BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 25:20

Saturday, 9 March 2024
 
“And because I was uncertain of such questions, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these matters. Acts 25:20
 
A more literal translation is, “And I, being perplexed at the question concerning this, bid if he be willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Festus noted the dispute between the Jews and Paul. It concerned questions against him about their own religion and about Jesus who had died but whom Paul affirmed to be alive. Because of these things, Festus continues, saying, “And I, being perplexed at the question concerning this.”
 
Festus uses a word translated here as “being perplexed,” aporeó, which means “at wit’s end,” or “at a complete loss.” There was more than doubt concerning the things he had heard. Rather, he simply didn't understand how to proceed.
 
This gives a reason for his now asking Agrippa, who was a Jew, to give insights on the matter and even maybe help in what judgment should be rendered. As for his judging the matter during the court session, because of his lack of ability to understand what the sides were arguing over, Festus “bid if he be willing to go to Jerusalem.”
 
Paul stood in Caesar’s court. That dealt with matters of Roman law and infractions committed under it. If nothing else, Festus knew that these disputes between Paul and the Jews had nothing to do with his jurisdiction.
 
Or, at best, the dispute may ultimately be judged in a Roman court, but only after the lesser issues between the parties were hammered out. Because of this, there might be a resolution to some of the issues in Jerusalem. If so, he asked if Paul was willing to go there “and there be judged concerning these.”
 
Before seeking Agrippa, which comes later, but before Paul is sent to Rome, he made the suggestion of going to Jerusalem to have the matter revealed through a trial.
 
Some scholars see this as a statement of doubt as to Paul’s innocence. Others see it as a pretext Festus used based on verse 9, where it said that he wanted to do the Jews a favor. As it is impossible to know his true intentions, we can only speculate as to what his motives were. What seems likely is that he simply wanted to do the Jews a favor while, at the same time, he wanted to get a more competent court setting to explain just what the Jews felt Paul had done wrong.
 
Life application: There are many things in Scripture that are uncertain, such as the motivation of Festus for asking Paul to go to Jerusalem. It is certain that he had no idea what to do about the dispute between the two parties. But his ultimate motivation for asking for a trial in Jerusalem cannot be known.
 
As such, speculation is necessary to comment further. However, when speculating, it is appropriate to identify it as such. Pastors will often make claims from the pulpit about things that simply cannot be known, but they state them without such qualifiers.
 
The problem with this is that the congregants probably have no idea that the pastor is speculating. From there, if they were awake and paying attention during the sermon, they will always think that what they heard is something right out of the Bible. This should not be.
 
Anytime a teacher or preacher is speculating, he should state it explicitly or use words such as might have, may, etc., to show that he is guessing about what he is saying. Further, it is never inappropriate to ask a pastor, preacher, or teacher to explain his words. He is there to teach. If he is teaching, he is also to be held accountable for his words if they do not align with Scripture.
 
At the same time, there is no need to be arrogant or overly wordy when asking to clarify what has been stated. Putting a teacher on the spot in an embarrassing manner is simply inappropriate. Have tact when asking for clarification.
 
Lord God, help us to be sound in our doctrine and questioning of the things we hear concerning Your word. If we hear something that seems like it needs further clarification, may we use tact and courtesy as we dig to find a resolution to our questions. Help us in this so that we will be rightly instructed in Your word. Amen.

Acts 25:19

Friday, 8 March 2024
 
but had some questions against him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who had died, whom Paul affirmed to be alive. Acts 25:19
 
More literally, the Greek reads, “But certain questions concerning their own religion they had against him, and concerning a certain Jesus having been dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Festus told Agrippa that Paul’s accusers did not charge him with any of the crimes he had expected. He continues now, saying, “But certain questions concerning their own religion.”
 
Festus now uses the same basic word as that which Paul used in Acts 17:22. There it was deisidaimonesteros, and here it is deisidaimonia. They carry the same meaning, and each is only used one time in the Bible. It basically means a “dread of a deity.”
 
In essence, it refers to a religion or a superstition because of a fear of that deity. As Agrippa is a Jew, it is certain that Festus is using the term in a general sense, just as Paul did in Acts 17:22. It may not be his religion, but he acknowledges that it is Paul’s.
 
Some versions say “superstition” instead of “religion,” but that is not the intent. Festus was not there to insult King Agrippa but to acknowledge the religion of the Jews. It was such points of their theology that “they had against him.”
 
Festus was expecting some type of aggravated crime to be charged against Paul. Instead, however, they were spending their time trying to disassociate their beliefs from those of Paul. As has been seen in the past, the religion of the Jews was considered an acceptable religion under Roman rule (religio licita).
 
However, the Jews constantly attempted to separate faith in Jesus from their faith. If they could do this, it would mean that Christianity might be considered unacceptable (religio illicita). This would make Paul an offender against Rome. Every attempt thus far had failed, but they continued to press this angle of attack against Paul.
 
Their accusations were against Paul’s interpretation of their religion “and concerning a certain Jesus having been dead.”
 
The verb is a perfect participle. Festus had heard that Jesus was dead, and he had no reason to believe that wasn’t true. Not accepting the premise of a resurrection, he assumed that if Jesus had died, He was still dead.
 
Until this point, the name “Jesus” hasn’t been cited by Luke at all in the account. Despite this, it is apparent from the words of Festus that Jesus has been the subject of the entire situation. But, again, this Jesus was dead. Even Paul admitted he had died. To him, it was an axiom that when someone is dead, he stays dead.
 
Therefore, he uses the perfect participle. The results of the action continued even to the present time. On the other hand, this supposedly dead Jesus was One “whom Paul affirmed to be alive.”
 
In this case, the verb is in the imperfect tense, which implies that despite what he had heard about Jesus dying, even from Paul, he still kept insisting that He was alive. It seems that Festus is holding the entire scenario in contempt despite Paul’s continued proclamation of the resurrection of Christ. The same blinders that covered the eyes of Israel’s leaders also covered the eyes of this Roman governor. This agrees with the words of Paul found in 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 –
 
“Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him.”
 
Life application: Today, much of the world has heard about Jesus, including His death and resurrection. It is normally not an issue to speak about this with others and they already are aware of the details. “Sure, I have heard that. It’s what Christians believe.”
 
However, knowing that a Christian believes this does not mean that they accept the premise themselves. Christian/atheist debates happen at colleges and seminaries all the time. The atheists know what the Christians believe but simply deny it happened. There are people in church leadership positions and professors in Christian colleges who don’t really believe the things they teach.
 
But this is the key and central point of the faith. It is the dividing line between who is saved and who is not saved. Paul goes into great detail concerning the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15, but the initial premise, that Jesus rose from the dead, is the final part of the simple gospel.
 
Scripture proclaimed He would die, be buried, and resurrect. Faith in that is what saves. If these things were according to Scripture, it means that God knew the future when those things were written. Thus, He is the Creator God who transcends time.
 
If these things were according to Scripture, then it means that God had a plan set forth in advance. Thus, He is the Initiator of the process and the One who followed through with it each step of the way. Therefore, salvation is an act which is of the Lord alone. Because of this, it logically follows that there is one and only one way to be saved – His way.
 
The simple and easily ignored or dismissed claim that Jesus resurrected carries with it all of the weight and authority of the final decree of God for salvation. If you have ever wondered why such a basic and simple set of words is so greatly maligned by people, it is because, as simple as they are to understand, they are some of the most incredible words one could possibly accept.
 
Truly, only an act of faith that what is recorded in Scripture can bring one to accept them. As this is so, how pleasing it must be to God when we demonstrate that simple act of faith. As Christians, be people of faith. If you have believed that God could raise a man from the dead, then accepting the other words of Scripture should not be that difficult to accept as well.
 
Lord God Almighty, what could we do that deserves Your salvation? The greatest achievements of man quickly fade away with time. The kindest gestures between humans are still tainted with the sin that resides within us. But to have faith that You can restore us to Yourself through the gospel of Jesus Christ is something completely beyond ourselves. In accepting the gospel, we are throwing ourselves totally at Your mercy. We understand this and we believe. Thank You for the good news of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Acts 25:18

Thursday, 7 March 2024
 
“When the accusers stood up, they brought no accusation against him of such things as I supposed, Acts 25:18
 
The verbs need to be tweaked. More literally, it reads, “Concerning whom, having stood up, the accusers were bringing no charge which I was thinking” (CG).
 
Festus, still telling Agrippa what took place with Paul, just noted that on the next day, after Paul’s accusers had come to Caesarea, he convened a trial. Now, he notes, “Concerning whom.”
 
This is speaking of Paul, who was noted as “the man” of the previous verse. The case against Paul is being presented with the charges against him now being spoken forth. Next, it notes concerning those bringing the charges, “having stood up.”
 
It is a formal court procedure where the ones to speak stand to address the court. All others remain seated until called to speak. Of those standing up, Festus next says, “the accusers were bringing no charge which I was thinking.”
 
Based on the urgency of the Jew's complaints, he figured he had a real troublemaker or a capital offender on his hands. However, expecting accusations of being an agitator or someone who had committed a horrendous crime, he was left pondering what was so serious.
 
Because of this, it seems that his words are possibly asking, “Maybe you can shed some light on this King Agrippa.” Festus was stumped about how to handle such charges because they had nothing to do with Roman law. This became evident when Paul appealed to Caesar. Paul stood in Caesar’s court, as he said, “where I ought to be judged.”
 
Life application: Paul notes that those of the church must all appear before the Bema seat of Christ. We will all be judged for what we have done. There is only one thing that will be a source of rewards for us: things done in faith.
 
Our walk began in faith, believing that God sent Jesus to restore us to Himself. We didn’t see Jesus, we weren’t there at the resurrection, and we didn’t see Him ascend. Rather, we took those things on faith, along with everything else that we hold sacred to our walk with the Lord.
 
For example, we have the word of God, but we must believe that what it contains is truth. If we don’t have faith in the initial creation account as is recorded in Genesis, then we lack faith in God’s word. If we teach a long-term creation, something not in accord with the word, we are demonstrating that we do not trust the biblical narrative. Instead, we are believing something other than what it says, evolution, for example.
 
And yet, there is no evidence to support the evolutionary model. Thus, we are placing our faith in evolution above our faith in God’s word. For this, we will lose rewards. If we do something nice for another, but it is not done in faith, where can there be reward in that? People who do not believe in Jesus do nice things all the time, and yet they will receive no reward for their actions.
 
Everything comes down to faith. Be people of faith and live your life in that state. What you do, do with the aim and goal of pleasing God. This should start with knowing what is pleasing to Him. And that is found in His word.
 
Read the word, remember what it says, and apply it to your life. In this, you will be demonstrating faith. It logically follows, then, that you will receive rewards for what you have done when you stand at the bema of Christ. May it be so for you!
 
Lord God, may we be willing to read Your word, remember Your word, and apply Your word to our daily walk before You. Help us to be people of faith who act in faith toward You in everything we do. We pray this to Your glory. Amen.

Acts 25:17

Wednesday, 6 March 2024
 
“Therefore when they had come together, without any delay, the next day I sat on the judgment seat and commanded the man to be brought in. Acts 25:17
 
The Greek more literally says, “Therefore, they, having come together, having made no delay, the next, having sat on the bema, I commanded the man to be brought” (CG).
 
Festus had just told Agrippa that it was not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction before the accused could meet his accusers face to face so that he could answer for the charges against him. Having said that, he next says, “Therefore, they, having come together.”
 
That was seen in verses 25:5, 6 –
 
“Therefore, he said, ‘let those who have authority among you go down with me and accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him.’6 And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea.”
 
From there, Festus next says to Agrippa, “having made no delay, the next, having sat on the bema, I commanded the man to be brought.” These words are exactly as recorded in the continuation of verse 25:6 –
 
“And the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought.”
 
As can be seen, the words are exact according to what was recorded by Luke. The only thing not stated, and which would have been an obvious part of his formalities while in Jerusalem, is that he had spent ten days with the Jews.
 
Thus, immediately after his time in Jerusalem, the trial with the leaders and Paul came about. He cannot be said to have been negligent in this matter as it was, truly, the next day after his state visit. It demonstrated then, and it is showing to Agrippa now, that he intended to be a governor who was willing to listen to the complaints of the leaders of the people under him.
At the same time, it demonstrated that he was concerned about placing the rights of Roman citizens in a very high priority. The Jewish king, therefore, would understand that the priorities of Festus were exactly what they should be as a governor of Rome who was placed over a district of the empire.
 
Life application: After WWII, MacArthur was placed in a leadership position over the nation of Japan. His time there lasted from 1945 to 1952. His word was considered as the absolute authority concerning what would take place.
 
At the same time, he demonstrated concern for both the Japanese and for the forces assigned under his command. It was a balancing act that proved highly successful. The nation of Japan was brought out of its former state and into a thriving modern society.
 
However, this time of ruling will be outshined by that of the coming millennial reign of Christ. Hints of that time are found throughout the Old Testament prophets, and they clearly indicate that this rule will go forth from Jerusalem in the land of Israel with the people of Israel as chief among the nations. For example –
 
“The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem.2 Now it shall come to pass in the latter daysThat the mountain of the Lord’s houseShall be established on the top of the mountains,And shall be exalted above the hills;And all nations shall flow to it.3 Many people shall come and say,‘Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord,To the house of the God of Jacob;He will teach us His ways,And we shall walk in His paths.’For out of Zion shall go forth the law,And the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.4 He shall judge between the nations,And rebuke many people;They shall beat their swords into plowshares,And their spears into pruning hooks;Nation shall not lift up sword against nation,Neither shall they learn war anymore.” Isaiah 2:1-4
 
This sentiment is repeated in Micah 4:1-3. One must ask, “What is the point of recording such detail throughout the prophets unless it is actually going to happen?” Where is the glory in failed prophecies or prophecies that are transferred from one people group to another without the covenant between the first two parties being fulfilled and set aside as promised?
 
If you believe that the church has replaced Israel in God’s redemptive plans, you have accepted a premise that says God cannot be trusted to complete what He has started, or that God has changed what He began to accommodate a fluctuating narrative that overlooks direct and purposeful promises to a particular group of people.
If He is willing to do that to Israel, how can we be sure He will not do that to the church as well? Such a ridiculous notion is incomprehensible when thought through. Be sound in your thinking by rejecting replacement theology. God has not rejected Israel. The word even explicitly says that in Romans 11.
 
Every promise made to Israel the nation will come about, exactly as the word says. The Gentiles have been graciously grafted into God’s redemptive workings. They have not replaced Israel. Rather, they have become a part of the commonwealth of Israel. Read and believe God’s word. In this, you are demonstrating faith in Him. His word is an expression of who He is.
 
Lord God, thank You for Your faithfulness to Your people. How good and wonderful it is to know that even if we walk away from You, You will never abandon us. We are prone to wander, but You remain faithful even as we do. Thank You, O God, for Your steadfastness in remaining faithful to those You have covenanted with! Hallelujah and amen.

Acts 25:16

Tuesday, 5 March 2024
 
“To them I answered, ‘It is not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction before the accused meets the accusers face to face, and has opportunity to answer for himself concerning the charge against him.’ Acts 25:16
 
Although a tad clunky, a more literal rendering is, “To whom I answered, ‘That it is not Romans’ custom to grant any man to destruction before that the accused may have the accusers to face, and he may receive place of defense concerning the accusation’” (CG).
 
In the previous verses, Festus explained Paul’s position to king Agrippa and noted that the Jews were asking for a judgment against him. With that, it next says, “To whom I answered.”
 
It is Festus’s answer to the Jews that he is now explaining to Agrippa. His words to them were, “That it is not Romans’ custom to grant any man to destruction.”
 
The words “to destruction” are not found in some manuscripts. Despite this, the Jews had asked for a trial and a sentence based on their charges. If granted, it would have led to that being the sentence. However, Roman custom did not simply allow its citizens to be handed over willy-nilly, especially “before that the accused may have the accusers to face.”
 
Paul had already been tried before Felix, but no sentence was given. Instead, he punted and had Paul remain incarcerated under his authority until his departure. The Jews now wanted Paul charged based on their same accusations as if the charges were valid against him.
 
Instead, Festus noted to them that there would need to be a trial where his accusers came and presented to his face what their claim against Paul was, “and he may receive place of defense concerning the accusation.”
 
Once their charges had been presented to his face, Paul could then respond to each charge individually or collectively. Either way, he was allowed under Roman law to have a trial that any citizen of Rome was allowed to have.
 
In his words, Festus clearly noted the obligation of his office to the king, demonstrating that he was bound to Roman law and that his judgment was not because of any bias against the Jews. If Agrippa were inclined to the ruling decision of the leaders of Israel, it could cause tension between the two unless he understood that Festus’s hands were bound under the fair principles of Roman justice.
 
It seems that this comment is less one of arrogance or Roman superiority than one of attempting to show harmony between his office and his rulings over the Jewish people under his jurisdiction.
 
It is of note that the same verb translated as “to grant” was used by Paul in verse 25:11, which was after the meeting with the leaders of Israel and Paul in Caesarea. Festus uses the same term now as if it were his idea all along to be Paul’s defender as a citizen of Rome. He uses the word as if it were spoken to the Jews before the meeting!
 
Paul’s words were convincing enough, and his appeal to Caesar was valid enough, to justify where he was. The advice of Festus’s council supported Paul’s words, and so he, in turn, now uses them before Agrippa. Paul has proven his verbal and analytical prowess concerning the matter.
 
Life application: The Greek word noted above as “to grant” means “to show favor.” In other words, it is more than simply delivering Paul to the Jews. Rather, it is doing so as a grant. In the case of the law, Festus couldn’t just grant a favor without a legal reason behind his actions.
 
This is how it should be anywhere. Laws are put in place to keep the playing field level. Each person who is authorized to have those laws apply to him has a right to appeal to that law. Unfortunately, many people don’t know what the law states in a particular matter and their rights are trampled.
 
This happens with unjust prosecutors and judges all the time. They grant things that they should not grant. They also withhold charges against people they are aligned with. This is the fallen world in which we live. The safest course of action against this is to have proper legal representation, but that is not always a guarantee.
 
Having said that, when we stand before Jesus, our judgment will be absolutely fair in all ways. There will be no underhanded dealings, and there will be no favoritism. Everything will be perfectly just. Knowing this, let us live for the Lord in a manner that will always be honoring Him and demonstrating faith through the things we do. In this, our judgment will be a positive one.
 
Lord God, we know that when we stand before You for judgment, things will be handled fairly and in a just manner. Thank You that we will be treated with the favor of Jesus because we are now in Christ. The punishment for our failures came at the cross. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord and for what He has done for us. Amen.
 

Acts 25:15

Monday, 4 March 2024
 
“about whom the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, when I was in Jerusalem, asking for a judgment against him. Acts 25:15
 
In the previous verse, Festus laid Paul’s case before Agrippa the king, noting that Paul had been left by Felix. He continues the thought now, saying, “about whom the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me.”
 
The words of the verse are rather clear. The entire body of the leaders of the Jews, both chief priests and elders, had a united voice against Paul. Even if they couldn’t agree on sound theology, such as their arguments concerning the resurrection of the dead, they could all agree that Paul was an enemy of their way of life. He was telling the Gentiles that they were on the same level with God as the Jews if they were in Christ.
 
Further, anyone not in Christ stood condemned before God. To them, this was intolerable, and it was worthy of being excommunicated from the temple and the nation. And more, in their eyes, it was worthy of death. Therefore, Festus next says, “when I was in Jerusalem.”
 
As Festus had just become governor, and as he had made one trip to Jerusalem, what was presented to him must have been of the highest importance to the Jews. It wasn’t like the topic was something that could wait until they had established a good working relationship.
 
Rather, right from the moment of his being introduced to them, they brought the issue of Paul up as an absolutely important diplomatic matter. And the issue was that they were “asking for a judgment against him.”
 
The Greek word is dike. It speaks of a judicial hearing, an execution of a sentence, punishment, justice, etc. It is only found elsewhere in Acts 28:4, 2 Thessalonians 1:9, and Jude 1:7. Some older texts actually have a stronger word in the Greek, katadikazo, a word implying “condemnation.”
 
Either way, the Jews were intent on getting their hands on Paul, and they did this through the pretext of a trial leading to judgment. However, their true intentions were to have him killed during the passage to or from Jerusalem.
 
Life application: The Jews wanted Paul dead. Extrabiblical writings reveal that Paul and most of the apostles were eventually martyred for their faith. The fact is, however, that we are all going to die. And that could happen at any moment.
 
We have no control over stopping that aspect of our existence. However, we can control what we do while we are alive. Each of us must work out our own salvation. This doesn’t mean working out getting saved or remaining saved. Rather, it means working out what we will do with the salvation we received based on faith in Jesus.
 
The older one gets, the more he realizes how short this life really is. A young person will look at old people and think, “Wow, they are really old.” An old person will look at a young person and think, “It was only moments ago when I was like that.” Because of this, we should consider our days and be willing to use them wisely, to the glory of God.
 
This is especially so because of what was already noted. We have no idea when our day of death will come. Therefore, let us be about the business of the Lord while we can. It should not be our attitude to say, “I will start living for the Lord tomorrow!” Rather, we should say, “I will live for the Lord today!”
 
Demonstrate the wisdom that the Bible proclaims and live out your days, starting right now, for the sake of the Lord. Each moment is a new moment to dedicate to Him. May it be so in our lives!
 
Lord God Almighty, help us to be wise and discerning about the lives we lead. May we forget what is past, put what we cannot change behind us, and go forward with a new and right attitude from moment to moment, honoring You and bringing glory to You all our days. Amen.
 

Acts 25:14

Sunday, 3 March 2024
 
When they had been there many days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying: “There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix, Acts 25:14
 
In the previous verse, it noted that Agrippa, the king, and Bernice came down to Caesarea to greet Festus. That continues now with, “When they had been there many days.”
 
The term “many days” is a comparative term. The Pulpit Commentary says, “The number indicated by the comparative degree, πλείων, depends upon what it is compared with. Here, it means more days than was necessary for fulfilling the purpose of their visit, which was to salute Festus.”
 
It may be that they were enjoying the time by the ocean, had found things that interested them, or they may have been avoiding going back to their regular lives for some reason. Luke doesn’t explain why they continued, nor does he tell what the number of days was. However, with any office dealings and other formalities complete, it was an opportune time to then enter into his talk about Paul. Therefore, it next says, “Festus laid Paul’s case before the king.”
 
Festus probably thought that Agrippa, being a Jew, would be interested in the case. Further, he might have thought the king may be able to shed some light on Paul’s belief and what course of action should be taken with him.
 
The words “laid” and “before” are separated by the NKJV, but in the Greek, it is a single word, anatithémi. That comes from ana and tithémi – “to set before.” It is used only one other time, in Galatians 2:2, where Paul said he “communicated to [anatithémi: literally “set before”] the apostles the gospel which he preached among the Gentiles. Of Festus’s words, he was “saying: ‘There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix.’”
 
Festus is careful to note this fact. He had assumed charge of Paul from another, and he desired to ensure that the case was handled properly and in an expeditious manner.
 
Life application: Paul had a particular calling concerning the gospel. He faithfully carried out his duties before the Lord. Eventually, he went to those in Jerusalem and laid before the leaders what he communicated to the Gentiles. They accepted his presentation of the execution of his duties.
 
One of the main points of Paul’s apostleship was that the law of Moses was fulfilled in the coming of Christ. A New Covenant was introduced, which superseded the Old, rendering the Old obsolete. This message went forth to the Gentiles who were never under the law. In accepting the good news of Jesus, they were sealed with the Spirit and saved.
 
Judaizers, however, came in and tried to infect the believers by insisting that the Gentiles had to adhere to the Law of Moses to be saved. This is not what Paul laid before those in Jerusalem, and it is not what Jesus had instructed Paul to communicate. Rather, we are saved by grace through faith. Law observance has no part in the equation.
 
And yet, to this day, the same wicked spirit of the Judaizers continues in the world. Do not budge on grace. Do not mar grace. And do not diminish the glory of the cross of Christ by trying to earn what is provided freely by God through the giving of His Son.
 
Trust that Jesus has paid the debt and that nothing more is needed. This is what gives God the greatest glory. Our pitiful attempts to merit His favor apart from the cross are like a slap in His face. Yield to the notion that Jesus is fully sufficient to save you and keep saving you. All glory to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!
 
Yes Lord God! We give You glory and honor and praise for what You have done for us. We receive the completed work of Jesus, accepting by faith that what He has done is fully sufficient to save us and to keep saving us forever. Hallelujah and Amen!

Acts 25:13

Saturday, 2 March 2024
 
And after some days King Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to greet Festus. Acts 25:13
 
A more literal rendering is, “And some days having passed, Agrippa the king and Bernice came down to Caesarea, having saluted Festus” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Paul was told that because he had appealed to Caesar, to Caesar he would go. Now, the narrative continues with, “And some days having passed.”
 
While Paul was awaiting his transfer to Rome, an indeterminate amount of time elapsed. However, during that time, the narrative introduces two people, “Agrippa the king and Bernice.”
 
Lengthy commentaries on these two abound if you want to learn more about them. In short, however, Agrippa is Herod Agrippa, the son of Herod Agrippa I. He was a brother of Drusilla, the wife of Felix, seen in Acts 24:24. The Pulpit Commentary lists some of the facts about him and Bernice –
 
“He was only seventeen at his father's death, and so not considered by Claudius a safe person to entrust his father's large dominions to. But he gave him Chalets, and afterwards, in exchange for it, other dominions. ... He was the last of the Herods, and reigned above fifty years. Bernice was his sister, but was thought to be living in an incestuous intercourse with him. She had been the wife of her uncle Herod, Prince of Chalets; and on his death lived with her brother. She then for a while became the wife of Polemo, King of Cicilia, but soon returned to Herod Agrippa. She afterwards became the mistress of Vespasian and of Titus in succession (Alford).”
 
Of these two, it says they “came down to Caesarea, having saluted Festus.” This would be a formal introduction to the new procurator. If they were already acquainted, it would be a congratulatory visit to his appointment. Either way, they have come to acknowledge his being placed in his role as the new governor.
 
Life application: One can see the same formalities today when dignitaries come to the office or residence of a newly appointed or elected official. Luke carefully records these events, describing what occurred when it is relevant to the ongoing narrative.
 
The visit of these two, and their interactions with Paul, will be carefully noted and detailed. The Lord is setting out His word so that we can see how the message of the gospel went forth and what were some of the workings that made it possible.
 
As you read the Bible, think about what is presented and why. We are being given insights into how the transfer from the Jewish-led to Gentile-led church took place, why it was so effective, and what will occur, even into the future as the words of Paul’s epistles are fulfilled.
 
Look at the minute details and also look at the wider picture. A beautiful panorama of history is taking place before our eyes as we read and contemplate this precious word.
 
Heavenly Father, thank You for including us in the process of what occurred in the past so that we can know how we got to where we are now as Christianity spread in Israel and then beyond, even to the furthest extents of the world. We can see Your guiding hand in all of it. Hallelujah! We are seeing Your word fulfilled, even before our eyes. Amen.

Acts 25:12

Friday, 1 March 2024
 
“Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, ‘You have appealed to Caesar? To Caesar you shall go!’” Acts 25:12
 
In the previous verse, Paul had appealed to Caesar as was his right as a Roman citizen. With that, it next says, “Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, “You have appealed to Caesar? To Caesar you shall go!”
 
Festus had a body of legal counselors, just as anyone in such a position today would have. It would be unwise to render any decision without going through them because they were schooled in the law.
 
To bypass them in a legal matter would show incompetence, especially if the ruling turned out badly later. After the legal counsel explained the law, Festus then rendered his decision to Paul – to Rome, he would go, and to Caesar, he would be brought.
 
Some translations state his words as an acknowledgment, “You have appealed.” Others, as a sarcastic question, ask, “Have you appealed?” The first is probably correct because the words are said after the consultation with his council, not before.
 
If he were being a wise guy, he would have first asked it sarcastically and then conferred with his council. But without having been in the room, it is impossible to say for sure. Either way, he would have probably been more than happy to have this out of his hands. The Jews could not say that they had a new governor who wasn't willing to hear them, and Paul couldn't make a complaint as a citizen of Rome about Festus’s faulty care for his rights.
 
Life application: In the book of Proverbs, it says –
 
“Where there is no counsel, the people fall;But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 11:14
 
It is unwise to make decisions without being properly informed on a matter. This is why there are lawyers and legal advice. It doesn’t matter if it is a matter concerning estates, being in an accident, or being charged with a crime, there are lawyers to meet these and many other needs.
 
But there is also counsel for the more weighty and important matters of life as well, meaning the matters concerning one’s relationship with his Creator. In Proverbs, and while speaking of attaining wisdom, it says this about that –
 
“A wise man will hear and increase learning,And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.” Proverbs 1:5
 
Overall, the Bible is a book of wisdom. It is also a book that contains books of wisdom within it, such as Proverbs. Taking time to read the Bible, think about what it says, and even going into deeper personal studies demonstrates wisdom.
 
Along with that, attending studies with someone who is properly trained in theology and sound biblical hermeneutics is important as well. Today, one doesn’t even need to drive across town to do so. You can watch a study a day on YouTube. You can listen to a podcast while jogging. You can have a study going while driving to work. Such avenues of learning demonstrate that you are being wise with your time.
 
To not seek out your Creator and to not try to have a proper relationship with God is unwise. Don’t be unwise. For best happy in the afterlife, read and study your Bible!
 
Lord God, forgive us for those times where we get distracted in life and misdirected from what is important. Help us now and always to be responsible with our time and to carefully pursue a sound relationship with You. Thank You for Your precious word. With it, we can seek its truths in order to gain a heart of wisdom. Amen.
 

Acts 25:11

Thursday, 29 February 2024
 
“For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death, I do not object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar.” Acts 25:11
 
Paul just corrected Festus’s request by noting that he stood before Caesar’s judgment, where his judgment should take place. He also noted that he had done no wrong to the Jews. Therefore, it would be inappropriate for him to be sent to a judgment by the Jews. Continuing his words, he next says, “For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death.”
 
Rather, he ties the two thoughts together, “For, indeed, if I am an offender and have committed anything deserving of death.” It may be that he was an offender. That was the point of a trial. But the trial for such a thing did not belong to the Jews whom he had not wronged. Instead, Paul understood that if he had done something wrong within the confines of Roman law, that he would be judged and punished according to that law. If found an offender, he says, “I do not object to dying.”
 
A citizen of Rome bore the responsibility of being Roman. They were to live according to the laws of Rome and uphold the principles, values, laws, and statutes of Roman society. Those who offended were to be charged and punished in the manner set forth by the laws of Rome. That included the death penalty. He would comply with the law, even if found guilty of a capital crime. However, he next says, “but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me.”
 
Paul’s words are more succinct, “if, however, there be none of which these accuse me.” The charges were made by the Jews. He has demonstrated that their case has no merit because he did nothing that violated Roman law. But even if he did, they had no authority over such things.
 
He was in the court of Rome. Therefore, it was completely unnecessary and unlawful to send him outside of that court for a trial. Thus, asking him to go to Jerusalem was a pointless venture. Therefore, he notes, “no one can deliver me to them.”
 
The meaning of this is “no one can legally deliver me to them.” Festus could have done so, but it would have been a violation of Paul’s rights. If discovered, Festus would have to face the consequences of such a bold violation of Roman law. It is something he would not even consider.
 
With this stated, Paul could have stopped and waited for a response from Festus, which certainly would have been after a consultation with his lawyer, a note of feigned apology to Paul’s accusers, and then a “You are free to go” to Paul.
 
However, Paul still had the words of Jesus from Acts 23:11 in his ears, and he probably felt sure that by his next words, they would come to pass. And so, without waiting for Festus to give his response, he used his rights as a Roman citizen and said, “I appeal to Caesar.”
 
This appeal, stated before the court with any witnesses in attendance, could not be denied. Making this appeal meant that Jesus’ words would now come to pass. Paul would be sent to Rome.
 
As a side note, this verse is one the Bible’s surest proofs that the death penalty of the Old Testament was never set aside in the New. Paul, the apostle of our church-age doctrine, acknowledges that Rome had a right to execute people and that there was nothing contrary to Christian ethics that he could or would appeal to. If there were, it would be in one of his epistles. It is not. Paul takes it as the norm that the death penalty was acceptable and expected for crimes as determined by the government.
 
Life application: It is always good to either know the law or have someone who knows the law represent you concerning legal matters. The way the laws of most nations are structured, one must tread carefully in such things.
 
Even when someone has not committed an infraction and also has proper representation, those who sit in judgment are often completely flawed in their thinking. Judges are elected or appointed by politicians. Therefore, there is usually already a bias involved in how they will judge.
 
Because politics is involved, some of the least astute people are appointed, all the way up to the highest courts in the land. In the United States, a recent appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court could not provide a definition for what a woman is. This demonstrates either an amazingly flawed social and political bias or a level of mental retardation never before seen in this court. And yet, because of her gender, race, and political persuasion, she was appointed to this highest court in the land.
 
In other words, just because you have done nothing wrong, it does not mean that you will not be found guilty of a crime you did not commit. In such an instance, you may then appeal your sentence to a higher court. If they carry the same bias as the lower court, which is commonly the case, you may then appeal to the highest court in the land.
 
As long as there are a sufficient number of truly impartial judges, you may have a chance of being exonerated. If not, and it is becoming more likely by the day, you may find yourself punished. As Christians are the most recent societal punching bags to be targeted, this can be expected more and more as the future unfolds. Be prepared for such a time.
 
Lord God, we long for the day You come for Your people. It is an unfair world, and the wickedness in it is increasing daily. We know You will judge all wrongdoing, but until that day, be with Your people as we face the onslaught of increasingly hostile governments against those who hold fast to Your word. Amen.

Acts 25:10

Wednesday, 28 February 2024
 
So Paul said, “I stand at Caesar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. To the Jews I have done no wrong, as you very well know. Acts 25:10
 
The words are more literally rendered, “And Paul said, ‘I am, having stood upon the bema of Caesar, where I should be judged. I harmed Jews nothing, as you also know very well” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Festus asked Paul if he was willing to go up to Jerusalem to be tried. In response, Paul speaks firmly and directly: “And Paul said, ‘I am, having stood upon the bema of Caesar.”
 
The verb is a perfect participle, active. In essence, “I have stood and continue to stand upon the bema of Caesar.” As such, it is not surprising that Paul declined the invitation to be tried in Jerusalem. He had nothing to gain, and it was evident that neither Rome nor Jerusalem had any basis for a conviction against him.
 
Therefore, it was to this that he made his appeal. He was brought to a Roman setting for alleged crimes against Rome. The religious crimes of which he was charged went unproven, and so to send him back to Jerusalem would be a mockery of his time spent under Roman imprisonment. Because of where he was brought and where he continued to stand, he next notes it is “where I should be judged.”
 
Barnes paraphrases Paul”s thoughts by saying, “I am a Roman citizen. I have a right to justice. I am under no obligation to put myself again in the hands of the Jews. I have a right to a fair and impartial trial; and I claim the protection and privileges which all Roman citizens have before their tribunals - the right of a fair and just trial.”
 
This, then, is almost a rebuke to Festus for leaving the justice of Rome and a Roman citizen in the hands of those who had failed to make a case against him, despite many weighty accusations which were obviously false. Regardless of Festus being in attendance in Jerusalem or not, the trial would be a travesty. With that understood, and to make the point perfectly clear, he next says, “I harmed Jews nothing, as you also know very well.”
 
Although the tone of his voice is lacking, we can guess that the words were courteously stated while still being cutting in their meaning. The “you also” indicates quite clearly that Paul feels Festus has overlooked his rights as a Roman to accommodate those he will have to face during his tenure as governor. The stand is inappropriate, and Paul reminds him of this.
 
Paul also uses a word, kallion, found only here in Scripture. It means “very well.” Paul not only says “you also,” but he adds in this direct and bold statement that what Festus was presented, he was completely aware of it, despite not acting on what he knew.
 
Life application: When Jesus was tried, John records a part of His time before the leaders of Israel –
 
“The high priest then asked Jesus about His disciples and His doctrine.
20 Jesus answered him, ‘I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret I have said nothing. 21 Why do you ask Me? Ask those who have heard Me what I said to them. Indeed they know what I said.’
22 And when He had said these things, one of the officers who stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, ‘Do You answer the high priest like that?’
23 Jesus answered him, ‘If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why do you strike Me?’” John 18:19-23
 
Jesus’ words were truthful and were stated in a way that told the high priest that what He had previously spoken could be verified by others. If this made the high priest look biased in his judgment and incomplete in his actions that led to Jesus’ arrest, that was his problem. Jesus said nothing evil or malicious.
 
This is something we must consider in our own speaking with others. People may not like how we respond to them, but as long as our words are truthful, any offense taken by those who hear us is their problem. Jesus and Paul were brought forth for trial. In Jesus’ case, it was to bring false charges against him to eliminate him.
 
In a similar manner, the Jews falsely accused Paul. The previous trial had demonstrated that. However, Festus' actions only exacerbated the problem by not acknowledging Paul’s innocence and immediately calling forth a not-guilty verdict.
 
Therefore, they both stated what was true concerning the trials in which they stood. Should you find yourself accused of wrongdoing, if you are innocent, be sure to speak out firmly about what the situation is. If the law is on your side and the judge is fair, you will suffer no harm from your words. However, if the trial is unfair, it will not make any difference from the start.
 
Either way, saying what is true and standing upon the truth is always the best option in such matters.
 
O God, it seems more likely each day that those who are willing to boldly proclaim the truth concerning Jesus will face increased persecution. The world has quickly taken a stand against the message of sin, our need for redemption, and that it is only found in Jesus. Instead, people want to work out wickedness without being bothered by the thought of facing judgment for their actions. Therefore, they increasingly want to do away with the messengers who proclaim this. And so, O God, give us boldness to stand firm on this truth no matter what the consequences. Amen.

Acts 25:9

Tuesday, 27 February 2024
 
But Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, answered Paul and said, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and there be judged before me concerning these things?” Acts 25:9
 
The Greek more literally reads, “And Festus, intending to lay the Jews a favor, answering Paul, said, ‘Are you willing, having gone up to Jerusalem, to be judged there concerning these before me?’” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Paul gave his short defense concerning the charges against him. Now, with that complete, it says, “And Festus, wishing to lay the Jews a favor.”
 
In this clause is the second and last use of the word katatithémi. It signifies to lay or deposit a favor, probably with the view of receiving one in return. It was first seen in Acts 24:27. Both uses are tied into the sitting governor’s relationship with the Jews.
 
Festus was probably asked, in advance, that after the initial presentation of the charges, the matter could be brought to Jerusalem for evaluation there. Because it involved non-Roman religious matters, such a request would seem innocuous but satisfactory. Otherwise, he would certainly have just rendered his judgment and been done with the matter.
 
But he was an appointed diplomat and wanted to tactfully handle matters between himself and those he would have to deal with. Therefore, he “answering Paul, said, ‘Are you willing, having gone up to Jerusalem, to be judged there concerning these before me?’”
 
What seems apparent is that Festus found nothing wrong in Paul from the standpoint of his Roman jurisdiction. However, being the new governor, such a request would help maintain a friendly relationship with those now under him.
 
As such, and in order to obtain that standing, he asked Paul if he was willing to be judged, with him in attendance for his protection as a Roman citizen, by the religious court of the Jews. For him, it was a win-win move. If Paul declined, Festus would still be shown to have tried for the sake of the Jews. If accepted, then Festus would have allowed what was unnecessary from his seat of judgment but favorable in the eyes of the leaders of his subjects.
 
Life application: Politicians are generally people who are looking out for themselves. They desire power, recognition, and the ability to enrich themselves. The larger a city becomes, the more power and ability to influence others at higher levels they wield. For example, the mayor of Chicago will have more power and political influence than the mayor of a city of twelve hundred people.
 
As cities increase in size, the electorate generally tends to become more liberal. This means the people are less godly, more inwardly focused, and their attitudes about political issues increasingly do not align with Christian values.
 
For this reason, biblical Christianity becomes less and less acceptable to those in power. They do not want to be reminded of their sinful ways. Instead, they replace God with corruption and wickedness. However, these local leaders will have more sway with the next level of authority, such as the governor. Therefore, his policies will naturally align with those who can keep him in power.
 
From there, the governors have sway with the federal authorities and the corruption continues to expand. The ones to suffer the consequences of this are those whose ideas and goals do not match those of the people in power. Eventually, true Christians begin to be considered the enemy within. One can see this in almost any country on earth where there is a sizeable Christian population.
 
Their calls for holiness and right living stand at odds with the extreme levels of corruption and perversion that continue to be brought forth. Soon, there is a dividing wall between the two. Thus, the two ideologies are completely at odds. Those with the power will eventually act to remove this supposed infection from their site.
 
It is a pattern that has repeatedly occurred in the nations of the world, and it is one that is coming to a head throughout the world today. Christians must be willing to stand on their values and speak out, even if it means trouble lies ahead. Paul did this, and many faithful throughout the ages have done so as well.
 
Evaluate yourself. Strengthen yourself. Be ready to stand up for what is right, even if it will cost you greatly. The Lord will return a great blessing upon you when you stand before Him.
 
Wonderful Lord God, Your way is right and just and holy. Help us to stand up for it in this world of ever-increasing wickedness. May our lives and actions be found pleasing in Your sight as we face the enemies of perversion and corruption head-on. Strengthen us for this battle, O God. Amen.