35 And he said to them, "Men of Israel , take care what you propose to do with these men . 36 "For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody , and a group of about four hundred men joined up with him. But he was killed , and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing . 37 "After this man , Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census and drew away some people after him; he too perished , and all those who followed him were scattered .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 5:35-37
Commentary on Acts 5:34-42
(Read Acts 5:34-42)
The Lord still has all hearts in his hands, and sometimes directs the prudence of the worldly wise, so as to restrain the persecutors. Common sense tells us to be cautious, while experience and observation show that the success of frauds in matters of religion has been very short. Reproach for Christ is true preferment, as it makes us conformable to his pattern, and serviceable to his interest. They rejoiced in it. If we suffer ill for doing well, provided we suffer it well, and as we should, we ought to rejoice in that grace which enabled us so to do. The apostles did not preach themselves, but Christ. This was the preaching that most offended the priests. But it ought to be the constant business of gospel ministers to preach Christ: Christ, and him crucified; Christ, and him glorified; nothing beside this, but what has reference to it. And whatever is our station or rank in life, we should seek to make Him known, and to glorify his name.