The
chaos surrounding Paul’s imprisonment had been going on for years. It was a
local mainstay that nobody quite understood. The Jews continually produced
false charges against him and the Roman officials didn’t know exactly why Paul
was facing legal opposition. Felix had delayed Paul’s verdict so long that he
was succeeded as governor by Porcius Festus (24:27). The Jewish leaders again
presented their case against Paul (v. 2). They tried to get Paul transferred to
Jerusalem so they could ambush and kill him, but Festus declined their
suggestion (v. 3-5). The same Jews who accused Paul to Festus went to Caesarea
to present their case before the court. They trumped up serious charges against
Paul but couldn’t offer any proof (v. 6-7). Paul, again, stated his complete
innocence (v. 8). In a fair trial the failure of to produce evidence will
result in the accused being released. However, Paul recognized that justice
would not be executed fairly while he remained in that region. There were too
many corrupt parties with vested interests in his case (v. 3). So, as a Roman
citizen, Paul exercised his right to appeal to Caesar (v. 10-11). A few days
later King Agrippa visited Caesarea (v. 13). After hearing about Paul’s case
from Festus, Agrippa requested to speak directly to Paul (v. 22). The next day
Festus brought Paul into the audience room before King Agrippa (v. 23). Festus
explained that he had no charges against Paul to send to Caesar (v. 25-27). He
hoped that the charges against Paul would be clarified in this meeting.
Journaling and Prayer
1. Paul’s persecutors were persistent and
deceitful. By human standards, Paul had numerous reasons to be angry and
resentful. However, we never once see Paul sin against his persecutors. Ask God
to search your heart for bitterness or resentment. Ask Him to show you what
event or situation first caused these feelings in your heart. Ask Him to reveal
to you any lies planted by this event or situation; then let Him show you His
truth on the matter.
2. The
Holy Spirit consistently empowered Paul to walk blamelessly and share the word
of God. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you today and empower you to live boldly
and blamelessly.
3. Ask God how He wants you to intercede today. Ask
for specific people or situations to pray for and let Him show you how to pray
for them.
