December 13: Acts 24-26

December 13, Acts 24-26

Acts Continued…

Acts 24 Paul Before Felix at Caesarea. We left off yesterday, with Paul being arrested and kept in custody. Paul stood before Tertullus, an attorney, and Governor Felix, to present his case. Tertullus flattered and gave much praise to the Governor for the changes he has made, and then went on to make accusations against Paul for the things he has apparently done. Paul was able to respond and made clear that he was not there to stir up crowds or anything of the sort. He went to Jerusalem to go to the Temple - the only thing that Paul said that was ‘controversial’, was that Jesus was resurrected, which was true. 

Paul Kept in Custody. Governor Felix did not make a decision, rather he decided to wait until the military commander arrived. He was somewhat gracious though, “Then he (Felix) gave orders to the centurion that he (Paul) should be kept in custody but have some liberty, and that none of his friends should be prevented from attending to his needs.” After some time, Felix called for Paul. Felix had his wife with him, Drusilla, and they wanted to hear about the Christian Faith. So what happened and what was really going on? “And as he (Paul) reasoned about righteousness and self-control and the coming judgment, Felix was alarmed and said, “Go away for the present. When I get an opportunity I will summon you.” At the same time he hoped that money would be given him by Paul.” He was convicted but was not convinced, as he was hoping to be bribed by Paul. After another 2 year period, Felix is no longer Governor - he was succeeded by Porcius Festus and Paul was still in prison because Felix had wanted to do the Jews a favor…

Acts 25 Paul Appeals to Caesar. Festus is now the Governor and within a few days, he meets with the elders and the chief priests - and their case against Paul. They still wanted to kill him and were planning to do so when they got the chance. Paul had the opportunity to make clear that he has done no wrong. Festus asked Paul if he was willing to have a trial in Jerusalem and instead of agreeing, Paul appealed to Caesar (because he was Roman). Festus consented. 

Paul Before Agrippa and Bernice. The King comes to town and wants to hear Paul’s case, so the next day, the King comes in to hear him - but he was given a kings entrance with Pomp and the military before him. Oh brother… The people were shouting for Paul to not live any longer and the king asked for the evidence so that he could write a letter to Caesar with the accurate charges of Paul and his accusers. 

Acts 26 Paul’s Defense Before Agrippa. The summary is from Bakers Commentary: “Paul receives permission to speak. He informs Agrippa and the rest of the audience that he counts himself fortunate to make his defense before the king, who is acquainted with the customs and controversies of the Jews. He identifies himself as a Jew who came to Jerusalem, who lived as a Pharisee, and who is accused by the Jews for believing in the teaching of the resurrection. He relates that he opposed the name of Jesus, oppressed the saints, went to numerous synagogues to have them punished, and traveled abroad to persecute them.

Paul recounts his conversion experience near Damascus, his appointment as servant and witness, and his commission to preach the gospel. He describes how he obeyed the heavenly voice, proclaimed the message of salvation, and was arrested by the Jews, who tried to kill him.

Governor Festus interrupts Paul’s discourse and accuses Paul of being out of his mind. Paul denies that he is insane and asks Agrippa to affirm his faith in the writings of the prophets. Agrippa refuses to answer this personal question and adjourns the meeting. He comments that Paul could have been released had he not appealed to Caesar.”

To sum it all up: 

• Do you believe that God can raise people from the dead and that He indeed did raise Jesus from the dead? The resurrection of Jesus is what Paul was willing to be arrested for and ultimately, prepare to die for. 
• There may come a day where your faith will literally separate you from others - are you ready for that?