Superior Word Daily Devotional on the Book of Acts

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:14

Monday, January 1st, 2024




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. Acts 23:14


A literal translation is, “Who, having come to the chief priests and the elders said, ‘Anathema, anathematized ourselves – tasting nothing until that we should kill Paul’” (CG).



In the previous verse, it was noted that forty men had come together against Paul. Of them, it next says, “Who, having come to the chief priests and the elders.” They had made a joint oath to kill Paul. This is often translated as a conspiracy. Now, they will present their intentions to the chief priests and elders. As such, and even if they have not joined in the oath, these rulers are now a part of this conspiracy.



It was said in their midst quite some time earlier, “And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; 39 but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God” (Acts 5:38, 39). This was repeated in part in Acts 23:9.



As this movement has taken root, it means that the elders and priests are clearly pitting themselves against God if they agree to what is next said by the forty men, “Anathema, anathematized ourselves.”



The way the Greek is structured in these words follows the pattern of a Hebrew idiom where a verb is repeated while being restructured for emphasis. This intensifies the words being spoken. The word “great” stated in the NKJV may help convey this idea for our English understanding, but it is not a part of the Greek. The idiom itself is sufficient to understand the intensive nature of the statement.



They have irretrievably bound themselves to a particular matter until it is seen through. With that, they next explain what it is they have committed to, saying, “tasting nothing until that we should kill Paul.”



These men know that the faction of the Sadducees would be more than happy to hear this news. The brutality of the high priest, who was a Sadducee, was known, and he would be most displeased with how the events of the inspection of Paul came out. Knowing this, they will use his authority as a pretext to be rid of Paul.



In their oath, and in the fact that they are repeating its substance to the chief priests and elders, there is conveyed a sense of urgency. They would quickly lose their strength and their stamina if their request was not expedited. They are trusting that what they recommend will be approved and acted upon speedily. What is occurring also matches the words of Jonathan in 1 Samuel 14 –



“Then one of the people said, ‘Your father strictly charged [literally: swearing, has sworn] the people with an oath, saying, ‘Cursed is the man who eats food this day.’ And the people were faint.

29 But Jonathan said, ‘My father has troubled the land. Look now, how my countenance has brightened because I tasted a little of this honey. 30 How much better if the people had eaten freely today of the spoil of their enemies which they found! For now would there not have been a much greater slaughter among the Philistines?’” 1 Samuel 14:28-30



Life application: If you are plotting to do wickedness and you go to someone in a higher position of authority to get approval for what you are doing, it does not exonerate you from your actions.



For example, if you are planning on murdering your child through abortion, you might go through the court system and get them to declare abortion legal in the land. Should that be approved, it does not mean that you are now absolved from the guilt of murder when you have your child killed.



This goes along with things like voting as well. If you vote for someone who will work to make abortion legal, you are participating in the resulting laws being passed. We all need to understand that just because something is legal, it does not mean it is morally right in God’s eyes. The only way to be freed from the sin debt you bear is to come to Jesus and be cleansed. From there, live rightly and in accord with Scripture. This is what God would have you do.



Lord God Almighty, we are prone to make all kinds of mistakes in life. We may try to hide some of them by claiming what we are doing is legal. But if it is contrary to Your will, we are guilty of our actions, nonetheless. Help us to consider this and to do what is right and good in Your eyes at all times. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:15

Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024


“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.” Acts 23:15


In the last verse, the men who were plotting to kill Paul placed themselves under an oath and informed the chief priests and elders of their intentions. With that remembered, it next says, “Now you, therefore, together with the council, suggest to the commander that he be brought down to you tomorrow.”



Some manuscripts leave off the word “tomorrow,” but it is probably correctly placed here. There is a definite sense of urgency concerning the vow. It is, therefore, unlikely that they would simply leave the timing open to the convenience of whenever a general meeting was held. Instead, it would need to be expedited.



The band of men had laid out the plans and made the agreement. And so, they would be conveying their intentions, including the particulars, at this time. Next, they explain why they wanted this request to be made, saying, “as though you were going to make further inquiries concerning him.”



This squarely places these leaders in the crosshairs as far as guilt before both Rome and God is concerned. They now know of the ongoing plan and are being directly asked to participate in it. This call for Paul, however, is a pretext for something else. As it next says, “but we are ready to kill him before he comes near.”



Charles Ellicott notes three reasons for this action being necessary –



“…either (1) because the Sanhedrin had lost, under Roman rule, its power to inflict capital punishment; or (2) because, even if they possessed that power, the chiliarch was not likely to allow its exercise in the case of a Roman citizen; or (3) because the experience of the previous day had shown that the violent party were not likely to obtain a majority in the Council.”



No matter what, the plan is certainly plausible because nothing had been decided in the previous interrogation, and so another one would be both expected and appropriate. The words “kill him before he comes near” are intended to keep the council’s hands free from accusation by the Roman masters. However, there could always be a weak link in this chain that would identify them as a part of the growing conspiracy.



Life application: When those in power want to retain their power, it will often result in harming others. Imagine a party having lost an election and seeing their goals being swept away by a well-respected and honest leader. The only way for them to regain power is to rely on deceit, theft of the popular vote, and using those aligned with them who are still in jobs within the government.



From there, and once the election is stolen, those who were aligned with the now-ousted leader are pursued with reckless abandon by the new government. False charges are made up, sham councils are organized that have highly edited videos to manipulate the truth and malign anyone who disagrees with them.



Lives are ruined, trust in the government is lost, and fear of speaking out becomes the standard for most. Those who are willing to speak out risk their very lives to uphold what is right. Does this sound impossible to you? Then maybe you need to reevaluate what has been going on in the world around you.



You must decide whether you will speak out against what is wrong, or if you will safely and quietly remain in the background, not wanting to upset the applecart. Such decisions must be made by each person in such a nation. Where will you stand when you find yourself in a position like this?



O God, help us to be willing to work against the evil that surrounds us in the world. May we be bold enough to call out wrongdoing, identifying it for what it is. Someone must do so, or the wicked will certainly prevail. Give us the fortitude we need to do what is right. Yes, be with us, O God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:16

Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024


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


The Greek more literally reads, “And the son of Paul’s sister, having heard of the ambush, having come and having entered into the barracks, reported to Paul” (CG).



The previous verse gave the details of the plot that had been schemed against Paul. Now, Luke continues to record what transpired after that, beginning with, “And the son of Paul’s sister.”



The sister and nephew of Paul are the only named relatives in the book and possibly in the Bible. Romans 16:7 & 11 mention Paul’s kinsmen, but this could refer to kinsmen of the flesh, meaning Jews. That cannot be discerned decidedly in one way or another. However, these two can. Of this nephew, it says, “having heard of the ambush.”



Luke leaves off any details of how he could have heard about this. He simply states it as a fact that he heard. The next words show that despite, or maybe because of, Paul’s faith in Jesus, they were still close as a family. The record says, “having come and having entered into the barracks, reported to Paul.”



When he heard of the plot, it was something he felt needed to be reported immediately. This sister may not have lived in Jerusalem or Paul may have stayed with her rather than Mnason (Acts 21:16). If she lived back in Paul’s hometown, then this young man may have been sent to Jerusalem as a student of the rabbis just as Paul was.



If so, and it is all speculation, then he may have heard of the plot via the people he was studying with because these would be the circles where talk of this would occur. This is especially so when 40 people had come under the same vow and whose vow was known to the rulers. Such a matter could not be kept quiet within the rabbinic circles of the Pharisees and Sadducees.



Another possibility is that the nephew was in town for the feast along with all the other Jews, but this would not explain how he came to know of the plot. It is unlikely that it was common knowledge in Jerusalem.



Noting that he entered into the barracks tells us that Paul was given liberties while he was detained. More than this, his detainment at this point would be not so much for the good of the public but for his own good. He had not been charged with any crime. Therefore, being allowed visitors would be acceptable.



Life application: As noted above, Paul’s close kin were allied with him despite (or maybe because of) his faith. If they were not believers, they were willing to help him despite this. If they were, they would be even more willing to help him.



The record does not say either way, and thus it is purposeful. There are cults that ask their followers to not associate with people outside of their circles, including family members. This is wholly unscriptural, and it is a good indication that you should not give them an ear, even for a moment. Get away from such control freaks before you get sucked into their aberrant teachings.



Paul’s words are clear –



“But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner—not even to eat with such a person.

12 For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside? 13 But those who are outside God judges. Therefore ‘put away from yourselves the evil person.’” 1 Corinthians 5:11-13



It is not those outside of the faith that we need to keep away from. Rather, it is miscreants who call themselves believers that are to be avoided. And avoid them like the plague. They can only damage your walk with the Lord and bring you into whatever bondage they are held by.



Lord God Almighty, give us wisdom when dealing with others. So many people have perverse hidden agendas that will only draw our eyes away from You. And yet, they can be very cunning and convincing in how they present their messages. Help us to not get duped by such people. May our allegiance be directly to You through Jesus! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:17

Thursday, January 4th, 2024


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.” Acts 23:17


The words more literally read, “And Paul, having called one of the centurions, said, ‘Take this young man to the commander, for he has something to report to him.’”



In the previous verse, it noted that Paul’s nephew heard of the planned ambush, and so he went to the barracks and told Paul. With that remembered, it next says, “And Paul, having called one of the centurions.”



The centurion was probably the head man on duty at the time. The centurion would then have reported to the commander (chiliarchos, thus a chiliarch,) who would have been over ten centurions and in charge of the entire force at the fort. Having called the centurion, Paul then said, “Take this young man to the commander.”



The word translated as “young man” doesn’t tell us much concerning his age, but what will happen later will show that he is probably a very young person. The word in Greek simply means a youth or a young man. At times, it is even used for a man of forty years of age. Having said that, Paul continues, saying, “for he has something to report to him.”



Because of his status as a Roman citizen by birth, the request would not be out of line. The centurion certainly would not want to impede the matter, especially after what previously happened when Paul was illegally bound. Further, the petition for the commander to hear the matter meant that it was above his own pay grade to properly handle.



It should be noted that Paul has already been promised by the Lord that he would be safeguarded and that he would see Rome, but this doesn’t exclude him from acting in order to make that happen. There is nothing contradictory in the two concepts. Rather his efforts will complement the promise already made.



Life application: Quite often, people expect their lives to be without troubles simply because they have accepted Jesus. It is as if the purpose of their faith is for them to be served by God. When something difficult, taxing, or even terrible happens, the first question off of their lips is, “Why is God doing this to me?”



For example, the person has a car, needing it to get to work each day. If the car breaks down, the “Why is God…?” question pops out. Is it God’s responsibility to ensure the car runs forever? Should we expect Him to spend His time changing the oil, greasing the joints, and keeping it filled with gas? If not, then at what point does His responsibility start?



The same person, on the same day, has the home air conditioner fail. Again, the almost accusing question pops forth, “Why is He treating me this way?” How many times was the a/c turned on and a “Thank You for this wonderful a/c!” uttered? If not, then it demonstrates that it was something under that person’s control.



Cars break down, air conditioners fail, and bills must be paid. We cannot expect God to live our lives for us. Rather, we should take the actions necessary to have our lives operate properly. And even if we are responsible for hot water heaters, isn’t it right from time to time to thank the Lord for the hot water we have? Many people in the world have never taken a hot shower.



We should be grateful for every blessing we possess, and yet, we should be responsible enough to care for those things that are under our control without blaming God or questioning His goodness when things stop working as they should.



The more we have this perspective, the less we will be frustrated by the world which casts out frustration at every rising of the sun. Be grateful! Be filled with thanks! And be content, even in times of trouble! Live a life that is tuned into the goodness of God, even as you walk through the troubled valleys of life.



Lord God, how thankful we are for every good and kind blessing of this life. Ultimately, all good things come down from Your open hand of grace. Help us to be appreciative of what we have, responsible for caring for those things, and accepting of the times when they fail or are taken away from us. Above all, thank You, O God, for the giving of Jesus Christ our Lord. Hallelujah and amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:18

Friday, January 5th, 2024

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.” Acts 23:18


A literal translation would be, “He, therefore, indeed, having taken him, brought to the commander. And says, ‘The prisoner Paul, having summoned me, asked to lead this young man to you, having something to say to you’” (CG).



Paul had just asked one of the centurions to take his nephew to the commander to relay some important information. Next, Luke says, “He, therefore, indeed, having taken him, brought to the commander.”



There is a note of military obedience here. There was no questioning of Paul by the centurion, just the obedience of such a life under authority. This may be mingled with respect for Paul because he didn’t say, “I’ll let the commander know and will be right back.”



In other words, he may have trusted Paul’s interactions with the commander and the other centurions enough to comply without first receiving verification that Paul’s request was acceptable. Rather, it was understood to be so. And so, he conducts the boy to the commander and advises him of the situation. Luke uses a present tense verb to convey the beginning of the exchange, saying, “And says, ‘The prisoner Paul, having summoned me.’”



Luke brings his audience directly into the narrative with the present tense “says.” It is as if we are watching the event as it unfolds. Also, rather than “called,” the word signifies to call near. Thus, “summoned” conveys the sense. It wasn’t something Paul shouted out from a distance. Rather, it is something that he wanted to keep closely guarded.



The sense may be that Paul was afraid that some of the guards might secretly be on the payroll of the Jewish officials. This would be less likely with a centurion. Also, Paul is called “the prisoner Paul.” It is a name which he will afterward call himself in both Ephesians 3:1 and Philemon 1:1. He will also allude to his status as a prisoner several times elsewhere. The walls of prison became a common sight in his life as an apostle. Vincent’s Word Studies explains Roman imprisonment –



“The prisoner (ὁ δέσμιος) From δέω, to bind. Paul, as a Roman citizen, was held in custodia militaris, ‘military custody.’ Three kinds of custody were recognized by the Roman law: 1. Custodia publica (public custody); confinement in the public jail. This was the worst kind, the common jails being wretched dungeons. Such was the confinement of Paul and Silas at Philippi. 2. Custodia libera (free custody), confined to men of high rank. The accused was committed to the charge of a magistrate or senator, who became responsible for his appearance on the day of trial. 3. Custodia militaris (military custody). The accused was placed in charge of a soldier, who was responsible with his life for the prisoner’s safe-keeping, and whose left hand was secured by a chain to the prisoner’s right. The prisoner was usually kept in the barracks, but was sometimes allowed to reside in a private house under charge of his guard.”



As Paul was guarded in prison, and for whatever reason, he specifically summoned the centurion to personally convey his request to the commander. With that noted, Paul’s request is repeated by the centurion, saying that Paul “asked to lead this young man to you, having something to say to you.”



The matter was important enough for the young man to be taken to the commander personally, not to be transmitted indirectly.



Life application: In both testaments of Scripture, the necessity to not share things that are private is highlighted. For example, in Proverbs 16:28, it says –



“A perverse man sows strife,

And a whisperer separates the best of friends.”



Paul was careful to keep his nephew’s information carefully guarded. If a whisperer can ruin friendships, how much more can he do in a place where there may be spies? The best thing to do is to keep private matters private. No matter how much someone seems trustworthy, the temptation to further pass on personal information or secrets is great.



Eventually, there will be a breakdown in the chain of people sharing with “just one person” who shouldn’t be trusted with even the day’s headline news. To avoid many troubles and grief, remember that if you are told something in private, it should not be repeated to anyone without permission to do so.



Heavenly Father, help us to be trustworthy in our speech and conduct before You. Help us not to be tempted to disclose private matters, even if it seems like it is safe to do so. Rather, let us share those things that need to be shared openly, such as the gospel. Yes, Lord, give us wisdom to keep private things private and to call out the Good News at all times. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:19

Saturday, January 6th, 2024


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


A literal translation is, “And the commander, having taken his hand, and having withdrawn in private, inquired, ‘What is it that you have to tell me?’”



In the previous verse, the centurion had taken Paul’s nephew to the commander so that he could convey a message to him. Next, it says, “And the commander, having taken his hand.”



These words certainly imply that Paul’s nephew was very young. It can almost be felt in the words that he feared even being in the presence of the military, and so to calm him and assure him that all was well, the commander literally took him by the hand. The gesture would not go beyond a child in his early teens. Understanding this, it next says, “and having withdrawn in private.”



This tells us that the commander was wary of anyone, even his own men. If they were spendthrifts, as soldiers often are, they would be hard up for money. Someone in authority among the Jews could take advantage of this and bribe them for information.



If the matter was important enough for Paul to send the boy to him directly, it meant that it was something that could affect his life. Attempts to kill him had already taken place on several occasions. To succeed in an assignation while Paul was in Roman custody would be a giant success for their cause. Therefore, the commander took him aside and “inquired, ‘What is it that you have to tell me?’”



It appears that the commander was favorable toward receiving the message before it was even spoken. In other words, he had seen what transpired between Paul and his accusers. He also knew that Paul was a citizen who had almost been beaten illegally by his own men.



In reassuring the boy, he does everything possible to guarantee that whatever was important enough to be brought to his personal attention by Paul was important enough to be done with tenderness and in a private setting. The commander had made a grievous mistake in having Paul bound and prepared for scourging. He did not want any such thing that could bring personal harm to Paul to happen again.



Life application: The words of this verse appear to reveal that Luke personally interviewed the commander. He could not otherwise know such minute detail, such as his taking the boy by his hand, unless he either witnessed it or was told it from the commander, one of the centurions, or Paul or his nephew. But what was said in private would only have been known by the commander or the nephew.



Think about such things as you read Acts. It is a carefully detailed record of things that actually transpired. It was then judiciously checked out by Luke, ensuring that we have the most accurate details possible. This is just what Luke claims at the beginning of his gospel account –



“Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.” Luke 1:1-4



As many details that we may have expected to be included are left out, and as many seemingly insignificant details are included, we can be assured that the Spirit was directing Luke each step of the way to come to an account that is exactly what God intended for us to receive.



Therefore, be assured that the word we are reading is truly the word of God. It is there for us to know and defend the faith we profess. Use it as such, to the glory of God.



Lord God, may we be aware of the contents of Your precious word and then be willing to defend our faith before others, using this word as the source of our understanding of what You have done, are doing, and will continue to do for the redemption of man. Thank You, O God, for this precious word. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:20

Sunday, January 7th, 2024




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. Acts 23:20


A literal translation is, “And he said, ‘That the Jews agreed to ask you that tomorrow you might bring down Paul to the council, as intending to more precisely inquire something about him’” (CG).



In the previous verse, the commander had taken Paul’s nephew by the hand and went aside with him to privately ask about why he had come. Now, the narrative continues with, “And he said, ‘That the Jews agreed to ask you.’”



The term “the Jews” is certainly speaking of the body of religious leaders within the nation, this would be specifically inclusive of the Sanhedrin. It is a term used of them several other times in the New Testament, especially in John. They are the leaders of the people. Therefore, they are called “the Jews” to represent the collective whole.



Saying they agreed to ask indicates that they are in full agreement with the plot against Paul. This would obviously be in violation of Roman law, but it would also be a violation of their own requirement to serve Rome. That is not contradictory at all. Jesus told them this when He was among them –



“And He said to them, ‘Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’” Matthew 22:21



But this wasn’t just something Jesus pulled out of the wind. At the time of the Babylonian exile, the Lord told them this through Jeremiah –



“Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all who were carried away captive, whom I have caused to be carried away from Jerusalem to Babylon:

5 ‘Build houses and dwell in them; plant gardens and eat their fruit. 6 Take wives and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons and give your daughters to husbands, so that they may bear sons and daughters—that you may be increased there, and not diminished. 7 And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the Lord for it; for in its peace you will have peace.’” Jeremiah 29:4-7



Israel served other nations because they failed to serve the Lord. This could be no less true under Rome than it was under Babylon. The guilt of “the Jews” was a guilt that transferred to the entire nation because they represented the nation. For now, the words of Paul’s nephew continue with, “that tomorrow you might bring down Paul to the council, as intending to more precisely inquire something about him.”



The term “the Jews” is further explained by the words “the council.” As leaders in the council, they are the leaders of the people. It is this council who is using the pretext that they have more to ask of Paul in order to have him killed on the way there.



Life application: Today, Israel is a nation under its own authority. This is the first time that this has been the case for thousands of years. This is not by random chance but by the providential hand of the Lord. The agreement they made at Sinai is still binding upon them. They will either serve the Lord, or they will receive the punishments of the law that they agreed to.



In serving the Lord properly, they must come to Christ Jesus. This is because law and the prophets testify to the coming of their Messiah, Jesus. It is their rejection of Him that brought them the catastrophes they have suffered. Jesus is the fulfillment of the law. Thus, He is the One who has brought the Law to its end.



The point of Jesus’ coming was to bring restoration and life to Israel that the law could never bring. Israel has a choice to make in order to receive life. However, the New Covenant was not limited to Israel. Gentiles, who were never under the law, are graciously grafted into it as well.



And so, why would anyone want to place the yoke of the law upon himself? Apart from Jesus, the law can only bring condemnation. Please remember this. Don’t fall into the trap of law observance. Instead, trust in the goodness of God through the giving of His Son to remove condemnation from all men. Come to the grace of God in Christ and be saved!



Lord God, may we be wise and discerning in our understanding of Your word. Keep us from those who would impose false teachings upon us and bring us under the bondage of the law. Instead, may we rest confidently in the work of Jesus, knowing He has done all things to secure our salvation and restore us to You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:21

Monday, January 8th, 2024




“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.” Acts 23:21


More literally, the Greek reads, “Therefore, you should not be persuaded by them. For more than forty men of them are lurking, who anathematized themselves, neither to eat nor to drink until that they have killed him. And now, they are ready, awaiting the promise from you” (CG).



In the previous verse, Paul’s nephew told the Roman commander that the Jews agreed to ask him to bring Paul down to the council on the following day. His words now continue, beginning with, “Therefore, you should not be persuaded by them.”



Without having yet said it, the meaning is clear. Something is amiss that sets the council against Paul. He has heard of it and has come into the Roman barracks to reveal it to the commander. His words continue with the actual details of the preplanned plot, saying, “For more than forty men of them are lurking.”



The word is enedreuó. This is its second and final use in Scripture. The first was seen in Luke 11–



“And as He said these things to them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to assail Him vehemently, and to cross-examine Him about many things, 54 lying in wait [enedreuó] for Him, and seeking to catch Him in something He might say, that they might accuse Him.” Luke 11:53, 54



It is derived from enedra, an ambush, plot, treachery, etc. Thus, it signifies to lurk. Figuratively, then, it means to plot Paul’s assassination. Of these lurking men, Paul’s nephew continues to describe them, saying, “who anathematized themselves.”



It is the same word the men used in Acts 23:14 when speaking to the chief priests and elders, “Anathema, anathematized ourselves – tasting nothing until that we should kill Paul” (CG).



They had irretrievably bound themselves to the killing of Paul until the matter was seen through. They were firm and fixed in their determination to “neither to eat nor to drink until that they have killed him.” This is, again, the same thought expressed in Acts 23:14 where it said that they would taste nothing until they had completed their task.



The words show the reliability of Luke’s account. In verse 14, the overall word geuomai, or taste, was used. That is now explained by Paul’s nephew as either eating or drinking. Nothing was to pass their lips until the matter was completed. With that stated, he next tells the commander, “And now, they are ready, awaiting the promise from you.”



Once the request by the Jews is approved by the commander, the plot will be put into action. In the case of this event, the charcoal is in the pit, the lighter fluid is absorbed into the coals, and the match has been lit. The only thing to start the fire is for the commander to approve the request.



If he takes the boy’s recommendation and is not persuaded by them, the events will take a different turn. This is what the boy was sent to convince him of.



Life application: The use of the words “eat nor drink” instead of “taste” provides a nice touch as to the authenticity of the narrative. Unfortunately, many versions translate the word that should be rendered as “taste” in verse 14 as “eat.” In this, the true sense of the words is lost.



The words used in Scripture are purposeful and carefully selected by God to reveal the unfolding of a process that we can learn from. When those words are mistranslated, we will get a faulty sense of what is being conveyed. Unfortunately, pretty much every translation will have such errors because they were translated by men.



Men get distracted, they get tired, they get mentally overloaded, etc. Such things are inevitable. Therefore, it is profitable to read more than one translation if you want to get a fuller and probably more suitable sense of what is being conveyed. The next time you go through the Bible, maybe consider a parallel Bible. You can get them with two, three, or even four translations on a single page. It is a great way to compare what is translated and then to consider why there are differences.



Above all, keep reading the word! It is a treasure of delight as it details the unfolding of God’s wonderful plan of redemption for the people of the world.



Lord God, how thankful we are that there is a written record of what You are doing in the history of redemption. We don’t need to trust anyone who makes a claim about Your intentions if what they say doesn’t align with Your word. How grateful we are that we have the anchor to keep us from being tossed about on the seas of theological confusion. Thank You, O God, for Your precious and superior word. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:22

Tuesday, January 9th, 2024


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


More literally, the Greek reads, “Therefore, indeed, the commander excused the young man, having instructed, ‘Tell no one that you reported these to me’” (CG).



In the previous verse, Paul’s nephew completed his explanation to the commander concerning the plot against Paul. With that, it now says, “Therefore, indeed, the commander excused the young man.”



The word apoluó is used. Translations vary – let go, dismissed, discharged, sent away, etc. It signifies to release or let go. Sometimes it even speaks of sending away a wife, meaning “divorce.” In this case, the boy was under no obligation to stay, so saying discharged or dismissed seems too restrictive, as if the boy was under some type of compulsion. For a single word to get the point across, “excused” fits.



Paul’s nephew completed his words, the commander had all the information he needed, and so he excused the young man, “having instructed, ‘Tell no one that you reported these to me.’”



In telling the boy not to say anything further, he is ensuring that no change in the original plans will be made. If the council learned that the commander knew of the plot, the Jews would simply amend what they intended and get Paul another way.



Instead, they will be unaware of the coming events until after the commander’s new plans have transpired. His concern is far greater for the security of a citizen of Rome than it is for taking Paul to another trial when there were no formal charges made against him.



It is interesting that this event will completely smooth over any hint of his own wrongdoing when he had Paul bound in order to flog him. The coming events will make it possible for him to look like a great commander to his superiors, one who is concerned about the citizens, and it will allow for what did happen to be brushed under the table.



All in all, it is a sweet deal for this person who held such a prominent place in this particular passage of Scripture.



Life application: Sometimes, we can wear ourselves out by attending to every matter that comes across our desks as soon as it occurs. At times, if there is nothing lost in putting a matter on hold, just setting it aside for a day or two will resolve things. Quite often, what seemed like a matter needing careful attention is overcome by other events.



And more, by jumping directly into an attempted resolution, one might not only waste time, but he may make things more complicated or more stressful for others. Patience and discernment are often the key to knowing the right time to act.



If you are the impulsive sort, take it to the Lord. Ask Him for His wisdom in how He would handle the events that are unfolding. Live in tune with Him and seek Him through His word. In the end, commit your ways to Him, and He will direct your steps.



Lord God, please give us wise and discerning hearts concerning matters that arise in our lives that may seem complicated or difficult to engage. By relying on Your wisdom, we will more rightly be able to discern when to act, how to respond, and what the outcome of our actions may be. Guide us in these things, O God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:23

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024


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; Acts 23:23


A literal translation would be, “And having called a certain two of the centurions, he said, ‘Prepare two hundred soldiers that they might go unto Caesarea, and seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen; from the third hour of the night’” (CG).



The commander, having received word about the plot against Paul, just dismissed Paul’s nephew. Now, it says, “And having called a certain two of the centurions.”



Luke notes that the commander called “a certain” two of the centurions. Although this could simply be two on duty at the time, the wording seems purposeful. The commander is calling forth two trusted centurions that he knows he can rely on. These certain two are called to make the preparations.



With these two noted, he then said to them, “Prepare two hundred soldiers.” This would seem in line with their title, “centurion.” They are designated over a hundred men each. Therefore, calling two hundred men would be expected. This was so “that they might go unto Caesarea.”



They were to prepare for a lengthy march. The distance from Jerusalem to Caesarea on the modern highway is about 75 miles. So, this is at least a two-day march. Along with these men, the commander next says, “and seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen.”



Within a short time, they would have gathered a contingent of almost five hundred soldiers just to safely conduct Paul out of the city and to the city of Caesarea. It will be seen that the soldiers will accompany Paul as far as Antipatris (as will be noted in verse 32) and then return to the city. From there, only the horsemen would be needed to conduct him the rest of the way. The commander then notes that this contingent was to be needed “from the third hour of the night.”



What the third hour of the night means depends on what clock Luke is using for the account. If he was using Jewish reckoning, it would be around 9 to 10 pm. Either way, without anyone knowing of the plan, they would be safely out of the city before daybreak, and the plotting of the Jews would be a complete failure.



Of interest is the word translated as “spearmen,” dexiolabos. It is a word found only here in Scripture. It literally means “right-hand grabbers,” coming from dexios (the right hand, or on the right side) and lambanó (to take hold of). Not only is it not found anywhere else in the Bible, but it is not seen anywhere in classical Greek. The next time it will be seen will be in the 7th century.



Vincent’s Word Studies says, “The exact meaning is uncertain. Some explain it as those who take the right side of the prisoners whom they have in charge; others, those who grasp (their weapon) with the right hand; others, again, those who hold (a second horse) by the right hand. They are here distinguished from the heavy-armed legionaries and the cavalry. They were probably light-armed troops, javelin-throwers or slingers.”



Life application: The Lord obviously knew that almost five hundred men would be used to conduct Paul as he was taken to Caesarea. In Acts 8, Philip baptized the Ethiopian eunuch, and then it says –



“Now when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip was found at Azotus. And passing through, he preached in all the cities till he came to Caesarea.” Acts 8: 39, 40



The word used to describe Philip’s removal from the eunuch is harpazó, to seize or snatch by force. We are left with the sense that Philip was there, and then he was gone. From there, he was “found” at Azotus. The wording is telling us that something unique took place, and Philip was there, and then he wasn’t.



Why didn’t the Lord just do this with Paul instead of having almost five hundred men’s lives upheaved for an emergency trip to Caesarea? It’s the same place Philip was eventually led to. We can speculate all day long about the workings of God, but when something unusual happens in Scripture, we should take it as a reliable account of what occurred and not try to diminish what we are being told.



At the same time, we should not rely on sensationalism to spiff up the narrative either. There is a sense of great importance assigned to Paul because his message was one of the greatest importance. This is seen with all clarity in Acts 23:11, where the Lord stood by him to encourage him with the words “as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.”



The same is no less true today. If you are sharing the gospel, the Lord will be with you through the process. As long as you are needed to fulfill that purpose, He will see you through whatever trial is happening. At some point, your time will be over. These things are determined by God. Therefore, don’t be frustrated at the Lord over seemingly negative things that transpire.



If your church has a missionary who was killed while in the field, if your pastor gets cancer and dies, if your church is destroyed in a flood or a fire, the Lord knew these things. Look for His hand in what occurs and be willing to acknowledge that what He has decided is what is right. In the end, the words, “The Lord’s will be done,” are always true.



Whether you are taken in the rapture or die in your bed, the Lord is with you. Be of good cheer. If you are in Christ, the Lord is certainly with you.



Glorious Lord God, may we hold fast to the truth that You are with us and are aware of everything that transpires around us. Give us the wisdom to conduct our lives with this knowledge and display an attitude to those around us that we accept it is so. Help us to always be people of faith who live out our lives faithfully. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:24

Thursday, January 11th, 2024




“and provide mounts to set Paul on, and bring him safely to Felix the governor.” Acts 23:24




A more literal translation would be, “And provide beasts, that, having set Paul upon, they might bring safely unto Felix the governor” (CG).



In the previous verse, the commander directed that soldiers, horsemen, and spearmen be readied to go to Caesarea at the third hour of the night. Now, his words continue, saying, “And provide beasts.”



The word kténos is used. It simply means a beast, as in a beast of burden. It could be a horse, a donkey, or a camel. Being with the Romans, it was probably either a horse or a donkey. Paul would not have to walk the long trek to Caesarea because it next says, “that, having set Paul upon, they might bring safely unto Felix the governor.”



Being on an animal and surrounded by almost five hundred soldiers, there would be very little chance any harm would come to him. Once safely out of the local area, many of the soldiers would return to Jerusalem, but those continuing on would guarantee his safe passage and delivery to Felix. As for this governor named Felix, a short description from Adam Clarke will suffice –



“This Felix was a freed man of the Emperor Claudius, and brother of Pallas, chief favourite of the emperor. Tacitus calls him Antonius Felix; and gives us to understand that he governed with all the authority of a king, and the baseness and insolence of a quondam slave. … He had, according to Suetonius, in his life of Claudius, chap. 28, three queens to his wives; that is, he was married thrice, and each time to the daughter or niece of a king. Drusilla, the sister of Agrippa, was his wife at this time; see Acts 24:24. He was an unrighteous governor; a base, mercenary, and bad man: see Acts 24:2.”



Life application: Imagine how safe Paul was as he was carried out of Jerusalem on his way to Caesarea. It is certain that no harm would come to him. And more, he had the assurance of the Lord Himself that he would be taken to Rome to testify concerning the risen Christ.



With such security, and with such a guarantee from the mouth of the Lord, he would have had no concerns at all as he traveled along the road out of Jerusalem. We all have trials and troubles in this life, some of them are greater than we might be able to bear at the moment. And some of them will lead to our death or the death of those we love.



But this is not the end of the story for those who know Jesus. We may have uncertainty about the immediate prospects in our lives but let us be as certain as Paul was that we will make it to our final destination. The Lord has spoken, and the promise is sure –



“‘Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. 4 And where I go you know, and the way you know.’

5 Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?’

6 Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” John 14:1-6



This is a promise from Jesus Christ, the risen Lord and the eternal God. Yes, trials and troubles are the hallmark of our walk in this fallen world, but safe passage to the New Jerusalem is guaranteed. Even if the ride getting there is a bit bumpy, we shall arrive safely and be granted an eternal inheritance that will outshine any temporary darkness and difficulty we now face. Be confident in this.



O God, we are grateful to You for the assurance we possess because of the wonderful and exalted work of Jesus Christ our Lord. Though our trials are many and this earthly life is often difficult, we are confident that what has been promised shall be delivered. Thank You, O God, for this wonderful surety we can hold onto. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:25

Charlie Garrett Acts, Acts (written), Daily Writing, Writings

Friday, January 12th, 2024


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


A literal translation says, “Having written a letter, having this form:” (CG).



In the last verse, the commander ordered that beasts were to be provided to set Paul on in order to conduct him to Felix the governor safely. Now, it says, “Having written a letter, having this form:”



It seems like a curious few words to make into a single verse, but it is not without importance. First, Luke uses the word tupos which indicates a representation of something else. In other words, this letter is in the same form as the original, but it was not an exact copy.



Tupos is “originally: the mark of a blow, then a stamp struck by a die, (a) a figure; a copy, image, (b) a pattern, model, (c) a type, prefiguring something or somebody” (Strong’s).



Hebrews 8:5 and 1 Peter 5:3 show good uses of this word for us to understand –



“For if He were on earth, He would not be a priest, since there are priests who offer the gifts according to the law; 5 who serve the copy and shadow of the heavenly things, as Moses was divinely instructed when he was about to make the tabernacle. For He said, ‘See that you make all things according to the pattern [tupos] shown you on the mountain.’” Hebrews 8:4, 5



“Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples [tupos] to the flock; 4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.” 1 Peter 5:2-4



As for the letter Luke now refers to, both the author of the letter and its recipient were Roman citizens. Because of this, the letter was probably written not in Greek but in Latin. Therefore, the letter, as explained by Luke, would be a translation of what was said, not a direct copy of it. Hence, it is a type or form of the original.



Life application: The Bible was written in several different languages. There is only one way to exactly convey the original language, which is to read and understand it in that language. But that would mean everyone would need to be proficient in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, something totally unnecessary.



Rather, through competent translation, the sense of the original is sufficiently conveyed. However, there are various ways of translating so that the original makes sense in a particular manner. If there are alliterations in the original language, they are there to excite the mind in a particular way.



However, a literal translation may not produce an alliteration. So, should it be more freely translated and include an alliteration to match, or should it be a literal translation that has no alliteration? Actually, either is sufficient as long as the original meaning is still understood. As some translations will follow one method and others will follow another, it is good to read many different translations and styles of translations.



In this, you can get a fuller appreciation of the content that was originally presented when it was first written. Never stop reading the word, and don’t get bogged down and captivated by a single translation. You will miss out on so very much if you do!



Glorious God, we are grateful to You for the wonderful word You have given to us. Thank You for the competent translators and expositors who convey to us what the original writings mean in our own languages. Your word is a treasure and exploring it is a joy. Please provide a special blessing today upon those who so faithfully and tenderly convey Your word to us. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:26

Saturday, January 13th, 2024


Claudius Lysias,

To the most excellent governor Felix:

Greetings.

Acts 23:26


The narrative previously noted that the commander wrote a letter to Felix, the governor. The introductory salutation of that letter now begins, saying, “Claudius Lysias.”



By giving his name here, we finally learn the commander’s identity. Until this point, he has been referred to many times as the chiliarchos, a commander over a thousand men, and simply translated as “the commander” in these commentaries.



His first name, Claudius, is Roman. It was probably a name he assumed from Emperor Claudius, maybe when he received his citizenship. The second name appears to be Greek and was probably his name before becoming a citizen. Thus, he was probably originally a Greek or from the various Greek speaking peoples within the empire. He next writes, “To the most excellent governor Felix.”



The title “most excellent,” kratistos, is the same title that Luke gave to Theophilus at the beginning of the book of Luke. It will be used two more times, both in Acts and both spoken during formal discourse with the appointed governor. The word is an adjective coming from kratos, a word signifying might, strength, dominion, power, etc. Thus, it literally means “strongest.”



As for the word translated as governor, it is hégemón. It is the source of our word hegemony. In classical Greek, it is used to refer to various leadership positions. The verse ends with “Greetings.”



The word used, chairó, is the same as was used in Acts 15:23 and in James 1:1 in the introduction of those letters. This letter may have been sent unsealed. Thus, it might have been read by Paul. It may have even been that he read it as the commander wrote it out. Or it may be that Paul or Luke was provided a copy of it in Caesarea. Thus, the substance of the letter has been recorded in Scripture.



Life application: This is a very short and simple verse, and yet it has details that give us a fuller understanding of how things were at the time of the apostles. Knowing the meaning of the words used can help us to piece together how people interacted, what words were commonly used in various settings (such as the introductory greeting to letters), what type of lines of authority existed, and so forth.



When you come to short, seemingly insignificant verses like this, don’t just quickly brush past it. Instead, take time to consider how such interactions are similar or different to how our modern world is structured. Quite often, we can see that things were not all that different in the past.



Though time is marching on, the human race remains in pretty much the same state that it has always been in. Until the return of Jesus, it will be so. Societies will evolve and devolve in a manner not unlike those recorded in the Bible. The main thing that directs them is their relation to laws intended to govern the sinful traits of man.



When societies punish wrongdoing in a just and fair manner, they will tend to prosper. When they treat their citizens in a respectful way, there will be harmony. Etc. However, when society moves away from such things, chaos begins to enter, and societal breakdown occurs. These things can be seen in Scripture, in the writings of societies, and in the way societies are moving before our eyes.



When Jesus comes for His people, a new order of things will come about. Someday, a perfect government without any sin will be realized. It will have perfect harmony, and there will be eternal communion and fellowship with our Creator. This is what God has done for us. It is now offered to us through the giving of Jesus. Hallelujah!



Thank You, O God, for the precious hope we possess. Someday, we will no longer have to deal with our fallen nature. We will be granted a new direction and an eternal state of joy and fellowship in Your presence. How we long for that day. We possess this hope and are highly anticipating its coming about. Even so, come Lord Jesus. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:27

Sunday, January 14th, 2024


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. Acts 23:27


The words are filled with participles, excitedly filling the statement with action. It more literally reads, “This man, having been seized by the Jews, and being about to be killed by them, having come with the detachment, I rescued him, having learned that he is Roman” (CG).



In the previous verse, Claudius Lysias, the Roman commander, opened his letter to Felix the governor. He now enters into the main details of the reason for that letter, beginning with, “This man.”



In the Greek, Paul is identified as ton andra touton, “the man, this.” Bengel sees this as a way of granting a title of honor. It is again used as the letter closes out in verse 30. The reason for this particular expression is explained by the end of the verse when he is identified further as being Roman. Of him, the letter continues, “having been seized by the Jews.”



It was the Jews who seized Paul and started hurling accusations at him. They got into such a lather that he was “about to be killed by them.” The situation practically turned into a riot as the temple doors were shut.



Once it was seen that they were about to kill Paul, the Roman garrison was notified, and the soldiers acted, “having come with the detachment.” Were they not to have come immediately, Paul surely would not have survived. However, the commander briefly states, “I rescued him.”



Of this word, while citing Bengel, Vincent’s Word Studies says –



“Bengel says, ‘a lie.’ Lysias wishes to make the impression that Paul’s citizenship was the cause of his rescuing him; whereas he did not know of this until afterward. He says nothing about the proposed scourging.”



That untruth is seen in the final words of the verse, “having learned that he is Roman.”



It is not a noun, “a Roman.” Rather, it is an adjective, “Roman.” He is highlighting the honor of the state of citizenship and how he carefully defended that aspect of the culture, regardless of any other traits. It would be like saying, “I was willing to defend the citizenship itself, whether he was my best friend or a personal enemy.”



Although this isn’t at all what happened with respect to Paul’s Roman citizenship, it is intended to show the commander’s passion for protecting Romans and to preempt any negative comments by Paul concerning his treatment. In essence, he has completely buried his illegal actions towards Paul and is hoping that his wording in this letter will keep them forever buried. Unfortunately, he didn’t know that Luke was such a minute chronicler of the events of life.



Life application: Claudius Lysias has presented his actions in the most favorable light, even if they were not completely true. This will continue to be seen in his brief letter. His words are recorded and placed in Scripture for every person who has ever read the Bible to see.



How would we act if we knew that every word we spoke and deed we did were being recorded for others to see? Would we say things a little bit differently? Would we refrain from doing certain things and be sure to do other things that we would otherwise leave undone?



If we really believe that God is the judge of all men and is omniscient, then our words and deeds are, in fact, being recorded. If we can capture millions of live stream cameras 24 hours a day and keep those recordings in storage for future playback, how much more can we know that God is able to replay every moment of our existence before us!



This thought should not scare us, but it should alert us to the fact that God is there and everything we think, say, and do is known to Him. From that knowledge, we should endeavor to live our lives appropriately before Him. Everything we do will be brought to light when we stand before Him –



“For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 14 If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.” 1 Corinthians 3:11-15



“Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. 11 Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.” 2 Corinthians 5:9-11



We believed the gospel. The same God, who we believe read our hearts at that time, is the God who is now monitoring our lives in Christ for eternal rewards. Let our hearts be faithful, and may our actions be in accord with His will, as is set forth for us in Scripture. On the day when we are presented before the Judge, may rewards abound because of it.



Heavenly Father, thank You for having heard us on the day we believed the gospel. At that time, You sealed us with Your Spirit and granted us eternal life. Help us to remember that You are still listening and hearing. May our lives now be filled with the same faith that we professed on that day. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:28

Monday, January 15th, 2024




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


The words more literally say, “And desiring to know the charge through which they accused him, I brought him down to their council” (CG).



In the previous verse, the commander referred to his actions in rescuing Paul, noting that he rescued him, having learned he was a Roman. In his words, he certainly fudged the truth, hiding his inappropriate actions, and changing the facts to highlight his alertness in defense of a fellow Roman. He continues this approach now, saying, “And desiring to know the charge through which they accused him.”



Again, the commander will completely omit his first choice of determining the accusations against Paul, which was to tie him up and torture him into a confession. Being such a minor detail, he must have felt sure that no governor could possibly want to know about it J.



However, the governor would surely want to know about his adeptness at getting to the heart of what was going on. Therefore, he next says, “I brought him down to their council.”



The commander’s letter shows a decisive person who takes the necessary action to get to the bottom of a matter with alacrity and alertness, even if that wasn’t exactly how things transpired. What appears to be the case is that he is looking for a year-end bonus or maybe a promotion for his attentiveness and military competence.



Life application: Doing what is right and telling the truth concerning a situation is always the best option, even if it may temporarily stain one’s image in the eyes of another. People will generally remember that a person was willing to admit his faults and acknowledge his shortcomings.



It’s hard to do, but it also frees up the mind from the lurking possibility that the actual circumstances of what occurred may someday be discovered. But even if they aren’t, and the event is completely forgotten, getting away with an untruth may sear the conscience to tell more lies. This is not a good way to conduct one’s life.



In the end, it is best to speak truthfully and be open and honest in one’s life. Above all, the Lord is aware of such things and so we should strive to live honorably and properly in His presence at all times.



Lord God, it can be difficult to face our own shortcomings. It can be more difficult to admit them to others. But it is right that we should be open and honest in our dealings with those around us. Help us to consider this and honor You through our words, deeds, and interactions with others. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:29

Tuesday, January 16th, 2024


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


The tense of the verbs needs tweaking. The Greek reads, “Whom I found being accused about questions of their law and having no accusation worthy of death or chains” (CG).



The commander’s letter to Felix, the governor, about Paul continues, saying, “Whom I found being accused about questions of their law.”



The words, “questions of their law,” mean that there was nothing involved that Rome would care about. Instead, it was a matter of the interpretation of Jewish law and not something that was defined by the courts of Rome.



The Jewish people had been given authority to worship their God as they chose. Any internal strife concerning rites, interpretations, authorized teachers, etc. in relation to the law was left solely up to those in charge of such religious matters to decide. Because of this, the commander was certain that they were of no concern to Rome. They are what was detailed earlier in this chapter where it said –



“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!’

7 And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the assembly was divided. 8 For Sadducees say that there is no resurrection—and no angel or spirit; but the Pharisees confess both. 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.’” Acts 23:6-9



As this was a matter not within the jurisdiction of Roman decision, the commander concluded that Paul was “having no accusation worthy of death or chains.”



None of the things he heard were sufficient to bind him, imprison him, or have him executed. And yet, ironically, the things that they discussed are the most important issues that will ever affect the people of the world.



Because of the Roman system that was in place at the time, the worldly matters seemed to overshadow the more important spiritual ones, at least in order for Paul to be able to continue his ministry. Here and in all other cases in Acts, no magistrate found any wrongdoing in Paul.



Life application: The same situation exists today that existed at the time of Paul’s life under Roman rule. There are those who share the gospel in order to free people from the bonds of sin and the power of the devil. They do this within nations that supposedly have the right to rule over such matters or who are indifferent to such things.



And yet, the problem of sin infects every single person on the earth. At the time of the writing of this commentary, there is a major corruption scandal concerning fundraising in Japan. In Germany, there is a corruption scandal concerning gas supplies from Qatar. In the United States, the person in the White House is being investigated for corruption that literally permeates his political life and his family.



The same type of sinful behavior is found in one nation after another and in religious institutions around the world, including Christian churches and especially the Vatican, from the pope down to all levels. Some of these entities proclaim that they have authority over what believing Christians can say or how they can say it.



This, then, supposedly puts them over God who has given His word and has then instructed believers to share it and teach it. Imagine that! God has allowed humanity to run its own affairs, even if what they decide is set in contrast to His word. This includes churches that are supposed to rightly teach it.



And yet, people call God an ogre for telling them that the problem rests within their hearts and that He has done everything necessary to fix it and bring restoration between them and Him. No wonder the world is devolving into total chaos.



When the people turn from Him and how He has revealed Himself, it means that only sin is left to rule in their lives. Even the very best governments will fail unless the truth of God in Christ is accepted and allowed to flourish within the society.



What a mess the world is in, Lord God. Nations have cast off any sense of Christian morality, and we have turned away from the magnificent message of the gospel. Even churches and denominations are following the path of perversion, accepting profane doctrines to be taught as acceptable. Lord, we know that the coming of Jesus for His people is getting closer each day as we see these things unfold. Even so, come Lord Jesus. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:30

Wednesday, January 17th, 2024




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. Acts 23:30


The Greek, though a bit clunky, more literally reads, “And, having been revealed to me a plot, about to be by the Jews, against the man, I sent immediately unto you, having also instructed the accusers to say these against him before you. Be strong” (CG).



In his letter to Felix, the commander just noted that he found that there was nothing charged against Paul deserving of death or chains. Because of this, he next writes, “And, having been revealed to me a plot, about to be by the Jews, against the man.”



The commander, Claudius Lysias, appears to be the epitome of rational thinking. He perceived trouble at the beginning and saved Paul. As the trouble hadn’t ceased, he again saves him by directing the things he now is writing to Felix.



This second half of the account is at least truthful. It also sets Paul as an honorable person being troubled by the seditious Jews who would even dare to harm a Roman citizen and thus make an implicit attack on the government. Thus, as a Roman military officer, he places the Roman priorities above any favor he had curried with the Jews since being assigned in Jerusalem.



This is certainly the intent of his words. He is looking for Felix’s favor by showing his allegiance to Rome above all else. As Paul is also Roman, and to demonstrate his care for his fellow citizens, he next writes, “I sent immediately unto you.”



Paul will be safely conducted with a large force of soldiers. Even after getting safely out of the local area, a sizeable portion of them will continue the trek to Caesarea. When Paul arrives safely, this show of force would be considered a notable aspect of the commander’s care for his charge. Along with that, he tells Felix, “having also instructed the accusers to say these against him before you.”



It is apparent that, by his letter, he wants Paul looked at in a favorable light so that Paul’s original mistreatment will never come to light. The note of him commanding the accusers to state the charges before Felix probably means that he composed two letters at the same time. The first was this letter to Felix, and the second would have been dispatched to the Jewish council once Paul was safely out of the area.



Thus, this letter explains why Paul was sent to Caesarea and why his journey included such a large contingent of soldiers. With that, he closes out the letter with a word not found in all manuscripts, saying, “Be strong.”



In many manuscripts, it is the second and last use of the word rhónnumi. It was first used to close out the letter from the council in Jerusalem to the Gentile church in Acts 15:29. It is a verb that literally signifies to strengthen or be strong. Being a perfect imperative, it literally gives the sense of “you have been strengthened and so remain strengthened.”



Life application: There is no note of the commander having ever come to Christ. Therefore, it is likely that if he did, it would have been after Paul’s time with him. During his time interacting with Paul, he placed his highest priority on discharging his duties as a Roman officer.



He was careful to ensure that his account would make him appear favorable in the eyes of those above him, hoping they would notice his deeds and look favorably upon him. For those in Christ, our highest priority should be doing those things that exalt the Lord above all else.



However, in doing this, we will actually be doing our very best to perform our duties in all other areas to the very best of our abilities. This is because in wanting to honor the Lord, we will conduct all other aspects of our lives in the most noble way possible. Only when there is a conflict between our allegiance to the Lord and conducting our duties should this not be the case.



Today, we may be asked to compromise our faith to meet a liberal, woke agenda. We should never cave to this sort of perversion. Instead, we should use our rights as Christians to work against such things. We should even do it to the full extent of our ability. This will be what is most honoring to the name of the Lord. In all things, let us consider the Lord being glorified through our actions as our highest priority.



O God, we may have challenges set before us that ask us to compromise our position as Christians. Help us never to cave to such things. Rather, give us wisdom and strength to stand against anything that may hinder our relationship with You. In the end, we must give an account for our actions when we come before You. May what we do be right and pleasing so that we are prepared to do so. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:31

Thursday, January 18th, 2024


Then the soldiers, as they were commanded, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris. Acts 23:31


A more literal rendering is, “Then, indeed, the soldiers according to that having been appointed them, having taken up Paul, brought through night to Antipatris” (CG).



With the letter from the commander fully detailed by Luke, it next says, “Then, indeed, the soldiers according to that having been appointed them.”



The plan was previously detailed. When the commander completed his letter, the soldiers were assembled according to their previously arranged assignment, and Paul was brought out of the barracks to where the soldiers awaited him. At that point, it next says, “having taken up Paul.”



In verse 24, the centurions were instructed to provide mounts to set Paul on. This is what is now taking place. He is taken up onto his mount for the journey and “brought through night to Antipatris.”



Antipatris was previously called Cafar-Saba. It is mentioned by Flavius Josephus in his writings. Herod the Great had its name changed to Antipatris to honor his father Antipater. It is about thirty-five miles north and west of Jerusalem and still another twenty-six miles south and east of Caesarea.



Today it is known as Kefr-Saba, having reverted back to its original name. The majority of the trip from Jerusalem would be somewhat downhill from the hill country of Ephraim and into the plain of Sharon.



If they went all night, which seems likely, they could have reached this by 6 or 7 the next morning. The rest of the trip would take about six hours until they reached Caesarea. If they stopped for an extended break, they could have been there by sometime in the afternoon.



Life application: The Bible isn’t just a book that tells of arbitrary events that may or may not be true. It details events that can be verified, including locations, names of those locations, structures that existed in those locations, events that are recorded to have happened in those same locations (like certain details of battles where evidence is readily available), and so forth.



There is no reason to assume that the events of a battle that are recorded in the Bible are true but that the details of the lives of those people – as recorded at the time of those battles – are merely myths. Rather, when it says that a city is besieged by the Assyrians, something that can be verified as true, and that the king said and did certain things at that time, we should assume that those things are also true.



This is true with events like Paul’s situation that is now being detailed in Acts. If Luke correctly recorded all of the verifiable information, like names of cities, names of certain officials, distances between locations, etc., then what he says about Paul’s personal matters would have been equally well-researched.



Have confidence that what you are reading is accurate and reliable. This is especially so because it is recorded in God’s word. Why would God allow something false or misleading to be included there? He wouldn’t! Trust the word because God is trustworthy.



Heavenly Father, may we be confident in Your word, knowing that it has been checked, rechecked, and then checked again throughout the time since it was received. Even today, new evidence of its reliability is being discovered. Thank You for the surety we can possess concerning Your word. And, thus, thank You for the surety we can possess concerning what it says about Jesus! Hallelujah for the story of the coming of our Lord. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:32

Friday, January 19th, 2024


The next day they left the horsemen to go on with him, and returned to the barracks. Acts 23:32




More literally, the words read, “And the morrow, having allowed the horsemen to go with him, they returned to the barracks” (CG).



In the previous verse, the detachment of soldiers took Paul out of Jerusalem to Antipatris. Now, the narrative continues, saying, “And the morrow.”



Scholars debate whether this means it is the next day from Jerusalem or from Antipatris. Being a forced march, it is most probably from Jerusalem. Thus, the entire trip was done in a single day. Further, Cambridge notes that “The original has a conjunction which the Rev. Ver. represents by ‘But.’ These men would return to Jerusalem again on the day of the intended plot.”



Because of the use of the conjunction, which can be translated as and, but, now, etc., it is more probable that this is referring to the next day from Jerusalem. Further, some translations add in the word “on” before “morrow” or “next day.” That will also cause confusion. It is most likely the first day after leaving Jerusalem that it next says, “having allowed the horsemen to go with him, they returned to the barracks.”



The four hundred soldiers and spearmen went directly back to Jerusalem. Thus, they would be in Jerusalem when the original plot against Paul was supposed to occur. These soldiers would have had a very long time without sleep before all went back to normal. The seventy horsemen would be more than sufficient to conduct Paul the rest of the way swiftly and safely.



This account shows us the immense size of the force that must have been kept in Jerusalem. If almost 500 were dispatched for this one incident, there were many more who remained to keep the peace and to perform the normal functions Rome required.



Life application: For such a short and simple verse, one would think the translators would be willing to carefully look at the Greek, notice there was an opening conjunction, and say, “This is a necessary part of God’s word,” and include it in the translation.



But translations as far back as Tyndale (1526), the Bishop’s Bible (1568), and the King James (1611) arbitrarily omit it. By doing so, an ambiguity in the wording arises, and debates arise concerning which day Paul was escorted. It’s not an issue that someone should lose sleep over, but because of the poor translation, varying thoughts are unnecessarily bandied about concerning what is being said.



So why would this conjunction have been left off? It may have been to make the verse flow better in English. Reading a literal translation can be awkward because the words fit together in a clunky fashion. But this is not an excuse to arbitrarily skip necessary words.



When you come to a conflict in translations, before deciding on a final analysis that may be wrong because of one translation or another, try checking the original manuscript. Carefully consider what is being conveyed. Unlike Acts 23:32, faulty translations of some verses can lead to very poor theological positions being held. Study! Stand approved in what you accept.



Glorious Lord God, the more we study Your word, the more delightful it is to our minds. It is like a well of deep waters that are sweet and refreshing. Help us to read it, cherish it, and carefully study its contents all the days of our lives. To Your glory! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:33

Saturday, January 20th, 2024


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

.



More literally, the words read, “Who, having entered into Caesarea, and having delivered the letter to the governor, also presented Paul to him” (CG).



In the previous verse, it noted that the soldiers returned to Jerusalem, but the horsemen stayed with Paul in order to conduct him the rest of the way to Caesarea. Now, referring to these horsemen, it says, “Who, having entered into Caesarea.”



It would have been an impressive sight for the people of the city to see seventy horsemen arrayed in Roman colors marching a single man into the city, carefully guarding him as they went. Like the procession of a presidential limousine today, the people would have stopped to gawk. Upon arriving at their destination, it next says, “and having delivered the letter to the governor.”



Interestingly, Paul’s name is mentioned a total of sixteen times in this chapter, but in the letter from Claudius Lysias, it is never declared. As such, it was up to the testimony of those who conducted him to say, “This is the man.” Therefore, it next says that they “also presented Paul to him.”



As there was a whole contingent of horsemen, they could testify that the right man had been safely delivered into the care of the authorities.



Life application: The word is a wonderful gift to us from the mind of God. As you read it, be sure to think about why things are included in it. Stopping to do short word studies, counting the number of times things are mentioned, or doing short topical studies will open up new avenues of thought that may never have been contemplated before.



Also, let your mind wander into what things might have been like. Considering such things as the majestic, stately, or terrifying march of horses into a city, a battle, or across a desert area will make the word come alive in your mind. Let the word come alive to you in wonderful ways.



Your time in the word will only be as interesting as you make it. So be sure to make it interesting!



Lord God, thank You for Your wonderful word. And, above all, thank You for Jesus, who is revealed to us in this precious word! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:34

Sunday, January 21st, 2024




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




In the Greek, the words are full of participles, and the sentence remains incomplete until the next verse. More literally, it reads, “And the governor having read, and having asked from what province he is, and having learned that from Cilicia” (CG).



The previous verse told of the arrival of the Roman horsemen in Caesarea, where they delivered the letter to the governor and presented Paul to him. That next continues with, “And the governor having read.”



One can imagine the situation. The soldiers, along with Paul, were conducted into the main area where the governor sat. The letter bearer would have come forward, probably not saying a word but simply presenting the letter. Then, he would have stood at attention while the letter was read. Once the governor read it, it next says, “and having asked from what province he is.”



Luke begins the clause with an aorist participle and then uses a present tense verb, thus bringing the reader right into the proceedings – “What is his status?”



The question as to where Paul was from would have been the normal way of validating jurisdiction and being able to ascertain more information about the person at hand. This is the same thing that occurs in Luke 23:6. In the US, it is common for a similar question to be asked, such as, “What state are you from?”



We are not told who gave the response. It only says, “and having learned that from Cilicia.” There are a couple of possibilities concerning his question. Cambridge says –



“Cilicia had been at one time, and perhaps still was, attached to the province of Syria. It was so in the time of Quirinus. This will explain why at once Felix without question decided that, at the proper time, he would hear the cause.”



If Cilicia was not attached to Syria, then a formal note would probably have been sent out for either permission to try the case or to determine what they wanted to do with the matter. On the other hand, Vincent’s Word Studies says that, rather than asking what province Paul was from, Felix’s words ek poias eparchias signify “from what kind of a province?”



In other words, Vincent’s Word Studies is stating that, in this situation, the word poios is intended to mean “of what sort,” not merely “which.” As such, he is trying to determine if the province is senatorial or imperial. Cilicia was an imperial province.



Life application: The question concerning Paul’s province may seem irrelevant to us until we consider that the same type of question is asked of accused criminals thousands of times a day. What was the crime? Where was it perpetrated? What is the citizenship of the person who committed it? What is the legal status of the person who committed it?



All of these things must be determined before someone can be properly processed and tried. If a person is from Japan, something is learned about him. If he is in the US on a student visa, something more is now known. If he came here illegally, on a green card, or with diplomatic privileges, it makes a difference in whether he can even be charged at all.



Luke is carefully recording what happened so that the status of Paul in the coming verses will be more properly understood. Seemingly unimportant details may be extremely important if someone wants to question the Bible’s authenticity. A person who is well-informed about how legal matters were conducted in the Roman empire at Paul’s time may say, “This isn’t at all how things worked. The Bible is wrong.”



But with Luke carefully presenting what occurred, such arguments can be laid to rest. Therefore, should you come across such accusations, be sure to not just accept them at face value. Rather, because commentaries have been faithfully composed covering every verse in Scripture, there is a good chance that you will find one that covers exactly what you are looking for.



So carefully has the Bible been studied that even the nuances of single words – their tense, gender, etc. – are carefully considered and commented on. Be sure that this word has been meticulously looked over and challenged. And yet, the brightest minds in history have concluded that this is, in fact, the sure word of God.



Heavenly Father, Your word is a gloriously constructed marvel of wisdom. It is presented to the world as a testament that You are truly working within the stream of time and human existence to reconcile man back to Yourself. Thank You for the elaborate and intricate detail of Your wonderful, superior word. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 23:35

Monday, January 22nd, 2024


he said, “I will hear you when your accusers also have come.” And he commanded him to be kept in Herod’s Praetorium. Acts 23:35


The Greek more literally reads, “‘I will thoroughly hear you, he said, when your accusers also may have arrived,’ having commanded him to be guarded in the Praetorium of Herod” (CG).



The previous verse flows into this one, having ended with the words, “and having learned that from Cilicia.” That thought now continues with, “I will thoroughly hear you.”



Whatever the correct interpretation of Paul’s standing was concerning his being from Cilicia, as discussed in the previous verse, it was sufficient for Felix to accept responsibility for the investigation.



Apparently, there would be no conflict in his doing so. The word translated as “I will thoroughly hear you” is diakouó. It comes from dia, “through,” and akouo, “a hearing.” This is its only use in the Bible. It is obvious when connecting the two words that a “thorough hearing” in a judicial sense is what is intended.



The questions from Felix thus far were only preparatory, and Paul would be given an entire and thorough chance to speak when those who accused him might come before Felix. That is seen in what Luke next records, “he said, ‘when your accusers also may have arrived.’”



Felix continues his thoughts using an aorist subjunctive verb. In other words, “when this, then this.” The anticipated trial is wholly dependent on the coming of his accusers. If none come, then there will be no trial. Every protection for Paul’s status as a Roman citizen is being afforded to him. Therefore, it next says, “having commanded him to be guarded in the Praetorium of Herod.”



Herod’s Praetorium was built by Herod the Great. A great deal of this building is still standing today. The praetorium itself was a judgment hall. Paul was to be kept in that area, but in this case the word translated as “guarded” apparently does not imply being held as a prisoner.



He would have been granted the respect of his citizenship while he awaited the trial to come. Thus, the act of guarding was less for the sake of keeping him bound as a prisoner than it was to keep him safe and secure as a citizen.



Life application: It has become evident in the UK and the US that being a citizen does not carry the same protections that it once did. Being a Christian who accepts the Bible as authoritative places a person at odds with the ruling authorities who reject the notion of the God who judges in righteousness.



Therefore, arresting citizens and holding them without due process under trumped up charges is becoming more common. The legal system does fight back against this, but all it will take is minor tweaks in the structure of these governments for even that to change.



From here on out, Christians must be willing to accept the fact that the faith they possess will be challenged by wholly corrupted leaders who are willing to test the true metal of those who profess their faith. Many will yield and deny what they have claimed all along. Others will be willing to hold fast to Jesus with all their hearts and souls.



The difference will be found in how they have been instructed on the salvation they have received and what that means for their future in Christ’s presence. Those who hold the absolute assurance that their faith is grounded on reality will be much more likely to put their lives aside now for the greater and eternal glory that lies ahead.



Be ready! The time may not be far off. When it comes, decisions will have to be made. Where do you intend to stand should the Lord tarry in His coming?



We praise You, Lord God! Nothing in this life compares to what You have promised Your people in the life to come, which is true life in Christ. In that day, give us the strength and fortitude to stand on the truth of Your word, never compromising with those who hate You and the doctrines You have conveyed to us in Your word. Yes, Lord, be with us. And we know You will be. Hallelujah and amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 24:1

Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024




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. Acts 24:1


Chapter 24 enters into the hearing that Felix promised Paul in the preceding verse. The words begin with, “Now after five days.”



This five-day period is probably from the time of Paul’s departure from Jerusalem. At that same time, the council would have been informed, and they would have begun preparations for a case against him.



This is the likely scenario because it was twelve days since Paul’s arrival in Jerusalem, as will be seen in verse 24:11. Therefore, the timeline is better reckoned from the departure from Jerusalem and not from the last events of Chapter 23.



Regardless of this, the five-day period sees the coming of a delegation to testify against Paul. Of them, Luke records that “Ananias the high priest came down with the elders and a certain orator named Tertullus.”



As always, when a trip is made from Jerusalem, the term “came down” or “descended” is used. Because the Lord’s temple is in Jerusalem, it is considered as the highest place on earth from a legal and royal perspective. He being the King of kings and Lord of lords.



Likewise, when going to Jerusalem from anywhere else, it is an ascent regardless of direction or elevation. The word used to describe Tertullus is rhétór. This is its only use in Scripture. It signifies an orator, public speaker, or an advocate. Today, we use the words rhetoric, rhetorically, etc. These are etymologically derived from this ancient Greek word.



As for Tertullus, he would have the eloquence of a toastmaster. Ellicott describes the rhétór –



“Men of this class were to be found in most of the provincial towns of the Roman empire, ready to hold a brief for plaintiff or defendant, and bringing to bear the power of their glib eloquence, as well as their knowledge of Roman laws, on the mind of the judge.”



Of this delegation that has arrived, it next says, “These gave evidence to the governor against Paul.”



The word translated as “gave evidence” is emphanizó. It signifies to appear, declare, make visible, etc. In this case, it is being used in a technical sense. In essence, it is a formal indictment being made against Paul. One might more accurately say that they litigated against Paul. They are set to disclose the charges against him that have been decided upon.



Of this verse, the Geneva Bible comments, “Hypocrites, when they can not do what they want to do by force and deceit, at length they go about to accomplish it by a show of law.”



Life application: Think of what has happened to Paul. These miscreants had initiated a sort of coup against him in the temple, stirring up the masses against him and stealing away his rights in the process. The only thing that saved him from disaster was that he was found to be Roman by the barracks commander.



From there, they plotted against him to kill him. That plot was discovered, and Paul was safely conducted out of Jerusalem. Now, because they have been ineffective in laying hands on him any other way, they are set to bring false charges against him to keep him from spreading his message of freedom in Christ any further.



The parallel between what has happened thus far and what has happened to President Donald Trump is quite similar. There are certain ways that people will react when they cannot get their way. They will follow the same patterns again and again in history to meet whatever the present circumstances are that they find displeasing.



But this isn’t just with leaders. Eventually, the persecution continues even to those who are inspired by the leader. In the case of Paul, it started with Jesus. It continued to His apostles. From there, it continued to the people who accepted the apostles’ message. Paul was supernaturally pulled from that by a personal appearance of Jesus. But then the persecution against him began.



In our world today, the communists on the left have fought against conservative ideology. They have then targeted the leader of the conservative movement that was most likely to harm their globalist agenda. With that goal seemingly realized, they began targeting his supporters.



Only with a massive amount of public support has this wave of communism been fought against. Will it be turned around? Only time will tell. If not, the political persecution will very quickly become a persecution of the religious lives of the people they are targeting. This is because faith in God is diametrically opposed to communist ideology. It must be terminated for the communists to prevail.



Be ready to stand on your priorities, whatever they are. If they include Jesus, be ready to face what so many have faced before you. Faith in Christ will eventually be something considered intolerable and worthy of death. Even now, that is on the minds of these miscreants.



Lord God, we know that the end times will be difficult for those who hold fast to faith in You. We don’t know the timing of the rapture, and so we don’t know at what point we may have to face persecution because of what we believe. Should it come to pass, may we be faithful to stand and proclaim the Name of Jesus as our ultimate hope and passion. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 24:2

Wednesday, January 24th, 2024


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, Acts 24:2


A literal translation is, “And he, having been called, Tertullus began accusing, saying, ‘Great peace we are attaining through you. And reformations are being done to this nation through your foresight’” (CG).



The previous verse opened the chapter noting that Ananias, the high priest, came down to Caesarea with the elders and a certain orator named Tertullus to give evidence to the governor against Paul. It now says, “And he, having been called, Tertullus began accusing.”



Tertullus, the orator, will speak on behalf of the entire delegation. This is what is customary in such proceedings. Anything else would naturally lead to a chaotic session where everyone was interjecting. Therefore, Tertullus alone began the discourse, “saying, ‘Great peace we are attaining through you.’”



Verses 2-4 are given as an introduction to the charges as a way of gaining favor with Felix. This is in hopes of winning him to their side before the actual charges are even given.



Scholars agree that the things Tertullus focuses on are pretty much the only things worth focusing on. Other than this, there was truly nothing to compliment about the governor. His first item of presentation is that of the people having obtained great peace.



This is obviously not the type of peace that the Jews would have asked for. It was a forced peace through the strength of the Roman Empire. However, it would have been a true statement, nonetheless. The Jews were subjugated to Roman authority, and the Pax Romana was forced upon them, as it was throughout the empire. Next, Tertullus notes, “And reformations are being done to this nation.”



Here is found a new word in Scripture, translated as “reformations,” diorthosis. It is found only here and in Hebrews 9:10. It comes from dia and orthos (through and upright). Some translations say, “worthy deeds,” “excellent measures,” or something similar. It is a noun signifying improvements, reformations, etc. Being plural, “reformations” provides the proper sense.



Next, Tertullus says to the governor that these were done “through your foresight.” It is another new word in Scripture, pronoia. It is a noun derived from the verb pronoeó, to foresee. The word is described by Ellicott –



“The Greek word had at this time, like the English, a somewhat higher sense than ‘prudence’ or ‘forethought.’ Men spoke then, as now, of the ‘providence’ of God, and the tendency to clothe the emperors with quasi-divine attributes led to the appearance of this word—’the providence of Cæsar’—on their coins and on medals struck in their honour. Tertullus, after his manner, goes one step further, and extends the term to the procurator of Judæa.”



The Geneva Bible notes that “Felix ruled that province with great cruelty and covetousness, and yet Josephus records that he did many worthy things, such as taking Eleazar the captain of certain cutthroats, and put that deceiving wretch the Egyptian to flight, who caused great troubles in Judea.”



In other words, Tertullus is using carefully selected words to butter up the governor in hopes of obtaining a favorable verdict for his side. Through his efforts, there was at least peace, which led to prosperity, even if it was under the oppressive hand of Roman rule.



Life application: So far, everything Tertullus said has been irrelevant to the case against Paul. His approach, then, is already one that demonstrates their main argument will lack substance, at least from the perspective of Roman authority.



This type of presentation is not at all uncommon, and it should be watched for in any forum. People who come in and begin with comments irrelevant to the main subject of attention are often doing so to distract the mind from that main subject. Perceiving this type of approach, and mentally standing against it until the main arguments are presented, will keep you in a stronger position to cut out the superfluous fat in order to challenge whatever main point is then introduced.



Be aware of such things. They may seem innocuous, but they usually come when a logical argument is lacking, or someone who is involved in what is being said is a target for misdirection and deception.



Lord God Almighty, when we are presented with challenges to Your word, or to who You are as the Creator and Sovereign over our lives, help us to identify fallacious thinking or invalid points of argumentation and to focus on the main substance of what is being addressed. Sometimes, it is hard to see where people are going until it is too late. So, help us to have wisdom as we defend our faith in You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Acts 24:3

Thursday, January 25th, 2024


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


The Greek more literally reads, “Both entirely and everywhere we welcome, most excellent Felix, with all thankfulness” (CG).



In the previous verse, Tertullus began his accusation against Paul. It was a butter-up job to hide the fact that they really have no case against him in any matter that Rome would be interested in. The spreading of the butter now continues with “Both entirely and everywhere.”



He uses a word found only here in Scripture, panté. Some translations say “always.” However, it is generally accepted that it doesn’t mean “always” as in time, but rather “all ways” as in scope. Therefore, the single word “entirely” is more definitive.



As such, the “entirely and everywhere” of this verse are tied to the “great peace” and the “reformations” of the previous verse. Understanding that, the words of Tertullus continue with “we welcome.”



Considering that the Jews’ hatred of the Roman rule over them permeated the entire society, the words must have been a bitter pill to even utter. For Felix, it was probably a point of great happiness to see the leaders of Israel, along with their authorized representative, groveling before him with such platitudes. Next, Tertullus says, “most excellent Felix.”



The word translated as “most excellent” is the same as that found in Acts 23:26 in the introduction of the letter from Claudius Lysias to Felix. It will be used one more time in Acts when spoken during formal discourse with the appointed governor. It is an adjective coming from kratos, a word signifying might, strength, dominion, power, etc. Thus, it literally means “strongest.” With that stated, Tertullus ends this introduction, saying, “with all thankfulness.”



A satire could not put forth words more painfully expressed. Of them, John Gill says, “this was all a farce, mere artifice, and wretched flattery.” Tertullus and the entire body of elders who were there before Felix were probably clenching their teeth in disgust, while Felix was probably smiling and on the verge of bursting out in condescending laughter.



Life application: In reading and considering the words of Tertullus, and while thinking about the unnecessary kowtowing that he did before the Roman authorities, you can then consider your own choice of words should such a circumstance ever arise in your life.



The words of Solomon, when speaking of our own choice of words before God, give direction that is suitable to any such circumstance –



“Do not be rash with your mouth,

And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God.

For God is in heaven, and you on earth;

Therefore let your words be few.

3 For a dream comes through much activity,

And a fool’s voice is known by his many words.” Ecclesiastes 5:2, 3



The only things Tertullus has accomplished with his opening statement are to waste time and look foolish. He has brought embarrassment to himself. What is more, it is recorded for all to see and learn from. When addressing others in such a forum, keep your words to the minimum and be open and direct about the matter at hand. In this, your wisdom will be seen and appreciated by the wise.



Lord God Almighty, help us to not be babblers or smooth talkers. May our words be precise and effective, especially when dealing with others. May our conversations about You, such as when we share the good news, be carefully constructed to convey the proper meaning intended by You for the conversion of the soul. Help us in such things, O God. Amen.