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Paul thinks no one appreciates him. He is probably discouraged because of poor results (in
numbers) and opposition in Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens. When he arrives in
Corinth, he has to make tents because support runs low and he is rejected by the Jews.

But the Lord confirms Paul is in His will and will not be forsaken. God also promises no one will
assault him (threats had already been made against his life). The Lord also knows that many
will be born again and Spirit-filled. Satan does not know the future but can predict with great
accuracy. When he knows a city is ripe for the gospel because the people are hungry, he will
oppose God’s man through criticism and discouragement.

Act 18:11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among
them.

This verse is the introduction to the rest of the chapter. During the eighteen months Paul is in
Corinth, a religious mob rises up against him and tries to use violence and Roman law to get rid
of Paul.
PAUL BROUGHT BEFORE GALLIO

Act 18:12 When Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul
and brought him to the judgment seat,

And when Gallio was the deputy (procounsel) of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection
(withstood, assaulted) with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,

A deputy is the same as the governor. Pontius Pilate was a governor. Gallio was an excellent
administrator and one of the greatest proponents of Roman law of his day, along with his
brother, Seneca. Because of his strong stand for Roman law, he will later be executed by Nero
who defies Roman law. (Gallio and Paul die within two years of each other.) Gallio is a man of
excellent manners, and these Jews think it will be easy to intimidate him and use him against
Paul.

Act 18:13 saying, "This fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law."

They try to stir up Gallio by accusing Paul of persuading people to go against Roman law. Paul is
about to defend himself, but Gallio beats him to the point.

Act 18:14 And when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, "If it were a
matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes, O Jews, there would be reason why I should bear with
you.

And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter
of wrong (civil indictment) or wicked lewdness (criminal acts), O ye Jews, reason would (it
would be right) that I should bear (put up) with you: