But the Jews became jealous, and with the help of some ruffians in the marketplaces they formed a mob and set the city in an uproar. While they were searching for Paul and Silas to bring them out to the assembly, they attacked Jason’s house. When they could not find them, they dragged Jason and some believers before the city authorities, shouting, “These people who have been turning the world upside down have come here also, and Jason has entertained them as guests. They are all acting contrary to the decrees of the emperor, saying that there is another king named Jesus.” The people and the city officials were disturbed when they heard this, and after they had taken bail from Jason and the others, they let them go. Acts 17:5-9

The accusations against Jason and some of the believers is that they have entertained Paul and Silas as guests. The decree of the emperor is that the emperor is king, god like. Paul and Silas are announcing Jesus the King of kings and His salvation is freely spoken of to hearts hungry for Truth. Christianity spreads household by household.

But controversy is raised, fueled by jealousy and the help of ruffians, and Jason and the believers are accused. If we did not know better we might suppose that Paul and Silas are on the wrong side of the law. Yet we know that Paul and Silas are right to give Good News of Jesus’ death on the Cross and Resurrection because knowing Christ makes hearts and minds come alive in Christ Savior and Lord.

Roman law that protects and promotes the emperor as god of the reign of Rome is turned upside down by Christ’s victory on the Cross. The evil Roman rule found in the Roman Empire made self-centeredness a requirement by military force. Paul and Silas freely offer Christ– the opposite of self-centered ness. Jesus gives salvation over sin by His death on the Cross and victory over evil. Jesus has turned the world right side up to Almighty God.