Once again Paul finds himself defending Jesus Christ before a hostile Jewish opposition. To ascertain the reason for the riot that took place in the temple, the tribune, Claudius Lysias, brought Paul before the council of the Sanhedrin. In this narrative we are exposed to the human side of Paul, in his humble and wise approach to those who would unjustly condemn him to death. We also witness the comforting support of Jesus as His Lord who stands by Him and promises that “as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome” (23:11). From this passage we learn that the Lord stands by His witnesses whose conscience remains pure before God, whose attitude remains humble before others, and whose hope remains steadfast on Jesus.
- Paul before God (23:1)
- Paul before man (23:2-10)
- Jesus before Paul (23:11)