Alexander, &c.— Many writers suppose that this was Alexander the coppersmith, who was one of the most violent judaizing Christians, consequently one of the greatest enemies of St. Paul, and most in favour with the unbelievingJews, of any who professed Christianity; and, if so, no wonder that the Jews should be desirous of his making his oration to the people. But when he himself would have spoken, and beckoned with his hand for silence, the people would not hear him; for they knew that he was of the race of the Jews, and consequently an enemy to Diana, and to their idolatry. But though Alexander was hereby prevented from speaking in public, he afterwards did the apostle and the Christian interest a great deal of harm by his private treachery, and opposing the liberty of the Gentile converts; that is, their freedom from the Mosaic law. See 1 Timothy 1:20. 2 Timothy 4:14.
Related Commentaries of Acts 19:33
Acts 19:33-34
33 And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.
34 But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.