Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Acts 24: Paul's Defense

Paul's Defense

Have you ever been accused or even falsely accused of something? It is not fun to have than done. I have had it from loved ones and even strangers. There is a way to handle these types of situations and the way Paul is very similar to that of Jesus. Jesus faced temptation in the desert and faced accusations from the Pharisees many times. He never got defensive, but he did defend himself with truth from scripture. Paul's defense here is not one of yelling and screaming and pointing fingers, but one of truth.

In verse 10 Paul "cheerfully" makes his defense while acknowledging the length of time Felix has been in power. To me it shows an initial sign or respect which sets the tone for how his defense will continue and end. In verses 11-13 Paul tells Felix that he can check any of the accusations that have been brought against him. In verses 14-19 Paul says what he is "guilty" of and still challenges the accusers to find him guilty of what they accuse him of. In the last sentence I wrote "guilty" because he had not done something wrong in the eyes of God but only in the eyes of the accuser. Paul verifies that he is guilty of worshiping the same God that the accusers worshiped. He says he is guilty of having hope in God, wanting to give alms to his nation and present offerings. He admits to being in the temple but being purified while there and then says challenges his accusers again. Paul was not afraid.
 

Paul was kept in custody and told by Felix that when Lysias the tribune comes then the case will be decided. Felix showed his greed by making Paul sit in custody for 2 years as that was Roman law and Felix had hoped for a bribe. For if Paul had offered Felix a bribe, Felix would have let him out.

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