23
And about that time there arose a great commotion about the Way.
24
For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana, brought no small profit to the craftsmen.
25
He called them together with the workers of similar occupation, and said: "Men, you know that we have our prosperity by this trade.
26
Moreover you see and hear that not only at Ephesus, but throughout almost all Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away many people, saying that they are not gods which are made with hands.
27
So not only is this trade of ours in danger of falling into disrepute, but also the temple of the great goddess Diana may be despised and her magnificence destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worship."
28
Now when they heard this, they were full of wrath and cried out, saying, "Great is Diana of the Ephesians!"
29
So the whole city was filled with confusion, and rushed into the theater with one accord, having seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul's travel companions.
30
And when Paul wanted to go in to the people, the disciples would not allow him.
31
Then some of the officials of Asia, who were his friends, sent to him pleading that he would not venture into the theater.
32
Some therefore cried one thing and some another, for the assembly was confused, and most of them did not know why they had come together.
33
And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander motioned with his hand, and wanted to make his defense to the people.