard Version

for the multitude of the people followed after, crying out, Away with him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 21:36 vividly portrays the escalating mob violence and intense hostility directed at the Apostle Paul in Jerusalem, as a vast crowd relentlessly pursued him, clamoring for his death. This pivotal moment marks Paul's arrest by Roman authorities, setting in motion a series of trials and appeals that would ultimately lead him to Rome, fulfilling God's sovereign plan for his ministry. The verse encapsulates the dangerous power of an uncontrolled populace driven by false accusations and prejudice, mirroring earlier instances of mob injustice in biblical history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 21:36 is the climactic cry of the mob following a tumultuous incident in the Temple courts. Paul had returned to Jerusalem from his third missionary journey, seeking to demonstrate his respect for Jewish customs by undergoing a purification rite in the Temple, as described in [Acts 21:26](/acts/21-26 "Paul's Purification in the Temple"). However, Jews from Asia, who had previously encountered Paul and harbored deep animosity towards his Gentile-inclusive Gospel, instigated a riot by falsely accusing him of defiling the sacred Temple by bringing Gentiles into forbidden areas, as detailed in [Acts 21:28](/acts/21-28 "False Accusations Against Paul"). This inflammatory accusation quickly stirred up the entire city, leading to a violent attempt to seize Paul, drag him out of the Temple, and beat him to death, a scene described in [Acts 21:31](/acts/21-31 "Attempted Lynching of Paul"). The Roman tribune, Claudius Lysias, hearing the uproar, swiftly intervened with soldiers and centurions, rescuing Paul from the murderous crowd just as they were about to kill him, leading directly to the pursuit and cry recorded in verse 36.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Jerusalem, the epicenter of Jewish religious and national identity, under Roman occupation. The Temple was not merely a religious site but a powerful symbol of Jewish distinctiveness and a focal point for nationalistic fervor. Accusations of defiling the Temple were extremely serious, often inciting immediate and violent reactions from the populace. Roman authorities, particularly the tribune, were acutely aware of the volatile nature of Jerusalem and the potential for riots to escalate into full-scale rebellions, which they were duty-bound to suppress quickly. Their presence and swift intervention were a measure to maintain Roman order and prevent widespread insurrection. The cry "Away with him!" reflects a common ancient practice of public condemnation and a demand for execution, often preceding a lynching or formal judgment. The Roman legal system, though often brutal, at least offered a semblance of due process, which Paul, as a Roman citizen, would later invoke.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Acts and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the pervasive theme of **Persecution and Opposition to the Gospel**, demonstrating the intense resistance Paul faced for his mission to the Gentiles, a theme seen throughout [the book of Acts](/acts/1 "The Book of Acts - The Early Church"). The incident vividly illustrates the dangers of **Mob Mentality**, where a large group, swayed by rumor and prejudice, acts as an irrational, destructive force, demanding summary justice without investigation. This echoes the tragic events leading to Christ's crucifixion, where a similar cry was raised against Jesus (e.g., [Luke 23:18](/luke/23-18 "The Crowd Demands Barabbas")). Furthermore, the timely Roman intervention underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**, revealing how God uses seemingly secular authorities to preserve His servants and advance His purposes, even amidst extreme danger. Paul's survival here is crucial for his subsequent ministry and journey to Rome, as foreshadowed by God's promise in [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "God's Promise to Paul").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **multitude (Greek, _plēthos'_):** From G4128, meaning "a fullness," specifically "a large number, throng, populace." In this context, it emphasizes the sheer numerical force and overwhelming presence of the crowd, highlighting the collective, undifferentiated nature of their anger and the danger it posed to Paul. It's not just a few individuals but a significant segment of the "people" (G2992, _laós_), indicating a widespread, popular uprising.
* **followed after (Greek, _akolouthéō'_):** From G190, meaning "to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (especially, as a disciple)." While often used positively for discipleship, here it denotes a relentless, pursuing movement, emphasizing the crowd's determined chase of Paul. They were not merely observing but actively pursuing him, indicating their intent to ensure his demise or capture.
* **crying (Greek, _krázō'_):** From G2896, meaning "to 'croak' (as a raven) or scream, i.e., to call aloud (shriek, exclaim, intreat)." This word conveys a loud, guttural, and often uncontrolled vocalization, reflecting the intense emotional fervor and rage of the mob. It suggests a cacophony of voices, all united in their demand, adding to the chaotic and threatening atmosphere.
* **Away with him (Greek, _aírō autós'_):** From G142 (_aírō_), "to lift up; by implication, to take up or away; figuratively, to raise (the voice), keep in suspense (the mind), specially, to sail away (i.e. weigh anchor); by Hebraism (compare נָשָׂא) to expiate sin." Combined with the pronoun "him" (G846, _autós_), this is a forceful imperative, "Take him away!" or "Remove him!" In this context, given the preceding violence and intent to kill, it functions as a demand for execution, mirroring the cry against Jesus. It's a call for Paul's immediate removal from their presence, implying his death.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the multitude of the people followed after":** This clause establishes the overwhelming numerical force and relentless pursuit of the crowd. The "multitude" (πλῆθος) emphasizes the sheer volume and collective nature of the mob, indicating that Paul was not facing a few disgruntled individuals but a significant portion of the populace. Their "following after" (ἠκολούθει) signifies a determined chase, underscoring the immediate and pervasive danger Paul was in.
* **"crying":** This single word captures the vocal intensity and emotional fervor of the mob. The Greek term (κράζοντες) suggests a loud, perhaps even guttural, shriek or scream, indicating a collective, uncontrolled outburst of rage and demand. It highlights the chaotic and threatening atmosphere as the crowd expresses its unified desire.
* **"Away with him":** This is the core demand of the mob, a forceful imperative (ἆρον αὐτόν). In this context, it is not merely a request for Paul's removal but a vehement demand for his execution. It signifies their absolute rejection of Paul and their desire for his immediate demise, echoing similar cries for capital punishment in ancient legal and mob contexts.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 21:36 employs several literary devices to heighten the drama and convey the gravity of the situation. The use of **Hyperbole** is evident in "the multitude of the people," emphasizing the overwhelming number and collective force of Paul's pursuers, creating a sense of inescapable danger. The loud, unified "crying" functions as **Onomatopoeia**, allowing the reader to almost hear the enraged shouts of the mob, immersing them in the chaotic scene. There is profound **Dramatic Irony** in this moment: the crowd demands Paul's death, unaware that their actions are inadvertently setting in motion a chain of events that will lead Paul to Rome, fulfilling God's sovereign will to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles and before emperors. Furthermore, the cry "Away with him!" serves as a powerful **Allusion** to the similar demands made against Jesus before Pilate (e.g., [John 19:15](/john/19-15 "The Crowd Demands Jesus' Crucifixion")), implicitly linking Paul's suffering to that of his Lord and highlighting the recurring pattern of righteous suffering at the hands of an irrational mob. The entire scene is a vivid portrayal of **Mob Mentality**, where individual reason is subsumed by collective passion and prejudice, leading to unjust and violent demands.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 21:36 stands as a stark reminder of the enduring opposition faced by those who faithfully proclaim God's truth, particularly when that truth challenges established norms or prejudices. The mob's irrational fury and demand for Paul's death, based on false accusations, resonate deeply with the suffering of Christ and His followers throughout history. It underscores the spiritual conflict inherent in the advance of the Gospel, where the forces of darkness often incite human hatred against God's messengers. Yet, even in this moment of extreme peril, God's sovereign hand is evident, as the Roman intervention, though seemingly secular, serves His divine purpose to protect Paul and ensure the continuation of his ministry. This event highlights that persecution, while painful, can paradoxically become a catalyst for the Gospel's further spread, as Paul's arrest ultimately opened doors for him to testify in new, influential contexts.

* [Luke 23:18](/luke/23-18 "The Crowd Demands Barabbas Instead of Jesus")
* [John 19:15](/john/19-15 "The Chief Priests Cry, 'Crucify Him!'")
* [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "The Lord Stands by Paul")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 21:36 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, urging us to cultivate discernment and steadfastness in a world often swayed by popular opinion and emotional fervor. This passage challenges us to resist the powerful pull of mob mentality, whether expressed in physical violence or through the rapid spread of misinformation and condemnation in digital spaces. We are called to think critically, verify truth, and stand for justice, even when it is unpopular or puts us at odds with the prevailing narrative. Like Paul, we may face opposition, false accusations, or even hostility for our faith and commitment to Christ. This verse encourages us to remain steadfast, trusting in God's protective hand and His overarching plan, even when circumstances seem dire. It reminds us that God can use unexpected means and even adverse situations to advance His kingdom, turning what appears to be a setback into an opportunity for His glory and the spread of His message.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I identify and resist the subtle or overt pressures of "mob mentality" in my own life and community?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to condemn or dismiss others based on rumor or incomplete information, rather than seeking truth and justice?**
* **How does Paul's steadfastness in the face of extreme hostility encourage me to stand firm in my faith amidst opposition or misunderstanding?**
* **Where can I see God's sovereign hand at work in seemingly chaotic or negative circumstances in my own life or in the world today?**

### FAQ
**Why was the crowd so hostile towards Paul in Jerusalem?**

Answer: The crowd's intense hostility stemmed primarily from false accusations and deep-seated religious and nationalistic prejudices. Jews from Asia, who had previously encountered Paul and opposed his ministry, falsely accused him of defiling the sacred Temple by bringing Gentiles into forbidden areas (see [Acts 21:28](/acts/21-28 "False Accusations Against Paul in the Temple")). This accusation, touching on a highly sensitive issue for Jewish identity and purity laws, ignited a furious reaction from the populace. They perceived Paul as a traitor to their traditions and a threat to their religious heritage, leading them to demand his immediate death. Their anger was fueled by misunderstanding, rumor, and a fervent zeal for the Mosaic Law, which they believed Paul was undermining by preaching the Gospel to the Gentiles without requiring them to fully convert to Judaism.

**How does this event in Acts 21:36 connect to Paul's later ministry and journey?**

Answer: This event, leading to Paul's arrest, marks a significant turning point in his ministry. While seemingly a setback, it was part of God's sovereign plan to bring Paul to Rome. His arrest by the Roman tribune (as seen in [Acts 21:33](/acts/21-33 "Paul's Arrest by the Tribune")) initiated a series of trials before various Roman and Jewish authorities (e.g., Felix, Festus, Agrippa). During these trials, Paul consistently used the opportunity to boldly proclaim the Gospel, effectively preaching to kings, governors, and high-ranking officials whom he might otherwise never have reached. Ultimately, his appeal to Caesar as a Roman citizen (mentioned in [Acts 25:11](/acts/25-11 "Paul Appeals to Caesar")) directly led to his journey to Rome, fulfilling the Lord's promise to him in [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "The Lord's Promise to Paul about Rome") that he must testify about Christ in Rome as he had in Jerusalem. Thus, the mob's attempt to silence him paradoxically became the very means by which God advanced Paul's mission to the heart of the Roman Empire.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 21:36, with its chilling cry of "Away with him!", profoundly echoes the unjust suffering of Jesus Christ and reveals a pattern of righteous individuals being condemned by an enraged populace. Just as the Jewish leaders and a manipulated crowd demanded the crucifixion of the innocent Lamb of God, crying "Away with him, away with him, crucify him!" (as recorded in [John 19:15](/john/19-15 "The Crowd Demands Jesus' Crucifixion")), so too did the mob in Jerusalem clamor for Paul's death. This parallel highlights that the persecution faced by Christ's followers is a participation in His own suffering (compare [Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")). Paul, as a faithful servant of Christ, embodies the truth that "all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" ([2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "Persecution for Godliness")). Yet, in Christ, this suffering is not in vain; it is a testament to the truth of the Gospel and often serves as a catalyst for its further spread. Paul's deliverance from the mob, though by Roman hands, ultimately points to Christ's ultimate victory over sin and death, and His sovereign protection over His church, ensuring that His redemptive plan will be fulfilled, even through the trials of His faithful witnesses.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 19:15

But they cried out, Away with [him], away with [him], crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar.

Acts 22:22

¶ And they gave him audience unto this word, and [then] lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a [fellow] from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.

Luke 23:18

And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this [man], and release unto us Barabbas:

1 Corinthians 4:13

Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, [and are] the offscouring of all things unto this day.

Acts 7:54

¶ When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with [their] teeth.