Act 19:38-39 | Clarke | e4.org | Verse 38. If Demetrius-have a matter against any man ] If it be any breach of law, in reference to Demetrius and the artists, the law is open , αγοραιοιαγονται; these are the terms of law, public courts, times of sessions or assize; or, rather, the judges are mow sitting : so the words may be understood. And there are deputies , ανθυπατοι, proconsuls , appointed to guard the peace of the state, and to support every honest man in his right: let them implead one another ; let the one party bring forward his action of assault or trespass, and the other put in his defense: the laws are equal and impartial, and justice will be done to him who is wronged.

‏ Acts 19:38-39

Verse 38. If Demetrius-have a matter against any man] If it be any breach of law, in reference to Demetrius and the artists, the law is open, αγοραιοιαγονται; these are the terms of law, public courts, times of sessions or assize; or, rather, the judges are mow sitting: so the words may be understood. And there are deputies, ανθυπατοι, proconsuls, appointed to guard the peace of the state, and to support every honest man in his right: let them implead one another; let the one party bring forward his action of assault or trespass, and the other put in his defense: the laws are equal and impartial, and justice will be done to him who is wronged.

Verse 39. But if ye inquire any thing concerning other matters] In which the safety of the state, or the national worship, is concerned, know that such a matter is not the business of the mob; it must be heard and determined in a lawful assembly, εντηεννομω εκκλησια, one legally constituted, and properly authorized to hear and determine on the subject.