The story so far
Paul’s life was saved by the Roman Army after a Jewish mob had tried to kill him.
He was taken to Caesarea where he stood trial before Governor Felix, who couldn’t find that Paul had done anything wrong, but kept him in prison, so not to lose favour with the Jews.
Reading: Acts 25
For two years Paul is in prison!
Governor Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus and in Acts 25 we read about Paul’s trial before Governor Festus.
Paul once again pleads his innocence, but not fancying the option of being killed by a mob in Jerusalem he appeals to stand trial before Caesar, which was his right as Roman citizen. Caesar at the time was Nero, who actually became a real hater and persecutor of Christians, to the extend of burning them alive to light up his gardens.
But at this time, Paul would have seen Nero as a just and fair ruler. Certainly more fair than the mob in Jerusalem who wanted him dead.
The chapter ends with King Herod Agrippa’s visit, one with much ‘pomp’ as verse 23 describes it. He was an emperor who was seen as an expert in Jewish laws and customs. His Grandfather was the man who tried to have Jesus killed as a baby.
Governor Festus has invited King Agrippa to hear Paul speak, so that he can gather his opinion in how to explain Paul’s case to Caesar.
As you will notice from this chapter, there are quite a few big names being mentioned. We have Governor Festus, we have King Agrippa and of course Caesar Nero.
What I love about Paul is that even with such names around, he is a man who carries all the authority of a man of God. He’s comfortable with who he is, no matter where he is or who he stands before because his identity is based purely in Christ.
Is that the same for us?
- Every situation
- Every opportunity
- Every challenge
- Every invitation
- Every conversation
Do you enter with a Godly authority and confidence knowing who you are and whose you are?
If not, why?
Identity is a battle that is very much worth fighting.
Many people believe many things about who they are that just isn’t true. Many people live life through the lens of negative words that’s have been spoken about them, negative thought patterns about themselves or simply just plain old lies.
Today is a day to remind yourself of these truths:
- We have forgiveness through him. (Ephesians 1:7)
- God chose you! (John 15:16)
- The old is gone. (Romans 6:6)
- We are made in his image. (Genesis 1:27)
- You are a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- You are God’s masterpiece. (Ephesians 2:10)
- You are a child of God. (John 1:12)
Contributed by Ps Ed