Year 7, Day 257: Acts 24

Theological Commentary: Click Here

There are certain parts of this chapter that amuse me.  For example, notice that the Jews from Asia who came to cause trouble for Paul didn’t stick around long enough for his trial before the governor.  I find this rather odd.  It’s almost like they were dismissed by the Jewish leaders because they knew that having them around would only cause trouble for their side of the argument.  I am amused by the way that people manipulate circumstances so that their side of the conversation is always presented in the best light rather than the truth.

Speaking of the truth, I am also amused by the very brief – not to mention nondescript – accusations that those Jewish leaders bring against Paul.  They make focus on the riot that ensued because Paul was in the temple.  They don’t mention that it was their own people that started it.  They don’t mention that Paul was just going about his business.  They focus the Roman authority upon the fact that there was a riot.  Let’s face it, that’s really what the Roman leaders are truly worried about.  They could care less about the Judaism; they just want there to be peace in their city.  I find it interesting that people will lie about circumstances to evoke sympathy.

I am also amused by Paul’s defense.  He’s not elaborate.  He corrects a few of the lies.  He then also tells a truer version of what happened.  He doesn’t flourish his words.  He doesn’t retaliate with more lies.  He states his case simply and honestly.  Sometimes the best defense is the simple and honest one.

Finally, a point by which I am not amused at all, is the realization that Paul was stuck in the custody of the Roman governor for two years.  The governor was waiting for a bribe.  Granted, Paul used the time wisely to talk about Christ and His Way.  But that doesn’t take away the fact that Paul was stuck there for two years.  I can only imagine what went through his mind.  He no doubt was convinced that he could have been out witnessing about Christ.  He could have been out helping people find truth in their Creator.  Instead he’s stuck in custody of a Roman governor waiting for his future to come about.  I can only imagine the doubt and helplessness that must have come upon Paul.  Still, he remains faithful. 

<><