Passage
Acts 22:30-23:11 (ESV)
Date: Oct. 8, 2014
Acts 22:30-23:11 (ESV)
First, Paul a man of good conscience (22:30-23:5). The commander released Paul because he was a Roman citizen but he had to appear the next day before the Jewish leaders. Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and declared boldly that he had fulfilled the law in good conscience. Yet, the high priest ordered he be struck, which was in itself a violation of the law. Paul was quick to point this out but when he was rebuked for speaking badly of the high priest, Paul was quick to repent what he had said. In all he did, Paul had a good conscience.
Second, you must testify in Rome (6-11). Knowing that the Sadducees and Pharisees were theologically divided, Paul announced that he was on trial for the resurrection of the dead. This was in a sense true since he testified to the Risen Jesus. A dispute arose between them and Paul had to be taken away. That night, the Lord stood near his servant and said, "Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome." The Lord is with us in our trials.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for standing near me. Help me to be a faithful witness to your resurrection.
One Word: Take courage! Testify to Jesus!
1 Chronicles 17:16-27
Key Verse: 17:26