Acts 19:29-41

29Then the city was filled with confusion; and people rushed together [as a group] into the amphitheater, dragging along with them Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians who were Paul’s traveling companions.

30Paul wanted to go into the [pagan] assembly, but the disciples would not let him.

31Even some of the Asiarchs (officials) who were his friends sent word to him and repeatedly warned him not to venture into the amphitheater.

32Now some shouted one thing and some another, for the gathering was in confusion and most of the people did not know why they had come together.

33Some of the crowd advised Alexander [to speak], since the Jews had pushed him forward; and Alexander motioned with his hand [for attention] and intended to make a defense to the people.

34But when they realized that he was a Jew, a single outcry went up from the crowd as they shouted for about two hours, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!”

35After the town clerk had quieted the crowd, he said, “Men of Ephesus, what person is there who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is the guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of that [sacred stone image of her] which fell from the sky?

36So, since these things cannot be denied, you ought to be quiet and stay calm and not do anything rash.

37For you have brought these men here who are neither temple robbers nor blasphemers of our goddess.

38So then, if Demetrius and the craftsmen who are with him have a complaint against anyone, the courts are in session and proconsuls are available; let them bring charges against one another there.

39But if you want anything beyond this, it will be settled in the lawful assembly.

40For we are running the risk of being accused of rioting in regard to today’s events, and since there is no reason for it, we will be unable to give an account and justify this disorderly gathering.”

41And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly.