Acts 25 "The Passion Of Paul"

“I am now standing before Caesar’s court, where I ought to be tried. I have not done any wrong to the Jews, as you yourself know very well. If however, I am guilty of doing anything deserving death, I do not refuse to die. But if the charges brought against me by these Jews are not true, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!” (v.10-11)

Acts 24 ended with Paul still in prison and a transition of the governorship from Antonius Felix to that of Porcius Festus. Felix was undoubtedly a bad man, but history tells us Festus was a basically good man. He governed well, despite all the problems left him by Felix. We can now see that Paul’s generous imprisonment in Caesarea was actually a providential provision of protective custody against the murderous intentions of the religious leaders. It was also a season of rest and replenishment after his years of hard missionary service, preparing him for the challenges in the years ahead.

Now here in chapter 25 we see that the case of Paul was still important to his accusers the religious leaders. They hoped to make Paul appear before them again in Jerusalem, knowing that Paul would be acquitted in any fair trial. Therefore, they requested Festus to summon Paul to Jerusalem. Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea: We don’t know if Festus knew the intentions of the Jewish leaders or not. Either way, he refused to grant their request for a change of venue, and this was another way that God protected Paul. Festus was willing to put Paul on trial again, to resolve the matter. Yet he insisted that it would happen in Caesarea, not in Jerusalem.

Though he was a good man, Festus also understood that it was important for him to have and keep a good relationship with the Jewish people of his province. Festus found it difficult to decide the case. Paul’s standing as a Roman citizen apparently prevented Festus from commanding the trial to be moved to Jerusalem, so he asked Paul, "Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and there be judged before me concerning these things?" So Paul said, “I stand at Caesar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be judged…I appeal to Caesar.”

Passion is a powerful thing. When you are passionate about something, you have no issue being bold to support it. Paul was passionate about spreading the Gospel, and his boldness is evident here where he is on trial and could be sentenced to death, but because he believes in his actions and his purpose, he speaks boldly.

Paul’s passion for spreading Jesus’ message made him willing to face anything — even death. This kind of passion for the Gospel can change our communities (and eventually the world), one soul at a time. All we need to do is, exercise it.

The Truth: “And for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” (Ephesians 6:19-20)

Acts 24 “We Shall Speak Again”

Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” (v.25)

Paul here in chapter 24, was taken before the Roman procurator Felix. False accusations were flowing against him from envious, bitter Jewish leaders that resented Christianity. It was during this time that the Roman judge gave an audience to Paul's accusers.

Felix, however, was not ignorant of who Christians were (v.24), and what they were teaching. Perhaps, he had heard around the city about Christ, or how Christianity had been sweeping the countryside. He had his opinions about Christianity, but he was wise enough not to hear both sides.

Paul, instead of cowering under the authority of the man that was managing the affairs for the Romans, took the opportunity to talk to the ruler about spiritual things. The preacher spoke of living a righteous life, not indulging in sin, and about the judgments God would bring.

Even though Paul’s judge, as history tells us, was known for his cruelty, murders, and even considered himself licensed to commit any crime he desired, Paul did not waiver or hold back on any of the truths from the Word of God. Felix could have easily given the word, and Paul’s life would have been snuffed out; but Paul boldly preached on.

Paul’s message did affect Felix. Verse 25 records that the man trembled at what he had heard. His fear did not guide him to repentance, however. He dismissed Paul, and promised that they might speak again. He had the opportunity to be saved, but he put it off. Felix missed a time he could have been saved.

Many are so many like Felix, they hear the convicting message from the Word of God, it cuts deeply into their heart, conviction of past sins and it floods their memories. They often have the opportunity right there and then to confess Jesus as their Savior and to get their sins forgiven, but they put it off. “Tomorrow,” “Later," “Some other time.”

For some, that “other time” never comes. All too often they miss the last opportunity they had for salvation, and die lost, without Christ, and spend their eternity in hell. They often get so close to salvation, but miss an eternity with Jesus.

Never say “No,” to God’s provoking of your heart about anything, especially salvation. You may never have tomorrow!

The Truth: "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2) 

Acts 23 “Be of Good Cheer”

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.’” (v.11)

Back in chapter 22 Paul was giving a sermon to a large crowd in Jerusalem. He tells of his Jewish upbringing and background (v.3). He explained how he persecuted Christians (v.4-5). Then he begins to explain the supernatural experience he had on his way to Damascus (vv.6-11), and his response to that experience (vv.12-15). 

However, when Paul told the crowd that Jesus had spoken to him while in prayerful trance to, “leave Jerusalem for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me" (v.18), and "Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles" (v.21). The crowd then raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!” Then, they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air and began rioting (vv.22-23).

After this, Paul was placed in a Roman jail (for his own protection from the crowd), and was once again a prisoner in chains where we see a hint that he felt like hope was fading, probably remembering those who had warned him "not to go up to Jerusalem" (Acts 21:12). He had gone, but his decision now seemed less sure, because going had led to confinement and isolation, which left little opportunity for him to speak of His Lord.

It was at this low point in his life that the Lord appeared and told him, “Be of good cheer; you must also witness at Rome.” Loose translation, Paul would not "rot" in that place but instead, would eventually be sent to the capitol of the Roman Empire and witness to Cesar.

This reminds us that the LORD has a plan for ALL his children who are in the difficult circumstances in this life. No matter WHAT happens “be of good cheer.” the Lord LOVES you and will never leave you, nor forsake you! And, He has a plan for your life.

The Truth: “The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge.” (Psalm 46:7)

Acts 22 “You Will Be His Witnesses”

“You will be His witness to all people of what you have seen and heard.” (v.15)

Here in chapter 22 we get the story of Paul’s conversion. While not all conversions are as dramatic as his (a great light from heaven shone around him, he heard a voice speaking to him, he had a conversation with Jesus, and he was given a directive from Jesus saying, ‘Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do' (vv.6-11), but all have the same effect, a changed life and a desire to tell others about it.

Every Christian has a story to tell. All of us have been rescued from a life of sin and disobedience, set free from the past to live a new life in Him. As such, we are not called to be a well-educated theologians but simply to be His witnesses - to tell others the story of our transformation and thus share the power of the gospel.

The Truth: “I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)

Acts 21 “Thy Will Be Done”

And as we stayed many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’” Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.” (vv.10-14)

In the spirit of Old Testament prophets, Agabus acted out his message to Paul – that certain danger awaited him at Jerusalem. The prophecy of Agabus was true, and genuinely from the Holy Spirit. But to this true word, a human application was added (they pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem v.21). That additional word was not of the Lord, otherwise Paul would have been disobedient to go to Jerusalem. 

Paul’s insistence on going to Jerusalem despite the dangers predicted by the Holy Spirit was not a result of rebellion, but an obedient response to the command of the Holy Spirit in his heart. He was bound in the spirit to go to Jerusalem (Acts 19:21 and 20:22). The warnings from the Holy Spirit here were intended to prepare Paul for what he was in for, not to stop him. Paul’s companions – including Luke – came to the understanding that God’s will would be done. They came to trust that even if Paul was probably right, and even if he was wrong, God would use it.

This reminds me of how others can unwittingly discourage us from doing the very thing that the Lord has called us to do!  Others can be blinded by their fears over what they think may happen - even if the outcome is known, as in this case (v.11), and potentially pull us away from His will. Paul's answer to his friends concern was, “I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" (v.13).

Paul’s stand here should be an encouragement for us in times when the LORD calls us to go in a direction that others don’t understand or agree with. In those times, we like Paul need the determination to move forward, even though others may not want us to. The vital test of God’s will for us is, agreement with Him, not others. 

Thy will be done.

The Truth: “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13) 

Acts 20 “Work Is A Blessing”

“You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me.” (v.34)

Paul WORKED for a living. He was a tentmaker (God gave him that trade), and he not only supported his own needs, but also contributed to the support of others. Just like Paul, many who serve the church today have day jobs, not everyone is “on staff”. Many who are not, have their ministries in the evenings, and on weekends. Either way, ministry is a blessing from God, and so are our jobs.

As a tentmaker, Paul led many to Christ and so can you. One does not have to be on staff to be used by God. Therefore, work as unto the LORD wherever God has you, ministering to your needs and to the needs of others.

The Truth

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-2)

Acts 19 "Ephesian Disciples Receive The Holy Spirit"

And he (Paul) said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?” So they said, “Into John’s baptism.” Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus." (vv.3-5)

Paul was last in Ephesus on his way back from Corinth on his second missionary journey. Now he came from the east, arriving in Ephesus from the region of Phrygia. He came back to Ephesus as he had promised in Acts 18:21. And finding some disciples he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” (v.2). Apparently there was something about these disciples that prompted this question from Paul. We don’t have any indication that it was his custom to ask people if they had received the Holy Spirit when they believed.

These Ephesian disciples had only a basic understanding of the Messiah Jesus and His ministry, only what could be gained through the message of John the Baptist. Paul points out that John’s baptism was one of repentance (John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance), not necessarily faith unto salvation. John’s message pointed to Jesus, but did not take men there itself. One can imagine that these Ephesian disciples heard about the coming of the Messiah through John’s message, and they heard their need to be ready through repentance to receive the Messiah. Yet they actually do not seem to have heard that the Messiah had in fact come, and had not heard of their need to trust in His specific person and work.

"When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" (v.5) Having been completely prepared by their response to the preaching of John the Baptist, they were ready to embrace Jesus fully, and were baptized in the name of Jesus. Then after they were baptized, Paul… laid hands on them, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit, and received His gifts. 

An often-debated question is, “Were these 12 Ephesian disciples actually Christians before this remarkable filling of the Holy Spirit, or not?” On the one hand, they were called disciples – and appeared to be part of the company of Christians in Ephesus, things that would not usually be said of them if they were not actually Christians. On the other hand, they knew so little about Jesus; and they were baptized in water again, this time in the name of Jesus. It is difficult to say with certainty if they were already Christians or not, but one can say with certainty that Paul perceived they lacked something of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

These Ephesian disciples sensed their need to get right with God, and knew the answer was in God’s Messiah – but they had gone no further than that. They need to go all the way, to trust in everything Jesus is and everything He had done, and to be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit.

If someone doesn’t seem to know if they have the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in their life, it’s fair to assume that they don’t have it. If you have it, you should know it. Concerning the Holy Spirit Spurgeon writes, “Give a man an electric shock, and I warrant you he will know it; but if he has the Holy Ghost, he will know it much more.”

The Truth: And Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38) 

Acts 18 “Search And Verify”

“They received the Word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so." (v.11)

Today's text tells us that the Bereans were students of the WORD who studied scriptures to verify the truth. "They received the Word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so." In other words, the Bereans didn't simply believe what someone else was telling them. They also verified it on their own-on a daily basis.

That's important for us to consider as well. Whether we receive our Bible teaching through church, Sunday school, radio, or TV-we need to test what we hear against God's inspired Word (2 Tim.3:16-17). We are to "be diligent to present [ourselves] approved to God, rightly dividing the Word of truth" (2:15). If we do this, we won't become prey to those who teach "a different gospel," and those who "want to pervert the gospel of Christ" (Gal. 1:6-7), false teachers who come as wolves in sheep's clothing (Matt. 7:15).

This simple principle can be used in any situation in life. Remember, knowing what's true, is the first step in knowing what's false. Search and investigate the truth. Do not be fooled by sound bites or words that sound correct. Search and verify for truth, in both scripture and life. 

The Truth: "Examine everything carefully, hold fast to that which is good." (1 Thessalonians 5:21)