28. And when they heard this and became full of rage, they began to shout, saying, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!”
29. And the city was filled with the tumult, and with one purpose they rushed into the theater, seizing Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians who were traveling companions of Paul.
30. But when Paul wanted to enter into the popular assembly, the disciples would not let him.
31. And even some of the Asiarchs who were his friends sent word to him and were urging him not to risk himself by going into the theater.
32. So some were shouting one thing and some another, for the assembly was in confusion, and the majority did not know why they had assembled.
33. And some of the crowd advised Alexander, when the Jews put him forward. But Alexander, motioning with his hand, was wanting to defend himself to the popular assembly.
34. But when they recognized that he was a Jew, they were shouting with one voice from all of them for about two hours, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!”
35. And when the city secretary had quieted the crowd, he said, “Ephesian men, for who is there among men who does not know the Ephesian city is honorary temple keeper of the great Artemis and of her image fallen from heaven?
36. Therefore because these things are undeniable, it is necessary that you be quiet and do nothing rash!
37. For you have brought these men here who are neither temple robbers nor blasphemers of our goddess.
38. If then Demetrius and the craftsmen who are with him have a complaint against anyone, the court days are observed and there are proconsuls—let them bring charges against one another!
39. But if you desire anything further, it will be settled in the lawful assembly.
40. For indeed we are in danger of being accused of rioting concerning today, since there is no cause in relation to which we will be able to give an account concerning this disorderly gathering!” And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly.