Love Returned
Acts 18:17
Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.
Later we will see that Crispus means curly-haired. Such a name was traditionally reserved for those of African descent. You can well imagine that such was the case given the strategic location of Corinth at the meeting of seas. So, his much influence over the people in that city makes sense. However, his leadership of the synagogue given their traditionally closed-minded people does not. There are many words that can be used to describe those of middle eastern descent. But having curly-hair is not one of them. Could it be that his was a case similar to that of Timothy. Then his conversion taking place after meeting Timothy and seeing the respect for the Corinthian Justus makes sense. Like the other man, Crispus was in all ways respectable. See the crowd's sudden attack on Crispus and Paul's theology for clues as to why it was so personal. These possibly acted of their own accord only to later grow angry with Crispus for letting it happen. Such happenings then open the door for the question whether a man should renounce his leadership of something controversial after meeting Jesus. Today you hear about this person following the Lord and that one getting baptized. Yet not many choose to walk away from their careers and their callings entirely for his name. It should be seen that neither leaving nor staying is wrong. Rather, in all things you ought to follow the Lord's direction. While Crispus chose to remain, he ought to have used his influence for good to teach unto his people as did Paul. See in his faithfulness, the devil's workers grew angry. This is why when you follow God the attack should not surprise you. But stand firm. These can only hurt the body. As you will see, there are friends in high places to be found in Jesus and in Gallio.
From curly haired to Sosthenes an intellectual. One can only wonder at the change. Now this does nothing to explain the actions of the Greeks. I would understand the Jewish people being upset on Paul's behalf and on behalf of the gospel. But the Greeks being stirred is entirely a new thing. .
Remember Timothy's mixed heritage and what this testimony is doing here. Now can you not better understand the anger of the Greeks towards the one leading their Jewish neighbors his own way rather than the Lord's. See also the testimony of curly haired to all people both Jews and Greeks that they heeded. Faithfulness to God even when being replaced. Note the reaction of the righteous judge, Gallio. The text says he cared not for none of their actions.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-22
And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
16 Rejoice evermore.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
19 Quench not the Spirit.
20 Despise not prophesyings.
21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.