<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<Search><pages Count="84"><page Index="1"><![CDATA[Chapters 22-28]]></page><page Index="2"><![CDATA[]]></page><page Index="3"><![CDATA[Chapter 22]]></page><page Index="4"><![CDATA[THE BOOK OF ACTS

               CHAPTER 22


               PAUL’S DEFENSE BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN

               THE CHALLLENGE OF CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

               Sometimes there is a tendency to equate spirituality and effectiveness in ministry with the
               degree of visibility we have before men.  However, God equates our success with the degree of
               our willing obedience to His Word and the Holy Spirit.  Ananias who had heard of Saul’s
               reputation for persecuting and killing Christians, still chose to obey God’s direction rather than
               disobey because of fear of who Saul had been.

               We must endeavor to have hearts willing to obey God by the direction of the Holy Spirit even if
               His guidance is contrary to our own human reasoning.

               BEGINNING OF PAUL’S DEFENSE (1-3)

               Paul begins his defense speaking in Hebrew, explaining he is a Jew born in Tarsus, educated as a
               Jew, and taught and zealous for the law.

               Act 22:1  "Brethren and fathers, hear my defense before you now."

               This is the same opening Stephen used in 7:2 to address the Jews.  “Brethren” refers to physical
               Jews, not just believers.  “Fathers” refers to Jewish religious leaders, those encouraging and
               leading the mob.

               Act 22:2  And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the
               more silent. Then he said:

               “The more silence” means for the moment they had a desire to hear him.  In 21:40 they were
               silent because they felt a necessity.  Now they actually want to hear Paul.  These few words in
               their dialect turn a mob into an audience.  This will all end in verse 22 as Paul tells them of his
               call to the Gentiles.

               PAUL’S CREDENTIALS

               Act 22:3  "I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of
               Gamaliel, taught according to the strictness of our fathers' law, and was zealous toward God as
               you all are today.

               I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up (raised) in this
               city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught (trained) according to the perfect (accurate) manner of
               the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward (for) God, as ye all are this day.]]></page><page Index="5"><![CDATA[Paul uses his own testimony as a Jew and a believer.  He comes from a famous university town
               and was educated in the Jewish religion under the best-known teacher of that day.

               His purpose in starting this way was to pique their interest.  If Paul was born and educated a
               Jew, there must be some reason why he changed.  Paul had clearly been taught the law and its
               content.  Paul had been religiously zealous, legalistic for God and for the law.  He had known
               the law but not its revelation and application.  These people are willing to kill for the Jewish law
               and tradition.

               Paul is pointing out that he had been the same as these other Jews, no matter.  He is not being
               arrogant, but has been chosen and used by God.  God chooses ordinary people.

               Satan always uses ordinary believers, as he is using these born-again but religious Jewish
               leaders.

                       22:3  zealous, zelotes (dzay-low-tace); Burning with zeal, having warmth and feeling for
                       or against, deep commitment and eager devotion to something or someone, and
                       enthusiastic, uncompromising partisan, admirer, emulator, imitator, follower of anyone.
                       Paul rejected his previous zeal that caused him to become a persecutor of the church,
                       but rejoiced in his zelotes for the Lord Jesus Christ.


               ENEMY’S WEAPONS IN AN ORDINARY LIFE (PROVERBS 27:1-6)

                   •  Pride (verses 1-2): To boast in yourself
                   •  Wrath (verse 3-4): Explosive temper
                   •  Anger (verses 3-4): Progressive hostility
                   •  Façades of love (verses 5-6): Expressions of love covering hate

               PAUL’S TESTIMONY OF THE ROAD TO DAMASCUS (4-11)

               Paul tells of his conversion on the road to Damascus.  He explains he once persecuted and put
               to death those who followed “the way.”  He continues by explaining that he was on his way to
               Damascus to arrest Christians and bring them back to Jerusalem to be punished, a light shone
               from heaven, and he heard a voice cry out to him.  After being blinded by the light, Paul
               explains how he was led into Damascus by those traveling with him.

               Act 22:4  I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and
               women,

               Act 22:5  as also the high priest bears me witness, and all the council of the elders, from whom I
               also received letters to the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who
               were there to Jerusalem to be punished.

               Act 22:6  "Now it happened, as I journeyed and came near Damascus at about noon, suddenly a
               great light from heaven shone around me.]]></page><page Index="6"><![CDATA[Act 22:7  And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, 'Saul, Saul, why are you
               persecuting Me?'

               Act 22:8  So I answered, 'Who are You, Lord?' And He said to me, 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom
               you are persecuting.'

               Act 22:9  "And those who were with me indeed saw the light and were afraid, but they did not
               hear the voice of Him who spoke to me.

               Act 22:10  So I said, 'What shall I do, Lord?' And the Lord said to me, 'Arise and go into
               Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do.'

               Act 22:11  And since I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those
               who were with me, I came into Damascus.

               Paul explains to those listening how, at one time, he was zealous against the Christians,
               throwing both men and women in prison and even killing some with his persecution, as was the
               case with Stephen.  He continues by explaining how he was on his way to Damascus to bring
               prisoners involved in “the way” to Jerusalem to be punished.  On the way, a supernatural light
               shone from heaven and he heard a voice instructing him to continue to Damascus.  Paul tells
               them how he was blinded by the light and had to be led by his hand into Damascus with his
               traveling companions.
               ANANIAS (12-16)


               An ordinary believer named Ananias receives a word from God for Saul and explains to Saul
               that he has been chosen by God.  He also encourages Saul to call upon the name of the Lord to
               be saved.

               THE OBEDIENCE OF ANANIAS

               Ananias received a word from God and in response, he helped Paul.  He was an ordinary
               believer who knew the Word of God, which should be an encouragement to all believers who
               are diligent in the Word.  Ananias’s actions in helping Paul had a worldwide impact.  Full-time
               Christian service is not just for those in fivefold ministry; it is for all believers.

               Act 22:12  "Then a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good testimony
               with all the Jews who dwelt there,

               Ananias studied and obeyed the law.  He was favored by God and men

               Act 22:13  came to me; and he stood and said to me, 'Brother Saul, receive your sight.' And at
               that same hour I looked Up at him.

               Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight (anablepo: look up,
               receive sight).  And the same hour I looked up upon him.]]></page><page Index="7"><![CDATA[Ananias knew from God that Paul was born again.  He was used by God for Paul to receive a
               miracle.  But that is not all.

               THE RESULT OF ANANIAS’S OBEDIENCE

               Act 22:14  Then he said, 'The God of our fathers has chosen you that you should know His will,
               and see the Just One, and hear the voice of His mouth.

               And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen (procheirizomai: to take by the hand before
               time; pre-appointed) thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see (eido: view, know,
               perceive) that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.

               Because of Ananias’s obedience, not only did Paul receive his sight, Paul also received three
               areas of revelation:

                   1.  Knowing God’s Will: Preaching the gospel to the Gentiles (20:24; 26:17)
                   2.  Seeing Jesus: Appearances to Paul (Acts 9:3-6; 23:11; Galatians 1:12)
                   3.  Knowing the Revelation of the New Testament (Ephesians 3:2-7; Colossians 1:25-27).

               Act 22:15  For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard.

               You cannot be an effective witness (verse 15) without revelation (verse 14).  Part of Paul’s
               witness was his testimony.  He will also give this again in chapter 27.

               Act 22:16  And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins,
               calling on the name of the Lord.'

               This verse is poorly translated.  The action of the aorist participle proceeds the action of the
               main verb.  The aorist participle is “calling on the name of the Lord” (Romans 10:13), being
               saved.  The main verb is “wash away.”  Sins are washed away by calling on the name of the
               Lord.  Ananias told Paul to quit delaying and head for the water to be baptized.  His sins would
               be washed away by calling on the name of the Lord.

               GOD PREPARES PAUL FOR MINISTRY IN ARABIA (17-18)

               Paul shares about Jesus appearing to him in a trance and telling him to leave Jerusalem quickly.

               Act 22:17  "Now it happened, when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that
               I was in a trance

               And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the
               temple, I was in a trance (ekstasis: ecstatic, astonishment);

               Paul skips over much time in his testimony and brings up the supernatural, his experience of
               being in a trance.

               Act 22:18  and saw Him saying to me, 'Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, for they
               will not receive your testimony concerning Me.']]></page><page Index="8"><![CDATA[And saw him (Jesus) saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for
               they (legalistic believers) will not receive thy testimony concerning me.

               Paul informs them that Jesus had previously told him in a trance that they would not listen to
               him.

               PAUL’S DEFENSE TO THE PEOPLE (19-21)

               Paul continues explaining how the Lord has instructed him to leave Jerusalem to take the
               gospel to the Gentiles.

               Act 22:19  So I said, 'Lord, they know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who
               believe on You.

               Act 22:20  And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by
               consenting to his death, and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.'

               “Lord, they know I’ve been on both sides of the fence.”  Paul is rationalizing and arguing with
               the Lord to stay in Jerusalem.  He loves Jerusalem and even argues with the Lord over it.

               Act 22:21  Then He said to me, 'Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles.' "

               The Lord said, “Depart.”  The entire ministry of Paul was “Move, move.”  At this point, Paul is
               telling the people that God instructed him to turn his attention from the Jews to the Gentiles,
               and the mob reacts.  Legalism has so perverted their thinking they now react to a racial issue.
               The same leaders, a few years earlier, were thankful and desirous for Gentiles to be evangelized
               (Acts 15:13-19; 11:15-18; Galatians 2:9).  Now they will throw a temper tantrum.  They are
               beyond repentance, and Paul clearly sees it.  This is why God did not want Paul to go to
               Jerusalem.

               MOB CALLS FOR PAUL’S LIFE (22-23)

               The crowd listens to Paul’s testimony and they become enraged at the mention of Gentiles.
               They want Paul’s life.

               Act 22:22  And they listened to him until this word, and then they raised their voices and said,
               "Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!"

               The word that sends them into a rage is “Gentiles.”  They now want to kill Paul.  They are calling
               for capital punishment.  They are pressuring the Romans for the full extent of the law.

               Act 22:23  Then, as they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air,

               They cannot get to Paul, so they vent their anger by throwing temper tantrums.  They are
               typical of legalistic people who hear the truth of grace.  When Paul tells them grace is available
               to all (Romans 4:16; Titus 2:11), including the Gentiles, they begin to scream.]]></page><page Index="9"><![CDATA[PAUL IS SCOURGED (24-25)

               The Roman chief captain commands Paul to be taken into the fortress and scourged.

               Act 22:24  the commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, and said that he should
               be examined under scourging, so that he might know why they shouted so against him.

               Paul looks and talks like a Jew, and the officer has no reason to assume he is a Roman.  Non-
               Roman citizens are beaten, but it is illegal to beat a Roman citizen.  (This is the Roman system of
               law called Lex.  Lex is the plural of Leges, where we get “legislature,” a body of people making
               laws.)

               The officer thinks Paul must be hiding something to cause such a riot and gives an ordinary
               command to pull this information from him.  The military beats a man then questions him.  If he
               still does not speak, he has beaten again until he gives an answer or dies.

               Act 22:25  And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, "Is it
               lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?"

               And as they bound him with thongs (for the Leather straps), Paul said and to the centurion that
               stood by, is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman (citizen), and uncondemned?

               The chief captain has left and turns Paul over to a centurion.  This scourging is an illegal act and
               could get the whole platoon court-martialed.

               PAUL’S ROMAN CITIZENSHIP REALIZED (26-30)

               The centurion hears Paul say he is a Roman citizen, and the chief captain fears upon hearing
               this because they have bound and thrown Paul in prison without following lawful procedures.
               The chief captain brings Paul before his accusers to learn what he is being accused of by the
               mob.

               Act 22:26  When the centurion heard that, he went and told the commander, saying, "Take care
               what you do, for this man is a Roman."

               This man cares for his commander and wants law to be administered correctly.

               Act 22:27  Then the commander came and said to him, "Tell me, are you a Roman?" He said,
               "Yes."

               Act 22:28  The commander answered, "With a large sum I obtained this citizenship." And Paul
               said, "But I was born a citizen."

               Then the chief captain came, and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a Roman?  He said, Yea.  And
               the chief captain answered, With a great sum obtained I this freedom (politeia: politics,
               citizenship, commonwealth).  And Paul said, But I was free born.]]></page><page Index="10"><![CDATA[This captain was not born a Roman citizen; he was a different nationality and had paid for his
               Roman citizenship papers.  But Paul’s family are well-known Roman citizens, and Paul is a
               citizen by birth.  Paul is also from Tarsus (a free Roman city).  Because of this citizenship, Paul’s
               nephew will later have easy access to visit Paul and warn him of an assassination attempt
               (23:16).  Paul will also have free access to speak with the Roman dignitaries Felix and Agrippa.

               Act 22:29  Then immediately those who were about to examine him withdrew from him; and
               the commander was also afraid after he found out that he was a Roman, and because he had
               bound him.

               The Roman leader is in a dilemma.  He has the mob on one side and a Roman citizen on the
               other.  He has to retreat to think the situation through.

               Act 22:30  The next day, because he wanted to know for certain why he was accused by the
               Jews, he released him from his bonds, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to
               appear, and brought Paul down and set him before them.

               Roman law is without religious prejudice.  This man needs facts.  To get to the bottom all
               things, he brings the accusers to the accused.  This man will spot the religious prejudice during
               the interrogation, and Judaism will have a setback as Paul is rescued from the courtroom.]]></page><page Index="11"><![CDATA[Notes]]></page><page Index="12"/><page Index="13"><![CDATA[Chapter 23]]></page><page Index="14"><![CDATA[THE BOOK OF ACTS

               CHAPTER 23


               THE CONSPIRACY AGAINST PAUL

               THE CHALLENGE OF CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

               God has a plan and purpose for each one of our lives.  He has specific people he intends our
               lives to reach with the gospel message.  Just as Joseph was sold into slavery, Daniel thrown into
               the lions, and Paul taken prisoner, yet each fulfilled God’s plan.  The adversities we face in life
               cannot stop God’s ultimate plan and purpose for our lives.

               DISSENSION BETWEEN THE PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES (1-10)

               Paul addresses the council in an attempt to defend himself.  Ananias, the high priest,
               commands that Paul be struck in the mouth, which is illegal.  This angers Paul, and he
               challenges the high priest without realizing the office the man holds.  When Paul is informed
               that Ananias is the high priest, he immediately becomes submissive to the office in which
               Ananias stands.  At the same time, Paul perceives that both Sadducees and Pharisees are
               present.  He cries out that he is a Pharisee who believes in the resurrection knowing this will
               cause a stir between the Pharisees and Sadducees in the room.  The Pharisees in the crowd
               suddenly want Paul acquitted and the Roman captain who is standing at the back of the room
               recognizes Paul’s innocence.  He then commands his soldiers to take Paul by force and take him
               into the fort.

               PAUL STRUCK

               Act 23:1  Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, "Men and brethren, I have lived in all
               good conscience before God until this day."

               And Paul, earnestly beholding (eye to eye) the council (Sanhedrin), said, Men and brethren, I
               have lived (politeuomai: been a citizen [politics]) in all good conscience before God until this
               day.

               The Jewish Council is comprised of the lawmakers and supreme court of the land.  Jewish law is
               excellent but has been corrupted by religion.  The lawmakers are also the religious leaders and
               are religiously prejudice.  Paul tries to defend himself by Jewish law, but is immediately met
               with their prejudice.  It will be Roman law that will save him again.  Paul thinks these men
               represent Jewish law, not religion.  Paul has broken no civil law and begins by telling of his
               innocence as a free citizen.

               Act 23:2  And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the
               mouth.]]></page><page Index="15"><![CDATA[And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him (officers, bailiffs) to smite
               (beat) him on the mouth.

               This is illegal.  They cannot legally sentence and execute punishment in the courtroom.  This
               was done with Jesus (Matthew 26:67) and was also illegal (Leviticus 19:35; Deuteronomy 25:1;
               John 7:51).  Paul knows Jewish law, and this shocks Ananias.  Paul loses his temper.

               Act 23:3  Then Paul said to him, "God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge
               me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?"

               Paul charges, “You gave a command to smite me, and God will smite you!  God gave you the
               law you are using to try me, and you are abusing it.”  Paul calls the judge a whitewashed wall.
               Whitewash was used to hide stains.  This man is using his office to cover corruption and
               prejudice.  This is a term for being a hypocrite (Matthew 23: 27).

               No one has ever called the chief priest a phony, a hypocrite.  A judge is supposed to presume a
               person innocent until proof has been presented to confirm or contradict his ruling.  This judge
               has already passed a sentence without evidence.

               Act 23:4  And those who stood by said, "Do you revile God's high priest?"
               This is a shock to Paul.  He now realizes how corrupt the Jews have become.  This man
               represents the highest office a man can have in the nation of Israel.  This man is ordering the
               corruption of the law.  Paul knows that God demands respect for the office even though it may
               be filled by a corrupted and evil person (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17).

               Act 23:5  Then Paul said, "I did not know, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written,
               'YOU SHALL NOT SPEAK EVIL OF A RULER OF YOUR PEOPLE.'"

               Then said Paul, I wist (knew) not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written (Exodus
               22:28), Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.

               Paul understands where he now stands and who he spoke against.  The word of God comes into
               the scene now.  Paul will be submissive and respectful of the office although the man Ananias is
               corrupt.  This also occurred to the disciples in 5:27-42.  They respected the office, but
               disobeyed their commands against preaching the Word of God.

               Act 23:6  But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he
               cried out in the council, "Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; concerning
               the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!"

               But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried
               out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of (concerning) the
               hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question (krino: judge, decree, determined).]]></page><page Index="16"><![CDATA[23:6  resurrection, anastasis (an-as-tas-is); A standing up again, restoration to life, rising
                       from the dead. A compound of ana, “again,” and histemi, “to stand.” The resurrection of
                       Jesus is the firstfruits or prototype of the future resurrection of all that are in the grave.
                       In verse 6, anastasis is the coming resurrection that occurs at the Judgment Day.
                       Another usage of anastasis is “a moral recovery of spiritual truth.”

               DISSENSION OVER THE RESURRECTION

               Act 23:7  And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the
               Sadducees; and the assembly was divided.

               And when he had so said, there arose a dissension (stativ: static, uproar, uprising) between the
               Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided (schizo: schizophrenia, split).

               This one phrase hit the major area of disagreement between the two sides: the resurrection of
               the dead.

               Act 23:8  For Sadducees say that there is no resurrection—and no angel or spirit; but the
               Pharisees confess both.

               For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees
               confess (homologeo: acknowledge) both.

               The Sadducees do not believe in the supernatural.  They are rationalists (Matthew 22: 23-32)
               and dismiss the spirit world and its existence.  The Pharisees are the scholars who pour over the
               letters of the Word of God.  They are legalistic about salvation and spirituality and thus reject
               Jesus for righteousness.  But they do believe in the future resurrection of the dead and the past
               resurrections recorded in the Old Testament.

               Act 23:9  Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees' party arose and
               protested, saying, "We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let
               us not fight against God."

               The Pharisees are the great students of the Mosaic Law and Old Testament prophets.  It is no
               longer Paul on trial, but the Pharisees and their doctrine.  They are now fighting to protect one
               of their own.  They even change their charge against Paul from guilty to innocent.  They wanted
               to kill Paul earlier and now they have acquitted Paul without a trial since they have found him
               to be a Pharisee.  They even go on to admit that condemning Paul is fighting against God.  God
               taught Paul.  Angels can also teach.  In the Old Testament, many prophets were taught by
               angels.
               Act 23:10  Now when there arose a great dissension, the commander, fearing lest Paul might be
               pulled to pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from
               among them, and bring him into the barracks.]]></page><page Index="17"><![CDATA[The Romans are standing in the back of the courtroom, observing this mockery of justice.  Now
               the Sadducees probably hate Paul even more for using his background to divide the courtroom.
               The Roman captain sees Paul is innocent and is now required to protect him.  Paul is taken
               away by the Romans and left alone.

               Paul now becomes very discouraged.  His ministry is stopped, and he is fighting for his life.
               After this mockery of justice, he realizes how far the Jews have degenerated.  He also realizes
               what a great mistake he has made and the arrogance with which he has been involved.

               THE LORD JESUS ENCOURAGES PAUL (11-16)

               Paul becomes discouraged, and the next night Jesus appears to him and tells him he will share
               the gospel in Rome.  A group of Jews join together and express their determination to kill Paul.
               This group of more than forty, ask the Sanhedrin to call for Paul as if they need to question him
               more, but instead they plan to kill him.

               PAUL IS DISCOURAGED

               Act 23:11  But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, "Be of good cheer, Paul; for
               as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome."

               And the night following the Lord (Jesus) stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as
               thou hast testified (diamartureomai: stood up, witnessed) of (concerning) me in Jerusalem, so
               must thou bear witness (martureo: speak out for me) also at Rome.

               Jesus encourages Paul: “Be of good cheer!  Don’t be discouraged!”  Why was Paul discouraged?

                   1.  He missed God’s will because of his personal legalism.
                   2.  He is frustrated by his lack of progress in Jerusalem.
                   3.  He is being kept alive by the Roman military, yet they are also detaining him.

               Jesus now appears in a vision to encourage Paul.  This is the third time Paul has been
               encouraged by a vision from the Lord (16:9; 18:9-10).  In prison, Paul begins to condemn
               himself.  He is probably feeling as if God can never use him again and about how he has let
               down so many believers who tried to warn him.  He also realizes how he has compromised his
               ministry by taking the vow in Jerusalem and offering a sacrifice before the multitudes.  In this
               situation, he asks God to forgive him and Jesus appears to him in the prison.  Paul will now get
               his eyes back on the Lord.

               Discouragement comes when we get our eyes off the Lord and onto ourselves or others around
               us (Hebrews 12:3-4).  This is a great hazard in ministry.  The Lord is telling Paul to get his eyes
               back on Him.  Jesus told Paul that he has stood in Jerusalem but will speak in Rome.  God’s will
               from the beginning was for Paul to preach in Rome, but Paul’s desire was to preach in
               Jerusalem.  Jerusalem hates Paul.  Believers had an all-night prayer meeting for Peter in prison]]></page><page Index="18"><![CDATA[(12: 5), but not one prayer is going up for Paul while in Jerusalem.  He is hated by the saints in
               Jerusalem.

               He will now go to Rome and will speak and write to the churches of Ephesus, Colosse, and
               Philippi.  Paul is in doubt at this point about his future in the ministry.  In this verse, Paul’s
               colossal mistakes have come to a head and he is in maximum discouragement.  The Lord tells
               him to be encouraged.  At this point, when Paul is at his weakest, God is at his strongest.

               JEWS ARE DETERMINED TO KILL PAUL

               Act 23:12  And when it was day, some of the Jews banded together and bound themselves
               under an oath, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.

                These Jews are taking a vow.  Either they gave up on their vow after many days or they died of
               starvation because Paul lived for many more years.  These were religious unbelievers.  Paul has
               been encouraged during the night, and Satan is out to destroy him through these men.  The
               Jews have taken a vow to kill Paul in order to make a name for themselves.  Again, Paul’s
               greatest opposition came from religion.  Legalism always persecutes grace.  These men make
               this vow out of emotion like many Christians do today who “present their bodies,” or
               “surrender to full-time service.”  Unless God deals with you, you will either break the vow or
               live outside God’s will for a long time.

               Act 23:13  Now there were more than forty who had formed this conspiracy.

               Act 23:14  They came to the chief priests and elders, and said, "We have bound ourselves under
               a great oath that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul.

               This is a new, young, and zealous crowd going to the old religious leaders.

               Act 23:15  Now you, therefore, together with the council, suggest to the commander that he be
               brought down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to make further inquiries
               concerning him; but we are ready to kill him before he comes near."

               Now therefore ye with the council (Sanhedrin) signify to the chief captain that he bring him
               (Paul) down unto you tomorrow, as though ye would enquire something more perfectly
               (accurately) concerning him: and we, or ever (if) he comes near, are ready to kill him.

               They are asking the Sanhedrin to act as if they need Paul for further questioning and
               clarification of his testimony.  When he is brought down by the Romans this group of young
               Jews plans to kill him.  This is a trap being set for Paul.]]></page><page Index="19"><![CDATA[PAUL IS INFORMED OF A CONSPIRACY

               Act 23:16  So when Paul's sister's son heard of their ambush, he went and entered the barracks
               and told Paul.

               Apparently Paul’s nephew was at the meeting or had connections through someone who was
               born again where he learned of the conspiracy against Paul.  Many times Paul has known of
               danger in his own spirit (9:24; 20:3), but this time God uses natural circumstances.

               PAUL’S NEPHEW IS TAKEN TO THE CHIEF CAPTAIN (17-22)

               Paul calls one of the guards and asks him to take his nephew to the chief captain.  Paul’s
               nephew is taken before the chief captain and reveals the plot of the Jews to kill Paul.

               Act 23:17  Then Paul called one of the centurions to him and said, "Take this young man to the
               commander, for he has something to tell him."

               Then Paul called one of the centurions (a guard) unto him, and said, Bring this young man unto
               the chief captain (chiliarcho: commander of a thousand soldiers [21:31]): for he hath a certain
               thing to tell him.

               Act 23:18  So he took him and brought him to the commander and said, "Paul the prisoner
               called me to him and asked me to bring this young man to you. He has something to say to
               you."

               Paul’s nephew tells the chief captain of the assassination plot.  The captain represents all that is
               great in Rome.  He handles this by law and order, not personal ambition.

               Act 23:19  Then the commander took him by the hand, went aside, and asked privately, "What
               is it that you have to tell me?"

               Act 23:20  And he said, "The Jews have agreed to ask that you bring Paul down to the council
               tomorrow, as though they were going to inquire more fully about him.

               Act 23:21  But do not yield to them, for more than forty of them lie in wait for him, men who
               have bound themselves by an oath that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him;
               and now they are ready, waiting for the promise from you."

               Act 23:22  So the commander let the young man depart, and commanded him, "Tell no one that
               you have revealed these things to me."

               The guard kept the whole event secret for Paul’s protection because Paul was a Roman citizen.

               THE CAPTAIN’S PLAN (23-24)

               The captain calls two centurions and instructs them to gather 470 military men ready to protect
               Paul as they deliver him to Caesarea to stand before Felix, the governor.]]></page><page Index="20"><![CDATA[Act 23:23  And he called for two centurions, saying, "Prepare two hundred soldiers, seventy
               horsemen, and two hundred spearmen to go to Caesarea at the third hour of the night;

               The captain’s plan to take Paul safely to Caesarea included 200 infantry, 70 Calvary, and 200
               armed guards (470 total for Paul’s protection).  They will escort Paul at the third hour of the
               night (9:00 p.m.).  Two centurions are sent, one for the infantry and one for the Calvary and
               armed guards.  The armed guards and infantry lead Paul past the point of greatest danger.  The
               Calvary takes Paul the rest of the way into Caesarea (verses 30-32).

               Act 23:24  and provide mounts to set Paul on, and bring him safely to Felix the governor."

               They provide an animal for Paul to ride to arrive safely to meet Felix, the governor.  This is only
               a six-mile ride, but Paul must be bound safely for trials because he is innocent until proven
               guilty.

               At this time, Caesarea is run by Felix.  At one time, he had been a slave, and though he rose in
               the Roman government, Felix still thought like a slave and corrupts the government throughout
               the reign of Claudius and Nero.  He is money-mad and would take a bribe from Paul to free him,
               but Paul will appeal to Caesar.


               A LETTER TO FELIX (25-35)

               The chief captain writes a letter to Felix explaining the events surrounding Paul’s arrest and his
               reason for delivering Paul to him.  Both the letter and Paul are safely delivered to Felix.

               Act 23:25  He wrote a letter in the following manner:

               Act 23:26  Claudius Lysias, To the most excellent governor Felix: Greetings.

               Act 23:27  This man was seized by the Jews and was about to be killed by them. Coming with
               the troops I rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman.

               Act 23:28  And when I wanted to know the reason they accused him, I brought him before their
               council.

               Act 23:29  I found out that he was accused concerning questions of their law, but had nothing
               charged against him deserving of death or chains.

               Act 23:30  And when it was told me that the Jews lay in wait for the man, I sent him
               immediately to you, and also commanded his accusers to state before you the charges against
               him. Farewell.


               Act 23:31  Then the soldiers, as they were commanded, took Paul and brought him by night to
               Antipatris.
               Paul and the troops spend the first night in Antipatris, a city named for Herod’s father
               Antipater.]]></page><page Index="21"><![CDATA[Act 23:32  The next day they left the horsemen to go on with him, and returned to the barracks.

               Act 23:33  When they came to Caesarea and had delivered the letter to the governor, they also
               presented Paul to him.

               Act 23:34  And when the governor had read it, he asked what province he was from. And when
               he understood that he was from Cilicia,

               When Felix first meets Paul, he asks him where he is from.  This is an attempt at getting a bribe.
               If Paul comes from a rich area, he will have the ability to pay a large sum of money to Felix for
               his freedom.  When Felix learns of Paul’s aristocratic background, he mentions bringing the
               accusers to incite fear in Paul to possibly get even more money from him.

               Act 23:35  he said, "I will hear you when your accusers also have come." And he commanded
               him to be kept in Herod's Praetorium.]]></page><page Index="22"><![CDATA[Notes]]></page><page Index="23"/><page Index="24"/><page Index="25"><![CDATA[Chapter 24]]></page><page Index="26"><![CDATA[THE BOOK OF ACTS

               CHAPTER 24


               PAUL BEFORE FELIX

               THE CHALLENGE OF CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

               Even while Paul’s fate is in the hands of his captors, he is not intimidated and shares his faith
               with any who will listen.  Our responsibility is not to force people to accept Jesus Christ as Lord
               and Savior, but to preach the gospel whenever the opportunity presents itself.  In a world
               where there are no absolute “rights” and “wrongs,” where acceptable lifestyles contrary to
               God’s Word are promoted, we must not shrink back from sharing the gospel message.

               PERSECUTION AND THE PLAYERS

               Satan and religion will always bring persecution against those who study and live the Word of
               God in their daily lives.  Paul recounts some of the opposition he has encountered in his walk
               with God.

               Moses had the greatest message of the Old Testament, and just as he is the standard of the law
               and prophets, Paul is the standard of the New Testament.  Both of these men had opposition
               from religion.  Moses had opposition from two magicians in Pharaoh’s court, leaders of the
               Egyptian religion.  Paul is also withstood by two religious believers, Phygellus and Hermogenus
               (2 Timothy 1:15).

               RESISTANCE OF RELIGION

               Verse 7 always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Verse 8 now as
               Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds,
               disapproved concerning the faith; Verse 9 but they will progress no further, for their folly will
               be manifest to all, as there’s also was.  The Man of God and the Word of God Verse 10 But you
               have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, long-suffering, love,
               perseverance, Verse 11 persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium,
               at Lystra---what persecutions I endured.  And out of them all the Lord delivered me.  Verse 12
               Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. -- 2 Timothy 3:7-12

               Verse 7 — Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge (epignosis) of the truth . . .

               This passage from 2 Timothy gives a good description of religious people.  They continually
               learn but never discover the truth.

               Verse 8 -- Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood (opposed) Moses, so do these also resist the
               truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith (the Word). . .]]></page><page Index="27"><![CDATA[The story of Jannes and Jambres is recorded in Exodus 7 and 8.  Their names are not given, but
               the Holy Spirit reveals them here.  Religion always opposes grace.  These people do not resist
               the person, but the truth, the Word of God.  They came to a point where they could not and
               would not receive the truth.  This is the point the Jews have come to in Jerusalem.  Paul is being
               held by those whose minds have reached corruption and attitudes are reprobate.  They can tell
               others what to do, but cannot do it themselves (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5;
               Galatians 6:13).

               Verse 9 -- But they shall proceed (advance) no further: for their folly (anoia: madness, insanity)
               shall be manifest (evident) unto all men, as theirs (Jannes and Jambres) also was.

               Jerusalem’s religious opposition will be brought into the light before believers and unbelievers
               alike.  Their madness will be displayed, just as the opposition of Pharaoh’s court was displayed
               to the whole world at the Red Sea.  His madness is part of recorded history.  Paul will list seven
               areas in verses 10 and 11, which Timothy has followed in Paul’s ministry.

               Verses 10-11; But thou hast fully known (parakoloutheo: followed closely, have understanding)
               my doctrine (teaching), manner of life (instruction by example), purpose (goals in the ministry),
               faith (lifestyle of faith), long-suffering (endurance), charity (agape: love, this is what makes
               everything else work in the Christian life), patience (steadfast during trials), Verse 11
               Persecutions (diagmos: opposition by religion), afflictions (sufferings, beatings, attempted
               assassinations, stoning), which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what
               persecutions I endured (stood up under): but out of them all the Lord delivered me. . .

               God is faithful to deliver us from all opposition (Psalm 34:19).

               Verse 12; Yea (furthermore), and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

               You cannot study and live the Word of God without opposition coming from Satan.  When you
               live the Word and become a doer of each promise, you become a primary target for Satan.
               Sickness, disease, and poverty are not mentioned.  This opposition is from religious, legalistic
               people who oppose grace.  Trouble comes from those who judge your food, clothes, personal
               life and actions.

               MAIN CHARACTERS

               In Acts 24 through 26, Paul will appear before several of the most prominent government
               figures in the Roman Empire: Phoenix, Festus, and Agrippa.  These three chapters form one trial
               before three judges during two years in prison in Caesarea.


               The ruler of Rome at this time is Claudius.  He does not trust the aristocracy or senate of Rome
               and puts three former slaves in power, Felix, Narcissus, and Pallas.  Phoenix and Pallas are
               brothers.  Narcissus is running much of Rome with Pallas who is the lover of Claudius’ wife.
               Claudius had two wives, Messalina was the first.  She was famous for her promiscuity.  She had
               a son by Claudius named Britannicus who never came to power.  Because of her unfaithfulness,]]></page><page Index="28"><![CDATA[Claudius ordered her execution.  He then married Agrippina who had a son by a previous
               marriage named Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, nicknamed Nero.  Nero was named heir over
               Britannicus.  At that time Agrippina poisoned Claudius putting Nero in power.  Pallas was having
               an affair with Agrippina.

               When Felix came to power in Palestine, he met Herod’s granddaughter, Drusilla, and fell in love
               with her.  He persuaded her to run away with him and leave her husband.  This offended the
               Jews and Arabs of Palestine because she was Jewish and Idumaean.

               Drusilla had a sister, Bernice, of whom she was jealous.  Bernice was one of the most beautiful
               women in the ancient world.  Drusilla and her son, Antonius Agrippa, died in the eruption of
               Mount Vesuvius in Pompeii.

               Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod, the brother of Drusilla and Bernice, is now in power
               and will also hear Paul.  Paul will give the gospel to all of these rulers and their wives.
               PAUL BROUGHT BEFORE TERTULLUS (1)


               Five days after being brought to Caesarea, a Roman lawyer named Tertullus informs the
               governor against Paul.

               Act 24:1  Now after five days Ananias the high priest came down with the elders and a certain
               orator named Tertullus. These gave evidence to the governor against Paul.

               And after five days Ananias the high priest descended (Jerusalem to Caesarea) with the elders
               (leaders of the Sanhedrin), and with a great orator named Tertullus (an eloquent lawyer), who
               informed the governor against Paul.  The Sanhedrin is attempting to find some way to release
               the 40 men from their starvation vow and now hires a famous lawyer in an attempt to have
               Paul turned back over to the Jews.  Tertullus is a Roman attorney.  Even though the Jews hate
               the Romans, they will hire one to get to Paul.  Religion hates grace even more that
               dictatorships.  The Sanhedrin always sends Sadducees to bring Paul back because of the
               resurrection question Paul used in Acts 23, verses 6 through 9.  Paul will again mention the
               resurrection while he stands before Felix, in verses 15 and 21.

               All of this is accomplished by the Sanhedrin during the five days after Paul has been delivered to
               Caesarea.  Ananias has been appointed high priest by the former procurator of Judea, Titus.  He
               does not believe in God, but is strongly influential with the Romans.  The Jews are upset with
               Titus for doing this, but now find it to their advantage.  Felix is put in a position over this third
               class province for stealing from the Romans.  He loves money and will later try to take a bribe
               from Paul for his freedom (verse 26).

               TERTULLUS ACCUSES PAUL (2-9)


               Tertullus accuses Paul of disturbing the peace by leading a faction against the Jews that would
               come against Rome.  He accuses Paul of dividing a nation that supports Rome.  However, Paul is]]></page><page Index="29"><![CDATA[not the leader of a subversive organization.  The evil organization is the one trying to get rid of
               him.  The last act will be profaning the temple.  Tertullus is also commending Felix for
               performing worthy deeds.  This is not the truth because during this time Felix is extorting
               money from the people to add to his own fortune.  He did this in Rome and is doing the same
               thing in Judea.

               Act 24:2  And when he was called upon, Tertullus began his accusation, saying: "Seeing that
               through you we enjoy great peace, and prosperity is being brought to this nation by your
               foresight,

               Act 24:3  we accept it always and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

               This is all flattery and lies.

               Act 24:4  Nevertheless, not to be tedious to you any further, I beg you to hear, by your
               courtesy, a few words from us.

               In other words, “I could go on and on about your greatness, but give me just enough time for a
               few words.”
                       24:4  courtesy, epieikeia (ep-ee-eye-ki-ah); Graciousness, gentleness, clemency,
                       moderation, sweet reasonableness, mildness, fairness, kindness, forbearance, what is
                       right or fitting. In 2 Corinthians 10:1, epieikeia is an attribute of God. Here it is an appeal
                       to Felix to show the customary graciousness befitting his high office. Christians can
                       display epieikeia in virtue of their divine calling.

               Act 24:5  For we have found this man a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews
               throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.

               For we have found this man (Paul) a pestilent fellow (a plague), and a mover of sedition (causer
               of riots) among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the
               Nazarenes:

               Paul is being called subversive and a ringleader of a group to overthrow the Jewish government.
               He is also accused of causing race riots.  Felix does not know what a Nazarene is, but the lawyer
               is making this as full of intrigue as possible.

               Act 24:6  He even tried to profane the temple, and we seized him, and wanted to judge him
               according to our law.

               By profaning the temple, he broke both Jewish and Roman law.  Rome protected the temple.  If
               the Jews thought it was holy, then it was important to Rome and peace to protect it.  Profaning
               the temple meant Paul was stealing from it.  This is designed to anger Felix because he too is
               stealing from the Jewish treasuries and does not need competition.]]></page><page Index="30"><![CDATA[The remainder of verse 6 and all of verse 7 is not found in the original, but does add to the
               story.  Felix is setting before the man who holds the answer to his personal problems and those
               of the Roman Empire.  Rome is on the verge of civil war and Paul has the answers: the gospel,
               the new birth, and the Word of God.

               Act 24:7  But the commander Lysias came by and with great violence took him out of our hands,

               Act 24:8  commanding his accusers to come to you. By examining him yourself you may
               ascertain all these things of which we accuse him."

               In other words, “If you examine Paul yourself, you will see we are correct.”

               Act 24:9  And the Jews also assented, maintaining that these things were so.

               PAUL’S DEFENSE TO FELIX (10-21)

               According to Roman law, it is legal for Paul to answer the charges against him.  Paul argues that
               he has been in prison for six of the twelve days since he arrived in Jerusalem.  His point is that it
               would have been impossible for him to arrange a riot in that time frame.  Paul claims his
               innocence, and God’s Word will prove him to be truthful.  There is no evidence against Paul.
               Paul states that the only valid accusation against him is his belief in the resurrection.

               Act 24:10  Then Paul, after the governor had nodded to him to speak, answered: "Inasmuch as I
               know that you have been for many years a judge of this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer
               for myself,

               Tertullus has made a brilliant accusation with no evidence, and Paul will now depend on the
               Holy Spirit for his words (Luke 12:11-12).  Felix still follows Roman law, which allows the
               defendant to answer.  This law had not been implemented with Paul at Philippi (16:19-24).  Paul
               will stay with the facts.  He is familiar with Roman law and will not accuse the Jews without
               facts.  He does not flatter with proof and will deny the charges and demand proof.  Paul will not
               attack Felix’s weak point (as Tertullus has), but his strong point of Roman justice.

               Act 24:11  because you may ascertain that it is no more than twelve days since I went up to
               Jerusalem to worship.

               Felix will never understand spiritually what Paul did, but he understands legally.  It has only
               been twelve days since Paul arrived in Jerusalem and now stands before Felix.  He has been in
               prison for six of those twelve days.  It is impossible to organize a riot, lead a revolt, and profane
               the temple in such a short time.  Paul also came to worship and was worshiping when he was
               attacked by the Jews.  You cannot worship and simultaneously profane the temple.


               Act 24:12  And they neither found me in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the
               crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city.]]></page><page Index="31"><![CDATA[There are two ways to profane the temple: either to rob it or argue inside of it.  Paul states he
               has not done either one.

               Act 24:13  Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me.

               Paul lays the burden of proof back on the Jews.  They had put the burden on Paul in the
               beginning, now Paul gives it back according to the law.  Those who begin the entire process
               were the Jews from Ephesus (21:27-28) who would have been arrested had they shown their
               faces before the Romans for their lack of legal cause.  The witnesses the Jews need have not yet
               shown up.  Paul gives a perfect defense, but will still be detained for two years.  He mentions
               “money” (17), and Felix will keep Paul in an attempt to get a ransom from him (26).

               Act 24:14  But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I
               worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the
               Prophets.

               But this I confess (homologeo: promise) unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy
               (hairesis: discord, sect), so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are
               written in the law and in the prophets:


               In the early days, Christianity was called “the Way,” according to the title Jesus used of Himself
               (John 14:6).  Paul will now show that the Jews are the heretics and are guilty of their own
               accusations against Paul.
               Act 24:15  I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a
               resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.

               These Jews also accept the scriptures as final authority.

               Act 24:16  This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward
               God and men.

               Paul says he is innocent and will now prove it.  God’s Word will vindicate him.

               Act 24:17  "Now after many years I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation,

               Paul is not stealing money in Jerusalem as he has been accused of doing; he is bringing money,
               the Macedonian offering (Romans 15:24-28).  Paul states his mission in Jerusalem is to bring
               money sent from the Macedonian believers to the saints.

               When Paul reveals his innocence to Felix, he puts himself in a tough situation.  He becomes a
               “hot potato.”  If Felix frees him, he will be in trouble with the Jews.  If Felix condemns him, he
               will be in trouble with Rome.  There is no evidence to convict Paul.  Felix will decide to send
               Paul through a series of trials simply so someone else will accept the responsibility for Paul.
               This reveals the weakness of Felix’s leadership.]]></page><page Index="32"><![CDATA[Act 24:18  in the midst of which some Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither
               with a mob nor with tumult.

               Paul is saying, “Not even you, Felix, are over Asia.”  Paul is keeping Jewish law, not breaking the
               law.  Paul is not in the presence of a large crowd, just four elders (21:23), so he can not have
               stirred a mob to incite a riot.  Paul handles himself in a peaceful manner.  In fact, it is the Jews
               who started the tumult.

               Act 24:19  They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me.

               Paul asserts, “My accusers who attacked me aren’t even here to clarify the case.  None of these
               men were part of the original crime.  This is all hearsay.”  Under Roman law, Paul must have an
               eyewitness.  Because there is no eyewitness to the accusations against Paul, there is no
               alternative.  Paul must be found innocent under the law.

               Act 24:20  Or else let those who are here themselves say if they found any wrongdoing in me
               while I stood before the council,

               Or else let these (Jewish accusers) same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while
               I stood before the council (Sanhedrin),
               These men will not produce a record of the previous trial.  They have nothing but accusations
               against Paul; no evidence, only hatred for him.  In the previous trial, the judges ended up
               arguing among themselves over the resurrection (25:6-7).  Claudius Lysias, a Roman, was
               present and a witness of the entire beating.

               Act 24:21  unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them,
               'Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.' "

               Paul is saying, “I am guilty of only one thing.  I might be held in contempt of court in defending
               the resurrection of the dead.”  Roman law has nothing to say about the resurrection, and, at
               this point, Felix should have thrown the case out of court.

               PAUL’S TRIAL COMES TO AN END (22-23)


               After Felix hears Paul’s defense, Felix places Paul under house arrest and forbids any of Paul’s
               friends or family to visit him.  He is held in prison for the next two years.

               Act 24:22  But when Felix heard these things, having more accurate knowledge of the Way, he
               adjourned the proceedings and said, "When Lysias the commander comes down, I will make a
               decision on your case."
               And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect (accurate) knowledge of that way
               (Christianity), he deferred them (adjourned), and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come
               down, I will know the uttermost (full extent) of your matter.]]></page><page Index="33"><![CDATA[This is what the Jews did not want.  Lysias would prove Paul’s innocence.  However, there is no
               record of Felix every sending for Lysias.  Felix sees an opportunity to get money from Paul or his
               friends, and so he illegally holds him for two years on technicalities.  This trial ends in a
               stalemate for Paul, and God will have to work around Felix.  Paul continues appealing to higher
               positions of authority before Roman magistrates.

               Act 24:23  So he commanded the centurion to keep Paul and to let him have liberty, and told
               him not to forbid any of his friends to provide for or visit him.

               And he commanded a centurion to keep (tereo: to guard something which belongs to you, hold
               fast) Paul, and let him have liberty (minimum confinement under house arrest) and that he
               should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.

               Felix thanks Paul is a good opportunity to get money and bolster his own political career, so he
               has Paul carefully guarded.  Felix put Paul under house arrest with just one guard at the door.
               Felix allowed Paul’s friends and relatives to visit him in hopes they would bring money to bribe
               Felix for Paul’s release.  During these two years, Paul will write Ephesians, Philippians,
               Colossians, and Philemon, his most concentrated doctrinal epistles.
               Negro Claudius Drusus, maternal great-grandfather of the Emperor Nero, came from two tribes
               producing Caesar’s.  One was Claudius; the other tribe was Julius.  Negro Claudius Drusus was
               the younger brother of Tiberius.  He married Antonia, the sister of Mark Antony and had three
               children, Germanicus, Claudius, and a daughter.  Germanicus was poisoned.  Claudius was
               considered dumb, but was quiet and studious.  Claudius married Messalina, and later, after
               having Messalina executed, he married Agrippina.  Agrippina’s son by a previous marriage, Nero
               was adopted and became the heir under Claudius.

               During his reign, Claudius freed three slaves, one of whom was Felix, who became procurator of
               Judea.  At a party, Felix met Drusilla who was the wife of an Arabian king.  She had a sister,
               Bernice, who was the wife of Herod Agrippa.  These two sisters hated each other.  (Later, at the
               time of this story, Bernice is living in incest with her son, Herod Agrippa II.)  Felix persuaded
               Drusilla to run away and marry him.  He threatened her husband, who is against Rome, and
               took Drusilla.  Nero became Emperor when Agrippa poisoned Claudius and he also lived in
               incest with her.

               FELIX CALLS FOR PAUL (24-27)


               Felix comes to Caesarea with his wife, Drusilla, and asks to see Paul and hear him speak about
               his faith.  Paul answers all of his questions, but in the end, Felix does not accept the Lord.  Felix
               is eventually replaced by Festus, who calls another trial.
               Act 24:24  And after some days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent
               for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.

               Felix is having a social gathering and invites Paul to speak of his faith.]]></page><page Index="34"><![CDATA[Act 24:25  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."

               And as he reasoned (dialegomai: discussed) of righteousness (new birth), temperance
               (holiness), and judgment to come, Felix trembled (was terrified), and answered, Go thy way (get
               out) for this time: when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.

               Paul answers the many questions Felix has for him, and gives him straight answers about the
               plan of God.  Paul spends the day with Felix and Drusilla, and they are both convicted.  Felix is
               full of fear over Paul’s message but does not want to accept the Lord.  This is all an excuse to
               procrastinate by getting Paul out of the house.

               Act 24:26  Meanwhile he also hoped that money would be given him by Paul, that he might
               release him. Therefore he sent for him more often and conversed with him.

               Felix brought Paul in for occasional talks strictly to see if money had come.  He had already
               made up his mind to reject the gospel.

               Act 24:27  But after two years Porcius Festus succeeded Felix; and Felix, wanting to do the Jews
               a favor, left Paul bound.
               Nero replaced Felix with Festus as the new procurator of Judea.  He will not treat Paul as
               leniently as Felix did, but will put him in a dungeon and call for another trial.  Felix, Drusilla, and
               her son moved to Pompeii and die in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. All of them had
               been presented an opportunity to accept the Lord, but rejected it.]]></page><page Index="35"><![CDATA[Notes]]></page><page Index="36"/><page Index="37"><![CDATA[Chapter 25]]></page><page Index="38"><![CDATA[THE BOOK OF ACTS

               CHAPTER 25


               PAUL BEFORE FESTUS 25:1-27

               THE CHALLENGE OF CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

               After being held unlawfully for two years in prison, Paul does not waver in his trust and
               confidence in God.

               To God, one day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day.  However, from our
               human perspective, the passage of time sometimes seems like an enemy.  Like Paul, we must
               not be moved from standing on God’s promises to us.  If God has spoken a promise to your
               heart, it will surely come to pass.

               JEWISH LEADERS APPEAL TO FESTUS (1-9)

               Once again, the Jews look for a way to get rid of Paul.  They appeal to Festus to send Paul to
               Jerusalem.  They think they can ambush and kill Paul on his journey.  Instead, Festus determines
               that Paul should remain in Caesarea and states he will travel to Caesarea and reopen the case.
               After arriving at Caesarea, Festus orders Paul to be brought to him.  The Jews present bring
               complaints against Paul, but he defends himself against their accusations.

               Paul is confronted by Festus in Caesarea (Chapter 24) and then by Agrippa (Chapter 26).  In
               Chapter 27, Paul travels to Rome, and in Chapter 28, he arrives.  Festus will be used by the
               Jewish mob and change the decision of Felix.  Everyone will try to kill Paul, but God will deliver
               him and send him to Rome.

               Act 25:1  Now when Festus had come to the province, after three days he went up from
               Caesarea to Jerusalem.

               Festus is described by Josephus as a pleasant and fair ruler.  But in this chapter, we see him
               swayed into breaking Roman laws when entertained by the Jews of Jerusalem.

               Act 25:2  Then the high priest and the chief men of the Jews informed him against Paul; and
               they petitioned him,

               For two years, the Jews have been festering over Paul, and they are furious. They look for any
               way to destroy him.  Festus’s plan to travel to Jerusalem represents their new hope.  They have
               now built up a monumental case against Paul in their imaginations and accuse him of heresy.
               They also fabricate stories that are grossly exaggerated.

               Act 25:3  asking a favor against him, that he would summon him to Jerusalem—while they lay in
               ambush along the road to kill him.]]></page><page Index="39"><![CDATA[And desired favour against him (Paul), that he (Festus) would send for him to (come to)
               Jerusalem, laying wait in (along) the way to kill him.

               They ask that the case be reopened in Jerusalem, not to try Paul but to kill him.  They are going
               to ambush Paul.  Religion sponsors violence and murder to get its desired end.  In verses 4 and
               5, Festus demonstrates his wisdom.

               Act 25:4  But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself was
               going there shortly.

               Paul has undergone a trial by legal steps, and Caesarea is the proper place to be, but Festus
               now promises he will personally look into the situation when he gets there.

               Act 25:5  "Therefore," he said, "let those who have authority among you go down with me and
               accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him."

               Festus says “If any irregularities exist, I will reopen the case.”  In the opening verses, he refuses
               to bring Paul to Jerusalem, but in verse 9 he will reverse himself, which causes Paul to take his
               case to Caesar.  Paul sticks with Roman law.  He knows that he will not receive a fair trial in
               Jerusalem with the Jews.
               Act 25:6  And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to
               Caesarea. And the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought.


               And when he had tarried (diatribe: to wear down, remain, abide, continue) among them more
               than ten days, he went down unto Caesarea; and the next day sitting on the judgment seat
               commanded Paul to be brought.

               The Jews “wined and dined” Festus for more than ten days to influence him to turn Paul over to
               them.

               Act 25:7  When he had come, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood about and
               laid many serious complaints against Paul, which they could not prove,

               These accusations have previously been made in Chapter 24.  They are the same now, except
               more vicious after two years.  They are still unfounded and cannot be proven.

               Act 25:8  while he answered for himself, "Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the
               temple, nor against Caesar have I offended in anything at all."

               While he answered for (defended) Himself, neither against the law of the Jews (disturbing the
               peace, causing a riot), neither against (profaning) the temple, nor yet against Caesar (a revolt
               against Rome), have I offended anything at all.

               Act 25:9  But Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, answered Paul and said, "Are you willing to
               go up to Jerusalem and there be judged before me concerning these things?"]]></page><page Index="40"><![CDATA[Festus feels obligated to give the Jews a break in this case.  He will now even break the law to
               please them.

               PAUL REQUESTS AN AUDIENCE WITH CAESAR (10-12)

               Paul states he is a Roman citizen, therefore, under Roman law.  He continues by declaring that
               if he has committed a crime worthy of death, so be it.  Festus’ response to Paul is to ask him if
               he has appealed to Caesar.

               Act 25:10  So Paul said, "I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. To the
               Jews I have done no wrong, as you very well know.

               Paul says, “I am under Roman law.  Roman law found me innocent of Jewish accusations, and
               the charges have not been changed.  I will stick with Roman law until released or sentenced.”
               Festus knows Paul has done no wrong, even though he would not admit it.

                       25:10 I have done no wrong, adikeo (ad-ee-keh-oh);  To do an injustice, to act criminally
                       or unrighteously, to violate any human or divine law, to do wrong, to mistreat others.
                       The word is a compound of a, “without,” and dike, “right”; hence, an illegal action.
                       Adikeo consists of offending legally, general wrongdoing, social injustice, and inflicting
                       hurt or damage on individuals. In his appeal to Caesar, Paul declares his innocence.

               Act 25:11  For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death, I do not
               object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one
               can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar."

               For if I be an offender, or have committed anything worthy of death (under Roman law), I
               refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may
               deliver be unto them.  I appeal (apikaleomai: call on, appellate) unto Caesar.

               Paul believes in capital punishment even for himself if he is guilty.  Now under Roman law, he
               has removed himself from Festus and desires to go to the authority above Festus.  Paul cannot
               go lower (back to Jewish court), but only higher, all the way to Caesar in Rome.

               Act 25:12  Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, "You have appealed
               to Caesar? To Caesar you shall go!"

               Festus finds himself in a tough situation.  He has refused to acquit a Roman citizen who has no
               legal grounds for indictment.  Paul has now appealed to go higher and Festus will have to write
               a letter that makes sense and justifies Paul’s two years in prison and his stand in refusing to
               acquit Paul.  Paul has played a trump card and called Festus’s hand.  Festus puts on his poker
               face and informs Paul he will let him go.  Paul knows Roman law and uses it.]]></page><page Index="41"><![CDATA[KING AGRIPPA AND BERNICE IN CAESAREA (13-21)

               King Agrippa and Bernice traveled to Caesarea to greet Festus.  After being in Caesarea for
               many days, Festus explains Paul’s situation to Agrippa.

               Act 25:13  And after some days King Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to greet Festus.

               Herod Agrippa II, grandson of Herod the Great, nephew to Herod the Tetrarch (who beheaded
               John the Baptist) and son of Agrippa I (who killed James in chapter 12) is one of the most
               handsome men in the ancient world and the ruler of Rome.  His sister Bernice is said to be the
               most beautiful woman of the ancient world.  She is the sister of Drusilla.  These two sisters
               continually fight to outdo each other.  Bernice has left her husband and is living in incest with
               her brother Agrippa II.  Later she will become the mistress of Vespasian who is ruling Jerusalem.
               She then becomes the mistress of the son of Vespasian, Titus.

               Caesarea is the hometown of Agrippa and Bernice.  It was built by their grandfather, and they
               want to visit the beautiful seaport city.  For a long time they would not visit because Drusilla
               lived there with Felix.  But now that Felix was gone, they don’t have to be concerned about
               seeing Drusilla.

               Act 25:14  When they had been there many days, Festus laid Paul's case before the king, saying:
               "There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix,

               Festus wants Agrippa’s opinion.  They are at a party and apparently everyone is having a good
               time except Festus.  He is bothered about what he has done with Paul and the letter he has to
               write.  He knows how he should have released him, but did not.  Now Paul has appealed to
               Caesar, and Festus is bothered.  He brought up Felix’s name because he knew how much
               Agrippa and Bernice hated him and Drusilla.  He is basically telling them, “This is all Felix’s
               fault.”

               Act 25:15  about whom the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, when I was in
               Jerusalem, asking for a judgment against him.

               For ten days Festus has been informing them about the situation.  He has entertained and
               catered to both of them during this time and has given them a little bit of information.

               Act 25:16  To them I answered, 'It is not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to
               destruction before the accused meets the accusers face to face, and has opportunity to answer
               for himself concerning the charge against him.'
               Festus is trying to place himself in a good light.  He is telling them of the greatness of Roman
               law, “You are innocent until proven guilty in a fair trial.”  Festus is being self-righteous.  He is
               putting himself in a favorable light by twisting the facts of what happened.  Festus has failed.
               Instead of admitting his failure, he is covering it with self-righteousness.  It was God’s will for
               Paul, before he sinned, to go to Rome and then on to Spain.  Regardless of Paul’s failure and]]></page><page Index="42"><![CDATA[repentance, God’s will has not changed, only His means of getting Paul to Rome.  He will use
               the excellent means of Roman law to get Paul there.

               The weakness in leadership does not stop God.  He uses it.  God uses failures of others as
               stepping stones for His plans and His people.  God uses any situation for His glory, as we should
               (Romans 8:28; 1 Corinthians 7:20-21).  If Festus or Felix had used Roman law correctly, they
               would have allowed Paul to leave much sooner.  If they had, Paul would have proceeded to
               Rome.  Regardless of the motives of Felix and Festus in detaining Paul, God will still get Paul to
               Rome at Rome’s expense.  On the way, Paul will write some of his greatest epistles.  He will also
               be protected from religious Jews by the Roman military

               Act 25:17  Therefore when they had come together, without any delay, the next day I sat on the
               judgment seat and commanded the man to be brought in.

               He is bragging on his efficiency to minimize his own mistakes.  He is saying, “I did not waste any
               time.”  Roman law and the importance of quick justice; no delays for weeks and months causing
               people to forget the importance of the act of the facts surrounding the crime.
               Act 25:18  When the accusers stood up, they brought no accusation against him of such things
               as I supposed,


               During his stay in Jerusalem he had been convinced by the Jews of Paul’s guilt.  He is now
               admitting that he has presupposed Paul’s guilt but has found out otherwise during the trials
               because the Jews are actually upset over religious doctrine.  Festus knows Agrippa has an
               understanding of the Jewish religion and can help him straighten out this matter.
               Act 25:19  but had some questions against him about their own religion and about a certain
               Jesus, who had died, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

               But had certain questions against him of their own superstition (deisidaimonia: to fear a
               demon), and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

               We now find out what the trials were like.  Festus heard the gospel preached by Paul.  He heard
               of Jesus and the resurrection.  The resurrection is the point of contention with the Jews and the
               point of salvation for Festus (Romans 10:9-10).  “Affirmed” means Paul is dogmatic about Jesus
               being alive.

               Act 25:20  And because I was uncertain of such questions, I asked whether he was willing to go
               to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these matters.

               And because I doubted (was perplexed) of such a manner of questions (the controversy), I
               asked him whether (if) he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.

               This is a lie.  Festus felt obligated to the Jews (verse 9) and tried to get Paul to Jerusalem
               because of his promise to them.]]></page><page Index="43"><![CDATA[Act 25:21  But when Paul appealed to be reserved for the decision of Augustus, I commanded
               him to be kept till I could send him to Caesar."

               In other words, he is saying “I need help.”

               AGRIPPA REQUESTS PAUL TO BE BROUGHT BEFORE HIM (22-27)

               After hearing the Paul’s case from Festus, Agrippa requests to hear Paul for himself.  Paul is
               then brought before Festus, Agrippa, and Bernice.

               Act 25:22  Then Agrippa said to Festus, "I also would like to hear the man myself." "Tomorrow,"
               he said, "you shall hear him."

               This is exactly what Festus wants to hear.  Agrippa is pleased to straighten out something Felix
               has started.

               Act 25:23  So the next day, when Agrippa and Bernice had come with great pomp, and had
               entered the auditorium with the commanders and the prominent men of the city, at Festus'
               command Paul was brought in.

               And on the morrow (next morning), when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp
               (phantasia: glamour, vain show), and was entered into the place of hearing, with chief captains
               (high-ranking Roman generals), and principal men (officials) of the city, at Festus’
               commandment Paul was brought forth.

               Agrippa and Bernice represent the fourth generation of Herods who have rejected the gospel.
               They are also the last of the Herodian line.

               Herod the Great had rejected the gospel when he slaughtered the children in an effort to get
               rid of Jesus shortly after his birth.  Herod’s son, Antipas, (named after his grandfather
               Antipater), murdered John the Baptist.  The third-generation, Herod Agrippa I, had James killed
               and Peter thrown into prison.  Herod Agrippa II is now presented with an opportunity to accept
               the Lord as Paul ministers to Him.  However he and Bernice reject Jesus Christ and die,
               effectively ending the Herodian line.

               When word spread that Agrippa and Bernice were in town and this brilliant man was going to
               officiate the law, he drew a crowd of dignitaries from Roman and local government circles.  Paul
               will now be brought into this very glamorous occasion before the highest of dignitaries to
               present his case and the gospel.  Paul will hear an introduction to his own case, which will
               include hypocrisy.  Festus will whitewash the case to protect his own image.


               Act 25:24  And Festus said: "King Agrippa and all the men who are here present with us, you see
               this man about whom the whole assembly of the Jews petitioned me, both at Jerusalem and
               here, crying out that he was not fit to live any longer.]]></page><page Index="44"><![CDATA[And Festus said, King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us, ye see this man
               (Paul), about whom all the multitude of the Jews (Sanhedrin) have dealt with me, both at
               Jerusalem, and also here (at Caesarea), crying (screaming) that he ought not live any longer.

               Act 25:25  But when I found that he had committed nothing deserving of death, and that he
               himself had appealed to Augustus, I decided to send him.

               Festus is saying, “When I carefully examined him by the law, I could find nothing wrong with
               this man.  He personally appealed to Caesar and I have given Paul my permission to appeal to
               him.”

               Act 25:26  I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him. Therefore I have brought
               him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the examination has
               taken place I may have something to write.

               Of whom I have no certain (exact) thing to write unto my lord (Caesar).  Wherefore I have
               brought him forth before you, and especially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after
               examination had, I might have somewhat to write.

               Festus is telling the courtroom of his dilemma.  His letter at this point will have no concrete
               case to present, and his weakness and mishandling of the case will eventually come out through
               investigation.  He could also lose his job.
               Act 25:27  For it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not to specify the charges
               against him."

               For it seemeth to me unreasonable (useless) to send a prisoner, and not withal (clearly) to
               signify (explain) the crimes laid against him.

               Paul now stands before this great Roman assembly.  There is Festus, Agrippa, and Bernice along
               with city and state officials from the area.  Paul will now share the gospel with this powerful
               group of unbelievers.]]></page><page Index="45"><![CDATA[Notes]]></page><page Index="46"/><page Index="47"><![CDATA[Chapter 26]]></page><page Index="48"><![CDATA[THE BOOK OF ACTS

               CHAPTER 26


               PAUL BEFORE AGRIPPA

               THE CHALLENGE OF CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

               Paul, who could have been intimidated by the political leaders he stands before, does not back
               down from boldly sharing his conversion experience and call to ministry, even when accused of
               being a madman.  We must not be moved by the opinions others have of our faith in the Lord
               Jesus Christ.  God may bring those across our path who are at the point of almost being
               persuaded to receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  Perhaps the Lord will use us to plant the
               final seed so the one standing on the brink of his or her decision to receive Jesus Christ as Lord
               and Savior will finally be persuaded to enter into His kingdom.

               AGRIPPA PERMITS PAUL TO SPEAK (1-11)

               When Paul is permitted to address Agrippa, he uses the Roman style of oratory.  He explains
               how he was trained to be a Pharisee.  Paul continues by explaining how he was not much
               different from those now persecuting him because he once also persecuted Christians.

               PAUL ADDRESSES AGRIPPA

               Act 26:1  Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You are permitted to speak for yourself." So Paul stretched
               out his hand and answered for himself:

               Paul is completely poised and uses the Roman style in addressing these men.  The stretched
               forth hand is to draw attention in respect to a speaker.  There was probably a lot of small talk
               going on in the room.  Paul has a message for them to hear.

               Act 26:2  "I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before
               you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews,

               I think (conclude) myself happy (makarias: Blessed), king Agrippa, because I shall answer for
               (defend) myself this day before thee touching (concerning) all the things whereof I am accused
               of the Jews:

               Paul is happy in bonds.  These men are unhappy in freedom.

               Act 26:3  especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which have to do with
               the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.

               Paul knows Agrippa’s past, that he is a fourth-generation Herod and ruler of the Jews in
               Palestine.  In truth, Paul is not on trial here; this group is on trial with God.  Paul is God’s
               representative in court.]]></page><page Index="49"><![CDATA[PAUL SPEAKS OF EARLY LIFE

               Act 26:4  "My manner of life from my youth, which was spent from the beginning among my
               own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know.

               Paul’s life will be divided into his youth (verses 4-5) and his present life as a minister of the
               gospel (verse 6).  Paul is telling them that everything he is about to say can be confirmed by the
               Jews who are accusing him.

               Act 26:5  They knew me from the first, if they were willing to testify, that according to the
               strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

               Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after (according to) the most
               straitest (strictest) sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

               Paul is saying the Jews will not testify against him on legal grounds in a court of law.  They will
               accuse him from outside based on accusations and hearsay.  Paul’s testimony before salvation
               is not only taught in Acts 9, but in Galatians 1:13-14, and Philippians 3:4-6.

               PAUL SPEAKS OF PRESENT LIFE AS A MINISTER

               Act 26:6  And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made by God to our
               fathers.

               Paul is saying, “The same ones who knew me then condemn me now.”  The “hope of the
               promise” is the sending of their Messiah, Jesus Christ.  Every author and book of the Old
               Testament prophesied on his coming.  Many of these promises are covenants.

               There are four unconditional covenants given to Israel and now for those who are born again.
               The foundation of each covenant is personal faith in Jesus Christ, the promised One of the Old
               Testament.  This is what Paul came to preach.

               Act 26:7  To this promise our twelve tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, hope to attain.
               For this hope's sake, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews.

               Unto which promise our twelve tribes (all Israel), instantly (earnestly) serving God day and
               night, hope to come (arrive).  For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.

               All the rituals still being observed by Israel still look forward to the coming of Messiah.  Their
               rituals in the temple and court go on day and night at the very time Paul is speaking.  Yet Jesus
               has already come, being crucified, and resurrected, they are expressing their rejection of Jesus
               by offering animal sacrifices.  They do this in hope of a coming, yet the coming has already
               occurred.  The Jews accuse Paul of preaching something they are looking forward to
               themselves.

               Act 26:8  Why should it be thought incredible by you that God raises the dead?]]></page><page Index="50"><![CDATA[Even those in the courtroom who are not Christians should be able to believe that God could
               raise someone from the dead.

               PAUL’S PERSECUTION OF THE CHURCH

               Act 26:9  "Indeed, I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of
               Nazareth.

               I verily thought (assumed) with myself, that I ought to do (prasso: policy, practice) many things
               contrary (in opposition) to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.

               Paul explains he was also like the Jews who persecute him because he himself persecuted the
               Lord.  He was a zealous religious man coming against the church.

               The name of Jesus holds the power (Mark 16:17-18) and causes opposition to come.  It was the
               supernatural that Paul (before conversion) had a difficult time with, as do all other religious
               people.

               Act 26:10  This I also did in Jerusalem, and many of the saints I shut up in prison, having
               received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I cast my vote
               against them.

               Which thing I also did (poieo: carried out the policies) in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I
               shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to
               death, I gave my voice against them.

               Not only was Paul told to throw Christians in prison and kill them, he also was in favor of and
               consented with the decision of those in authority over him in regard to Christians.

               Act 26:11  And I punished them often in every synagogue and compelled them to blaspheme;
               and being exceedingly enraged against them, I persecuted them even to foreign cities.

               And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being
               exceedingly mad (emmainomai: maniac, rage at) against them, I persecuted them even unto
               strange (foreign) cities.

               Paul traveled outside Jerusalem on special trips to persecute and jail believers.  If they would
               renounce Jesus, they would be allowed to live.  Paul became as an insane man in his zeal
               against the Lord.  He was driven by demonic madness to many cities outside of Israel to
               persecute the church of Jesus.
               PAUL’S CONVERSION RECOUNTED (12-18)


               Paul now begins recounting his experience on the road to Damascus.  He testifies about hearing
               a voice from heaven and explains being called to be a minister, especially to the heathen.]]></page><page Index="51"><![CDATA[Act 26:12  "While thus occupied, as I journeyed to Damascus with authority and commission
               from the chief priests,

               Whereupon (in madness) as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief
               priest,

               Act 26:13  At midday, O king, along the road I saw a light from heaven, brighter Than the sun,
               shining around me and those who journeyed with me.

               Only one type of light is brighter than the sun; the glory of God.

               Act 26:14  And when we all had fallen to the ground, I heard a voice speaking to me and saying
               in the Hebrew language, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? It is hard for you to kick
               against the goads.'

               Falling to the ground is a natural reaction to coming in contact with God’s glory (2 Chronicles
               5:13-14).  Although Paul was the only one who heard the voice (22:9), everyone saw the light.
               By persecuting people, Paul was persecuting the Lord Jesus (Matthew 25:40) and was one step
               away from the point of no return.  Like Pharaoh, his heart had become hardened by resisting
               the gospel.  The “prick” is an ox goad, a hard instrument to train a horse or ox.  It is much like
               our spurs today.  Saul was so hardened through hearing Stephen and other ministers, the Lord
               had to do something drastic to reach him.
               Act 26:15  So I said, 'Who are You, Lord?' And He said, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.


               Saul understood the Lord was talking to him, but as most religious people, he did not know who
               the Lord was.  He found out Jesus is Jehovah and Messiah.

               Act 26:16  But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make
               you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I
               will yet reveal to you.

               But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee
               a minister (huperetes: under rower, servant, subordinate [13:5]) and a witness both of these
               things which thou has seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;

               Paul had no more answers for Jesus.  He quietly believed and rose up a new man.  Paul also had
               a new purpose (a new commission): to be an under rower, a beginning minister in the kingdom
               of God.

               Paul could not minister until he first learned as a servant, a “helps” minister (Galatians 1:15-16).
               When Paul began to preach, it consisted of his vision on the road to Damascus and the Word
               revealed to him (Galatians 1:16).  The revelation of the Word is just as dramatic as a vision of
               Jesus in His glory.  And God promised Paul there would be more visions and revelations to
               come.]]></page><page Index="52"><![CDATA[Act 26:17  I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now
               send you,

               Paul will be supernaturally delivered from religious Jews and Gentile heathen.  Paul is called to
               preach to the Gentiles (Galatians 2:8), but always has a place in his heart for the Jewish people
               (Romans 9:1-3; 10:1).

               Act 26:18  to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power
               of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who
               are sanctified by faith in Me.'

               To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power (exousia:
               authority) of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness (remission) of sins, and
               inheritance among them; which are sanctified (positional) by faith that is in (deposited in) me.

               Unbelievers have been blinded by sin and Satan (2 Corinthians 4:4), but the Word of God brings
               light (Ephesians 1:17-18).  With the entrance of the gospel and repentance, their eyes are
               opened, and they can see the Word (light) and walk toward it.  Sinners receive forgiveness
               because everything has been provided (2 Peter 1:3).  Man’s part is to simply accept the free gift
               as an act of his will.


               PAUL RECOUNTS HIS LIFE AFTER CONVERSION (19-23)

               Paul then testifies about obeying the “heavenly vision” in taking the gospel to the Gentiles.  He
               explains how the Jews tried to kill him.  Paul continues by testifying that he had witnessed and
               continues witnessing about Jesus’ suffering, dying, and being the first raised from the dead for
               both Jews and Gentiles.

               Act 26:19  "Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision,

               Whereupon (God visiting and instructing me), O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the
               heavenly vision:

               Paul received Jesus when he saw the vision and also accepted the call to minister to the
               Gentiles.

                       26:19  Being Obedient to the Heavenly Vision, PROPHETIC DREAMS AND VISIONS.  For
                       vision surrounded Paul’s conversion and Acts: Steven’s stoning (7:55, 58-59), Paul’s
                       experience near Damascus (9:3), Paul’s vision in prayer (verses 11-12), and Ananias’s
                       vision (verse 10, 17). Each time, Paul testified that the Lord spoke to him in a vision. His
                       defense against those who thought him to be a heretic was that he “was not
                       disobedient to the heavenly vision” (26:19).


                       As Charles Spurgeon said, “we must take care that we do not neglect heavenly
                       monitions through fear of being considered visionary; we must not be staggered even]]></page><page Index="53"><![CDATA[by the dread of being styled fanatical, or out of our minds. For to stifle a thought from
                       God is no small sin.”

                       Note further the place visions played in the apostle Paul’s experience. Read Acts 7:56-
                       8:1; 9:1-16; 13:2-4; 14:19; 16:9-10; 18:9-11; 22:17-18; 27:22-25; 2 Corinthians 12:1-4;
                       Galatians 1:11-12; 2:2; Ephesians 3:1-5.

               Act 26:20  but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the
               region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works
               befitting repentance.

               Paul declared the gospel first at Damascus.  He announces what he has seen.  This verse also
               covers the first three missionary journeys (Judea to the Gentiles).  Good works is also a part of
               the gospel message.  When a person accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior, they should also begin to
               step out into good works which speak of their conversion.

               Act 26:21  For these reasons the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me.

               Paul was taken and beaten by the Jews for preaching about Jesus Christ being the Messiah of
               Israel and the Savior of mankind.  This may not be how the Romans believe or the Jews, but it is
               not the issue.  Paul is free to preach his own beliefs without being taken to jail.  The Jews want
               to kill Paul over preaching his own believes about Jesus Christ.
               Act 26:22  Therefore, having obtained help from God, to this day I stand, witnessing both to
               small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would
               come—

               Having therefore obtained help (acquired assistance) of God (Roman intervention), I continue
               (perfect tense---remain standing) unto this day, witnessing both to small (citizens) and great
               (government leaders), saying none other things than those which the prophets (major and
               minor) and Moses (Genesis to Deuteronomy) did say should come (to pass):

               Paul is saying, “The God they say they serve helped me to escape from them.”

                       26:22 witnessing, martureo (mar-tt-reh-oh);  Giving evidence, attesting, confirming,
                       confessing, bearing record, speaking well of, giving a good report, testifying, affirming
                       that one has seen, heard, or experienced something. In the NT it is used particularly for
                       presenting the gospel with evidence. The English word “martyr” comes from this word,
                       suggesting that a witness is one willing to die for his testimony.

               Act 26:23  that the Christ would suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and
               would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles."

               That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and
               should shew (kataggello: announce, declare, teach) light unto the people (Jewish), and to the
               Gentiles.]]></page><page Index="54"><![CDATA[The Old Testament is filled with prophecy showing that Jesus would suffer, be resurrected, and
               proclaim salvation to the Jews and Gentiles (Psalm 22; Isaiah 42:6; 53:1-12; 60:1).  Even though
               Agrippa is presiding over the meeting, Festus interrupts Paul.  Paul will use this occasion to
               answer Festus and hit Agrippa with Old Testament scriptures.

               PAUL CONTINUES HIS DEFENSE UNDER PRESSURE (24-32)

               Festus interrupts Paul’s testimony accusing him of being mad.  Paul refutes his accusation.
               After hearing Paul, Agrippa recognizes that he is innocent and he is in jail because of a religious
               dispute between Paul and the Jews.  However, King Agrippa also does not release Paul and uses
               Paul’s appeal to Caesar as the excuse.

               Act 26:24  Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, "Paul, you are
               beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!"

               And as he thus spake for (defended) himself, Festus said (interrupted) with a loud voice, Paul,
               thou art beside thyself (mainomai: maniac, mad); much learning doth make it thee mad (mania:
               mania, crazy).

               Festus calls Paul insane, raving mad.  Festus has heard of Paul’s study even while in prison and
               attacks his knowledge of the Word.

               Act 26:25  But he said, "I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and
               reason.

               Even under great pressure, Paul keeps his composure.  Paul is speaking the Old Testament
               scriptures which Festus knows nothing of.  Paul now makes him look bad before the Jews and
               Agrippa.

               Act 26:26  For the king, before whom I also speak freely, knows these things; for I am convinced
               that none of these things escapes his attention, since this thing was not done in a corner.

               For the king (Agrippa) knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely (Agrippa would
               never interrupt me): for I am persuaded that one of these things are hidden from him; for this
               thing (death, burial, resurrection) was not done in a corner.

               Coming from the Herodian line, Agrippa was well versed in the Old Testament scriptures.  If
               Paul is angry, Agrippa is also angry.  Agrippa has seen the rituals, heard the prophecies, and
               knows of the injustices done to Jesus.


               Act 26:27  King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe."
               Paul has known for some time that Agrippa believed the Old Testament Scriptures.  Agrippa
               figures out quickly where Paul is heading.  He knows Paul will tie Jesus into the Old Testament
               verses and stops short of believing in Jesus as his own Savior.

               Act 26:28  Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian."]]></page><page Index="55"><![CDATA[And Agrippa [replied] to Paul, “In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian”
               (NIV).

               This is a sarcastic remark made by Agrippa to cut Paul off.  He saw the close coming and did not
               want to have to make the decision for or against Jesus.  He is simply saying, “If I allow you to
               speak any longer, I might accept Jesus.”

               Act 26:29  And Paul said, "I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today,
               might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains."

               And Paul said, I would (wish) to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day (the
               full crowd in the court), were (ginomai: would become) both almost, and altogether (by my few
               or many words) such as I am, except these bonds.

               Paul wishes they will become born again through a few or many words from him, in a little
               amount of time or much.  Paul will do or say whatever it takes to make them believers, but he
               does not wish prison on any of them.

               Act 26:30  When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and
               Bernice and those who sat with them;
               And when they had thus spoken, the king arose (jumped) up, and the governor, and Bernice,
               and they that sat with them:


               When the king jumps up, so does everyone else.
               Act 26:31  and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, "This man is
               doing nothing deserving of death or chains."

               They now all understood Festus’ dilemma.  They see Paul’s innocence and understand he is
               simply in prison for a religious disagreement with the Jews.  They are also angry with Festus for
               allowing this to continue as long as it has.  He should not have kept Paul in prison for political
               expediency.

               Act 26:32  Then Agrippa said to Festus, "This man might have been set free if he had not
               appealed to Caesar."

               This is not true.  Why doesn’t he just walk in and set Paul free?  He is afraid of Paul and of
               displaying weakness before the people.  Paul has been in prison for two years now, and it
               would be an admission of his own oversight to free Paul.  Paul upset him in the courtroom, and
               it would be a blow to his pride to now set Paul free.  He uses Paul’s appeal to Caesar as a
               scapegoat.  Like Festus and Felix, he is also a weak leader.]]></page><page Index="56"><![CDATA[Notes]]></page><page Index="57"/><page Index="58"/><page Index="59"><![CDATA[Chapter 27]]></page><page Index="60"><![CDATA[THE BOOK OF ACTS

               CHAPTER 27


               PAUL TRAVELS TO ROME

               THE CHALLENGE OF CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

               As Paul travels to Rome and is about to be shipwrecked, Paul has a word from God: none would
               perish who stayed on board.  His confidence and trust are in God, even as the storm rages on
               and circumstances are declining.

               When the storms of life rage around you, and it looks like you are headed for shipwreck, where
               is your focus?  Is your attention on the waves of circumstances that appear to be tearing your
               life apart, or are they looking to the people around you, being influenced by their reactions
               instead of being an influencer for the kingdom of God?  We have God’s Word that ensures joy,
               peace, provision, divine health, and all the benefits of being a child of the King.  His Word
               confirms the authority we have been given in Christ Jesus and through Him, our ability to
               overcome any storm that may come against us in life.

               INTRODUCTION

               Chapter 27 is a description of the first part of Paul’s trip to Rome, sailing from Caesarea to
               Malta.

               Paul sails toward Rome by ship.  The Romans were the worst sailors of the ancient world.  They
               tried to take the land to sea and made ships as large as a football field, and the ships sank
               easily.  Many of their ships sunk before they even sailed.

               The Phoenicians, on the other hand, were the best sailors and were famous for their trade ships
               and routes in the ancient world.  When the Romans went sailing or took over a ship, Roman law
               applied to the passengers while on board just as if they were on land.  Roman ships had one
               mast in the middle of the ship.  Phoenicians ships had many masts.  This put all the stress on
               the middle of the hull and it was not uncommon for their ships to break apart at the center.
               “Frapping” became common by running ropes around the hull to help hold the ships together
               (“undergirding” [verse 17])”.

               Chapter 27 shows the impact of one man who knows and stands on the Word against the
               attacks of Satan.  The entire crew will be saved through the faith of Paul.

               THE FIRST STORM (1-13)

               Festus and the court decide to put Paul on a ship to Rome with other prisoners.  The day after
               setting sail they land in Sidon, and Paul is permitted to visit the believers there.  Then they sail
               around the tip of Cyprus and come to Lycia.  Paul and the other prisoners are then transferred]]></page><page Index="61"><![CDATA[to a ship sailing slowly to Italy, which would normally take many days.  A fierce storm moves in
               and they sail to Crete where they remain for a time.  Contrary to the thinking of the captain and
               owner of the ship, Paul warns them about sailing to Phoenix to remain for the winter.

               Act 27:1  And when it was decided that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and some
               other prisoners to one named Julius, a centurion of the Augustan Regiment.

               And when it was determined (krino: judged, ordained) that we should sail into (toward) Italy,
               they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus’
               band (a famous Roman band).

               Festus and the court decide to send Paul to Rome by ship in October, the worst time of the year
               for traveling by sea.  But Festus had a reason for sending Paul at this time.  This was not a
               regular sailing vessel, but an old ship that usually carried cargo along the coast.  It was not
               designed for open-sea sailing.  This is why they sailed along the coast for the first part of the
               trip to Crete (verses 1-3).

               Julius was an officer Festus did not like.  He planned to get rid of Paul and Julius in one move by
               sending them away in a worn-out ship at the worst time of the year.  To Festus, the other
               prisoners and crewmembers were expendable.  Festus does not intend for Paul, the letter he
               has written, Julius, or any of the crew to actually make it to Rome.


               However, Festus does not take into account the will of God.  Paul cannot be killed because he
               has a message to deliver and a ministry to fulfill.  All the men will be saved because Paul is with
               them.  This is blessing and protection by association (1 Corinthians 7:14).

               Act 27:2  So, entering a ship of Adramyttium, we put to sea, meaning to sail along the coasts of
               Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, was with us.

               The “we” in this verse includes Luke and the rest of Paul’s team.  This ship will not make it to
               the Asian coast, but will be deserted in Myra (verses 5-6).  Aristarchus, who is accompanied
               Paul, is accustomed to danger (19:29; 20:4).

               Act 27:3  And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him
               liberty to go to his friends and receive care.

               And the next day we touched at Sidon.  And Julius courteously (philanthropos: humanely)
               entreated Paul, and gave him liberty (freedom) to go unto his friends (21:3-5) to refresh
               himself.

               This is a kind and gracious officer.  He allows Paul to disembark from the ship to visit with
               believers in Sidon.

               Act 27:4  When we had put to sea from there, we sailed under the shelter of Cyprus, because
               the winds were contrary.]]></page><page Index="62"><![CDATA[There was no other direction the ship could sail.  It would have been less distance to sail to the
               western side of Cyprus, but the winds forced this sailing ship along the eastern side of Cyprus.

               Act 27:5  And when we had sailed over the sea which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to
               Myra, a city of Lycia.

               Paul sees his home for the last time.

               Act 27:6  There the centurion found an Alexandrian ship sailing to Italy, and he put us on board.

               This ship is also blown off course by the northwest winds into Myra.  It was headed toward
               Crete (port of Fair Havens) and onto Puteoli, (verse 38).  This ship would hold 276 people (verse
               37).

               Act 27:7  When we had sailed slowly many days, and arrived with difficulty off Cnidus, the wind
               not permitting us to proceed, we sailed under the shelter of Crete off Salmone.

               And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus (ka-ni-
               tus), the wind not suffering (allowing) us, we sailed under (around the tip of) Crete, over against
               (around) Salmone;

               After ditching the other ship, this one is more secure but is being slowed down by one of the
               worst sea storms in history.  They are headed into the wind and are now in the last safe port
               before entering open sea to Crete.
               Act 27:8  Passing it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea.


               After passing Salmone, they are protected from the harsh winds.
               Act 27:9  Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the
               Fast was already over, Paul advised them,

               Now when much time was spent (had elapsed), and when sailing was not dangerous, because
               the fast was now already past (Atonement [October 10]; Leviticus 23:27; Numbers 29:7), Paul
               admonished (warned) them,

                       and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now
                       already past; "the fast of the Jews"; this was the day of atonement, which was
                       the grand fast of the Jews, on which day they afflicted their souls, in memory of
                       the worshipping of the golden calf; on that day they neither eat nor drink, nor do
                       any work, neither do they wash, nor are they anointed, nor do they bind on their
                       shoes, or make use of the marriage bed; nor do they read anything but sorrowful
                       things, as the Lamentations of Jeremiah, until the setting of the sun, and the
                       rising of the stars; and hence this day is called by them "the day of fasting", and
                       "the great fast, and the day of the fast of atonement, and the fast of the
                       atonement:” now this day was on the 10th of the month Tisri, which answers to
                       the latter part of our September, and the former part of October; so that it was
                       now Michaelmas time, when winter was coming on, and sailing began to be]]></page><page Index="63"><![CDATA[dangerous; about this time of the year the Pleiades set, which brings on
                       tempestuous weather, and unfit for sailing:

               From October until March, ships usually remain in their home harbor because the weather is
               too unpredictable.  Paul will advise them not to sail, but remain in Crete for the winter.  He will
               sense in his spirit the extreme danger of the voyage to the ship, its cargo, and the passengers.

               Act 27:10  saying, "Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not
               only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives."

               Paul waits for his spirit to bear witness because of the natural danger of this time of year.  He
               perceives that the danger will be too great.  Some believers would want to go on “in faith” and
               trust God.  If something is not directly told you in God’s Word, you can only act in faith on what
               your spirit perceives by the direction of the Holy Spirit.  In this case, the Holy Spirit is telling Paul
               not to go.  The crew is tired of Lasea and wants to go on to Rome where times are more
               exciting.  Paul will be overruled by the captain and majority opinion.  The will of the majority is
               not always correct.

               Paul went through three shipwrecks during his lifetime (2 Corinthians 11:25).

                       27:10 disaster, hubris (hoo-bris);  Hurt, loss, injury arising from violence, damage caused
                       by the elements, hardship, detriment, trouble, and danger. In 2 Corinthians 12:10,
                       where Paul described the reproaches he endured for the Lord’s sake, hubris denotes
                       insolence, impudence, a haughty attitude, insult, injury, outrage, persecution, and
                       affront. The word is definitely adversarial. (Compare “hubristic” and “hybrid.”)
               Act 27:11  Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of
               the ship Than by the things spoken by Paul.

               Once a Roman soldier steps on board a ship, he is the final authority.  Roman law is in effect.
               However, this officer takes the word of the ship’s owner over Paul.  The owner wants to get his
               money for the grain, and he wants it quickly.  The crew and passengers want to travel to Rome
               because they are bored.

               Act 27:12  And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail
               from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward
               the southwest and northwest, and winter there.

               And because the haven was not commodious (accommodating) to winter in, the more part
               (crew and passengers) advised to and depart thence (from there) also, if by any means they
               might attain (make it) to Phenice (Phoenix), and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete,
               and lieth for the south west and north west (navigational directions).

               Phoenix is around the island and a more popular resort city in which to spend the winter.  Yet
               when it is not God’s will to move at all, even a small move is a play into the devil’s hands.]]></page><page Index="64"><![CDATA[Act 27:13  When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their desire,
               putting out to sea, they sailed close by Crete.

               The weather looked calm and perfect to sail into Phoenix.  The men are so confident in making
               this short journey, they do not pull up the lifeboats or frap the ship for high winds.

               THE WORST STORM (14-32)

               While on their journey, they sailed into a fierce storm.  The winds of the storm push the ship
               toward the island of Clauda.  They strengthen the hull against the storm.  For the next two
               weeks, they are blown nearly 500 miles across an open sea.  They throw cargo overboard to
               lighten the ship.  Next, the ship’s machinery is thrown overboard in an attempt to keep the ship
               afloat.  The storm continues many more days, and all on board are without food during this
               time.  Paul then encourages the crew explaining that an angel has appeared to him telling him
               all who remain on board will live.

               Act 27:14  But not long after, a tempestuous head wind arose, called Euroclydon.

               But not long after there arose (ballo: throw, thrust) against it a tempestuous (tuphonikos:
               typhoon) wind, called Euroclydon (euro: East, Europe; clydon: north, a northeasterly wind)

               The wind pushes the ship away from the shores of Crete, not along them.  They are being
               pushed toward the island of Claude and the ship and crew are unprepared for this violent
               storm.  There are two long sandbars off the coast (verse 17) of North Africa, and the ship was
               now in danger of becoming stuck and battered to pieces by the wind.

               Act 27:15  So when the ship was caught, and could not head into the wind, we let her drive.

               There would be a danger of the ship breaking in half because it was not undergirded (frapped)
               for violent weather.

               Act 27:16  And running under the shelter of an island called Clauda, we secured the skiff with
               difficulty.

               And running under (around the tip of) a certain island which is called Claudia, we had much
               work to come by (hoist up) the boat:

               This is the shore boat that has been sitting in water and is now being pulled on board the ship.
               The shore boat will be very important later (verse 30).
               Act 27:17  When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing
               lest they should run aground on the Syrtis Sands, they struck sail and so were driven.


               Which (boat) when they had taken (pulled) up, they used helps (hoists), undergirding the ship;
               and fearing lest they should fall (stick) into the quicksand (sandbar), strake sail (exchanged
               sails), and so were driven.]]></page><page Index="65"><![CDATA[The crew used ropes and hoists to strengthen the hull of the ship so it will not drift apart if
               broken.  When this is completed, they take down the main sails and put up a small storm sail
               allowing the ship to be taken by the wind.  They will hold on for their lives for the next two
               weeks as the ship is blown over 480 miles across the open sea from Crete to Miletus.  The wind
               will now blow them parallel to the sandbars directly west toward Italy.

               Act 27:18  And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the
               ship.

               Act 27:19  On the third day we threw the ship's tackle overboard with our own hands.

               Now the passengers are unloading the ship.  This is the machinery on deck for the functioning
               of the ship.  Apparently, the ship is leaking from the pressure on the mainsail and the frapping
               equipment was no longer needed.  The captain’s objective is just to remain afloat.

               Act 27:20  Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat
               on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up.

               Because of the storm, the passengers and crew have not seen the sun for almost 11 days and
               have become despondent.  This storm is not only furious, it continues for many days beyond
               any normal storm known in the Mediterranean.  All hope is gone, and everyone resigns
               themselves to die.  Also, the food supply has been depleted which adds to the misery.
               Act 27:21  But after long abstinence from food, then Paul stood in the midst of them and said,
               "Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this
               disaster and loss.

               But after long abstinence (no food) Paul stood forth (up) in the midst of them (crew,
               passengers, captain/owner), and said, Sirs (anhr: noblemen), ye should have hearkened (taken
               my advice) unto me, and not have loosed (set sail) from Crete, and to have gained this harm (to
               passengers) and loss (to cargo).

               Paul is establishing his credibility as a prophet.  The captain will listen to him from this time
               forward.  He is not saying “I told you so,” but letting him know if he had been right before, he
               would be right again.  Paul’s commands will be responsible for the saving of the people though
               the ship will be destroyed.

               Act 27:22  And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only
               of the ship.

               And now I exhort (advise) you to be of good cheer (be encouraged): for there shall be no loss of
               any man’s life among you, but of the ship.

               Paul encourages everyone to “be of good cheer.”  These are the same words the Lord spoke to
               Paul when he was discouraged in the Roman prison (23:11).  Paul will give them a word from
               the Lord to once again restore hope (verse 20).]]></page><page Index="66"><![CDATA[Act 27:23  For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I
               serve,

               Paul states an angel stood by him.  He wants to establish his office and God’s confirmation of it
               so these men will listen to his commands.  God will preserve Paul and all those around him.
               These people are being blessed by being in Paul’s presence.  Paul makes a distinction between
               the new birth in his life and service to God.  The new birth is not service.

               Act 27:24  saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God
               has granted you all those who sail with you.'

               Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must (it is necessary) be brought before Caesar (Nero): and, lo, God
               hath given thee all them that sail with thee.

               Even Paul had begun to worry.  Paul is the one on this ship who is predominantly under attack
               by Satan.  His faith is keeping the ship afloat.  If fear is permitted to enter, Paul’s faith will not
               work, and this ship will be lost.  An angel appears to Paul to bolster his confidence, and the
               other passengers benefit.

               Paul is “salt” on this voyage and preserving the entire crew.  Paul’s ministry is not yet
               completed.  His faith is active again.  He will stand before Caesar, and he has complete
               confidence knowing no devil or storm will destroy him.
               Act 27:25  Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me.


               This encouragement comes directly from God.  Even though Paul speaks the words, he is
               delivering God’s word to the men.  This word will be received and acted upon and come to
               pass.  God’s Word never fails and is always fulfilled.

               Act 27:26  However, we must run aground on a certain island."

               This certain island was Miletas (Acts 28:1).

               God has a plan for Paul, the people with him, and the inhabitants of the island.  They will be
               evangelized by the healing and saving power of God.

               Act 27:27  Now when the fourteenth night had come, as we were driven up and down in the
               Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors sensed that they were drawing near some land.

               But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about
               midnight the shipmen (crew) deemed (suspicioned) that they drew near to some country
               (land);

               At this time, Paul and those on board the ship are completely at the mercy of the wind and
               waves.  Adria is a port on the Mediterranean between Italy and Macedonia, which crosses the
               path of Paul’s ship.  This area is near the island of Miletas.]]></page><page Index="67"><![CDATA[Act 27:28  And they took soundings and found it to be twenty fathoms; and when they had
               gone a little farther, they took soundings again and found it to be fifteen fathoms.

               And sounded, and found it twenty fathoms (120 feet): and when they had gone a little further,
               they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms (90 feet).

               A weight on the end of the rope is dropped to determine the depth of the water.  By knowing
               the water is becoming shallower, they know they are moving toward shore.

               Act 27:29  Then, fearing lest we should run aground on the rocks, they dropped four anchors
               from the stern, and prayed for day to come.

               Being near a shore is no indicator of safety.  The coastline is unknown and the crew waits for
               daylight to see what conditions await them.  They throw out the anchors located at the rear of
               the ship to keep it from being torn apart.

               Act 27:30  And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, when they had let down the
               skiff into the sea, under pretense of putting out anchors from the prow,

               And as the shipmen (seamen) were about to flee out of (desert) the ship, when they had let
               down the boat into the sea, under colour (pretense, look like) as though they would have cast
               anchors (anchored) out of the foreship (front),


               The lifeboat looks like a good means of escape, and the crew decides to make a run for their
               lives under the pretense of anchoring the front of the ship.  However, they are caught because
               Paul is observing the entire scene.
               Act 27:31  Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you
               cannot be saved."

               Paul says, “All must remain on board the ship for God’s promise of their safety being spared to
               come to pass.”

               Act 27:32  Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the skiff and let it fall off.

               Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.

               THE SHIPWRECK AT MILETAS (33-44)


               Paul encourages everyone to take a little meat and bread.  They then throw the wheat
               overboard.  They see a shoreline and decide to head the ship toward the shore.  The ship
               becomes grounded in a sandbar.  Two currents come together ripping the ship apart.  The
               soldiers decide to kill all the prisoners, including Paul, but the centurion stops them.  Some
               swim to shore and others float on the wreckage from the ship.
               Act 27:33  And as day was about to dawn, Paul implored them all to take food, saying, "Today is
               the fourteenth day you have waited and continued without food, and eaten nothing.]]></page><page Index="68"><![CDATA[They have not thrown all of the food overboard; they saved a small amount.  Paul now asks
               them to eat the food for strength to make it to shore.  Paul has taken command.  In fear, no
               one has eaten and they have lost track of time.  Fear of death has kept them from eating.
               When people are in fear, they need a leader to instruct them in doing the simplest of things.

               Act 27:34  Therefore I urge you to take nourishment, for this is for your survival, since not a hair
               will fall from the head of any of you."

               Paul is using common sense along with the discernment of the Holy Spirit.

               Act 27:35  And when he had said these things, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the
               presence of them all; and when he had broken it he began to eat.

               We are not told that Paul witnessed to these people, although he probably does.  When Paul
               takes food, he prays and blesses it in front of them all (1 Timothy 4:3-4).

               Act 27:36  Then they were all encouraged, and also took food themselves.

               They followed Paul’s leadership and also ate the food available.

               Act 27:37  And in all we were two hundred and seventy-six persons on the ship.
               Act 27:38  So when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship and threw out the wheat
               into the sea.


               After eating they all went to work, both the crew and the passengers.  Since wet wheat is
               heavy, they throw out the wheat so the ship will not sit low in the water and become stuck
               before reaching shore.
               Act 27:39  When it was day, they did not recognize the land; but they observed a bay with a
               beach, onto which they planned to run the ship if possible.

               They see the shore, but this is an unchartered island.  They have no map of where to land.

               Act 27:40  And they let go the anchors and left them in the sea, meanwhile loosing the rudder
               ropes; and they hoisted the mainsail to the wind and made for shore.

               And when they had taken up (cut off) the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea,
               and loosed the rudder bands (which held the rudder fast), and hoisted up the mainsail (storm
               sail) to the wind, and made (moved) toward shore (the beach).

               Act 27:41  But striking a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the prow
               stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the violence of the
               waves.

               And falling into a place where two seas met (strong currents), they ran the ship aground; and
               the forepart (bow) stuck fast, and remained immovable, but the hinder part (stern) was broken
               with the violence of the waves.]]></page><page Index="69"><![CDATA[The ship gets stuck on a sandbar that has been formed by the two currents coming together.
               The waves are splitting the ship in half.

               Act 27:42  And the soldiers' plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away
               and escape.

               Now that the ship is stuck outside the harbor, the soldiers want to kill the prisoners, including
               Paul.  Paul has already prophesied this would not happen, but they don’t care.  Now that they
               appear to be safe, the centurion will again assume command.

               Act 27:43  But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and
               commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land,

               Paul is now responsible again for sparing lives.  This time it is the prisoners.  Those who can
               swim are commanded to dive in and head toward shore first.

               Act 27:44  and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they
               all escaped safely to land.

               The centurion takes command, and they all make it to shore safely.]]></page><page Index="70"><![CDATA[Notes]]></page><page Index="71"/><page Index="72"/><page Index="73"><![CDATA[Chapter 28]]></page><page Index="74"><![CDATA[THE BOOK OF ACTS

               CHAPTER 28


               PAUL ARRIVES IN ROME

               THE CHALLENGE OF CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

               Paul has experienced the same shipwreck as the other passengers.  He is cold, tired, wet, and
               hungry, yet he is the only one mentioned as gathering sticks with the natives of the island to
               help build the fire so the other survivors can be warmed in the heat of the flames.  While doing
               something that will benefit others, he is bitten by a venomous snake.  Most would focus on the
               poison of the situation, but Paul doesn’t even give one thought to the attack, and it has no
               effect on him.

               When we walk with the Lord for any length of time, while doing good for others, we will
               eventually be unexpectedly attacked by another.  The attack may come from the world outside
               or from someone in the family of God.  Our response should be to shake off the offense, and
               not allow ourselves to be poisoned by the venom of unforgiveness.  When we respond in this
               way, we will be free to bless those around us who may be weary and worn out by the storms of
               life.

               PAUL’S MINISTRY ON THE ISLAND OF MILETAS (1-11)

               All passengers, in fulfillment of Paul’s prophecy, make it to the shore alive, and the natives of
               the island build a fire for those shipwrecked to warm themselves.  Paul gathers sticks to lie on
               the fire.  When he is bitten by a venomous snake, Paul shakes the snake off his hand into the
               fire.  The natives observe that no harm has come to Paul.  The governor of the island, Publius,
               invites Paul to stay on his estate. Publius’s father is sick, Paul prays for him, and he is healed.
               Others suffering from diseases then come to Paul for prayer and are healed.  The people of the
               island bless Paul and the others from the ship who have lost everything.

               Act 28:1  Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta.

               Swimmers and non-swimmers all make it to shore and fulfilled Paul’s prophecy (27:22).

               Act 28:2  And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all
               welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.

               These are unbelievers with great manners and concern for others.  They do not prey on
               shipwrecks and kill people for their possessions.  They prepare a fire for them because the
               survivors are wet, and it is a very cold time of the year.

                       28:2  kindness, philanthropia (fil-an-thro-pee-ah);  Compare “philanthropist” and
                       “philanthropy.” Love for mankind, hospitality, acts of kindness, readiness to help,
                       human friendship, benevolence, and taking thought of others. The word is a compound]]></page><page Index="75"><![CDATA[of philos, love,” and anthropos, “man.” In Titus 3:4, philanthropia is used to describe
                       God’s loving kindness toward men.

               Act 28:3  But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came
               out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand.

               Paul is not laying on the shore with the rest of the people who are recovering from the
               shipwreck.  He is helping start the fire.  He is gathering sticks because this has always been his
               ministry as an under rower.  Snakes become dormant in the cold.  This snake has been sleeping
               among the sticks, and Paul does not distinguish the snake from the wood.  The fire causes the
               snake to jump out at Paul and fasten to his hand.  Its fangs are buried deep into Paul’s hand.

               Act 28:4  So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one
               another, "No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice
               does not allow to live."

               And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast (snake) hang on his hand, they said among
               themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet
               vengeance (an act of the gods) suffereth not to live.


               The snake keeps hanging onto Paul’s hand in plain sight of everyone while they questioned and
               reasoned among themselves.  The sinners assume the same thing many Christians do, “God is
               punishing him.”  They do not understand the tactics of Satan, therefore they blame God for
               everything in life.  These natives assume the god of vengeance is after Paul because he must be
               a murderer.  They have assigned to him a sin and already judged him.  Their venom is worse
               than that of the snake.

               Act 28:5  But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm.

               The snake holds fast to Paul’s hand.  Paul has to take authority over it (Luke 10:19; Mark 16:8)
               for the grip to loosen.  Paul does not pry its mouth open with his other hand; God breaks the
               grip, and Paul suffers no harm.  Paul is not too concerned about ecology.  He drops the snake
               into the fire to be burned up!  He does not release it back into its natural habitat.

               Act 28:6  However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But
               after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds
               and said that he was a god.

               There are two reactions caused by this snake.  An instant death or the body swelling up, causing
               a slow death.  As these men continue to stare at Paul, neither reaction occurs.  Paul is
               miraculously spared.  Because of this, one minute Paul is a murderer in their thinking, and the
               next, he is a god.  Because of this miracle, many people received Jesus as savior.  Because of the
               healing of the father of the Roman governor of the island, many more will believe and be born
               again.  There will be a church started on Malta.  Many of the Maltese believers will also be
               healed and taught the Word during the next three winter months Paul is with them.]]></page><page Index="76"><![CDATA[Act 28:7  In that region there was an estate of the leading citizen of the island, whose name was
               Publius, who received us and entertained us courteously for three days.

               In the same quarters (neighborhood, area) were possessions (estates, castles) of the chief man
               (protos: governor, ruler) of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged
               us three days courteously.

               This is a Roman man.  He officiates over this island as a Roman possession.  He is rich and has a
               large estate.  Paul’s team spends three days on the estate in the castle.  This is a good leader
               over a good island of people.  He and all of his people are courteous.

               Act 28:8  And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went
               in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him.

               And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick (“and dying [Greek]) of a fever (puretos:
               on fire, inflamed) and of a bloody flux (dusenteria: dysentery; dus: dangerous; enteria:
               intestines): to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.

               Publius’ father is bleeding from the rectum.  Paul does not pray “for him,” he just prays.  He
               hears the Holy Spirit, then lays hands on him, and the man is healed by God through Paul.  This
               opens the entire island to the gospel.
               Act 28:9  So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came
               and were healed.


               So when this was done (ginomai: came to pass, came into being), others also, which had
               diseases (astheneia: all kinds of diseases, infirmity, sickness, weakness) in the island, came, and
               were healed:

               The healing power of the Lord is demonstrated to show that God is no respecter of persons.
               Many probably think Paul will heal the governor’s father, but not them.  Paul shows God’s
               mercy is toward all.

                       28:8-9  Paul’s Healing Ministry in Malta, DIVINE HEALING.  Here is a reference to divine
                       healings in spite of the fact that Luke, a physician, accompanied Paul. This fact is so
                       troublesome to critics of modern healing that some have come forth with the theory
                       that the healings mentioned in verse 9 were the work of Luke who used medical
                       remedies, although Luke is not mentioned by name. The theory is based on the use of
                       therapeuo, the Greek word for “healing” (verse eight), which some insist refers to
                       medical therapy.

                       In fact, however, this word occurs 34 times in the NT. In 32 instances it clearly refers to
                       divine healings; and the other cases the use is general. Both words (iaomai and
                       therapeuo) are used in references to the same healing in Matthew 8:7-8, indicating the
                       terms are used interchangeably in the Bible.]]></page><page Index="77"><![CDATA[This observation is certainly not to oppose medical treatment or to say medicine or
                       medical aid is wrong. It is not. However, it does clarify that this text is not grounds for
                       the substitution of medical therapy for prayer. God heals by many means; the prayer of
                       faith, natural recuperative powers, medical aid or medicine, miracles.

               Act 28:10  They also honored us in many ways; and when we departed, they provided such
               things as were necessary.

               Who also honoured us with many honuors; and when we departed, they laded (laid heavy
               upon) us with such things as were necessary.

               They give many materialistic things to Paul and those on the ship who have lost everything.
               This includes food and clothing.  Paul has been on the island for three months and has been
               treated well by these people.  He has been on a three month vacation after many years of work
               and imprisonment.
               HEADING TOWARD ROME (12-16)


               After three months on the island, Paul is put on a ship heading toward Rome.  He finds great
               favor and is permitted to stay with believers in Puteoli for seven days.  Once arriving in Rome,
               rather than being delivered to the captain of the guard, he is allowed to remain with a soldier, a
               private guard.

               Act 28:11  After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin
               Brothers, which had wintered at the island.

               The captain of the ship decides not to attempt sailing any further and remains in Malta for the
               winter.  Castor and Pollux are the twin sons of Zeus and Lida.  One was a famous horse tamer,
               the other a boxer.  The two together are believed to be “good luck” for sailors against storms.
               The image of these two sons is carved on the front of this grain ship sailing from Alexandria to
               Rome.

               Act 28:12  And landing at Syracuse, we stayed three days.

               Syracuse is a Southeast port of the island of Sicily.  Syracuse is a famous Greek military
               stronghold that is eventually conquered by Rome.

               Act 28:13  From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south
               wind blew; and the next day we came to Puteoli,


               And from thence we fetched a compass (perierchomai: went around, wondering about), and
               came to Rhegium: and after one day (Paul probably prayed) the south wind blew, and we came
               the next day to Puteoli:
               They are headed toward the Straits of Messina, and the winds are unfavorable to pass through.
               They then sail around to Rhegium to wait for a south wind.  This is the only way a ship can]]></page><page Index="78"><![CDATA[safely pass through and not be smashed on the rocks or drowned by the whirlpool formed by
               the currents.  They continue on to Puteoli, a resort city in the Bay of Naples.  At this time, it is a
               very wealthy city, the home of many millionaires.

               Act 28:14  where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we
               went toward Rome.

               Where we found brethren (believers), and were desired (asked permission) to tarry with them
               seven days: and so we went toward Rome.

               Paul’s influence on the ship is now so great he is granted permission to stay a week with the
               believers in Puteoli.

               Act 28:15  And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as
               Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.

               Appii forum is ninety miles up the coast from Puteoli.  Word has spread of Paul’s presence and
               believers come to the docks to meet him.  Three Taverns is the next city, famous for its taverns.
               Many travelers stop there.  Two groups of believers travel from Rome to see Paul.  One group
               goes forty miles and meet him at Appii forum.  The others travel thirty miles and meet him at
               the Three Taverns.  Paul takes courage at their presence.  He has probably become discouraged
               about his mission to Rome and thinks he will be the only believer in the city.  He now finds
               others who probably tell him of the many churches praying for him and for his visit.  Paul is
               overjoyed and encouraged to find the gospel has been spread throughout Italy despite his own
               disobedience.

               We may be stopped, but the gospel can never be stopped.

               Act 28:16  Now when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of
               the guard; but Paul was permitted to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him.

               Paul has so impressed the centurion that he is put in a private cell with a private guard.  Paul
               stays here for two years before taking his fourth missionary journey.  The remainder of this
               chapter deals with Paul’s stay in prison.

               PAUL’S FIRST MEETING WITH THE ROMAN JEWS (17-32)


               Paul is permitted to address the Roman Jews, preaching that the Messiah has already come.
               The hearts of the Jews in Rome are open to hearing the gospel.  Paul remains in this place for
               two years, preaching the kingdom of God.


               Act 28:17  And it came to pass after three days that Paul called the leaders of the Jews
               together. So when they had come together, he said to them: "Men and brethren, though I have
               done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner
               from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans,]]></page><page Index="79"><![CDATA[Paul is now meeting with the most prominent Jews in the city.  He thinks either these Jews or
               the Jews from Jerusalem have written ahead to the Roman government and told them Paul was
               coming and all the trouble he had caused them.  This is probably one reason he is becoming
               discouraged as he comes nearer to Rome (verse 15).

               Act 28:18  who, when they had examined me, wanted to let me go, because there was no cause
               for putting me to death.

               The Romans could find no fault with Paul.

               Act 28:19  But when the Jews spoke against it, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, not that I
               had anything of which to accuse my nation.

               Paul is saying, “I am not here to accuse Israel before Rome.”

               Act 28:20  For this reason therefore I have called for you, to see you and speak with you,
               because for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain."

               Paul is preaching the Jewish message, but instead of the Messiah coming, Paul preaches He has
               come.

               Act 28:21  Then they said to him, "We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor
               have any of the brethren who came reported or spoken any evil of you.
               The Jews of Jerusalem think Paul is dead.  When he was put on the first ship from Adramyttium,
               they believed he would never make it to Rome.  They forgot about Paul, and never told the
               Roman Jews what they had done.

               Act 28:22  But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this sect, we know
               that it is spoken against everywhere."

               But we desire to hear of (from) thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect (faction,
               heresy [24:5, 24]), we know that every where it is spoken against.

               They want to hear and be objective about Christianity.  This is probably a great revelation to
               Paul.  He had such a great desire to go to Jerusalem that he was willing to miss the will of God
               entirely.  He did what he wanted to do and met opposition to the gospel, and not one Jew
               received Jesus because Paul never had an opportunity to preach.  God’s intention was for Paul
               to preach in Rome and He had to work a miracle to get Paul there safely.  Now Paul sees the
               open hearts of the Jews in Rome and realizes God knew the condition of their hearts the entire
               time.  God sends us to places where hearts are open and people will listen.

               Act 28:23  So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom
               he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus
               from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening.

               Paul uses the Old Testament to persuade them of Jesus as Messiah of Israel.]]></page><page Index="80"><![CDATA[Act 28:24  And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved.

               This is the usual response to the gospel.  Yet, this is a better response to the gospel then Paul
               received at Jerusalem.

               Act 28:25  So when they did not agree among themselves, they departed after Paul had said
               one word: "The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through Isaiah the prophet to our fathers,

               Act 28:26  saying, 'GO TO THIS PEOPLE AND SAY: "HEARING YOU WILL HEAR, AND SHALL NOT
               UNDERSTAND; AND SEEING YOU WILL SEE, AND NOT PERCEIVE;

               Act 28:27  FOR THE HEARTS OF THIS PEOPLE HAVE GROWN DULL. THEIR EARS ARE HARD OF
               HEARING, AND THEIR EYES THEY HAVE CLOSED, LEST THEY SHOULD SEE WITH THEIR EYES AND
               HEAR WITH THEIR EARS, LEST THEY SHOULD UNDERSTAND WITH THEIR HEARTS AND TURN, SO
               THAT I SHOULD HEAL THEM." '

               Go to this people and say:

               Hearing you will hear, and shall not understand;

               And seeing you will see, and not perceive;
               For the hearts of this people have grown dull.


               Their ears are hard of hearing,
               And their eyes they have closed,


               Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears,
               Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn,

               So that I should heal them.”

               Paul is quoting Isaiah 6:9-10 here.  Because of their negative attitude toward the Lord, they may
               hear and see physically, but never have their spiritual eyes and ears been opened (cf. Proverbs
               4:20-22; Matthew 13:13-17).

               Act 28:28  "Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation of God has been sent to the
               Gentiles, and they will hear it!"

               Paul explains, “You are no longer under the age of Israel, the Jewish dispensation, but the
               Church age, the age of the Gentiles.”

                       28:28  salvation, soterion (so-tay-ree-on);  Rescue, deliverance, safety, liberation,
                       release, preservation, and the general word for Christian salvation. (Compare
                       “soteriology.”)  Soterion only occurs five times.  Soteria, the generic word, occurs forty-
                       five times. It is an all-inclusive word signifying forgiveness, healing, prosperity,]]></page><page Index="81"><![CDATA[deliverance, safety, rescue, liberation, and restoration. Christ’s salvation is total in scope
                       for the total man: spirit, soul, and body.

               Act 28:29  And when he had said these words, the Jews departed and had a great dispute
               among themselves.

               This verse is not found in the original text.

               Act 28:30  Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who
               came to him,

               These are Gentiles who want to grow in the Word and those who need salvation.

               Act 28:31  preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus
               Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.

               “Preaching” is to unbelievers and “teaching” is to believers.  Paul ministers in peace for two
               years under Roman protection.]]></page><page Index="82"><![CDATA[Notes]]></page><page Index="83"/><page Index="84"/></pages></Search>
