Steadfast in faith and confident in God's plan / Acts Bible Study Chapters 22&23 (TV Audio #503)

Bible Study with David Hathaway (TV Audio Podcast)

In Acts 22.25 through Acts 25.20, the Apostle Paul defends himself before various Roman and Jewish authorities after being arrested in Jerusalem. Throughout these chapters, Paul is portrayed as steadfast in his faith and confident in God's plan, using his legal rights wisely to ensure his mission continues.

Summary of the events in this passage:
Acts 22.25–30, Paul's Roman Citizenship:
As Paul is about to be flogged, he reveals his Roman citizenship, which grants him certain legal protections. The Roman authorities are alarmed, realizing that they have unlawfully bound a Roman citizen without a trial. Consequently, they refrain from flogging him and decide to bring him before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council.

Acts 23.1–10, Before the Sanhedrin:
Paul addresses the Sanhedrin and creates division between the Pharisees and Sadducees by declaring his belief in the resurrection of the dead—a belief held by the Pharisees but rejected by the Sadducees. The resulting dispute becomes so intense that the Roman commander intervenes to protect Paul.

Acts 23.11–22, Plot to Kill Paul:
The following night, the Lord encourages Paul, telling him that he must testify in Rome. Meanwhile, more than 40 Jews plot to kill Paul, vowing not to eat or drink until they succeed. Paul's nephew overhears the plot and informs Paul and the Roman commander, who arranges for Paul's transfer to the governor Felix in Caesarea for his safety.

Acts 23.23–35, Transfer to Caesarea:
Paul is escorted by a large contingent of Roman soldiers to Caesarea to be presented before Governor Felix. The letter from the Roman commander explains the circumstances of Paul's arrest and the unsubstantiated accusations against him.

Acts 24.1–27, Trial before Felix:
In Caesarea, Paul is accused by the Jewish leaders and their lawyer, Tertullus, of causing unrest and desecrating the temple. Paul defends himself, denying the charges and affirming his faith in the resurrection. Felix, familiar with the Way (early Christianity), postpones the decision, keeping Paul in custody for two years while frequently conversing with him, hoping for a bribe.

Acts 25.1–20, Transfer to Festus:
After Felix is succeeded by Festus, the Jewish leaders renew their charges against Paul and request his transfer to Jerusalem, intending to ambush him en route. Festus, however, insists on a trial in Caesarea. Paul, realising he won’t get a fair trial, exercises his right as a Roman citizen to appeal to Caesar. Festus consults with King Agrippa II and explains the case, expressing uncertainty about the charges against Paul.