Dig In:
Passage: Acts 23
Dig Deeper:
Chapter Summary
v1-10 - The drama continues. Paul is in Roman custody, but since Paul is a Roman citizen, he's under their protection. The Roman commander isn't quite sure what to do with Paul, as he's not been charged with a crime, so he arranges for Paul to speak to the council which oversees Jewish religious affairs. As Paul speaks to them, he exploits the division within this council with a few short words: his "hope of the resurrection of the dead (v6)." This throws the council into an uproar, and the Romans evacuate Paul from the scene.
v11-22 - Once again, Jesus appears to Paul with comforting and encouraging words. But the next morning, a plot is hatched to ambush and kill Paul. The plot is intercepted by Paul's nephew, who relays it to the Roman commander.
v23-35 - The Roman army is now squarely on Paul's side, if only because Paul is a Roman citizen who needs protection. A massive contingent of 470 troops help safely transport Paul out of Jerusalem up to the regional governor's palace in Caesarea where Paul will stand trial.
Old Testament Reference -
Paul calls the high priest a 'whitewashed wall (v3).' Read Ezekiel 13:10-14 to find out why this was such a loaded term.
Discuss:
Use the comment box below to discuss one or more of these questions. For every comment or reply you post, you will receive an entry for this month's prize: a gift certificate to Seed & Stem 12:27
What is comforting about the words Jesus speaks to Paul in v11? What do you think might be troubling about this message if you were in Paul's shoes?
Follow the AAA Prayer Pattern:
ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: A great and mighty God who can even use a pagan army to save His people.
ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Be thankful that Jesus is standing right alongside of you, telling you to take courage as you seek & do His will.
ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED:
Comments