Acts 24:21

Liberty Bell Memorial Plaque.

Monday, 12 February 2024 

“unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’” Acts 24:21

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

The Greek more literally says, “…or concerning this one voice which I cried out, having stood among them, ‘Concerning resurrection of dead I am judged this day by you’” (CG).

Paul has refuted the charges against him, clearly indicating that they were without basis and should be dropped. This is especially so from a legal standpoint within the Roman Empire’s area of authority.

However, Paul now adds a statement to demonstrate that what has been brought against him by the Jews concerned questions of their own religious and cultural law, having nothing to do with something the Romans would get involved in. This is because Rome had allowed the Jews to conduct and judge their own religious affairs. Understanding this, he says, “…or concerning this one voice which I cried out.”

Paul used his own voice within the Sanhedrin to elicit a response from those appointed to judge him. In this, he openly admits that he may have said something to rile up the Jews in authority.

Felix was probably all ears at this point, waiting to determine if it was something he could finally use to put together a bigger picture of what had them in such a lather. To this point, nothing of a legal standing had been brought forth for him to judge. With that, Paul next says, “having stood among them.”

This matter was, as he said in the previous verse, “while I stood before the council.” Paul completely ignores anything that occurred at the temple because he has already addressed that matter sufficiently. Instead, what has the Jewish leadership in such a tizzy is a statement about their own interpretation of the law.

This is what stirred up the Sanhedrin in Acts 23:6. It is the only thing that he could be accused of that caused any tumult, and yet it has nothing to do with the charges against him, nor is it anything that was punishable under Roman law. That is perfectly evident from what he had called out, which is, “Concerning resurrection of dead I am judged this day by you.’”

Note that there is no article before “resurrection” or “dead.” It is a general thought that Paul is expressing. In other words, “Can that which is dead be returned to life?”

Further, his words are not given as if there was anything wrong with his opinion about the resurrection. Instead, they are a sort of sarcastic irony directed towards his accusers, knowing that they would not want to argue over the matter again, especially right there in front of Felix.

The really humiliating part of what Paul has said is that the commander, Claudius Lysias, was personally there to witness that this is what occurred. He and any soldiers who conducted Paul to the Sanhedrin could be brought before the commander in just a couple of days to testify to this. As such, Paul would be a complete fool to make it up.

From a legal standpoint, Paul’s case is all but over. Anything that happens beyond this point will simply be to validate that what he has just said is true. If it is, that should settle things.

Life application: It is good to remember that Paul was able to manipulate the Sanhedrin’s direction by calling out something that would divide them. He knew this. They took the bait and brought embarrassment upon themselves by failing to stick to their jobs in judging without bias.

Remember that when you are in a debate with someone, be it in court, at college, on social media, or elsewhere it is good to stick to the main subject. As soon as someone introduces a red herring, call him or her out on it, and let them know that is not what is being discussed. If they don’t listen, simply cut them off. They are there to divide and conquer, not to engage in a reasonable debate about the main subject.

Be on the lookout for such things. The smallest diversion can take the debate in a completely different direction than it was originally intended. And because the diversion was initiated by a red herring, that direction is probably already one that the other person can box you in and defeat you over. It’s what Paul did for a positive reason, but it is also what others will do for their own inappropriate purposes.

Lord God, give us wisdom in this life to not get distracted by silly or fallacious arguments. May our words be well thought out and proper to the situations we find ourselves in. Be with us when we speak out for the truth of the gospel so that those who hear will be convicted and convinced that it is the right answer for the dilemma they are in. Amen.

 

 

 

Acts 24:20

Liberty Bell Replica, West Virginia Capitol.

Sunday, 11 February 2024

“Or else let those who are here themselves say if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, Acts 24:20

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

A more literal rendering is, “Or let these themselves say if they found any unrighteousness, having stood me before the Sanhedrin” (CG).

In the previous verse, Paul noted that the people who purportedly had testimony against him should have been brought forth if they really had evidence worth listening to. As a final challenge to his accusers, he now introduces the words of this and the next verse, beginning with, “Or let these themselves say if they found any unrighteousness.”

As none of the Jews from Asia who supposedly had testimony against Paul had come to testify, he appealed to those who were present to testify against him. It is almost a mocking challenge because they had brought Tertullus to speak for them. Paul knew that they didn’t know Roman law. He also knew that they had absolutely no evidence against him.

Therefore, if they opened their mouths, they would either have to tell the truth, thus exonerating him, or they would have to perjure themselves, something he knew they would not be able to do effectively. As such, they would not do it at all. With that stated, his challenging words continue with, “having stood me before the Sanhedrin.”

They had been at the Sanhedrin where Paul had been presented. This is found in Acts 22:30-23:10. The thing is that the garrison commander and various Roman guards were there, too. Therefore, they could testify to Paul’s truthfulness and against any lies spoken of him during that time at the Sanhedrin.

While there, they had heard Paul’s testimony and should be able to competently bear witness to his conduct at that time, whether proper or improper. Thus, his words are a direct challenge to either speak up or give up on the case against him.

It should be noted that until this verse, Paul hasn’t spoken at all about Jesus being the Messiah or about His resurrection. It has been a defense formed entirely around the facts of the case in regard to what he has been accused of.

Life application: Paul has masterfully kept his religious beliefs out of the trial until this point, knowing that what he said in that regard would be a distraction from the main point of the trial itself, which was that he stood before a civil court, not a religious one.

Having said that, in the next verse, he will finally bring in religious matters. The reason why he will do this is because his words of defense have come to their end with nothing of a civil matter having been done wrong. Therefore, by bringing in the religious words, it will be evident that it is that, and not an infraction against Rome, that lies at the heart of the enmity directed at him.

As this is so, it will mean that Rome has no jurisdiction over that issue, and all charges should be dropped. However, Jesus has already told him that Paul must witness for Him in Rome (Acts 23:11). Therefore, the coming events will continue to unfold with that statement being fulfilled.

In other words, God’s plans will come to pass. This is true not just in Paul’s life but also in all of ours. We have our part to do in living out our lives, but God’s overall plan is the priority. Therefore, when all is said and done, we must acknowledge and accept that what transpires is what is in accord with His will.

Having this attitude, we can be freed from frustrations that would otherwise consume our thoughts. The words “His will be done” are true and comforting. Speak them often.

Lord God, may Your will be the highest joy in our lives. As time passes and our lives unfold before You, may we understand that nothing happens apart from Your knowledge. Things will meet up with Your final plan for us, so help us to be content with that and glorify You at all times. We truly believe that You have the best in store for us. Thank You for this assurance. Amen.

 

 

 

Acts 24:19

West Virginia Capitol Grounds.

Saturday, 10 February 2024

“They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me. Acts 24:19

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

This verse completes the previous verse. A more literal rendering is, “…who ought to appear before you and accuse if they may have anything against me” (CG).

The previous verse reads, “In which they found me purified in the temple, not with a crowd, nor with a tumult. And who, Jews from Asia…” (CG). That now continues with, “who ought to appear before you and accuse.”

Paul’s words cut to the heart of the matter. The very people who could testify to the situation had not come to do so. It is a hint that either they would have to perjure themselves or that they would have to admit that he had done nothing wrong.

However, if the excuse was made that these witnesses had gone back home after the feast, it would still show that there were none to accuse him. As such, any charges against him would have to be dropped for lack of evidence.

As for any others who would testify, it would be hearsay, not firsthand witness. The logical end of his words is that the charges were unsound and should be dismissed. He finishes the thought with, “if they may have anything against me.”

The obvious meaning is that there were no valid accusations, and thus, the charges were invalid. This was a religious matter that had nothing to do with Rome. And more, it was Paul who was wronged simply because of his interpretation of the law and the prophets.

Life application: Paul was an apostle. As such, the words of Jesus found in Matthew 10 certainly apply to him –

“But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.” Matthew 10:19, 20

Although persecution is not an uncommon occurrence in the church today, those words were not spoken to us as a general rule we can apply to ourselves. They were spoken by Jesus to His apostles. Evidence that the Lord was with Paul in the same manner is found throughout Acts, where the Lord appears to him and tells him that He is with him.

As this is so, and as those words of Matthew 10 do not apply to us today, it is the best policy not to speak out of turn. If we have a legal matter, it is a sound strategy for us to hire a lawyer. The Lord wanted Paul’s ministry to continue because it was a part of the unfolding actions that would lead to the compilation of His completed word.

We now have that completed word and should not expect the Lord to appear to us and tell us what to do. Nor should we expect visions, dreams, or revelations of things that are not recorded in the word.

Having said that, we will get out of the word just what we put into it. The more we read it, the more clarity we will be able to obtain about the mysteries God has tucked away in it. New insights, types, and pictures are found every day by people who study and evaluate the word.

It is truly an inexhaustible word, so filled with wisdom that we will be searching it out and finding new insights until the day the Lord takes us home. So be sure to get into the word and read it daily. You will be blessed as you do.

Lord God Almighty, how wonderful it is to read Your word, come to something we don’t understand, and then take the time to read commentaries or try to work through it until we find a resolution to our questions. It is a delight because we are filling our minds with what You have given us to guide us all our days. Thank You for this wonderful treasure, Your superior word! Amen.

 

 

 

Acts 24:18

Flag display. West Virginia Capitol.

Friday, 9 February 2024

“in the midst of which some Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with a mob nor with tumult. Acts 24:18

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

The verse is incomplete without the next verse. For now, a more literal rendering is, “In which they found me purified in the temple, not with a crowd, nor with a tumult. And who, Jews from Asia…” (CG).

In the previous verse, Paul noted that after many years away, he came to bring alms to his nation, and offerings. Now, he says, “In which they found me purified in the temple.” This is a key point concerning his right to be in the temple area that stems from Chapter 21. Upon his arrival, he was exhorted by the elders of the church to pay the expenses of those who had taken a vow. In compliance with that, and going further by joining them in purification, it said –

“Then Paul took the men, and the next day, having been purified with them, entered the temple to announce the expiration of the days of purification, at which time an offering should be made for each one of them.” Acts 21:26

This was something that could easily be validated and which proved he had the right to be in the temple area, and he was obviously there for proper religious purposes. He continues further, saying, “not with a crowd, nor with a tumult.”

It would be improbable that a person who was bringing alms and making sacrifices after an extended absence would suddenly decide to start a tumult. As his words could be proven on those points, his innocence in the matter logically follows.

As for the introductory words to the verse, “in which,” they mean that he was actually in the process of performing his sacrifices. At the very time he was conducting his religious affairs in a purified state, he was interrupted. To support that, he then begins his next thought. His words will continue into the next verse. For now, he begins with, “And who, Jews from Asia…”

These are those mentioned in Chapter 21 –

“Now when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews from Asia, seeing him in the temple, stirred up the whole crowd and laid hands on him, 28 crying out, ‘Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against the people, the law, and this place; and furthermore he also brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.’ 29 (For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian with him in the city, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)”

It is these Asian Jews who certainly saw him among the Gentiles in the past and who had hounded him all along. When they saw him in Jerusalem, they realized it was a perfect opportunity to cause him grief.

Life application: When people are ideologically at odds with others, it is hard to come to a reconciliation over those differences. It is human nature to not “live and let live.” Muslims, particularly because of the words of the Koran, feel it is a sacred obligation to kill or enslave unbelievers. Those who hold to this are not the extremists but rather the fundamentalists.

They hold their writings as sacred and feel it is their duty to act in this way. Likewise, the Jews, depending on how they interpret Scripture and their later writings, feel that they are God’s chosen people – above and apart from all others. When Paul went among the Gentiles and communed with them, it was taken as a great and blasphemous thing.

His actions were seen as defiling and worthy of death. This is not so much because he associated with Gentiles, something all of the diaspora Jews did to some extent. Rather, it was because he taught that Jesus was the Messiah and that His message accepted Gentiles on an equal footing with Jews. To them, this was intolerable. This totally nullified the “above and apart from all others” attitude that still permeates Jewish society today.

Christians are not expected to have such an idea about themselves. Rather, we are to acknowledge that we are sinners in need of a Messiah who alone can save us. But this is a problem that the world doesn’t understand. Instead, they look at the result, not the process.

In other words, true Christians believe that Jesus is the only way to be saved. This is because Jesus said it, and it is also logically true. As such, the meaning is that only true Christians are saved. This is the result of faith in Christ. It is what the world sees, and they perceive this as a point of arrogance – “How dare you say I am not saved!”

The process, however, is that we first acknowledged that we were sinners and that we understood Jesus could save us. This excludes all arrogance. Rather, it is a point of extreme humility to stand before the Creator and say, “I leave myself totally at your mercy. Without you, I am lost. I trust in Your grace alone to save me.”

If the world more fully understood this, it may relieve the tension to some extent. However, much of the world refuses to simply acknowledge that they are sinners. If they are, they have a need for a Savior. But this would then require them to have the same humility saved believers once demonstrated. As such, this is still a great cause for a feeling of contempt towards Christians.

In understanding this, we can then understand why Christianity is so quickly becoming abhorrent to the people of the world. With each new “freedom” that governments proclaim, there is a new wall put up. If people are free to be homosexuals, then they cannot be “sinners” for their conduct. If people are free to murder their unborn, then they cannot be “sinners” for aborting babies.

As wickedness increases, a hatred of what you stand for will logically increase. Be ready to focus on the process (by grace through faith) of your salvation when talking to others. Some of them may get it. But to focus on the result, I am saved, and you are not, is a point of theology, though true, that we now find is almost completely impossible to state without being hated all the more. Until people see their sin as something God cannot accept, they will never believe that they are in need of a Savior.

Heavenly Father, we, as believers, came to You with empty hands, realizing our fallen state before You. We believe that because of the cross of Jesus Christ, we are saved. Help us to properly and faithfully communicate this truth to the world around us. May we not waffle in our proclamation that it is sin that separates us from You. We are saved because we were first sinners who needed to be saved. Thank You, O God, for Your saving grace that is found in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

 

 

Acgts 24:17

WWII Memorial, West Virginia Capitol.

Thursday, 8 February 2024

“Now after many years I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation, Acts 24:17

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

More literally, the Greek reads, “And through many years, I arrived to bring alms to my nation, and offerings” (CG).

Paul just said to Felix that he always strove to have a conscience without offense toward God and men. In support of both of those thoughts, he next says, “And through many years.”

Rather than saying, “And after many years,” he uses the word “through.” Paul expresses his thoughts as if he is on a journey through time, much of it being separated from Jerusalem and the religious life and offerings that are continuously conducted there.

As for the duration away, it had only been about four or five years at this time. His last visit was in Acts 18:22. His use of many is to be taken in light of the “many years” of verse 10. If he was asked what “many years” was, he could say “four,” and it would then be a note of approval towards the comment he made about Felix’s service. In other words, it would be a way of acknowledging Felix’s service as lengthy and thus well received by his superiors.

Now, to fill those years apart from Israel, he says, “I arrived to bring alms to my nation.” His note concerning the “alms” is otherwise not mentioned in Acts, and yet it appears prominently in his epistles, such as Romans 15:25, 1 Corinthians 16:1-4, and 2 Corinthians 8:1-4. Along with the alms, he adds “and offerings.”

The “offerings” (or sacrifices) were those prescribed by the law when one would come for a feast day celebration and those associated with vows as well. As can be seen, he says the alms are for the nation, but the offerings being set apart in the sentence were for his personal relationship with the Lord. Also, as noted in the NKJV translation, they and other translations lump these together as “alms and offerings to my nation.” However, this is not the intent of Paul’s words.

As for the word “nation,” he uses the term ethnos. It most properly indicates “people joined by practicing similar customs or common culture” (HELPS Word Studies). He uses this word rather than identifying them with a more commonly used word for “people.” It is a hint of courtesy towards Felix by avoiding a term that could be interpreted as a note of superiority over the Gentiles.

Life application: Paul carefully divided his words, as noted above, to indicate two separate acts that have a different purpose. His alms were something he was doing for his nation and people. The offerings were those things that were intended to keep him on a personally sound footing within the religious sphere of life that connected him to the Lord.

Obviously, being in Christ meant that he had immediate access to God through Jesus the Mediator. But for the sake of propriety, he continued conducting his religious life while in the land of Israel as an observant Jew. There is no contradiction here. Today, there are messianic Jews in Israel who observe the Sabbath even though Christ Jesus is their true rest (Hebrews 4:3).

It is culturally appropriate that they conduct themselves in a manner that keeps them in the favor of their nation while also understanding that they are free from all such observances because of Christ. This is not a hypocritical approach to worshipping God. Rather, it is a respectful way of doing so.

If a Pentecostal were to attend a Presbyterian church, it would be wholly inappropriate for him to get up and start yelling in the false gibberish that he yells out when in his own church. If that is how Pentecostals want to conduct their relationship with the Lord, they need to do it in their own church.

Be sure to use tact when you attend services with other Christians or when you are visiting other countries. See what they do first and then conduct yourself accordingly. This is right and proper. We, as Christians, worship in spirit and in truth in our hearts and minds. What we do externally should be courteous and with proper decorum in the particular setting we find ourselves.

O God, there are innumerable ways to worship You while still staying within the boundaries of our faith in Christ. Some like organ music, while some like a band. Some worship on the beach, while others do so in ancient buildings. Wherever we are, may our conduct be appropriate to the setting in which we find ourselves. May our worship be to Your glory and for the mutual benefit of those around us. Amen.