Acts 14:4

“But the multitude of the city was divided, etc.] In their sentiments, about the apostles, their doctrines, and miracles; some approving them, others condemning their doctrines as false, and their miracles as delusions: and part held with the Jews; that did not believe, but rejected the apostles, despised their doctrines, and disparaged their miracles: and part with the apostles; these were the Jews and Greeks, that believed; which divisions in families, towns, and cities, though the common consequence of the preaching of the Gospel, are not owing to any fault in that, but to the depravity and corruption of human nature; and are what our Lord declared was, and foretold would be the case,…”

“Was divided - Into parties. Greek: there was a schism - Ἐσχίσθη Eschisthē. And part held with the Jews - Held to the doctrines of the Jews, in opposition to the apostles. A revival of religion often produces excitement by the bad passions of opposers. The enemies of the truth form parties, and organize opposition. It is no uncommon thing even now for such parties to be formed; but the fault is not in Christianity. It lies with those who form a party against religion, and who confederate themselves, as was done here, to oppose it. return to 'Top of Page'”

“14:4 The apostolic message required a decision about belief in Jesus, and opinion was clearly split. • Paul and Barnabas are called apostles for the first time (also in 14:14), extending the idea of apostleship beyond the Twelve. Their message was in continuity with that of the original apostles, and they were prepared to suffer hardship and persecution for it as the earlier apostles had done (5:41; 14:19; 20:24; 21:13-14; see also Rom 8:35-38; 2 Cor 4:8-17).”

“the multitude: Mic 7:6; Mat 10:34-36; Luk 2:34, Luk 11:21-23, Luk 12:51-53; Joh 7:43 part: Act 28:24 apostles: Act 14:14, Act 13:2; Co1 9:5 Acts 14:5”