Paul must have been under immense strain, mentally and physically as he literally 'feared' for his life. He longed that these Jews would come to know the saving power of Jesus and yet, they had no desire to. Paul must have been sustained by the Lord standing near to him, reminding and commanding him to take courage. We need to remember the Lord's presence with us, no matter what we face - to be bold, strong and very courageous, for the Lord our God is with us.
God's deliverance for Paul came through extended family and through legal protection. God will use anyone who is available to be used to serve His purposes.
Tertullus' four charges against Paul are:
He is a troublemaker.
He has been stirring up riots among Jews all over the world.
He is a ringleader of the Nazarene sect.
He tried to desecrate the temple.
Paul answers:
He went to worship 12 days ago in Jerusalem
The accusers didn't find Paul stirring up trouble or arguing anywhere
They can't prove the charges they are making
On the contrary, Paul is a follower of the Way, agreeing and believing what the Prophets have said
He has a hope in the resurrection of the dead, and it is because of this that he is accused.
I have to ask myself how significant a place does the resurrection of the dead play in my life?
Felix had clearly seen Paul live out 'the Way'. He was obviously intrigued by it and by Paul. He had some fear, and he also had some twisted motives.
Before Festus, Paul realises that he needed to make more of the issue as there was much at stake, hence he took it further and further. Ultimately, this is probably because of the gospel opportunities Paul sees and wishes to take.
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