BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 24:14

Monday, 5 February 2024
 
“But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets. Acts 24:14
 
The words are more literally rendered, “And I confess this to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I serve the father’s God, believing all throughout the Law and that has been written in the Prophets” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Paul noted that those who stood against him could not prove the things of which they now accused him. As a concession to his position in relation to them, he next says, “And I confess this to you.”
 
The reason he is doing this is to show the true reason why they have brought charges against him. They have a personal beef against him that has brought about their false charges. Without directly saying it, he is calling into question their integrity and honesty before Felix. With that, he next says, “that according to the Way which they call a sect.”
 
The word translated as “sect” is the same as was used in 24:5: hairesis. It is etymologically connected to the word heresy that we use today. Therefore, some versions incorrectly translate it as “sect” in verse 5 and then “heresy” here. However, this makes no sense.
 
Paul explains that what they call a “sect” is what he calls the Way. They should both be translated as sect because the word specifically means “a strong, distinctive opinion” (HELPS Word Studies). To say verse 5 should be “sect” and verse 14 should be “heresy” causes a logical contradiction in thought because Paul now says, “they call.”
 
If they called it something in verse 5, then all he is doing is repeating what they called it, not stating something new. The word “is used in the NT of individual ‘parties (sects)’ that operated within Judaism. The term stresses the personal aspect of choice – and hence how being a Sadducee (Ac 5:17) was sharply distinguished from being a Pharisee (Ac 15:5; 26:5)” (HELPS Word Studies). 
 
It is this “sect” that he now calls “the Way.” In doing so, he elevates it in a manner of protest against any degradation of the term to something less disrespectful. Instead, the term has been brought to a level of distinction and honor. Understanding this, Paul next says, “so I serve the father’s God.”
 
The word translated as serve, latreuó, is not the same as in verse 11, proskuneó. It would be better translated as serve. Worship is encompassed in this word, but it also carries a further signification than merely worship. It is derived from the word latris, which means a hired servant.
 
The fact that he was in the temple, serving the God of his fathers, was sufficient proof to show that he was not engaged in heresy, which is the second charge made against him. With that understood, Paul next says, “believing all throughout the Law and that has been written in the Prophets.”
 
The words are a direct denial of him being the leader of an aberrant sect. By stating that he believed all things in the Law and the Prophets, it is a way of acknowledging that he was no different than any Pharisee.
 
What is being argued then is a matter of interpretation of the Law and Prophets, not whether they were authoritative or not. He affirms that they are, in fact, authoritative. The question is whether Christ is the fulfillment of them.
 
As this is so, then Felix would have no ability to even handle this charge, being unschooled in what the Law and Prophets claimed. This would be no different than asking a secular judge to determine whether replacement theology or dispensationalism is correct. Both claim that the Bible is the inspired word of God. How that word is to be properly interpreted is the matter. Having said that, dispensationalism is correct 😉.
 
Life application: If you want to know if the church has replaced Israel, you need to read your Bible. If you want to know if dispensationalism is correct, you need to read your Bible. If you want to know if God approves of abortion or if divorce is acceptable to Him, the way you will find out is by reading your Bible.
 
Just because a pastor, preacher, or priest says something is correct, it does not mean it is so. One must go to the source of a matter to find out whether what is said is true or not. It doesn’t matter what the issue is. If someone says that drinking water in Guatemala is safe, until you check it out, you will never know if that is true.
 
And you can check it out in various ways. You can follow the scientific method and have the water tested. You can test it observationally by going to Guatemala with a friend and having him drink it while you watch. Or you can test it experientially by going there and drinking it yourself.
 
The scientific method is only as good as the process and materials that are used. What is more, some people may be affected differently than others. The people of Guatemala drink their water all day long and suffer no ill consequences.
 
Having a friend test it may not work either. Depending on his stomach and other variables, it may not affect him at all. However, if you check out the water for yourself, you will certainly find out whether you should have done so or not. Montezuma’s revenge probably awaits ☺.
 
The point is that until you personally check things out, you can never know if what you believe to be true is actually true or not. The Bible will not cause you harm, but it will certainly keep you from it. Therefore, even if you have a pastor you trust to be honest, he may not be well-versed in the Bible. Are you willing to receive incorrect instruction on a matter that could affect your standing when you appear before the Lord?
 
Rather, read and know your Bible! This is the defense against potential problems that will be far worse than a case of Montezuma’s revenge.
 
Thank You, O God, for the precious contents You have carefully laid out in Your word. We can know what You expect of us, and we can know what doctrines are sound and which are incorrect. May we be responsible concerning our interactions with You by knowing what You expect of us. Thank You that the word makes this possible. Amen.

Acts 24:13

Sunday, 4 February 2024
 
“Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me. Acts 24:13
 
Paul just said to Felix that he was neither found in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting a crowd. He then added that this was true in the synagogues and in the city as well. He now adds in an almost challenging note to his accusers, saying, “Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me.”
 
His words here, especially the word for “prove,” are actually a calling and a challenge to his accusers to come forward with evidence. He is the plaintiff and, therefore, they are under the burden of the law to stand behind the charges they have made.
 
The word he uses, paristémi, means to place beside or to stand beside. In other words, those who have made the accusations should now be ready (standing near) to present their proof. As there is none, the charges against Paul cannot stand.
 
Life application: As discussed in the previous verse, the world is getting more wicked and depraved daily. This, unfortunately, includes accusations being made against people that are wholly untrue. A lack of evidence or manipulated evidence, even when found out to be such, no longer matters.
 
In fact, evidence that exonerates people who have been charged is often completely ignored. Police have been arrested for simply doing their jobs. When evidence proves their innocence, it is ignored when what they were charged with carries political value.
 
Peaceful protestors are being arrested, and bogus charges are leveled against them when they are of a particular political party. This has gone even to the level of bringing innumerable charges against former leaders, not only in the US but in other countries as well. Anyone who bucks the globalist agenda is being targeted openly and flagrantly.
 
Conservative journalists are harassed and sued to silence them. These things will continue to get worse. Be wise and discerning as you go out into the world. Your stand as a Christian will be one that brings you under the watchful eye of the government. In China, this is now ubiquitous. Other countries of the world are quickly following that same path.
 
Wonderful Lord God, we are grateful to You for the honor of carrying the name of Jesus our Lord. Help us to be faithful to exalt Him, no matter what challenge is brought against us. The world is temporary, but what You have promised is eternal. May we be prepared to face the eternal, having never denied the Name that we now bear. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

Acts 24:12

Saturday, 3 February 2024
 
“And they neither found me in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city. Acts 24:12
 
A more literal translation is, “And neither found me disputing with anyone in the temple, or making a crowd revolt, nor in the synagogues or in the city” (CG).
 
Paul, in giving his defense to Felix, just noted that he just told him that it was only twelve days since he went up to Jerusalem to worship. He continues now, saying, “And neither found me disputing with anyone in the temple, or making a crowd revolt.”
 
These words introduce another new word to Scripture: episustasis. It signifies a conspiracy, concourse, tumult, etc. It is found only here and in 2 Corinthians 11:28, where Paul says, “I face daily the pressure (episustasis) of my concern for all the churches” (MSB).
 
What he says completely contradicts the words of Tertullus. Either one is true, and the other is lying, or both have fabricated a portion of his words, but both cannot be true. He never disputed with anyone in the temple, and there will be no proof of him making a revolt because such an event never took place.
 
The only ruckus that arose was because of accusations leveled against him, not because of his agitating anyone. This was carefully detailed by Luke 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.)30 And all the city was disturbed; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut.” Acts 21:27-30
 
His words to Felix mean that he never got into either a civil or a religious dispute, contradicting Tertullus’ accusations. Further, he claims that he incited no one, and he adds in an all-inclusive “nor in the synagogues or in the city.”
 
This could be easily substantiated by those Paul stayed with, if necessary. Unless the Jews were ready to present false witnesses, the matter would have to be decided based on who Felix believed was telling the truth. At this time, and based on Paul’s rebuttal, the Jews had neither a civil nor a religious claim against him that would stand up to eyewitness testimony.
 
Life application: The world is not normally a fair place. In many places, that is becoming more so as each day goes by. The corruption of the human heart is steadily taking over humanity, just as it did in the days of Noah. Soon enough, there will be no remedy, and God will remove His restraining power.
 
Sometime after that, the antichrist will come upon the scene, and the world will devolve into utter chaos and turmoil. But, as just noted, the world is on a path to that time now. If you are expecting to be protected from the power of wicked people, that may not be the case. Therefore, it is best to live your life quietly and not cause any trouble.
 
And yet, we are obligated to be bearers of the truth of God in Christ. Therefore, if you are faithful to this calling, you may be in the same position Paul found himself in. Be ready to stand on the truth as revealed in the word.
 
Paul and the other apostles, and so many since their time, have chosen that right path, even to the point of death. But a crown awaits them as it will you. So don’t fear what man can do to you. A better Day is ahead. The promises are sure, and the One who has given them is reliable. In this, you can safely trust.
 
O God, the world in which we live is quickly turning away from any semblance of right morality and holy living. Christians will inevitably be marked out as miscreants because of their refusal to acknowledge the depravity and wickedness that will be openly condoned. Until You call us home, give us the fortitude and courage to continue to proclaim Your truth. Amen.

Acts 24:11

Friday, 2 February 2024
 
“because you may ascertain that it is no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship. Acts 24:11
 
More literally, the verse reads, “You, being able to know that there are not to me more than twelve days from which I went up to worship in Jerusalem” (CG).
 
Paul had just presented his opening words of defense, beginning with an acknowledgment that Felix was the duly appointed judge for the matter. With that, he next says, “You, being able to know.”
 
The meaning is that Felix has the means at his disposal (the verb is a present participle) to readily ascertain if what Paul says is true or not. Each thing he will say can be searched out and verified. Therefore, it would be the mark of a truly corrupt person to attempt to make a claim that was untrue. Understanding that, he says, “that there are not to me more than twelve days.”
 
It is a specific amount of time that is so short and precise that retracing the steps would take almost no effort at all. Considering that several of those days were spent under Roman guard, the events preceding that are condensed even more.
 
As the timeframe can easily be corroborated, Paul’s words bear the mark of either total honesty or a loony desire to be incarcerated. To assist in the verification of his claims, he specifically notes that those twelve days were “from which I went up to worship in Jerusalem.”
 
What he says here and in the coming verses are given to challenge the three charges made against him by Tertullus, which are sedition, heresy, and profaning the temple.
 
Concerning sedition, he implies that it would be impossible to form a party and act in a seditious manner because it was just twelve days earlier that he arrived in Jerusalem. Five of those days were in Caesarea, two were on the journey, and the rest were in Jerusalem, where he went to worship and was subsequently incarcerated. If he were there to worship, he could then not be a heretic. He was obviously following the customs of Jews who came for exactly this purpose. 
 
The Pulpit Commentary divides the 12 days in this manner -
 
(1) arrival at Jerusalem (Acts 21:15); (2) Visit to James and the elders (Acts 21:18); (3) first day of purification (Acts 21:26); (4) second day of purification; (5) the third day; (6) the fourth day; (7) the fifth day, when the tumult took place (Acts 21:27); (8) Paul brought before the Sanhedrim; (9) the conspiracy of the forty Jews, Paul leaves Jerusalem for Caesarea - the first of the five days mentioned in Acts 24:1; (10) arrival of St. Paul" next day" at Caesarea, and lodged in the pretorium - second of the five days (Acts 23:32, 35); (11) Paul in Herod's judgment hall - third of the five days; (12) ditto - fourth of the five days; (13) the current day, being also the fifth day of those mentioned in Acts 24:1. The mention of the brief time of twelve days shows the narrow limits of time within which the crime must have been committed, while the adroit mention of the purpose of his visit, to worship, would show how unlikely it was that he should have gone with any evil intent.
 
All of these could be supported by eyewitnesses if necessary.
 
Life application: Paul’s words directly challenge the accusation against him. He doesn’t waste a lot of time with superfluities, and he refrains from any verbal attacks on those accusing him. He is calm, cool, and collected in his address.
 
And more, he understands the process of what is going on around him. It is important to remember that if you don’t have the same demeanor, or if you are unaware of how to properly navigate such things, it is a good idea to have someone skilled in what you are involved in assist you. If it is a legal matter, a lawyer is a good idea, if it is a financial problem, a certified accountant can help, and so forth.
 
The world is there trying to trip you up. Being ready to defend yourself with the right people around you. This is always a good idea.
 
O God, the world in which we live can be a complicated place. Governments exist that often heap burdens upon their people that require a lot of attention, without which all kinds of trouble can result. Help us to be wise in our actions and interactions regarding such things. May we live rightly and peaceably in our societies, honoring You with the lives we lead. Amen.
 

Acts 24:10

Thursday, 1 February 2024
 
Then Paul, after the governor had nodded to him to speak, answered: “Inasmuch as I know that you have been for many years a judge of this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself, Acts 24:10
 
A literal translation would be, “And Paul answered, the governor having beckoned him to speak, ‘Knowing from many years, you, being judge to this nation, cheerfully these concerning myself I make a defense’” (CG).
 
Tertullus presented the charges against Paul, and the Jews assented to what he said, maintaining that his words were true. With that complete, it next says, “And Paul answered, the governor having beckoned him to speak.”
 
There is a sense of order and decorum. The plaintiff was allowed to speak in an uninterrupted fashion. Upon completion, the governor acknowledged Paul’s right to defend himself, and so he nodded or made a sign of some sort that indicated Paul could begin his defense. Paul then answered, beginning with, “Knowing from many years.”
 
He avoids the unnecessary words of flattery used by his opponent. He also defends himself without using a lawyer. Instead, he appeals directly to the justice of his case, stating that he knew it would be upheld because of Felix’s lengthy service.
 
The “many years” that he refers to is actually six or seven at this point. However, it is noted by Tacitus that Felix had already been a joint procurator with his predecessor Cumanus. Also, scholars note that many in his position were recalled after a much shorter period and so from that perspective, “many years” is a good description.
 
He would be well educated in how to conduct such affairs and also well-versed in the Jewish rites, customs, and laws. Understanding this, Paul’s words continue, saying, “you, being judge to this nation.”
 
Again, there is nothing superfluous or unnecessary stated. Paul simply acknowledges that the governor had a right to judge the matter set before him. It is an implicit acceptance of the position and, thus, the judgment that will be rendered. Also, knowing that he is now under Roman jurisdiction, he will get a trial that fairly acknowledges his state as a Roman. Therefore, he continues with, “cheerfully these concerning myself I make a defense.”
 
The word Paul uses, translated as answer, is apologeomai. It is a word that is related to the “apology” or defense one would make for the Christian faith. In this case, it is a rightful defense against charges brought against him.
 
In all, the words Paul uses show a person who is bold in his words because of his belief in his personal innocence concerning wrongdoing. There is nothing smug, flattering, or superfluous in his opening statement. And more, he has the fact that a plot to kill him was initiated by the leaders of Israel to bolster his defense.
 
Whether those leaders knew that their plot was discovered or not, the governor did. It is a stain on their actions, and it weakens any charges brought against Paul, making them suspect and biased.
 
Life application: It can be difficult at times to restrain oneself from blurting out a defense against false charges. This is true regardless of the size of the offense that is being accused. Little things can be just as annoying to listen to as big ones. However, it is best to allow people to speak in an uninterrupted manner.
 
To see this type of thing in action, watch reporters who are designated to conduct interviews or debates for political positions, like those running for Congress or even the presidency. It is not uncommon for a question to be asked by the reporter, and then a lucid, rational, and well-thought-out answer is given. Because the response does not fit with the reporter’s worldview, he or she immediately begins to interrupt the candidate.
 
This is both unprofessional, and it demonstrates a weakness in any supposed impartiality of the reporter. And yes, it is as common for those on the left to do this as it is for dogs to pant. Don’t be like a panting dog in your own time of defense. And don’t be like one if you are asked to impartially judge or oversee a matter such as an interview or debate. Let your words be few, directed, and spoken at the proper time without interrupting others in the process.
 
Glorious Lord God, may we be careful to speak clearly and thoughtfully when there are words that may affect our standing in the eyes of others or even our freedom in society. Help us know what to say at such a time, give us grace and patience in our responses, and may we honor You in our presence. Amen.
 

Acts 24:9

Wednesday, 31 January 2024
 
And the Jews also assented, maintaining that these things were so. Acts 24:9
 
The previous verse completed Tertullus' words to Felix. With that, it next says, “And the Jews also assented.”
 
They agreed either collectively or individually, but they stood behind the substance of his words, affirming that Paul was a plague that needed to be eradicated. One can see them seated behind Tertullus nodding in agreement and maybe vocally assenting to the presentation. It is likely that they were all in agreement before they even arrived and were thus satisfied with Tertullus’ presentation. As such, they were “maintaining that these things were so.”
 
A new word is introduced: phaskó. It will only be seen again in Acts 25:19 and Romans 1:22. It is a prolongation of a more common word that signifies to say. Thus, it means to affirm, allege, profess, or something similar. Its use in Romans gives a sense of one of its intended meanings –
 
“Professing to be wise, they became fools.” Romans 1:22
 
One can see scientists haughtily proclaiming that the universe exploded itself into existence and man arising over billions of years out of goo and thus proclaiming, “We don’t need God. We are free from His rule over us! Look at how wise we are!” God says they are fools.
 
These Jews had come together, affirming that Paul was guilty and needed to be punished for his transgressions.
 
Life application: The Bible makes many proclamations about how the world was created by God, is governed by His power and sustaining hand, is guilty before Him for failing to acknowledge Him, and so forth.
 
Either what it says is reliable and true, or it is not. If the first chapters of Genesis are not literal history, then the rest of the Bible is suspect as well. Jesus cites those chapters and proclaims they are literally true, acknowledging the events really happened.
 
We cannot allegorize the creation account without falling into great error. If we are saved, we will not lose our salvation. But if we fail to accept God at His word, we will be judged for our lack of faith in regard to what He has proclaimed.
 
There are abundant videos and teachings available that give reasonable explanations that fully support the Genesis creation account. If you are unsure if the word is reliable in these chapters, test them by watching or reading what is out there. In the end, the Lord asks you to use reasoned faith in your relationship with Him. You cannot do this without checking things out.
 
Be wise and discerning. What can you skip in your normal routine that will allow you sufficient time to investigate such things?
 
Lord God, Your word is written, and it makes certain proclamations about who You are and what You have done. Help us to be willing to research and investigate these things and come to reasonable conclusions about the claims that are made there. May our faith be grounded in reality as we seek the mysteries of the world around us. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

Acts 24:8

Tuesday, 30 January 2024
 
“commanding his accusers to come to you. By examining him yourself you may ascertain all these things of which we accuse him.” Acts 24:8
 
A literal translation, even if a bit clunky, is, “having commanded his accusers to come to you, from whom you will be able, having examined, to know yourself concerning all these things which we accuse him” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, it said, “And Lysias, the commander, having come with great force, led away out of our hands.” That now continues with the words “having commanded his accusers to come to you.”
 
This was seen in a portion of Claudius Lysias’ letter to Felix, as recorded in the previous chapter –
 
“And when it was told me that the Jews lay in wait for the man, I sent him immediately to you, and also commanded his accusers to state before you the charges against him.” Acts 23:20
 
Not only did the commander send Paul safely to Caesarea, but he told the leaders of Israel that if they wanted a meeting with Paul in attendance, they would have to do so in the presence of the Roman governor. In fact, they were not given the choice. Instead, he commanded that they should appear before Felix. From there, Tertullus next says, “from whom you will be able.”
 
A relative pronoun is used, “whom.” Some translations, like the NKJV, say “him.” To our ears, using “whom” it sounds like he is asking for the accusers to be allowed to be examined. However, the pronoun is singular. And so, it is most probably speaking of Paul. But it also could be speaking of the Roman commander.
 
If so, and because he is not there, it may be that Tertullus is hoping that Felix would take this statement at face value and say, “No, there is no need to call him over this.” Either way, Tertullus continues, saying, “having examined, to know yourself concerning all these things which we accuse him.”
 
Either way, it is unlikely that either the Roman commander or Paul would agree that the things Paul had been accused of were true. The Roman commander would have insufficient evidence to substantiate the charges, and he would disagree with portions of the claims made. If he is referring to Paul, his words in the coming verses will completely refute the charges against him.
 
Life application: In this verse, Tertullus does what people continue to do today. He brazenly sets up a false narrative and then claims that when those who are interviewed are brought forward, they will agree with his position. We might call this the Shifty Schiff approach.
 
By boldly and brazenly lying, such people are openly mocking the integrity of the accused so that when they speak, they appear to be liars. It is a position that people will take when their side of an issue or argument has no substantiation at all.
 
This is a fallacy known as Poisoning the Well. The first person to speak will do so in an attempt to undermine the integrity of the next speaker, impugning his character in one way or another. They may imply he is manipulative, a liar, and that his words will be highly persuasive and thus must not be trusted, and so forth.
 
Even if the water in the well was perfectly good and drinkable to begin with, by poisoning the well, it is no longer to be trusted as safe. This tactic has been constantly used throughout the ages as a means of destroying someone of integrity before he even gets a chance to begin his presentation. It is highly effective because most people trust those they align with, even if their words are completely false.
 
Be aware of this fallacy, especially around voting season. You will see it constantly employed by those whose political position is one that has nothing of value to present to the people. It is also seen among Christian leaders and speakers at times. Be aware of this and call it out as soon as you identify it.
 
Lord God, help us to consider arguments clearly and responsibly that we see arise between people. May we not be sidetracked by fallacious thinking but instead consider what is said based on its adherence to the truth. It is a world full of confusion, but with Your wisdom to guide us, we will not be led astray by those who speak falsity and introduce error into their words. Yes, Lord God, help us in this. Amen.

Acts 24:7

Monday, 29 January 2024
 
“But the commander Lysias came by and with great violence took him out of our hands, Acts 24:7
 
A better rendering of the Greek is, “And Lysias, the commander, having come with great force, led away out of our hands” (CG).
 
It should be noted that some manuscripts do not include the second half of the previous verse, this verse, or the first clause of verse 8. Thus, depending on the Bible you use, you may not have those things included or they may only be footnoted.
 
In the previous verse, Tertullus told Felix that Paul tried to profane the temple. Therefore, he was seized, and they tried to judge him according to Jewish law. That now continues with, “And Lysias, the commander.”
 
Interjecting the name of Lysias is an attempt to say, “If this person didn’t interfere, this matter would have been settled already. Paul would have been judged according to our law, and there would have been no reason to bother you here today.” With that understood, Tertullus continues, saying, “having come with great force, led away out of our hands.”
 
His words completely overlook the riot of the people and the quick actions of the Romans, which saved the life of Paul, a Roman citizen. In essence, there is an attempt to throw a disparaging light on Claudius Lysias, as if he had meddled in a matter that belonged to the Jews alone.
 
Tertullus is presenting the Jews as the unfortunate losers. He is further implying that if things had gone differently and they had just been allowed to handle things, they would have spared Felix all of this trouble by taking care of the matter themselves.
 
Life application: The common adage “hindsight is 20/20” means that if the information that is now known was available before, the errors of the past would not have been made. It is comparing 20/20 vision to clarity concerning a matter.
 
Tertullus is using this idea against Lysias’ actions. In essence, he is saying, “If Lysias had only known the whole situation, things would have come out just fine.” Sometimes, this type of thinking is true, but in the case of the Jews, this is completely false.
 
Felix can only go by what he is told. The flattery of Tertullus should give him a hint that what he is being told is a pile of lies. This is all the more certain because Lysias sent Paul to Caesarea based on the discovery of a plot to kill Paul that arose sometime after the events they are now referring to in the hearing.
 
It is often necessary not to rush to a judgment on a matter until it is carefully thought through and all options are weighed. Felix’s main responsibility was to maintain order in his jurisdiction, but another prime responsibility was ensuring the safety and protection of Roman citizens.
 
Paul used his citizenship to benefit himself. As such, he is using his citizenship to further his goal of spreading the gospel. Don’t hesitate to use whatever means are available to you to secure your safety and advancement within your society. This includes appealing to your citizenship, including your right to vote.
 
If you refrain from using those things that are available to you, you will ultimately be hindering your ability to share the gospel. If the opposing political party takes away your rights because you failed to vote, you will have harmed not only yourself but those who will never benefit from hearing the good news in a free and open society.
 
Little choices can have big consequences. So do what is right and participate in your society.
 
Lord God, help us to think clearly about our responsibilities. May we be willing to do the right thing in all situations. And to do the right thing, we need to consider not just the immediate effects but also the long-term effects of our actions or inactions. Give us wisdom in this, O God. Amen.

Acts 24:6

Sunday, 28 January 2024
 
“He even tried to profane the temple, and we seized him, and wanted to judge him according to our law. Acts 24:6
 
In the previous verse, Tertullus began to list the accusations against Paul, saying he was a plague, a creator of dissension of the Jews throughout the empire, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes. He continues now, saying, “He even tried to profane the temple.”
 
This accusation is modified from that of Acts 21:28, where he was actually accused of defiling the temple by bringing uncircumcised Greeks into it. Tertullus leaves this out because Felix himself would have been uncircumcised, and this would then have become a possible point of stumbling in his case if, by offending Felix, he would lose his favor. Continuing, he says, “and we seized him.”
 
He is speaking on behalf of his clients who represented the Jews as their leaders (we). However, he is not telling the whole story. Paul was seized, but it was in a violent way, not in an orderly fashion. Rather, the account said –
 
“And all the city was disturbed; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut. 31 Now as they were seeking to kill him, news came to the commander of the garrison that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.” Acts 21:30, 31
 
Despite not giving the full and accurate details, Tertullus simply moves on, saying, “and wanted to judge him according to our law.”
 
This is only true as they intended to kill him. Though their law may have allowed this, Roman law didn’t. Therefore, he glosses over the situation and the conduct of the unruly mob in order to make it look like they had been wronged by not being allowed time for a trial to be held.
 
As for the word translated as “profane” in this verse, bebéloó, it is an interesting word. It comes from another word, bélos, meaning a step or a threshold. The idea is that Paul is accused of stepping beyond the bounds of that which was proper, as in overstepping the threshold of the sacred place.
 
Life application: There are people in the world who teach that Paul was actually a heretic, and that the Bible argues against his doctrine. They supposedly use Scripture to come to this conclusion. However, in order to teach this heretical doctrine, 2 Peter is dismissed as a false epistle. They must do this because Peter clearly teaches that Paul’s writings are inspired (2 Peter 3:15).
 
In order to make this claim, it is stated that the epistle was never considered canon and was falsely introduced later. There is nothing to actually substantiate this. Determining its canonicity came about in the same manner as the other books of the New Testament.
 
To hold to this doctrine, one must not consider the epistles of Paul as inspired. Further, the book of Acts is not to be held to as inspired. Rather, it is subjectively torn apart, and those who hold this view choose which parts are valid and which are not.
 
Why would anyone hold such an incredibly stupid view of Scripture? The reason is that Paul teaches grace apart from any works of the law. He teaches that the law is fulfilled and obsolete. These Judaizers cannot let go of their own personal importance before God. And so, they diminish grace and boast in their own supposed holiness.
 
They set themselves as the standard of God’s acceptance of humanity, and they determine what part of God’s word is acceptable or not. In other words, they hold to themselves as being the gods of acceptability.
 
But this is what the Bible presents of people from the very beginning of time. Adam wanted to be like God. Ever since then, man has chosen to determine what is right and good, as if he is the standard to which God must acquiesce. Unless we are willing to admit that we are fallen, cannot save ourselves, and that we are wholly at the mercy of an offended God, we will never see the need for a Savior who has done all the work necessary to reconcile us to God.
 
Be aware of the innumerable false teachings that exist in the world. Any teaching that says we must “do” in order to be saved or to keep being saved is to be rejected. Christ has done! What we need to do is to believe, accepting by faith that He has done it. Thank God for Jesus Christ our Lord who has prevailed for His people!
 
Lord God Almighty, today we come before You to praise You. All glory, majesty, and honor belong to You alone. We receive Your offering of Jesus by faith, and we praise You, now and forever, for what You have done. Hallelujah and Amen.

Acts 24:5

Saturday, 27 January 2024
 
“For we have found this man a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes. Acts 24:5
 
The words are more literally rendered, “For we have found this man a plague and stirring insurrection in all the Jews throughout the habitation, and the leader of the Nazarenes sect” (CG).
 
Tertullus just gave a statement in preparation for introducing the supposed charges they would make against Paul. He now begins to list them, beginning with, “For we have found this man a plague.”
 
After his words of flattery toward Felix, Tertullus immediately goes into a verbal assault on Paul, beginning with the word loimos, a plague or pestilence. It is only used one other time, in Luke 21:11, where Jesus describes the plagues coming in the end times.
 
The KJV translates this as “a pestilent fellow,” but that hardly fits the intent. Rather than being an adjective, it is a noun. He is not plagued but rather is a plague. Next, Tertullus says “and stirring insurrection in all the Jews.”
 
The verb is in the present tense, giving the sense that not only did Paul stir up insurrection but that he continues to do so and would continue to do so if he is released. However, Tertullus notes that this behavior was among the Jews. The insurrection itself could be among the Jews against the Romans or an internal struggle. Without further explanation, it would leave the charge vague at best. Despite this, he next notes that it is “throughout the habitation.”
 
The word is oikoumené. It is a noun signifying the land that is inhabited, but it specifically refers to the Roman world. As Strong’s notes, “for all outside it was regarded as no account.” Thus, Paul was stirring up the Jews within the Roman empire, but not necessarily against it.
 
The point is, however, that Paul has caused trouble beyond the boundaries of Felix's authority, and now he is here and within the grasp of the governor. It is a way of enticing him to be the champion of all of the poor Jews who have been plagued by this man throughout the empire and which no other ruler was able to secure. He makes Paul out to be a prize that others could not attain.
 
Understanding that, he next says, “and the leader of the Nazarenes sect.” The Greek word translated as “ringleader” is prótostatés. It is found only here in Scripture. It means “one who stands first on the right of a line” (hence, a file leader), and so he is being called the leader or head of the sect.
 
Interestingly, the term Nazarene is only used thirteen times in the New Testament and all of them are used to describe Jesus except this one. The title has been transferred from the Master to those who follow Him, and Paul is being called the head of them all.
 
In the words of Tertullus, he has taken the very things which Felix was noted for suppressing and he has attributed them directly to Paul. It is with certainty that Paul didn’t look like any such person, but the words of accusation by Tertullus are as if he were in the act of such a crime at that very moment.
 
Life application: Because Tertullus has only identified Paul as a miscreant among the Jews unless he further defines it as Jews being stirred to rebellion against Rome, his words will be pointless. As has been seen elsewhere in Acts, the issue of whether Christianity is acceptable under Judaism is a main point of consideration being addressed in the book.
 
That was a matter for Jews to determine and handle. Only if the matter brought some type of harm to the Roman Empire or its citizens would it be worth the pursuit of a magistrate. Consider this as you read through Acts. Christianity is either an authorized extension of the faith recorded in the Bible that came through Israel or it is not.
 
If it is, then it tells us that God is working through Christianity as redemptive history unfolds. It also means that whatever Judaism teaches today falls short of what the law and prophets proclaimed.
 
Christianity is based on the work of Jesus, the Christ. If God has purposed that to be His revelation of Himself to the world, and if the Jews have rejected that, then there cannot be salvation within the Jewish nation at this time. Only individual Jews who come to Christ will be saved. This is a key point of theology that must be considered.
 
Until Israel, as a nation, receives Jesus He will not return to them and dwell among them as foretold in the law and prophets. Be careful to not get swayed by law observers and Judaizers. This is a key and central point of doctrine that is clearly and unambiguously expressed in Scripture.
 
Heavenly Father, may we be sound in our thinking concerning where we will place our trust. Only Jesus and His fulfillment of the law can bring us back to You. May we never presume to hold to false teachings of those who would creep in an attempt to pull us away from Your grace, as expressed through the giving of Your Son for our sins. Amen.

Acts 24:4

Friday, 26 January 2024
 
Nevertheless, not to be tedious to you any further, I beg you to hear, by your courtesy, a few words from us. Acts 24:4
 
The words more literally read, “And so not upon you further I should hinder, I implore you to hear us briefly, in your indulgence” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the orator Tertullus completed his opening platitudes to Felix. He now transitions towards the main argument against Paul. His words are suited to an orator, some being rare or uncommon. He begins with, “And so not upon you further I should hinder.”
 
The words imply that he could go on and on about Felix and how great he is. However, he doesn’t want to be a continued hindrance to his obviously busy schedule as governor. As Felix was such a busy and important man, Tertullus didn't want his continued accolades to keep him from his job of governing.
 
His statement introduces a new word to Scripture, egkoptó. It is a verb signifying to hinder or interrupt. As the mood of the verb is subjunctive, it gives the sense of “should hinder.” With that said, he continues with, “I implore you to hear us briefly.”
 
This is the second and last use of suntomós in the New Testament. It is an adverb giving the sense of cutting something short through conciseness or promptness. However, the first use of the word (Mark 16:20) is only found in some manuscripts.
 
In this case, Tertullus intensifies the previous clause – “So I don’t hinder you, please hear us briefly.” He then further intensifies the thought by finishing with, “in your indulgence.”
 
Again, another new word is introduced, epieikeia. It is an intensification of what is fair or equitable. Thus, it is a petition for going beyond what would be expected. It is defined by HELPS Word Studies as “(‘true equity’) is a ‘sweet reasonableness’ that knows when to ‘relax the strict legal requirements concerning others . . . to carry out the real spirit of the law.’”
 
In essence, the sense of Tertullus’ words is, “O great governor, we know how precious your time is, so we are cutting short our praises, we are asking just a short petition of our grievances, and we know that even in that – which is our rightful due – we must petition for your indulgence in the matter.”
 
Tertullus is really slathering on the butter in his words to the governor. His obvious talent as an orator is evident in the choice of words he uses.
 
Life application: The sweet-tongued words of Tertullus have taken up three verses. It may be that Felix accepted them as deserving of his supposedly great position, or it may be that Felix was chuckling inside at the verbal groveling he was hearing.
 
Either way, the words are unnecessarily verbose and are of no real value in the case to be presented against Paul. This is often the situation with people who have an invalid or weak argument concerning their stand on a position concerning some particular matter.
 
Be attentive to how things are presented, and you can often get a feeling for the soundness of an argument even before you have gotten to the substance of what is being said. If someone uses technical or complicated words, it is often intended to make him appear smarter on a given subject than others.
 
If a person states his qualifications, it is often an attempt to promote himself, even if his argument is weak. By saying, “As a doctor of theology, my position on this matter is...” the person is trying to get the upper hand even before presenting his position.
 
These types of approaches are known as fallacies. Anything that obscures an argument diminishes another’s view even before it is heard, sideswipes the main argument, etc., is a fallacy. From time to time, read up on the various fallacies that exist. This will help keep your mind attuned to illogical or underhanded presentations that arise in general discourse.
 
Lord God, Your word says that You desire truth in the inward parts of man. Help us to be truthful inwardly so that what we say outwardly will be a true reflection of who we are and what we believe. Keep us from silly arguments and presentations that do not convey the truth. May our inner convictions be revealed in honesty and faithfulness. Amen.

Acts 24:3

Thursday, 25 January 2024
 
“we accept it always and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness. Acts 24:3
 
The Greek more literally reads, “Both entirely and everywhere we welcome, most excellent Felix, with all thankfulness” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Tertullus began his accusation against Paul. It was a butter-up job to hide the fact that they really have no case against him in any matter that Rome would be interested in. The spreading of the butter now continues with “Both entirely and everywhere.”
 
He uses a word found only here in Scripture, panté. Some translations say “always.” However, it is generally accepted that it doesn't mean “always” as in time, but rather “all ways” as in scope. Therefore, the single word “entirely” is more definitive.
 
As such, the “entirely and everywhere” of this verse are tied to the “great peace” and the “reformations” of the previous verse. Understanding that, the words of Tertullus continue with “we welcome.”
 
Considering that the Jews’ hatred of the Roman rule over them permeated the entire society, the words must have been a bitter pill to even utter. For Felix, it was probably a point of great happiness to see the leaders of Israel, along with their authorized representative, groveling before him with such platitudes. Next, Tertullus says, “most excellent Felix.”
 
The word translated as “most excellent” is the same as that found in Acts 23:26 in the introduction of the letter from Claudius Lysias to Felix. It will be used one more time in Acts when spoken during formal discourse with the appointed governor. It is an adjective coming from kratos, a word signifying might, strength, dominion, power, etc. Thus, it literally means “strongest.” With that stated, Tertullus ends this introduction, saying, “with all thankfulness.”
 
A satire could not put forth words more painfully expressed. Of them, John Gill says, “this was all a farce, mere artifice, and wretched flattery.” Tertullus and the entire body of elders who were there before Felix were probably clenching their teeth in disgust, while Felix was probably smiling and on the verge of bursting out in condescending laughter.
 
Life application: In reading and considering the words of Tertullus, and while thinking about the unnecessary kowtowing that he did before the Roman authorities, you can then consider your own choice of words should such a circumstance ever arise in your life.
 
The words of Solomon, when speaking of our own choice of words before God, give direction that is suitable to any such circumstance –
 
“Do not be rash with your mouth,And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God.For God is in heaven, and you on earth;Therefore let your words be few.3 For a dream comes through much activity,And a fool’s voice is known by his many words.” Ecclesiastes 5:2, 3
 
The only things Tertullus has accomplished with his opening statement are to waste time and look foolish. He has brought embarrassment to himself. What is more, it is recorded for all to see and learn from. When addressing others in such a forum, keep your words to the minimum and be open and direct about the matter at hand. In this, your wisdom will be seen and appreciated by the wise.
 
Lord God Almighty, help us to not be babblers or smooth talkers. May our words be precise and effective, especially when dealing with others. May our conversations about You, such as when we share the good news, be carefully constructed to convey the proper meaning intended by You for the conversion of the soul. Help us in such things, O God. Amen.