Romans 1:8-12: "Living In the Spirit Part I"

I often like to come up with my own outlines and ideas in my posts, however, MacArthur has come up with a well thought out and exhaustive outline for this text that I would like to keep. I will add my own thoughts to the main points.

The outline goes as follows:
V. 8 A THANKFUL SPIRIT
V. 9-10a A CONCERNED SPIRIT
V. 10b A WILLING AND SUBMISSIVE SPIRIT
V. 11 A LOVING SPIRIT
V. 12 A HUMBLE SPIRIT
V. 13 A FRUITFUL SPIRIT
V. 14 AN OBEDIENT SPIRIT
V. 15 AN EAGER SPIRIT

A Thankful Spirit
Paul begins his letter, as he so often does, with a thankful heart toward God and the recipients of the letter. Understanding that it is only through the work of Christ that he is even able to come before God, he thanks his "God through Jesus Christ". Paul's personal relationship with God through the atoning work of Jesus on the cross, allows him to say "my God". This is a personal and intimate relationship with the God of the universe. More than that he thanks him through his advocate, Jesus Christ. Romans 8:34, "who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us." We then see who his thankfulness is for and why he is thankful for them in the second part of v. 8, "for you all, because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world." Paul was so thankful for his fellow believers and their perservering faith despite persecution that was being proclaimed throughout the whole world. Paul was always aware of what was going on and was always the great encourager. Paul knew that persecution was rising against the church and to see their perservering faith gave him great encouragement. Paul was always ministry minded, and nothing brought him more joy and thankfulness, than seeing his disciples carry on the faith. MacArthur writes, "From secular history we learn that in A.D. 49 Emperor Claudius expelled Jews from Rome, thinking they were all followers of Claudius expelled Jews from Rome, thinking they were all followers of someone named Chrestus (a variant spelling of Christ). Apparently the testimony of Jewish Christians had so incited the nonbelieving Jews that the turmoil threatened the peace of the whole city. The believers had, then, a powerful testimony not only in the city, but throughout the whole world. What a commendation!."

A Concerned Spirit
As Christians, it is our duty to be concerned. Someone who is constantly concerned for the spiritual condition of his fellow believers and non-believing friends will consistently be on their knees before God. In reading through Paul's epistle, you will be hard pressed to find a book where he does not mention the fact that he is constantly praying for them. With so many people converted under Paul, it is amazing to know he had prayed for each one of them throughout his lifetime. It is so cliche, and so easy to say to someone, "I will be praying for you". However, we will so often forget about that request, and even worse that person, and make ourselves liars by never praying for them. Paul, on the other hand, wants to make sure that the Romans knew he was indeed praying for them. Paul promises that "God . . .is my witness" in how much he prayed for them. We all need to check our hearts and make sure that 1) we are concerned about those who God has either put in our charge, or has put in our lives; and 2) we then voice that concern through constant prayers for them. What is more amazing is the depth and love with which Paul prayed for these believers. Eph. 3:14-19 says, "I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man; so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fulness of God." What a convicting passage. Do you pray for those around you as much as you should? Do you pray for them with a deep concern as Paul did?

A Willing and Submissive Spirit
I am sure Paul had his own thoughts and ideas on what was best for his ministry, or where the most advantageous place to go next would be. I am also sure that often these thoughts and ideas lined up with what God had for him. However, I am sure there were times Paul had other thoughts and ideas than what God had planned for him. We can be confident, however, with the fact that Paul's ultimate heart and desire was to be submissive to where God wanted him to go. It is a deep rooted belief that God's way is best. If we have this belief in our hearts we will always do what God wants because it will be what's best for us also. However, it is at those times that we doubt God and his plans for us that we do our own thing, and often pay the price for it. I am sure Paul had doubts about returning to Iconium a few days after being nearly stoned to death. But God apparently had that in mind for Paul, and Paul submissively and willingly served God through being obedient. Paul also had people and places he wanted to visit, however, because of imprisonment, and other directions by God, he was unable to go. Paul was eager to see the Romans and had desired to come visit them. However, he knew God might have something else for him, and he always kept himself open for that possibility. We can see Paul's wonderful attitude about this in his statement, "if perhaps now at last by the will of God I may succeed in coming to you". Paul knew that he would only be able to visit if the Lord allowed him to. It was this willing and submissive spirit that we should have in ministry. May we speak as boldly as Isaiah, "Here am I. Send me" (Isa. 6:8).

A Loving Spirit
Paul's love for his brethren oozes from every word he writes to them. This can clearly be seen in v. 11 as he mentions, "I long to see you". Paul had a longing to see the believers at Rome. We see even more of his love and character when we see the purpose of him longing to see them. He wants to see them "in order that I may impart some spiritual gift to you". Paul was selfless. He often thought only of others with no regard for himself. His whole Christian life was spent in sacrifice for others. This embodies love. Paul proved his love for others by his actions. Thessalonians 2:7-9 is a clear testament to Paul's love as he writes, " We proved to be gentle among you as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. Having thus a fond affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us. For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, how working night and day so as not to be a burden to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God." Paul never wanted anything from the brethren, except to see them growing in the faith. When he came it was all about giving to them. In this circumstance Paul desired to "impart some spiritual gift". MacArthur writes, "The gift Paul wanted to impart was spiritual not only in the sense of being in the spiritual realm but in the sense that it had its source in the Holy Spirit. Because he was writing to believers, Paul was not speaking about the free gift of salvation through Christ about which he speaks in 5:15-16. Nor could he have been speaking about the gifts he discusses in chapter 12, because those gifts are bestowed directly by the Spirit Himself, not through a human instrument. He must therefore have been using the term 'spiritual gift' in it broadest sense, referring to any kind of divinely-empowered spiritual benefit he could bring to the Roman Christians by preaching, teaching exhorting, comforting, praying, guiding, and disciplining." May we constantly be driven by love to sacrifice for those we are called to minister to and expect nothing in return.

A Humble Spirit
Although Paul approached each service opportunity as a way to sacrifice and expect nothing in return, he was humble enough to know that he could also learn and be edified by the brethren. Paul tells the Roman Jews that he is also looking forward to the visit in which he, "may be encouraged together with you while among you, each of us by the other's faith, both yours and mine." Although Paul often knew much more than those he discipled, and he was granted more powerful speaking, and the gift of miracles, he never looked at himself above those he taught. In fact, he always looked at them as equal brothers and sisters in the Lord. Commenting on this passage John Calvin said, "Note how modestly he expresses what he feels by not refusing to seek strengthening from inexperienced beginners. He means what he says, too, for there is none so void of gifts in the Church of Christ who cannot in some measure contribute to our spiritual progress. Ill will and pride, however, prevent our deriving such benefit from one another." May we all put on humility and not taint the service we render to others. May we always remember that anything we have received is from God, and apart from him we have and are nothing.

Romans 1:5-7: "The Good News Salutation Part III"

Paul has just told us about who Christ was, that is: the Son of God. He now wants to explain what His life, death, and resurrection accomplished for us in vs. 5-7.

Paul continues by saying that it is through death and resurrection of Christ that we (Christians) "have received grace". Grace is unmerited favor. The gift of salvation is free, however, it cannot be earned by human effort. It is only through the lovingkindness of God that He even allowed salvation to be extended through us. In Ephesian 2:8-9 we read, "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast." We are clearly taught that we are forgiven our sins and all the wrong we have done or will do has been cleansed by Christ's blood. We are also taught, that we are dead in our sin with no recourse apart from Christ. Lastly, we need to understand that left to ourselves we would only seek our selves and we have turned away from God. Put all of these thoughts together and you get the picture of someone that is hopeless, and eternally lost with no chance of doing anything to help themselves. That pretty much leaves it all up to God. This, in fact, does not leave a person unresponsible for their actions. As humans, we do have the responsibility to act on the grace we have been shown by God (for more on these read this post). However, we must see that apart from God and the work of Christ on the cross, we have abolutely no hope. This is all in order to glorify God. This way God gets all the credit for saving us "that no one should boast." This is a theme that will run througout Romans as Paul often speaks of God wondrous grace to the believer.

We also see in this section, that we not only receive grace, but apostleship also. We often might think of the word apostle to be strictly linked to Paul and the chosen men of the NT. However, the simple meaning of the word apostolos is translated "one who is sent". MacArthur writes, "It is possible that Paul was speaking of the specific grace of apostelship, but it seems more probably that he was referring to, or at least including, the grace by which every believer comes into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ . . . every person who belongs to God through faith in Christ is an apostle in a more genreal sense of being sent by Him into the world as His messenger and witness." Paul goes on to tell us as believers that we should use our gift of grace and apostleship "to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles, for His name's sake." What we learn from this is that it is not merely a "faith" in Christ that saves us, but obedient faith. Let's not misconstrue this. I am not preaching a works based salvation. Instead, as the bible clearly teaches, our faith will only be geniune when we have can see obedience. MacArthur explains, "It is not that faith plus obedience equals salvation but that obedient faith equals salvation. True faith is verified in obedience." This can practically be seen everyday. If I tell my wife I love her and yet everyday put her down, discourage her, and abuse her; it would merely show that I am a hypocrite and liar. We can all say we believe in Christ, but it will only be those who live their lives in an obedient pattern to Him that will see eternal life. May we never be the one He says, "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness" (Matt. 7:27).

Paul continues in his salutation, to help the Roman Jews further understand God's plan of salvation as it includes the Gentiles. It is our job as Christians to share the gospel with anyone who will hear it. It is our responsibility to tell them about Christ. It is often said that witnessing is the only thing we can do on earth that we can't do in Heaven (besides sin). What was formerly a mystery to the Jews, Paul was helping clear up here in his introduction. In Col. 1:26-27 we read, "that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations; but has now been manifested to His saints, to whom God willed ot make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." Paul has explained who he is, who Christ is, what Christ had done, and the benefits we receive by being in faithful obedience to Christ, and now he is explaining that this also includes the Gentiles.

Lastly in v.7, Paul addresses all his fellow believers in Rome and explains a couple more benefits we have in knowing Christ. Those who know Christ are "beloved of God" and have "peace from God". It is amazing and comforting to know that once we accept Christ into our hearts, that we are now His beloved. Whereas before we were at emnity with God, we now received His everlasting love. Whereas before we were continually at battle with God, we now are at peace with God.

What an amazing job Paul does of clearly explaining the whole gospel to us in a brief salutation at the beginning of his letter to the Romans. This was one long thought on his mind as he opened his letter. If you notice the first 7 verses are one long sentence. What an amazing way to start such an amazing book of the New Testament. I am excited to dig in....

Romans 1:2-4: "The Good News Salutation Part II"

Paul began his salutation by explaining who he was as the author. He explains that he is a bond-servant of Jesus Christ, he defends his apostleship, and gives all credit to God as being set apart to preach the gospel. He will now explain to the Romans the unfathomable deity of Christ and how he fulfilled the scriptures they had studied all their lives.

In v.2, Paul is trying to show the Roman Jews that the Old Testament they had studied and read so many times was replete with prophecies about Jesus Christ. "It is estimated that the Old Testament contains at least 332 prophecies about Christ" from MacArthur's commentary. It is amazing to think that the very scriptures that were the backbone of Jewish history, which spoke so often of the Messiah, did not open their eyes up enough to see the fulfillment of them in Christ. Hebrews 1:1-2, "God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son".

Some of the main OT prophecies that were fulfilled in Christ include (taken from The New Evidence that Demands a Verdict by Josh McDowell:

1. Born of a Virgin

Isaiah 7:14, "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call his name Immanuel."

Matthew 1:18, 24, 25, "She was found with child of the Holy Spirit . . . then Joseph . . . did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name Jesus."

2. Son of God

Psalm 2:7, "I will declare the decree: The Lord has said to Me, 'You are My Son, today I have begotten You."

Matthew 3:17, "And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.'"

Also, Mark3:11 The demons realized his Sonship as well as the high priest (Matt. 26:63).

3. Seed of Abraham

Genesis 22:18, "In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice."

Matthew 1:1, "The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham."

The whole 53rd chapter of Isa. speaks of the suffering the Messiah must go through to satisfy the penalty of sin. All this clearly illustrated in Christ's death on the cross.

In v.3 another OT prophecy is shown in which Christ is not only the Son of God, but also born a descendant of David "according to the flesh". In Jeremiah 23:5, "Behold, the days are coming,' says the Lord, 'That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; A king shall reign and prosper, and execute judgment and righteousness in the land." In Luke 3:23, 31, "Jesus, . . . the son of David . . ."

Jesus gets his humanity through Mary within the line of David, yet in v.4 we see Christ's deity through God as He declared Christ the Son of God. It is an amazing thing to think about this, and often times hard to explain or even believe. Yet, I understand that this could be the only way. It could not make sense for Jesus to be solely human. For if this were the case, he would have no right to be the substitution for our sins. No human can appease the wrath of God that is being stored up on us for our sins. It is only in God that we can get our forgiveness, and yet He could not pure that wrath out on a sinful human and our sins be washed away. He had to be 100% man as well. This is clearly explained in Hebrews 2:17, "Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people". What an amazing thought. The gospel is so perfect in it's dealing with justice and mercy and Christ embodied both of those perfectly.

So we can see that Christ not only fulfilled OT prophecy about being in the line of David, but also being God Incarnate. This single issue, often referred to as the deity of Christ, is the essential claim of Christ. We must believe in these facts with all our hearts in order for us to be saved. It is imperative that we understand that Jesus is who He claimed to be: GOD. It is on this that so many of the Jewish people could not understand and believe, and for this reason were not able to inherit the kingdom. It is on this that Christ was crucified by His people. They thought it was blasphemy for anyone to call themselves equal with God, which is very true of everyone except Christ; who proved throughout His lifetime He truly was the Son of God. MacArthur explains, "It was at the time that He became a human being, Paul says, that Jesus was declared the Son of God. Though the plan was eternal, the title Son is reserved as an incarnational term, applied to Jesus in its fullness only after He put on the robe of humanity. He was the Son of God in the sense of oneness of essence and in the role of dutiful, loving submission to the Father in His self-emptying incarnation . . . We could say, then, that Christ was the Son of God from eternity in expectation and was declared God's Son in fulfillment at the incarnation and forever." Paul further provides commentary on this history changing event in Philippians 2:5-8, "Christ Jesus, . . . although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, . . . being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." What an amazing, deeply rich theological statement on the deity of Christ.

Paul goes on to explain in v.4 the most substantial and essential of all the proofs of His Sonship, "with power by the resurrection from the dead . . ." With only the power that God has to raise the dead to life, God established Himself in all that Christ claimed to truly be God, the son. All of Jesus life was a testimony to His deity. He never sinned, He had wisdom beyond any that had ever lived, He did numerous miracles, but above all it was the resurrection from the dead that substantiated any claim He ever made. There have been many men that have claimed many things, and just because someone claims something does not truly mean they are. However, Christ proved to be who He said He was as the only "man" to ever raise Himself from the dead.

Paul again explains further about this event by adding, "according to the spirit of holiness. MacArthur explains, "[This] is another way of saying, 'according to the nature and work of the Holy Spirit.' It was the Holy Spirit working in Christ who accomplished Jesus' resurrection and every other miracle performed by Him or associated with Him. In the incarnation, Jesus Christ was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, and in the resurrection He was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit . . ." In this verse we can see the working action of the trinity with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. What a doctrinally rich passage.

To wrap up this section of the salutation Paul explains that this man who was "promised beforehand through His prophets in the holy Scriptures" and "who was declared the Son of God" who was a "descendent of David" who was "resurr[ected] from the dead, according to the spirit of holiness" is in fact this person you have heard about, His name is Jesus Christ and He is "our Lord". In one sentence Paul has described who Jesus Christ was and is, and in the next section will described what He did for us.

Romans 1:1: "The Good News Salutation, Part I"

Often times we begin our letters or emails to someone with the standard salutation of either writing their name with a comma, or maybe being even more personal writing, "Dear so-and-so". Paul often did this with his letters. However, his salutations were normally several sentences filled with rich doctrine and sincere love for his readers. Paul took every moment to carefully choose his perfectly inspired salutations. Romans is no different as Paul starts his letter to the readers with an abundance of information and theology, laced with the gracious love of the gospel. Paul clearly marks out his authorship in V.1 by starting off the letter with his name.

Paul begins by calling himself a "bond-servant". The term bond-servant (doulos) connotated the idea of devoted service either willing or unwilling. In this context, however, we must assume Paul is declaring himself as someone devotedly and willingly serving his master. In Exodus 21:5-6, we are given a clear picture of what Paul had in mind. While giving the ordinances to the people of Israel, Moses states, "But if the slave plainly says, 'I love my master, my wife and my children; I will not go out as a free man,' then his master shall bring him to God, then he shall bring him to the door or the doorpost. And his master shall pierce his ear with an awl; and he shall serve him permanently." Paul had willingly sacrificed his life for Christ in all that he did. He very nearly died numerous times, proclaiming the name he was willing to serve to his death. God had put his mark on Paul and called him out in service for His name as we will see shortly. As a servant, Paul's devotion was completely given to Christ, despite it causing him much pain and anguish.

Paul then describes himself further as being, "called as an apostle". Paul correctly points out the he was called. This word denotes a submission, something outside of his control. Paul correctly understood that he was lost and dead in his sins as a Pharisee. If left to his own will and desires, Paul would have continually persecuted the church. However, in God's miraculous plan for his life, Paul was converted on the road to Damascus. We can read of several of Paul's recounting of the event throughout Acts (Acts 9:1-19, Acts 22:1-21, Acts 26:1-23, etc.) Apostle has the idea of a person who is sent. These men that were chosen as apostles did not get voted in or choose to be followers, they were all set apart, and sovereignly chosen by God to proclaim the gospel to those around them. God chose to use men to help spread Christianity "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth". Paul knew it was his calling as an apostle as he tells the Corinthians, "I am under compulsion; for woe is me if I do not preach the gospel" (I Cor 9:16). Paul clearly defends his apostleship to the Corinthians in I Cor. 11 and 12, as one who had seen the resurrected Christ, performed miracles, and proclaimed the true gospel of Christ. Although nothing he had done had earned him apostleship, it was none the less a great honor to serve as one.

Just as Paul was set apart by God to be an apostle, he was also "set apart for the gospel of God". Paul clearly takes man out of the equation, and takes no credit for the gospel. He declares it to be his calling and purpose, given to him by God. "For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former manner of life in Judaism, how I used to persecute the church of God beyond measure, and tried to destroy it; and I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries among my countrymen, being more zealous for my ancestral traditions. But when He who set me apart, even from my mother's womb, and called me through his grace, was pleased to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with flesh and blood . . ." (Galations 1:11-16) Paul knew that God had set him apart since the womb, an amazing thought to Paul looking back through his days of persecution on the Christians. Paul was ever so clear on making sure we knew nothing he accomplished was because of his own strength or cleverness, but it was "the power of God for salvation" (Rom. 1:16).

One last note on the gospel. I know most of us know that the word gospel means "good news", however, do we truly live that out? In order to have good news, there has to be bad news. The bad news is that we are separated from God because of our sins. The bad news is that we only live for self and hate God, and while doing so are "storing up wrath" (Rom. 2:5). The good news is that God provided a way to reconcile this broken relationship and that is through believing all that is written about Christ and who He claimed He was in the Scriptures. It is about turning your life over to Him and allowing Him to put in you a new heart, one that can please Him. It is about repenting of your sins and understanding your former life was an attack on God and His holiness. I think too often we forget these simple truths. Our Christian walk can become wearisome and tiring. We get frustrated and overwhelmed by our own sinfulness. We look around at ourselves and we are not happy - we are not remembering the good news. If we too often let the circumstances of this world bring us down, we have to fight and remember the good news: that we are His and are set apart for eternity with Him.

Acts 28:17-31: "The Never Ending Story"

As usual, Paul quickly calls together the Jewish leaders of the area, and speaks with them while under house arrest. Paul's pattern was to visit the Jewish leaders of the area and speak with them about all that was going on in Christianity, including the Gentile inclusion. Although this news was often met with disagreement and anger, he would never shy away from sharing the "good news" with his Jewish brethren. Another interesting note MacArthur explains is, ". . . though Paul had been accused of being anti-Semitic, that was opposite the truth (cf. Rom. 9:1-3;10:1). Despite the abuse and persecution he had experienced from the Jewish people throughout his ministry, he bore his countrymen no animosity. Therefore, he went directly to them after arriving in Rome".

Paul then explains to the Jews at Rome why he is in chains and being charged before the Caesar. He clearly explains his innocence to them, and all that had lead up to his imprisonment before them at that time. Interestingly, the Jewish leaders respond to Paul, by telling him that they had not heard about Paul's case and the accusations against him. MacArthur explains why it is possible they may not have heard anything about the case. ". . . Paul left Palestine on one of the last ships of the previous sailing season, and he arrived in Italy on one of the first ships of the present one. It would have been difficult for someone from Palestine to have arrived in Rome before he did. It may also be true, as some have suggested, that there was little interaction between the Jews of Rome and those of Judea". The Roman Jews were curious as to what Paul had to say about this "sect" that had been started called Christianity. All they had really heard about it at this time was that it had been "spoken against everywhere".

After their initial meeting a large number of Roman Jews came to hear Paul speak about the things being charged against him, as well as hear about Christianity. No doubt, using his powerful testimony again before them, Paul tried to "persuade them concerning Jesus, from both the Law of Moses and from the Prophets". His perseverance and desire for them to understand and be saved is shown by his persistence in talking about these things "from morning until evening". What an example to us to be bold and persistent, even when it may not be popular. As is always the case, some of the hearts were ready and accepted the testimony of Christ, while other hearts were cold and unprepared to give up their lives to Christ.

After a long period of debating and discussion, Paul could see there was no agreement between the group and they began to depart as if nothing had been resolved. We can clearly see the divisive nature of the truth. Never being bashful, Paul makes one parting shot to try to convict them of their foolishness. Little did these unrepentant Jews know is that they were fulfilling the very prophecies they had read about so many times in the Old Testament. It is sad when you are so spiritually blind, that you are unable to see the very thing you had been waiting for your whole life. Paul exclaims to the Jews, "The Holy Spirit rightly spoke thorough Isaiah the prophet to your fathers, saying, 'Go to this people and say, "You will keep on hearing, but will not understand; and you will keep on seeing, but will not perceive; for the hear of this people has become dull, and with their ears they scarcely hear, and they have closed their eyes; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart and return, and I should heal them.'" Quoting Isaiah 6:9-10, Paul explains to them that because of their hard hearts and spiritual blindness they have been rejected and the gospel has been extended to the Gentiles who will listen. Paul had clearly shared the gospel with them using the very texts they had been called to memorize growing up. Paul knew in his heart that he would not be guilty of any of their blood as he had been faithful to proclaim the truth to them.

The book concludes with the statement that Paul "stayed two full years in his own rented quarters, and was welcoming all who came to him. . ." Paul was faithful. Taken advantage of his house arrest, he would have people come and share the good news of grace to all who would listen. Luke is careful to point out that when Paul shared he shared "with all openness, unhindered". Just as his whole life was, Paul was an open book and had nothing to hide. His heart and desire was for those to share in the faith of Christ, but he would do nothing to change the truth or sugar coat it, to get those to believe; for any other gospel he knew could not save.

Acts ends in the most unusual way, in the fact that it never has a conclusion. It is in fact being written to this day, as the church continues to write it's history. We see Paul in prison as the book draws to a close, however, as MacArthur states, "but the story does not end there. Released from the Roman imprisonment recorded in Acts 28, Paul resumed his missionary efforts- probably even reaching Spain (Rom. 15:24). Arrested a second time a few years later, he was finally executed". What an amazing book of the history of the foundation of the church. A testament to the life of the greatest missionary to ever live.

Acts 28:1-16: "The Last Lap"

Paul and his crew had safely made it to shore w/o their ship. Because of the stormy skies, they were unable to see the sun or stars to help them locate where they were. They later found out that where they had stranded was an island called Malta. Malta can be found 58 miles south of Sicily. St. Paul's Bay as it is called today, currently has a statue of Paul commemorating the event.

When they came to shore they were quickly greeted and shown hospitality by the native people of Malta. MacArthur states, "Luke's use of the term natives to describe the people of Malta does not mean they were primitive or uncivilized. Barbaroi denotes people whose native language was not Greek or Latin; it is not necessarily a derogatory term". To show their kindness they built a fire to keep them warm. Surely, after 2 weeks of being drenched by rain and cold sea water they were in need of some rest, warmth, and food. Just another testament to God's kindness and mercy on Paul and his shipmates.

Paul, not one to impose on anyone, helps with the fire by collecting sticks. While placing some of the sticks on the fire, a viper, who had been hiding behind a stick, came out and bit Paul because of the heat of the fire. As the snake dangled from Paul's hand, they believed he had received what was due to him. Probably, some type of mystic and superstitious beliefs were the only "religion" on this island. Mistaking Paul for a criminal (rightfully so, as he was a prisoner aboard the ship), they believed that the gods were punishing Paul for his sins. They remarked, "Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, and though he has been saved from the sea, justice has not allowed him to live". Paul probably saw this as a great opportunity to share the gospel to these men who had no concept of the true God that Paul served. Much to the surprise of the men, Paul shook off the snake and did not swell up and die as they had expected. Most likely this snake was a poisonous snake. For one, the natives must have seen others bit by the same type of snake, and eventually swell up and die. Also, MacArthur states in his commentary, "As a trained physician, Luke would be unlikely to mistake a harmless snake for a poisonous one. Sir William Ramsay notes that "a trained medical man in ancient times was usually a good authority about serpents, to which great respect was paid in ancient medicine and custom" (Luke the Physician [Grand Rapids: Baker, 1996], 63-64)". The natives were so amazed that nothing came of the snake bite that they thought Paul was some type of god. Yet another thing I am sure Paul would clearly explain to them.

The generosity to the shipwrecked extended from the "leading man of the island" as well. His name was Publius and was the Roman governor of the island at that time. He had set up shelter, food, and entertainment for 3 days. Paul, helping repay the kindness that he had been shown, went to see the father of Publius who was in bed with an illness and laid hands on him and prayed. Paul once again, given power by the Holy Spirit had been enabled to miraculously heal Publius's father and undoubtedly share the gospel with him, as well as many others who, "after this had happened, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases were coming to him and getting cured". Luke never states that Paul shared the gospel during this time of healing. However, knowing Paul's character, and humility, it is assured to us that he explained to each of these men and women the source of the power of healing. I am sure Paul used this opportunity like the many before it to share about Christ's sacrifice and love.

After three months of winter in Malta it finally came time to leave. The natives supplied them with all that they needed for their finally lap to Rome. Julius had arranged some type of transport on, "an Alexandrian ship which had wintered at the island, and which had the Twin Brothers for its figurehead". The Twin brothers, according to MacArthur, "were Castor and Pollux, sons of Zeus in Greek mythology and viewed as the gods who protected sailors". They were engraven onto the front of the ship as a way of identification.

They set sail for Rome and along the way stayed in Syracuse, 100 miles away from Malta on the southeastern shore of Sicily. They continued along the southern tip of the Italian peninsula and disembarked at Rhegium for a day, until they would later arrive at Puteoli, a commercial port in Italy. In Puteoli, they stopped for seven days to visit with some brethren. And finally, many months longer than they thought, they arrived in Rome. Luke then tells us that when the brethren heard about Paul's arrival they, "came from there as far as the Market of Appius and Three Inns to meet us; and when Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage". It is easy to see why Paul was always so encouraged and overwhelmed to see other believers as he had to go through so much in between times of refreshment. But Paul was always thankful and grateful to God, knowing nothing he received was earned.

We finally learn, that when Paul finally reached Rome, he received lenient treatment by the Roman officials. After all they had been through together and seeing Paul's character through many different circumstances, I am sure Julius was convinced of Paul's innocence, and many times did not look at him like a prisoner, but more as a commrade. While in Rome, Paul was, "allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who was guarding him".

Acts 27:14-44: "The New Commander"

Paul, Luke, Aristarchus, Julius the centurion, some other prisoners, and some ship's crew, against the advice of Paul set sail to Crete to try to have a more bearable winter. They will soon learn they had pressed their luck too far. In fact, they find out very shortly after leaving Fair Havens that they had made a mistake. Because, "before very long there rushed down from the land a violent wind, call Euraquilo; and when the ship was caught in it and could not face the wind, we gave way to it and let ourselves be driven along". Euraquilo is from the greek word 'euros' east wind, and the Latin word 'aquilo' north wind. Apparently, this was a well known and dangerous wind, as it was named. A brief respite was found in the shelter of Clauda, about 23 miles southwest from Crete, however, it was short lived as they were at the mercy of the wind. It was during this respite they were able to preserve the safety boat as they "hoisted it up, they used supporting cables in undergirding the ship". Apparently, Syrtis was a known dangerous spot for ship's as it was a very shallow area of the sea where boats would get stranded. Fear of this place led them to, "let down the sea anchor and in this way let themselves be driven along". Apparently, they felt the anchor would slow them down enough, as they were being blown about, to keep them from reaching Syrtis. Reaching a critical point of life or death they abandon all of the cargo and tackle, even the passengers helping out, as Luke notes "with their own hands". At this point there was no rank, just survival. V.20 points out the helplessness of their situation as the clouds were so think that you could not see the sun nor the stars for many days, meaning they had no idea where they were at this time. As each day passed their hopes for survival slowly dwindled.

At this point in time, when things look bleak, and hope is being abandoned, Paul steps up as the new man in charge. V.21 shows Paul leadership as his confidence in the Lord outshines the fear of the situation. He addresses the men on the ship, "Men, you ought to have followed my advice and not to have set sail from Crete and incurred this damage and loss. Yet now I urge you to keep up your courage, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship". Paul had received a word from "an angel of the God to whom I belong", and was told that there would be no loss of life, but the ship would not make it through. Paul had more reason to have complete confidence and faith in God's words than any, as he had numerous times been sovereignly kept safe by God. He knew that God had told him that he would witness for Him in Rome, therefore, he knew he would get their safely. He again encourages the men to keep their faith and know that they will have to "run aground on a certain island", but that all would be safe.

Two weeks on the sea with no food and finally the sailors saw some approaching land. They made a few checks and feared they might run aground in the shallow water. They decided to drop their anchors down to keep the boat from crashing. While waiting their for some time the sailors became impatient and started escaping from the boat with the safety boat. Paul informs the soldiers and the centurion that, "unless these men remain in the ship, you yourselves cannot be saved". This statement is a helpful understanding of election. In the beginning of my Christianity I had such a hard time grasping the concept that God was sovereign and I would not be a Christian if he did not choose me. I wanted to know that I at least had some input into my decision to follow him. This erroneous thinking was selfish as all the credit should go to God. "It is by grace that we are saved, so that no man may boast". Here you have an example of God's sovereignty as he has told Paul that all will be saved on the boat, and not one will perish. However, Paul has to urge them to stay together. Somehow their survival was predicated on that they were obedient and stayed together. This shows mans responsibility. In God's infinite man he can easily rationalize His sovereignty and man's responsibility in salvation. MacArthur explains, "God's promise that all would be saved assumed they would stay together; the sailors' treachery threatened that unity. Nor did God's promise negate human responsibility. God uses natural means, and He was there using Paul, the centurion and his soldiers, as well as those wicked sailors. The sailors' skills would be sorely needed the next day, when escape from the ship actually took place". What an overlooked passage.

To keep the men from escaping on the life boat they cut away the ropes and got rid of it. They understood that Paul's words were true, and it was more important that they all stay together than have use of the life boat. Again, Paul shows us the human responsibility we have, although they already knew they would be saved he urges them to take food, because they hadn't eaten in 14 days, and needed the sustenance.

Finally day approaches and they say a bay with a beach, but did not recognize it. Seeing their opportunity to go ashore they lifted up their anchors, raised the sail and headed straight to the beach. However, just as God had predicted the ship struck "a reef where two seas met [and] they ran the vessel aground". Waves began crashing down on the boat as they were stranded in the waves. Here we can see God's sovereignty again, and Julius's respect for Paul. He knew that it was Paul's leadership and his God that had spared their lives. Because of this he helps spare the life of Paul as the soldiers had planned to kill the prisoner's since they were trying to escape. However, Luke states, "but the centurion, wanting to bring Paul safely through, kept them from their intention, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, and the rest should follow..." The final sentence of this passage explains it all as God had sovereignly protected Paul and the rest of the shipmates..."and so it happened that they all were brought safely to land".

Often times we can read through these stories and be encouraged by God getting Paul through once again. However, sometimes we skip over some things that can help bolster our faith in the veracity of the scriptures, if we do a little more in depth study. The bible once again proves itself historically through this passage. It's a little long, but I am going to take an excerpt from the nineteenth century British yachtsman James Smith detailed study of Paul's voyage from the book, The Voyage and Shipwreck of St. Paul. F.F. Bruce relates his findings:

"Smith relates how he made careful enquiries of experienced Mediterranean navigators in order to ascertain the mean rate of drift of a ship of this kind laid-to in such a gale. The conclusion which he reached was a mean drift of about thirty-six miles in twenty-four hours. The soundings recorded in v.28 indicate that the ship was passing Koura, a point on the east coast of Malta, on her way into St. Paul's Bay. "But the distance from Clauda to the point of Koura is 476.6 miles, which at the rate as deduced from the information . . . , would take exactly thirteen days, one hour, and twenty-one minutes". And not only so: "The coincidence of the actual bearing of St. Paul's Bay from Clauda, and the direction in which a ship must have driven in order to avoid the Syrtis, is if possible still more striking than that of the time actually consumed, and the calculated time." Then, after carefully reckoning the direction of the ship's course from the direction of the wind, form the angle of the ship's head with the wind, and from the lee-way, he goes on: "Hence according to these calculations, a ship starting late in the evening form Clauda would, by midnight on the 14th [day], be less than three miles from the entrance fo St. Paul's Bay. I admit that a coincidence so very close as this, is to a certain extent accidental, but it is an accident which could not have happened had there been any inaccuracy on the part of the author of the narrative with regard to the numerous incidents upon which the calculations are founded, or had the ship been wrecked anywhere but Malta, for there is no other place agreeing, either in name or description, within the limits to which we are tied down by calculations founded upon the narrative."

AMAZING!

Acts 27:1-13: "Setting Sail for Rome"

It was finally time for Paul to set sail to Rome to meet w/ Caesar. The first thing I noticed when reading this narrative was that it was in the first person. Luke has apparently been reunited with Paul and will make the trip to Rome with Paul. From reading this section, you get the feeling that the person put in charge of Paul has grown a respect for him, and has not treated him like a prisoner. The man in charge of Paul was a "centurion of the Augustan cohort named Julius". Some other prisoners were on board the ship that was to set sail for Italy. Another of Paul's fellow believers was allowed to make the journey with Paul, Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica. What amazing friendship and love these men had for Paul. Just to get a little more time with Paul before he was possibly sentenced to prison or death. Their great love for Paul has been shown throughout Acts as they have truly been impacted by his life. Once again, they risk their lives on a dangerous sail, to be with their beloved friend again.

In v.3 we see that the day after setting sail they arrive in Sidon, 70 miles north of Adramyttium. Julius' care and respect for Paul allows him to "go to his friends and receive care". What an encouragement friends are to us. Often times, God will use friends in our lives to help give us the strength and help we need to get through trials. I know I am so thankful for my friends who encourage, exhort, and hold me accountable. Friends are a rare treasure and Paul has so many throughout the various places he visited, that are their for him. This is quite a testimony to Paul, as he has made so many enemies because of his faith, yet through this same faith has made so many friends.

After a day w/ his friends they set sail again "under the shelter of Cyprus because the winds were contrary". MacArthur writes, "They passed between Cyprus and the mainland, keeping to the lee side of the island for shelter from the prevailing westerly winds. Smaller coastal vessels (like theirs) avoided crossing long stretches of open ocean, preferring to stay as close to shore as possible". They made their way to the port at Myra in Lycia and disembarked. Julius needs to find transportation from here that can take them the rest of the way. Finding and Alexandrian grain ship sailing for Italy, he and the crew board. Traveling by ship can be a tiresome task. You are so often at the mercy of the winds you never quite know how long it will take you to get to your destination. Apparently the winds were not cooperating with their travel plans and they sailed "slowly for a good many days, and with difficulty". They came to a place named Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea, where they had to stay for awhile to wait for a shift in the winds. Luke tells us that after "considerable time had passed and the voyage was now dangerous, since even the fast was already over". MacArthur tells us, "For ancient sailing vessels, travel was problematic and dangerous from mid-September to mid-November. All sailing in the open sea ceased from mid-November until at least February. Inasmuch as the Day of Atonement fell in late September or early October, Paul's ship was already well into the danger period". Being through his share of sailing and shipwreck's Paul warns his shipmates to not travel further as, "I perceive that the voyage will certainly be with damage and great loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives". My belief is that Paul said these words with great wisdom and calm. He knew that regardless of what happened the Lord would protect him as He always had. The ship captain however did not agree with Paul and persuaded Julius and the majority "to put out to sea from there". They desired to travel about 40 miles to Phoenix a harbor of Crete to spend a less severe winter there. Against the wise council of Paul, they set sail for Crete as they stayed close inshore to try to brave the weather. As we will see, as is so often the case, Paul's words would ring true and they will face a life threatening situation. Men that have such great wisdom and spiritual insight as Paul, we should give heed to their words more than listen to the council of worldly men. I am sure this is something all those on board learned.

Acts 25:13-26:32: "Paul on trial Pt. 3"

Paul has now been on trial before the Sanhedrin, Felix and Festus. Each trial has resulted in a stale-mate. Paul, is innocent and no one has been able to supply anything that would be worthy of conviction. However, to try to maintain the peace with the Jews and appease their wishes, Paul has not been released. Each governor that has heard the case against Paul finds themselves passing the buck and not desiring to make a final judgment. In the last section, Paul has appealed to be heard by Caesar, and not wishing to make his own judgment, Festus appeases Paul's wish. Festus, by Roman law, was required to send a statement with the prisoner explaining the charges against him. Festus, who was unfamiliar with Jewish culture and laws, was confused by the actual charges against Paul. Looking at this trial from a worldly perspective, without the knowledge of Christ and who He is, could look very foolish. It basically was a disagreement between two world views, and no actual Roman law had been broken. From an outsider perspective, it looks like a childish squabble. However, to the Jews this was a matter of life and death. Because Festus did not really have any real charges against Paul, he calls in someone with some knowledge of the Jewish people to help write his statement for Caesar.

Festus had just been made governor and King Agrippa and Bernice his companion (and his incestuous sister) arrived at Caesarea to welcome the new governor. This was a welcome sight to Festus, as I am sure he had a bad case of writer's block. He explain's to Agrippa (who had much more knowledge of Jewish customs and laws) the trial of Paul that was a several days ago. Explaining his thoughts on the trial, he readily admits that Paul is innocent and not worthy or death. "They began bringing charges against him not of such crimes as I was expecting; but they simply had some points of disagreement with him about their own religion and about a certain dead man, Jesus, whom Paul asserted to be alive". Again, looking from the outside, Jesus was merely a man to Festus, and he did not grasp what Paul was claiming him to be, and what an insult that was to the Jews. Paul truly must have felt the things he describes in I Cor. 1:18-24, "For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, "I WILL DESTROY THE WISDOM OF THE WISE, AND THE CLEVERNESS OF THE CLEVER I WILL SET ASIDE." Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God".

After hearing these things, Agrippa's curiosity is peaked, and he, "would like to hear the man myself. The next day would be the stage on which Paul would be the centerpiece yet again.

Festus sets up a huge display for Agrippa as commanders, prominent men, Agrippa, Bernice, and Paul would come together "amid great pomp". Pomp here denotes a grand, showy pageant. Festus uses the opportunity to again explain Paul's situation, and reiterate that he had, "committed nothing worthy of death" and how he had, "nothing definite about him to write to my lord". Basically, this is another opportunity for Paul to plead his case, and as we will see he once again uses it share the gospel. All of these happenings sure seem like a lot of trouble for one person. However, Paul was constantly reminded of the words of God that he would have to suffer for His name.

Paul begins his testimony with what seems like flattery. However, after reading through the whole testimony and knowing Paul's character we can safely assume this is not the case. Paul begins with the statement, "In regard to all the things of which I am accused by the Jews, I consider myself fortunate, King Agrippa, that I am about to make my defense before you today; especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews". MacArthur writes, "That was not flattery. Paul believed that Agrippa, because of his Roman orientation, was not likely to be sympathetic to the Sanhedrin. And his Jewish background made him an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews, so that he could grasp the issues. To Paul, then Agrippa was both objective and knowledgeable- perhaps a prime candidate for conversion". Although Paul did desire to be released, and this may be an opportunity to do so, as we will later see, his desire is that Agrippa and all who hear his testimony to be saved.

Paul then tells Agrippa and those listening the reason he is on trial. He explains his upbringing (v.4), his time as a Pharisee, (v.5, 9-11), his miraculous conversion (v. 12-18), his new commission (v. 19-23). Paul, again uses every opportunity to share Christ with anyone who would hear it. Instead, of complaining or being resentful of God for the fact that he has had to go through all this, he is grateful to God. In v. 22 he exclaims, "So, having obtained help from God, I stand to this day testifying . . ." Paul recognized God's sovereignty in every circumstance, and knows without God's help he would already be dead. Paul had previously only given his defense before Festus. This time, however, he got to explain his whole testimony and why it was he did the things he did. At hearing about the resurrection of Christ, Festus interrupts Paul, "you are out of your mind! Your great learning is driving you mad". Again, Festus proved the words of I Cor 1 (stated earlier). His spiritual blindness did not allow him to comprehend what had taken place in the person of Christ. What is amazing to me is how, if people can believe God created this world, how could he not raise himself from the dead? If we believe God is all-powerful and "His ways are higher than our ways" why do limit Him in what he can or can't do?

After replying to Festus that what he spoke of was in fact, "words of sober truth", he turns his attention to Agrippa he was more knowledgeable about who He claimed Christ was. Paul says, "The king knows about these matters, and I speak to him also with confidence, since I am persuaded that none of these things escape his notice; for this has not been done in a corner." To this MacArthur writes, "Paul called Agrippa as a witness to his sanity, since the Jews believed in resurrection, and the matters of which the apostle spoke (the death of Jesus, and the claim of the Christians that He rose from the dead) were common knowledge in Palestine. By remaining silent, Agrippa confirmed the truth of what Paul said". Paul then digs a little deeper trying to get Agrippa to understand the truth by asking, "King Agrippa, do you believe the Prophets? I know that you do." After establishing a great argument that Christ fulfilled all of prophecy, Paul puts Agrippa in an interesting situation. All along Paul could see the political leaders never standing firm in anything because they always had to try to please everyone. Seeing that in Felix and Festus before him, he uses this on Agrippa. He knew that by confessing his belief in the prophets, it would be like him admitting Jesus as Messiah, which would be foolish in front of his Roman friends. However, as a Jewish king, denying the revered prophets would be political suicide. I find it amusing that Jesus would often do this to the Pharisees during His time.

Agrippa, uncomfortably and probably somewhat laughing mocks the question with the statement, "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian". MacArthur states, "The phrase is better translated as a question: "Do you think you can persuade me to become a Christian in such a short time?" What foolish words, as you know you have been presented the truth and your eternal life at stake, and your pride and what people think of you causes you to cast aside the only thing that can save your life. Paul graciously replies the whole point of why he wanted to so eagerly share with Agrippa, "I would to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, might become such as I am, except for these chains". All along Paul's desire is for all to be saved. It is amazing the compassion Paul has on those who mock and persecute him. His desire for their souls to be saved outweighed any animosity he may have felt towards them as they persecuted him.

The meeting abruptly ends with these words, as Paul's words may have started the seeds of conviction in the heart of Agrippa. He reiterates as everyone else has that, "This man is not doing anything worthy of death or imprisonment". And shockingly he adds, "This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar". A.N. Sherwin-White in his book Roman Society and Roman Law in the New Testament, explains why they could not just set him free:

"When Agrippa remarked: "this man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar," this does not mean that in strict law the governor could not pronounce an acquittal after the act of appeal. It is not a question of law, but of the relations between the emperor and his subordinates, and of that element of non-constitutional power which the Romans called auctoritas, "prestige", on which the supremacy of the Princeps so largely depended. No sensible man with hopes of promotion would dream of short-circuiting the appeal to Caesar unless he had specific authority to do so".

Once again Paul was found innocent, but as he already knew, he was to go to Rome where he could tell more about Christ.

Acts 25:1-12: "Paul on Trial Pt. 2"

Talk about Persistent....The Jews, who two years earlier had tried Paul before Felix, quickly try to get him from the new governor Festus. Apparently, after a two year period, Felix was relieved of his duties and was succeeded by Festus. The Jews, possibly thinking they could take advantage of a fresh governor, want to get Paul back to Jerusalem where they can end his life. They probably also feared the new governor quickly disposing of all cases he would inherit and release Paul. We will see in this passage the Jews desire to kill Paul, and God's providence over his life once again.

We find the new governor, Festus, only 3 days into his new position, and the Jews come scrambling over to get their hands on Paul, after a 2 year imprisonment. Once again the Jews bring charges against Paul, and disguise a murder plot with a desire to get him back to Jerusalem for a trial. Festus, went to go meet w/ the Jewish leaders and try to appease them as much as possible. MacArthur writes, "Festus faced a difficult challenge, as the Jews had proven to be adept at manipulating their governors. Capitalizing on Pilate's blunders, they had blackmailed him into executing Jesus. And although they had failed to pressure Felix into executing Paul, they had forced him to keep the innocent apostle imprisoned and out of circulation". It would have been an easy and advantageous gesture on the part of Festus to release Paul to the Jews. It would have gotten Paul out of his hands, and been a conciliatory gesture to the Jewish leaders who clearly desired to get a hold of this man. However, in God's providence He uses Festus to protect Paul, and Paul will be kept in Caesarea and tried there. Festus answers the Jews request by saying, "Paul was being kept in custody at Caesarea and the he himself was about to leave shortly. Therefore, he said, let the influential men among you go there with me, and if there is anything wrong about the man, let them prosecute him". The Jews, once again frustrated by not getting their way, will have to go back to Caesarea and hope Festus is more easily persuaded to release Paul than Felix was.

The Jews had nothing going for them except a new judge. They had no new evidence from the last trial, which meant they still had no case against Paul. They were merely hoping this new governor would allow them to take custody of Paul. After being in Jerusalem, taking care of his business, for a little over a week, Festus returned to Caesarea and quickly took his seat on the tribunal to hear his case the very next day. Standing around Paul, the Jews made their same false charges against him. The text in V.7, stating once again that the Jews could not substantiate any of their accusations. At this point, Paul must have grown weary of hearing the same false accusations with no proof for any of it. He exclaims, "I have committed no offense either against the Law of the Jews or against the temple or against Caesar".

At this point, Festus was probably feeling the same pressure that Felix had felt. On the one hand, this man Paul would be of no political help to him, and gaining the favor of the Jews could be quite helpful to his job. On the other hand, just as all the others that had heard the accusations of the Jews, Festus knew Paul was innocent, and being a Roman citizen would be a crime to execute him. Trying to make it easier on him, Festus asks Paul if he was willing to, "go up to Jerusalem and stand trial before me on these charges?" Festus felt that if Paul simply agreed to this, it would be an easy decision. To appease the Jews he would simply let them have their trial in Jerusalem. To Festus this may have seemed like a reasonable request, as he was still presiding over the hearing, not the Sanhedrin. However, Paul knew there would be no trial as he would be murdered before there could ever be one. Knowing this, Paul immediately rejects Festus's compromise. Paul quickly reminds Festus of his rights and that it was his duty to uphold his Roman rights. Paul becomes more and more stern to get through to these people that he had done no wrong and this should have been over a long time ago. He reiterates that he had, "done no wrong to the Jews", and to Festus, "as you also very well know". At this point you can feel Paul defending his life as he knows if he is ordered to Jerusalem he is dead.

As most innocent men do, they lay all their cards on the table. They ask for them to be investigated, or asked any question, as they know their innocence will be seen. Paul does the same thing. He does not desire to avoid justice, instead he pleads, "if then I am a wrongdoer and have committed anything worthy of death, I do not refuse to die, but if none of those things is true of which these men accuse me, no one can hand me over to them". Just as David had frequently asked God to search his heart and tell him if there was any sin in it, Paul is asking the council to search his actions and see if they can truly find him guilty. He says this with a clean conscience, sure that they all know he is innocent.

Paul had now put Festus in a hard place as he knew Paul was rightly entitled to a fair trial. Knowing his rights as a Roman citizen, and not wanting to take any chances on what Festus might decide, Paul says, "I appeal to Caesar". MacArthur writes, "Once granted, the appeal took the case out of the governor's hands and transferred it to the emperor. Paul's appeal seems at first glance to be sheer madness, since the emperor at the time was the infamous Nero. However, the early years of Nero's reign (during which Paul's appeal took place) were not marked by the cruelty and insanity of his later years".

To take this difficult decision out of his hands, he grants Paul's request, "you have appealed to Caesar, to Caesar you shall go". Little did Festus know, but he had just helped fulfill the earlier prophecy that Paul would be going to Rome. This passage clearly shows the hatred of the Jews towards Paul and the gospel. It is a sad commentary on the "religious" of the time being so zealous in their laws and customs, and not truly understanding that the very God that had given them all their laws, was the same God they murdered, and the same God Paul served. We can also see from this text the perseverance of Paul. I just get exhausted reading about all of Paul's trials. How frustrating would it have been to know your innocence, and understand that those in charge of your life know your innocent, but no one has the courage to release you??

Acts 24:1-27: "Paul on Trial Pt. 1"

After being rescued by Lysias the Roman commander from the Jews plot to kill Paul, he faces his accusers in front the governor Felix. Apparently, it was after five days that the Jews, along w/ their attorney Tertullus, came to Casaerea to try to get at Paul again. Interestingly, lawyers in the NT times were also conniving brown nosers as can be seen by his opening statement to Felix, "Since we have through you attained much peace, and since by your providence reforms are being carried out for this nation, we acknowledge this in every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, with all thankfulness". If Paul's case would have been tried today, it would not have ever even made it to court. The judge would have laughed at the charges and dismissed this case before anyone even had a chance to hear the Jewish leaders. Tertullus has the audacity to start his charges with, "We have found this man a real pest." He also accuses Paul of, "a fellow who stirs up dissension among all the Jews throughout the world". This is of course unsubstantiated, as some of the Jews were becoming converts. If this charge were actually true, the Romans would have taken care of Paul much earlier than this. Tertullus is clearly using exaggeration, as he has to because he has no case.

The second charge is that he is, "a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes". To this Paul will later explain is a true statement, however, again this is not a real charge worthy of punishment.

The last charge is that he, "tried to desecrate the temple", which Paul will later refute. MacArthur commentates, "Attempting to give a veneer of legality to the savage attack of the mob, the Jews whitewashed their effort to kill him by claiming to have arrested Paul themselves. Unlike the hotheaded mob that had accused him of several blasphemies, however, the Sanhedrin was careful to accuse Paul only of attempting to desecrate the temple. There was no evidence that he had actually done so; if he had, the Jews had the right to handle the matter themselves, without hauling Paul before a Roman court".

This passage cements my picture of the Jews as whiny, blinded babies that just want their way and will do whatever it takes to get their way. They have lied, secretly plotted, and made up accusations against Paul to get him killed. In a bold, outright lie Tertullus twists the truth again and says that they were merely trying to, "judge him according to our own Law. But Lysias the commander came along, and with much violence took him out of our hands, ordering his accusers to come before you". This of course was completely inaccurate, as the only reason Lysias took Paul from them was to save his life.

We now get a wonderful glimpse into Paul's defense of himself and his actions once again. It is amazing that Paul never brings up the fact that the Jewish leaders had tried to kill him. I often wonder why Paul left this knowledge to himself. Paul takes on each accusation one by one.

First, he defends the accusation that he has caused riots and sedition, by exclaiming, " take note of the fact that no more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship." Not to riot, or cause dissension, but to worship. He calmly explains that, "neither in the temple, nor in the synagogues, nor in the city itself did they find me carrying on a discussion with anyone or causing a riot". Paul clearly explains, as has been the case with all the accusations that they could not prove any of their charges against him. It's like a little kid being asked why he hit another kid and he reasons, "because he is mean!" That is the childishness of the Jewish leaders.

With the second charge, Paul does admit to serving in a sect. Instead of referring to it as Tertullus does, he calls it the Way. "But this I admit to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect I do serve the God of our fathers." Paul probably inferiorated the Jewish leaders again with his comment as he tries to explain that he serves the God that the Jewish leaders claim to, except Paul recognizes Him as God, and they killed Him. MacArthur states, "He turned the tables on his adversaries, pointing out they were the real heretics. They did not truly worship God, since they rejected His Son". Paul further explains that he believed, "everything that is in accordance with the Law, and that is written in the Prophets". Again, Paul reiterates that he is blameless before God, as he had earlier in the council before the Sanhedrin. He is telling his detractors, that they are opposing God, by opposing him.

Paul rebuts his final allegation by explaining his visit to Jerusalem, "Now after several years I came to bring alms to my nation and to present offerings". In no way had Paul come to stir up trouble, rather he had come to give to His brothers in Jerusalem. Never was Paul's motive to stir up strife or cause a fight. Rather, he would proclaim the truth to those who needed to hear it. Further explaining his actions in Jerusalem, he tells Felix of the Jewish leaders as, "they found me occupied in the temple, having been purified, without any crowd or uproar". Drawing from the idea of innocent before proven guilty, Paul calls out the Jews and asks for witnesses to his "so-called" destructive behavior. They "ought to have been present before you, and to make accusation, if they should have anything against me". MacArthur states, "This was a telling point in Paul's favor, because Roman law was very strong against accusers who abandoned their charges. That the eyewitnesses of Paul's alleged desecration of the temple failed to show up undermined the Sanhedrin's case". Paul challenges them again by asking to bring forth proof of what they found him guilty of in their case before the council in Jerusalem. Another victory for Paul. Paul clearly had refuted all charges, and the case should have been dismissed and Paul set free.

Felix decision had nothing to do with justice, but rather with public opinion and politics. Wanting to appease the Jews, but having nothing to punish Paul for because he knew of the Way and that Paul was not a revolutionary, he was in a predicament. He adjourns the case and stalls with his decision by wanting to consult with, "Lysias the commander [when he] comes down, I will decide your case".

By keeping Paul imprisoned he hoped to appease the Jews, however, knowing Paul was not guilty of any crime, he allowed Paul, "some freedom, and not to prevent any of his friends from ministering to him". Basically, Felix had no backbone and could not stand up for himself so he tried to please both sides. In fact, both were unhappy about his spineless conclusion.

Felix then shows us his further ignorance by missing out on one of the greatest opportunities in the world. He spent the next 2 years with Paul, speaking with him and hearing of the things of the Way, and never responding to the call of Christ in his life. "Some days later, Felix arrived with Drusilla, his wife who was a Jewess, and sent for Paul, and heard him speak about faith in Christ Jesus...he was discussing righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come". However, obviously convicted by what Paul was saying, but not willing to repent from his sinful ways he, became frightened and exclaimed, "Go away for the present, and when I find time, I will summon you". What a waste of time to hear from one of the Godliest men to ever live, and not respond to the gospel. Felix clearly showed himself to again, have no backbone!

Acts 23:12-35: "Jews plan foiled"

After a couple of long hard days of defending himself and being physically beaten Paul is encouraged by the Lord to continue to proclaim the gospel in Rome. Paul will find out shortly how this will take place as the Lord will lead Him to Rome to save his life from the plotting Jews.

V.12 immediately takes us back to what the Jews are doing after Paul was taken from the council. Their frustration and hatred for Paul has hit its peaking point, as he has been taken from them twice now by the roman soldiers. Their vehemence for Paul runs so deep that many of them, "bound themselves under an oath, saying that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul". Paul must have felt like David. No matter what he did or where he went he had crazed men desiring his life. Thankfully, he had been encouraged by the Lord that past evening, and was prepared to handle the news that awaited him.

V.13-15 reveals the plot of the Jews to kill Paul. Interestingly, as pious and religious as these men made themselves out to be, we can see them exposed for the blood-thirsty liars they truly were. Breaking one of God's commands, they plan on lying to the Roman commander to get Paul in their grasp. Deceitfully they planned on, "notify[ing] the commander to bring him down to you, as though you were going to determine his case by a more thorough investigation; and we for our part are ready to slay him before he comes near the place. I think that Paul summarizes them perfectly in Romans as he is quoting from Psalms, "Their throat is an open grave with their tongues they keep deceiving, theo poison of asps is under their lips; who mouth is full of cursing and bitterness; their feet are swift to shed blood, destruction and misery are in their paths, and the path of peace have they not known. There is no fear of God before their eyes" (Rom3:13-18). This is a clear description of the Jewish men who sought Paul's life.

Fortunately, God sovereignly allows Paul's brother-in-law to hear of the Jewish plot for Paul's life. Immediately after hearing about the plot to kill Paul, the brother-in-law goes to tell Paul about it. Because Paul had not been officially charged with anything at this point he was only being held. Therefore, visitors were allowed. Paul tells the young man to tell the commander about the plot of the Jews. It was crucial that the young man be able to tell the Roman commander about the plot before the Jews approached him. That way he could act quickly to spare Paul.

In vv.19-22, Paul's brother-in-law informs the Roman commander about the plot to kill Paul and the commander asks him to, "tell no one that you have notified me of these things". He quickly prepares his army and takes swift action to get Paul to a safe place, as he will have no prisoner killed on his watch. "Get two hundred soldiers ready by the third hour of the night to proceed to Caesarea, with seventy horsemen and two hundred spearmen". The commander was clearly fed up with the Jews and the way they handled things. Knowing Paul was a Roman, and by the sovereign will of God, the commander took quick action to get Paul safely to Caesarea. He decides it best for his superior to take control from here as he writes to Felix the governor about the circumstances surrounding Paul. Not understanding the zealousness and spiritual blindness of the Jews, he states in his letter that he finds Paul, "to be accused over questions about their Law, but under no accusation deserving death or imprisonment".

The soldiers get Paul safely to Felix and he asks Paul what Province he is from to see if this man was in his jurisdiction, which he was. To try to get to the bottom of what was going on, Felix sets up what will be one of many Roman trials for Paul in front of his accusers.

Two interesting things to note from this chapter. First, I find it amazing that the Jews did not get the hint that Paul was under God's provision. To see how many times he was successfully able to escape them, and His claims to be innocent before God, should have at least lead some of them to believe that the God who is omniscient and omnipresent was with Paul, helping him along the way. Second, this passage is a great example for God's provision and care for his people. David, who was sought out by evil men for a large portion of his life, probably felt many of the same things Paul did, was able to say, "That thou mayest grant him relief from the days of adversity, until a pit is dug for the wicked. For the Lord will not abandon His people, nor will he forsake His inheritance. For judgment will again be righteous; and all the upright in heart will follow it. Who will stand up for me against evildoers? Who will take his stand for me against those who do wickedness? If the Lord had not been my help, My should would soon have dwelt in the abod of silence. If I should say, "My foot has slipped," Thy lovingkindness, O Lord, will hold me up. When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, They consolations delight my soul" (Ps. 94:14-19) Is it not clear why God says he will never allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear? May we always be mindful of His amazing grace and provision.

Acts 23:1-11: "Paul Before the Council"

The gospels and Acts are filled with Jewish opposition to "the Way". Paul will once again be put before his Jewish people and have to give testimony to his actions. An interesting aspect to this encounter is that Paul is not able to proclaim the gospel. In fact, this is a very unusual encounter for Paul. Many times in the previous encounters, Paul would spend his time either explaining his incredible conversion, or accusing the Jewish people of killing God. In this exchange with the Sanhedrin, Paul is humbled and uses a little trickery to escape the council.

Paul again addresses the Jewish council as "brethren". MacArthur's commentary says, "The customary way of addressing the Sanhedrin was 'Rulers and elders of the people' or 'Brethren and father's'. But Paul, unlike Peter or Stephen, had close ties to the Sanhedrin. He undoubtedly knew many of them, having probably once been a member of the Sanhedrin himself". Paul proclaims before them that he has, "lived [his] life with a perfectly good conscience before God up to this day". This was a strike at the Sanhedrin as they were desiring to kill him for what they viewed as blasphemy. If he had stood before them w/ a perfectly good conscience, and they desired to kill him, he was accusing them of going against God. Paul's statement is not to be taken as he had never committed anything wrong before. Obviously, that is not the case for Paul as the self-proclaimed, "wretched man that I am!" and chief of all sinners. However, Paul was saying that everything the Sanhedrin accused him of he felt no guilt before God. Basically, they were unjustified and wrong in everything they accused him of doing.

Because Paul had basically told the Sanhedrin they were wrong before God, Ananias the High Priest, "commanded those standing beside him to strike him on the mouth." At this Paul is infuriated and shouts back, "God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall!" This is the first retaliatory words we hear Paul say while being confronted by his enemies. Paul, however, was justified in his mind as it was illegal to be beaten if you had not been charged or convicted of any crime. This can bring to mind the time Christ spoke out against the Pharisees calling them, "whitewashed tombs" (Matt. 23:27), and Ezekiel's denunciation of false prophets as walls plastered over with whitewash, (Ezek. 13:10-16). Although completely understandable by human standards, Paul had sinned by speaking back disrespectful to God's high priest. Interestingly, MacArthur commentates, "Some have wondered how to harmonize Paul's strong language with his declaration to the Corinthians that "when we are reviled, we bless" (I Cor. 4:12). They point out, in contrast, the example of Jesus, who, "while being reviled, did not revile in return; while suffering, uttered no threats" (I Peter 2:23). . . .The answer is, of course, that Paul was not Jesus. Jesus was the sinless Son of God. Paul, while no doubt the godliest man who ever lived, was still a sinner. He vividly described his battle with indwelling sin in Rom. 7:14ff; this was one time when the flesh prevailed".

In his eyes, however, Paul may have felt justified, since he did not realize who he was speaking to was the high priest. For after he is questioned why he would, "revile God's high priest?" he responds by saying he was not aware. Paul, then humbly confesses his error to the Sanhedrin as he quotes Ex. 22:28, "You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people". This should teach us an important lesson. Although we may not agree with those that are in authority over us, we must still respect them, as God has put them over us. Despite the fact that the high priest was in opposition to God (as many leaders in a so-called "spiritual" position are today), Paul respected the authority that he held. This should be convicting to us as we talk about our parents, teachers, government leaders, etc. How do we speak of them? Are we respectful to them? Recognizing the position God has given them.

Seeing the poor start he had gotten off to with the high priest, Paul recognized he would not receive a fair trial, and tried to disrupt the trial by pitting the Pharisees against the Sadducees. Knowing that their was a conflict in the beliefs of these two groups, Paul calls on the Pharisees for support by proclaiming, "I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees; I am on trial for the hope and resurrection of the dead!" As Luke commentates to help us understand how this would affect the Sadducees he writes, "For the Sadducess say that there is no resurrection, nor an angel, nor a spirit; but the Pharisees acknowledge them all" (v.8). Paul knew that this would get a rise out of the two main religious factions that comprised the Sanhedrin. Paul, successfully diverts the attention off himself and gets the Pharisees to suddenly become his advocate.

The The International commentary on the New Testament explains, "The Sadducees accepted only the Pentateuch as authoritative. They rejected any concept of an afterlife, claiming that it was not found there. The Pharisees, on the other hand, believed in resurrection and the afterlife. Their beliefs were thus more compatible with Christianity than those of the Sadducees. F.F. Bruce notes that 'a Sadducee could not become a Christian without abandoning the distinctive theological position of his party; a Pharisee could become a Christian and remain a Pharisee".

I have found this section laughable. It is amazing to me how quickly the religious leaders could get thrown off track. They were so set in their ways, and so unbelievably narrow sighted and blind to the truth, that they could easily be thrown into confusion over a few slight words by Paul. The roman commander watching this must have been thoroughly frustrated by the Jews as they could not do anything peaceably and with order. He once again is unable to find out what they are so upset w/ Paul about. Another amazing thing is how quickly the Pharisees turn. One minute they were abusing Paul and ready to kill him. The next minute they are defending him before the Sadducees. You can see how fickle and obstinate the Pharisees were. "Some of the scribes of the Pharisaic party stood up and began ot argue heatedly, saying, "We find nothing wrong with this man; suppose a spirit or an angel has spoken to him?" Apparently, the Sadducees were "more of a threat" to the Pharisees at this time because of their beliefs, than Paul was to them. MacArthur explains, "Lysias must have watched in growing frustration as the discord grew. Even after bringing Paul before the highest Jewish court, he was no nearer to discovering what crime the apostle had committed".

Once again, the Romans rescued Paul from his own people as they were, "afraid Paul would be torn to pieces by them and ordered the troops to go down and take him away from them by force, and bring him into the barracks". Certainly, beaten and physically exhausted from the past couple days, the Lord comes to encourage and restore Paul, to help him persevere and continue on the course that He had set for him. "But on the night immediately following, the Lord stood at his side and said, "Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also". This must have been comforting on two levels. One, the Lord had commended Paul for his work. He reinforces the fact that he has been a faithful witness for him here in Jerusalem. It is like your boss coming to you and giving you praise for your hard work after a tough day. Second, Paul knew he would be released and be able to leave Jerusalem, as God has called him to Rome as well. God always knows when we need encouragement. Often he will bring people or circumstances to us that will help us get through the hard times. Let that be all the more reason why we should seek to proclaim Him to all we know.

Acts 21:37-22:30: "Paul's Defense"

Paul has now been brought before the commander of the Roman army to explain what is going on. In reading through this section, it struck me how calmly and non-defensively Paul yet again pleads with his enemies. Those who desire to kill him, he responds with love (in the sense that he is sharing the gospel with them that they too may be saved). This response reminds me of Christ's and Stephen's as they were faced with death. Pitty and love filled their hearts as they were about to die and cried out to God to forgive them because they did not know what they were doing. This response to me is amazing. Just in reading through this section I can feel bouts of anger come up in regards to their ultimate blindness and raw hatred for Paul. Parts of you just wish you were there to get your hands on a few and shake them as if to say, 'open your eyes'. What a convicting example as Paul calmly defends his actions by speaking the truth once again in the most unpopular venue.

In v.37-39 Paul explains to the commander who he is. Mistaken for an Egyptian who had, "some time ago stirred up a revolt and led the four thousand men of the Assassins out into the wilderness", Paul's greek surprises the commander, and helps Paul plead his case. In v. 39, Paul begs that he be allowed to speak to the people. Again, rather than try to escape and get out of the situation and away from the people who desire to kill him, he uses his platform as an opportunity to share the gospel. How often do we try to get out of uncomfortable conversations or situations in which there is a great opportunity to stand up and share your faith? Too often we shy away from these rather than Paul, who relishes the opportunities.

In Chapter 22 of Acts, Paul defends himself and the truth to the Jews. To get their attentention, he addresses them in the Hebrew dialect. He also addresses them humbly and respectfully as "brethren and fathers". Paul then speaks to the Jews, establishing his love for the Jewish people, and his love for Christ. In speaking to them, he tries to get them to understand that he was once one of them. He explains, "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated under Gamaliel, strictly according to the law of our fathers, being zealous for God, just as you all are today. And I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and putting both men and women into prisons..." Paul wants the Jews to know that he believed and passionately followed all the laws of the Jewish people before his conversion. He may have wanted them to understand that, until Christ changed his life, he too believed what he was doing was right. He wants them to know, he knows where they are coming from.

Paul then gives the Jewish people the story of his amazing conversion. One who once watched Stephen being stoned and, "was standing by approving, and watching out for the cloaks of those who were slaying him", to a man on his knees blind before and awesome God. Paul tells them all the magnificent conversion and the witnesses who were with him to confirm all that had happened. To me, this is the greatest evidence that Christianity is true: changed lives. Left up to ourselves, we always seek after ourselves and our sinful desires. The radical transformation of Paul, one day seeking to kill Christians and the next day sacrificing his life for the spread of Christianity. The disciples being so down and despaired after Christ's death, and then spending the rest of their lives, sacrificing everything, boldly proclaiming, enduring torture for the name of Christ speaks of the veracity of Jesus Christ. Truly Lord and Savior.

Paul had the Jews attention until he utters the word that gets them riled up again: Gentiles. In V.21, his preaching comes to an abrupt halt when he exclaims what God had told him, "Go! For I will send you far away to the Gentiles". Paul had explained his love for Jewish tradition and the Law, however, to the Jews before him, this proclamation was too much to take and wiped out anything he had said before. The Jews utter hatred for the Gentiles and their disbelief in the idea that anyone other than the chosen Jews would be saved, drove them crazy. The irony of this, is that it was because of the Jews hatred for Christ as he came proclaiming the truth and their rejection of Him, that led to the gospel being offered to the Gentiles (see Rom. 11). The hardness of their hearts is revealed once again as they shut their ears and hearts to the truth as it is preached to them by Paul. What accountability they had before God. Their hatred for Paul and the reconciliation of the Gentiles is clear in v.22, "And they listened to him up to this statement, and then they raised their voices and said, 'away with such a fellow from the earth, for he should not be allowed to live!"

By God's sovereignty, He spared Paul's life by allowing the commander of the Roman army to handle the situation rather than the unruly mob. "The commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, stating that he should be examined by scourging so that he might find out the reason why they were shouting against him that way". It's interesting to me how indifferent the Romans have been to the Christians. Both when Christ and Paul were before them the truth had been revealed to them, and their main concern is always how to solve the social problem, and legally how to handle these men.

In order to coerce Paul to tell them exactly why this riot was started they, "stretched him out with thongs" getting ready to scourge him. Before they are able to do so, Paul speaks up and finally lets them know that he is a Roman citizen, "Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman and uncondemned". It's almost as if Paul waits until he has exhausted every possible way to speak the gospel to these men, before he lets them know he is a Roman citizen. Paul sees that his preaching has unaffected the hearts of the Jews, and now he desires to be set free. Almost in a joking way the commander challenges the truth of his statement that he is a Roman citizen. "I acquired this citizenship with a large sum of money". It could be possible that back then anybody could become a Roman citizen through the right means. However, Paul reinforces that he is truly a Roman citizen, "But I was actually born a citizen". With this, the guards and commander know that what has been done (and what was about to be done) was illegal, and they could find themselves in trouble. "Therefore those who were about to examine him immediately let go of him". However, the commander was too intrigued as to why Paul had been accused of the Jews and he continues to pursue this case before the Jewish council. "But on the next day, wishing to know for certain why he had been accused by the Jews, he released him and ordered the chief priests and all the Council to assemble, and brought Paul down and set him before them.

Acts 21:27-36: "Paul Seized in the Temple"

After being in Jerusalem for several days the prophetic words of the Holy Spirit (Acts 21:11) came true. It seems that wherever Paul went crowds gathered and tempers were stirred up. This is only more proof that the truth was being preached. Jesus promised his disciples in John 15:18-19, "If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you". Any proponent of God including Christ himself stirred up things because the things they preached were divisive. "Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I came to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a man's enemies will be the members of his household". Matt. 10:34-36. Also, "For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart". Heb. 4:12. Clearly, when we abandon our earthly ways and give our lives to Christ we will cause dissension and problems with those we come in contact with. Just as the Jews hated Christ and killed Him, just as the Jews (including Paul) hated Stephen and killed him, they are looking for Paul's blood as well.

In V.27 we see that when the seven days of Paul's vow he had made previously was almost up, the Jews see him in the temple and begin to, "stir up all the multitude and laid hands on him". The Jews, so blinded by their zeal for the law, saw Paul as a huge threat. Just like most bullies, they could never confront anyone by themselves. Instead, they always had to stir up a multitude and get a group together to come after the disciples. That time in history, just as today, the world is influenced by what man thinks of them. There are power in numbers. And knowing this, the Jewish leaders would always get an angry mob stirred up to get things done the way they wanted.

In V.28 we can see the "false" accusations they bring against Paul. Just as the zealous Jewish converts in the last passage, these Jewish leaders spoke falsely of Paul. They accused him of
1) Preaching against the Jewish people
2) Preaching against the Law
3) Bringing Gentiles into the temple

With a blind hatred the mob is stirred up and they grab Paul, "seeking to kill him". God's providence allows the Roman cohort to become aware of the situation and ultimately saves Paul life. The Roman soldiers come to restore order as, "some were shouting one thing and some another". As the Jewish mob got more frenzied and hate-filled (many probably never have ever met Paul), finally he is carried up to be brought to the barracks so they could get to the bottom of it.

You can see why Christ would call the Jewish leaders of the day a, "brood of vipers". Constantly stirring up people to kill those who would claim Christ. Although they had many times been told the gospel, their blind eyes, hardened hearts, and seared conscience would never allow them to truly hear what is being told to them. They have an agenda and that is to put a stop to Christianity. Fortunately, in the power of the Almighty God, they had no chance of doing such a thing.