Easy Bible・Acts 23

Paul's Defense before the Sanhedrin

Key Passages

About this Chapter

In Acts 23, Paul is brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, to defend himself against the accusations of the high priest Ananias. Paul, aware of the division between the Pharisees and the Sadducees on the issue of resurrection, cleverly uses this division to his advantage. He proclaims that he is on trial because of his hope in the resurrection of the dead, which the Pharisees believe in. This causes a dispute between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, with the Pharisees siding with Paul and the Sadducees opposing him. The situation becomes so heated that the Roman commander fears for Paul's safety and orders his soldiers to take him back to the barracks. That night, the Lord appears to Paul and encourages him, assuring him that he will testify about Jesus in Rome. The next day, a group of more than forty Jews form a conspiracy to kill Paul, vowing not to eat or drink until they have accomplished their goal. However, Paul's nephew overhears their plan and reports it to the Roman commander. The commander takes immediate action to protect Paul and sends him, under heavy guard, to Caesarea to be tried before Felix, the governor. This chapter highlights Paul's courage and determination to continue preaching the gospel, even in the face of opposition and danger. It also demonstrates God's providential care for Paul, using various means to protect him and fulfill His purpose for Paul to testify in Rome.