Bible Strands
Acts 19:33
The Jews in the crowd pushed Alexander forward to explain himself, and he motioned for silence so he could make his defense to the people.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — During a chaotic Ephesian assembly where most attendees are confused about the gathering's purpose, the Jews in the crowd physically advance Alexander to address them, and he gestures for quiet to deliver his defense.
The words — The text highlights προβαλόντων (probalontōn), literally "when thrusting forward," and συνεβίβασαν (sunebibasan), "brought forward," describing the crowd's physical action of advancing Alexander to speak.
The thread — The gesture for silence parallels Peter's motion in Acts 12:17, while the named Alexander reappears in Paul's later warnings in 1 Timothy 1:20 and 2 Timothy 4:14.
Why it lands — The verse records a moment of attempted clarification amid mob confusion, requiring the reader to observe how individual appeals for order are instantly overridden by collective prejudice.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.
Cross-references
- Acts 12:17 Peter motioned with his hand for silence, and he described how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. “Send word to James and to the brothers,” he said, and he left for another place.
- 1 Timothy 1:20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.
- 2 Timothy 4:14 Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his deeds.
- Luke 1:22 When he came out and was unable to speak to them, they realized he had seen a vision in the temple. He kept making signs to them but remained unable to speak.
- Acts 13:16 Paul stood up, motioned with his hand, and began to speak: “Men of Israel and you Gentiles who fear God, listen to me!
- Acts 21:40 Having received permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. A great hush came over the crowd, and he addressed them in Hebrew:
- Acts 24:10 When the governor motioned for Paul to speak, he began his response: “Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense.
- Acts 26:1 Agrippa said to Paul, “You have permission to speak for yourself.” Then Paul stretched out his hand and began his defense:
- Philippians 1:7 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart. For in my chains and in my defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partners in grace with me.