23 So he called them in and lodged them. On the next day Peter arose and went out with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him.
*Minor differences ignored. Grouped by changes, with first version listed as example.
And Peter also, being overcome with the authority of God, deliberateth no longer, but lodgeth the men, that he may go with them forthwith. So we must meekly submit ourselves to God; and there remaineth nothing after that we know his will, but that we run speedily thither whither he calleth us. There is no difficulty in the rest. The day following he went forth. It should seem that they arrived a little before night [1] because they were not as yet entered the city at noon, and the vision which was showed thrice asked no small time. Therefore, when they had taken their rest all night, they address themselves to return. Again, there was a point of courtesy in that some of the faithful do accompany Peter, who were sent, as it is to be thought, by the whole church, to bring him even to Cesarea. These men journey with Peter for goodwill and honor's sake; but the Lord bringeth them, that they may be witnesses of his grace. So that they are bountifully rewarded for their thankfulness, when as for confirmation of their faith they see the kingdom of Christ spread abroad even unto the Gentiles.
1 - "Sub vesperum," towards evening.
And lodged them - They remained with him through the night. Four days were occupied before Peter met Cornelius at Caesarea. On the first the angel appeared to Cornelius. On the second the messengers arrived at Joppa, Acts 10:9. On the third, Peter returned with them, Acts 10:23; and on the fourth they arrived at Caesarea, Acts 10:24, Acts 10:30.
And certain brethren - Some Christians. They were six in number, Acts 11:12. It was usual for the early Christians to accompany the apostles in their journeys. See Romans 15:24; Acts 15:3; 3-John 1:6; 1-Corinthians 16:6, 1-Corinthians 16:11. As this was an important event in the history of the church - the bearing of the gospel to a Gentile - it was more natural and proper that Peter should be attended with others.
Then called he them in, etc. - They had already walked a long journey in a short time, and needed refreshment; and it was thought expedient they should rest that night with Simon the tanner.
Certain brethren from Joppa - They were six in number, as we learn from Acts 11:12. It was necessary that there should be several witnesses of the important transactions which were about to take place; as on no slight evidence would even the converted Jews believe that repentance unto life, and the Holy Spirit, should be granted to the Gentiles.
Then called he them in,.... Into Simon's house; not "into his own house", as the Ethiopic version adds; as yet they stood without, before the gate of the house; he took them in, no doubt, with the leave of Simon, his host, and set provisions before them, and lodged them that night:
and in the morning Peter went away with them; the next morning he set out with them towards Caesarea:
and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him; there were six of them, as appears from Acts 11:12 these went with him, not only to bear him company, and out of respect to him; but to be witnesses of what might be seen, heard, said, or done, and for Peter, should there be any occasion for it, as there afterwards was.
called them in and lodged them--thus partially anticipating this fellowship with Gentiles.
Peter went . . . with them, and certain brethren--six in number (Acts 11:12).
from Joppa--as witnesses of a transaction which Peter was prepared to believe pregnant with great consequences.
*More commentary available at chapter level.