{Dismissed the assembly} (apelusen t(886e) ekkl(8873)ian). The
town-clerk thus gave a semblance of law and order to the mob by
formally dismissing them, this much to protect them against the
charge to which they were liable. This vivid, graphic picture
given by Luke has all the earmarks of historical accuracy. Paul
does not describe the incidents in his letters, was not in the
theatre in fact, but Luke evidently obtained the details from one
who was there. Aristarchus, we know, was with Luke in Caesarea
and in Rome and could have supplied all the data necessary.
Certainly both Gaius and Aristarchus were lively witnesses of
these events since their own lives were involved.