This man was seized by the Jews and was about to be killed by them when I came upon them with the soldiers and rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman citizen.
27. This man being taken. This was spoken odiously concerning the Jews, that he might purchase more favor for Paul, that a man, being a Roman, was by them sore beaten, and almost slain; also, he commendeth him for the right and privilege of his freedom, that he may be the more courteously handled. Furthermore, this commendation was not purchased by prayer or flattery, neither was it bought with money.
Malice that cannot gain its end by tumult or law will turn to the knife. Forty men bound themselves by oath to murder Paul, their hearts filled with hatred because he preached to Gentiles. Satan had stirred them in the night; by daylight they were ready to kill. But Christ appeared to Paul in darkness to shield him, and God was awake before His enemies rose.
AI summary
Commenting on Acts 23:12-35
Whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law,.... As about the resurrection of the dead, and a future state, which some in the council denied, and some asserted, which with this heathen man were idle and foolish questions; or about the defiling of the temple, and speaking contemptibly of the law of Moses, the people of the Jews, and the holy place...