4/17/10 Act 24-25
Paul’s Defense
In chapter 23 the commander had learned of the plot to kill Paul and arranged for Paul to be transferred to Caesarea and commits Paul’s case to the governor Felix. Five days later the high priest and other leaders came for Jerusalem to Caesarea to request a hearing before Felix. Felix granted the hearing, but upon hearing the Jews accusations and Paul’s defense Felix was uncomfortable with making a ruling. Felix had an understanding of “the Way” and knew the high priest claim of Paul being the ringleader of this sect was unfounded. Felix put off the high priest and the others with him and placed Paul in custody with some freedom. Felix held Paul in custody until Emperor Nero replaced Governor Felix with a man named Festus.
Paul had been held for two years under Felix and now there is a new governor Festus who learned about Paul’s case during a trip to Jerusalem. When Festus arrived back in Caesarea he held a trial, but Paul made his defense again and then appealed to Caesar. When Paul said this Festus had no other recourse, but to send Paul to Rome to be tried. In the meantime King Agrippa, Herod Agrippa II, who was of royalty but had no, governing power, came to Caesarea with his sister and Festus discussed this unusual case with King Agrippa that involved Paul. Agrippa desired to hear Paul for himself so and Festus will use Agrippa’s hearing to write down the charges against Paul for the Emperor.
From chapter 23-26 we read of Paul giving his defense four different times. Each time that he gives his defense he is able to testify to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each trial involves the issue surrounding the truth about Jesus. This passage also encourages us that it is perfectly right to claim your rights as a citizen. Paul uses his citizenship as a way to be a powerful witness of the Lord Jesus Christ. We must understand that whether we are free or in bondage we always have an opportunity to witness about the Lord Jesus Christ.
(1 Co 7:21-22)21Were you called while a slave? Do not worry about it; but if you are able also to become free, rather do that. 22For he who was called in the Lord while a slave, is the Lord’s freedman; likewise he who was called while free, is Christ’s slave.
Prayer: Father you allow men to be imprisoned and for them to be free. In my freedom I desire that I will faithfully and accurately declare to all men the forgiveness found in Jesus Christ by faith. Perhaps I am imprisoned for telling this goodness and false charges are brought against me I will understand that it is your plan for others to hear the good news found in Jesus Christ. Lord in freedom or in bond I desire to serve you and those around me. Give me this day and the days ahead a heart of surrender to your will, in Jesus name. Amen.