Acts in 28 DaysSample

Acts 24:1–27

Have you ever seen a trial, perhaps in a movie or TV series? In this chapter, Paul faces a trial complete with an accusing lawyer, a judge, and Paul representing himself as his own defence. But, it wasn't a fair trial at all. Paul was innocent, and there was no evidence against him. No verdict was given, and yet he wasn't set free. Strange, right? But it was all part of God's plan.

The lawyer for the prosecution, armed with lies, accused Paul of being a troublemaker, a leader of the Nazarene sect, and of trying to desecrate the temple. The first and last accusations were not true. Paul defended himself respectfully, and while doing so, he used this trial as an opportunity to talk about the resurrection. Why the resurrection and not the death of Jesus? Because a dead man wasn't that impressive; after all, the Romans crucified hundreds of Jewish people every year. But a man who came back from the dead? Now, that was something astounding! If you think about it, had Jesus stayed in the tomb, we would not be saved. But praise God he rose from the grave, and Paul used every opportunity he had to talk about this.

Paul admits that if they could accuse him of something, it would be of shouting about the resurrection of the dead (v21). He captured the interest of Felix, who several days later came back with his wife to listen to Paul talk about the gospel. History tells us Felix was corrupt and tyrannical. We see from the passage that he felt convicted of his wrongdoing, even afraid, but he did nothing about it. His love for money and power was stronger than his interest in the gospel.

GO DEEP

Think about your own life. Have you ever faced accusations, unfair treatment, or challenges? Paul's story reminds us that even in tough times, God can bring about opportunities to share the hope we have in the resurrection. Pray to God and ask for help to see where he has given you these opportunities in any tough times you deal with, now or in the future.

BE BOLD

Paul wasn't afraid to talk to Felix about his faith. Pray for opportunities to share about Jesus's resurrection and the salvation plan with people who don't know Him. They may not do anything about it, like Felix, but we are called to share the gospel with everyone. Jesus didn't stay in the tomb, and because of that, we have a message of life, hope, and salvation.

MEMORISE IT

“However, I admit that I worship the God of our ancestors as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that is in accordance with the Law and that is written in the Prophets.” - Acts 24:14