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III. The Lord Jesus Christ at work by the Holy Spirit through the apostles to the uttermost part of the earth, Chapters 13 — 28

Notice that Paul had many assets which made him suitable to be the missionary to the Roman Empire. He had a world view. Greek training had prepared him as the cosmic Christian. He was trained in the Mosaic system, which prepared him to interpret it in the light of the coming of Christ and His redemptive death and resurrection. Not the least of his assets was his Roman citizenship which finally opened the door for him to visit Rome.

The chief captain, who now wants to know the exact charge against Paul, is determined that he appear before the Sanhedrin to hear their charge.

Chapter 23 — Paul makes a futile attempt to explain his position and conduct to the Sanhedrin. The Lord encourages Paul, and the plot to murder Paul leads to his being sent to Cæsarea for trial before Felix.

vv. 2, 3 — Paul rebukes the high priest for having him smitten on the mouth contrary to the Law. Paul uses strong language, “Thou whited wall”(v. 3).

vv. 4, 5 — Paul obviously had eye trouble since he did not recognize the high priest. He would have shown proper respect for him had he done so.

vv. 6-10 — The Sanhedrin was divided between Pharisees and Sadducees. The Pharisees were fundamental in doctrine. They believed in the integrity of the Old Testament. The Sadducees were liberal and rejected the supernatural. Paul, knowing this, makes it clear that the real issue is concerning the resurrection of the dead. Notice that this causes a division in the council that leads to confusion and turmoil. The chief captain rescues Paul again without learning the real nature of the hatred against Paul.

v. 11 — The Lord appears to Paul at night to encourage him. This verse indicates that Paul is not out of the will of God in coming to Jerusalem.

vv. 12-15 — A plot of more than 40 fanatics vow not to eat or drink until they have killed Paul.

v. 16 — The plot is discovered by a nephew of Paul who reveals it to him.

vv. 17-35 — Paul makes it known to the chief captain who determines now to send Paul under guard, secretly, to Cæsarea where he is to appear before Felix the governor.

Chapter 24 — Paul testifies before Felix. The high priest, Ananias, and the elders come down from Jerusalem to accuse Paul before Felix. Paul is accused of sedition, rebellion, and profaning the temple.

vv. 10-21 — Paul offers an explanation of his conduct and states that the way he worships God centers about the resurrection.

vv. 22, 23 — Felix asks for more evidence before he makes a judgment.

vv. 24-26 — Felix has Paul in for a private audience with him and his wife Drusilla, a Jewess. Paul witnesses to them concerning Christ.

Paul reasons of

(1) righteousness — of Christ (Philippians 3:9)

(2) temperance (self-control)

(3) judgment to come (great white throne — (Revelation 20:11-15)

Felix is convicted, but he expects a bribe that is not forthcoming (v. 26).

v. 27 — Paul is kept in prison for 2 years without any further hearing.

Chapter 25 — Festus succeeds Felix and Paul appears before Festus.

vv. 1-3 — When Festus goes to Jerusalem, the high priest renews his charges against Paul and asks that he be brought to Jerusalem for trial.

vv. 4-9 — Festus refuses this request but agrees to examine him in Cæsarea. Many false charges are made against Paul, which he denies.

vv. 10-12 — Paul, as a Roman citizen, exercises his right and appeals to Caesar. This, Festus is forced to grant.

vv. 13-22 — King Agrippa and Bernice come to visit Festus. Festus tells them of Paul’s case and that he has appealed to Caesar. Agrippa asks to hear

Paul and a meeting is scheduled.

vv. 23-27 — A hearing with great pomp and ceremony is arranged. The setting is dramatic. Paul in chains appears before this august company of rulers and kings. Festus requests Agrippa to help him frame a charge against Paul to send to Caesar.

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