Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule: Psalm 68-69; Acts 24
Devotional Thought:
Have you ever been falsely accused? Jesus was falsely accused and gave us an example of how to handle that in 1 Peter 2, and here in Acts 24 the apostle Paul is being falsely accused. The most dangerous accusations have some truth to them, but the conclusions are misrepresented in order to accomplish a selfish agenda. Joseph was falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife and went to prison. His accusation was dangerous because there was some truth presented. It was indeed Joseph’s coat and he had left it with her; however, the rest of the accusation was falsely represented in order to accomplish the selfish agenda and get the desired result. Tertullus, the lawyer, accused Paul of three main things: (1) A personal charge – “he is a pestilent fellow” (vs. 5), a political charge – sedition and leading an illegal religion “a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes” (vs. 5), and a preaching charge – “profaning the temple.” (vs. 6). Tertullus starts his speech with flattery to Felix for his leadership in Rome. He tells Felix how much he admires him for the policies and programs that he has put in place that have created such a peaceful and quiet atmosphere in the kingdom. Solomon says, “A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.” (Proverbs 26:28) It was true that the apostle Paul created his fair share of trouble by his preaching throughout the region, but his preaching was in reference to the King of Kings and not the king of Rome. As Paul begins to defend himself before Felix, he teaches us some important lessons. First, he refutes the lies and exposes the agenda. (vs. 11-13) Second, Paul admits to the part that is true. “I must confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers …” (vs. 14) Thirdly, Paul points them to the scriptures. “…so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets: and have hope in God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.” It is so important to always be pointing people to the truth of the scriptures. It is the word of God that breaks down the sinful heart and exposes the need for the gospel and truth. We may never know why God allowed Paul to be falsely accused and held in Rome; however, we do know that Felix was exposed to the gospel and conviction took place. “…Felix came with his wife…and heard Paul concerning faith in Christ…and as he reasoned…Felix trembled…” (vs. 24-25) The eternal is so much more important than the temporary or immediate, and Felix’s eternal soul was at stake. Paul was sure to keep his testimony and the testimony of the gospel the main focus although being falsely accused. A good lesson for us to learn!