Paul’s Defense and the Resurrection Hope

Acts 24:10–21 (NASB95) 

10When the governor had nodded for him to speak, Paul responded: “Knowing that for many years you have been a judge to this nation, I cheerfully make my defense, 11since you can take note of the fact that no more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. 12“Neither in the temple, nor in the synagogues, nor in the city itself did they find me carrying on a discussion with anyone or causing a riot. 13“Nor can they prove to you the charges of which they now accuse me. 14“But this I admit to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect I do serve the God of our fathers, believing everything that is in accordance with the Law and that is written in the Prophets; 15having a hope in God, which these men cherish themselves, that there shall certainly be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. 16“In view of this, I also do my best to maintain always a blameless conscience both before God and before men. 17“Now after several years I came to bring alms to my nation and to present offerings; 18in which they found me occupied in the temple, having been purified, without any crowd or uproar. But there were some Jews from Asia— 19who ought to have been present before you and to make accusation, if they should have anything against me. 20“Or else let these men themselves tell what misdeed they found when I stood before the Council, 21other than for this one statement which I shouted out while standing among them, ‘For the resurrection of the dead I am on trial before you today.’ ” 

Paul’s defense before Governor Felix is a masterful example of clarity, courage, and focus on the truth. Responding to the accusations of sedition and temple desecration, Paul calmly refutes the charges, pointing out the lack of evidence and the absence of the original accusers. He emphasizes that his actions in Jerusalem were peaceful and centered on worship, not rebellion. Paul then shifts the focus to the real issue at hand: his belief in the resurrection of the dead, a hope rooted in Jewish faith and shared by many of his accusers. By doing so, Paul highlights that the charges against him are theological, not political, and that his faith in the resurrection is consistent with the law and the prophets. His defense not only clears his name but also serves as a testimony to the truth of the Gospel and the hope found in Jesus Christ. 

Paul’s defense challenges us to stand firm in our faith and boldly proclaim the truth, even when faced with false accusations or opposition. His focus on the resurrection reminds us of the centrality of this hope in our faith and the importance of sharing it with others. As the modern church, we must be prepared to give a reason for the hope we have, speaking with clarity and courage while trusting in God’s sovereignty. Let us also strive to live with integrity, ensuring that our actions reflect the truth we proclaim, so that our lives may serve as a testimony to the power and grace of Jesus Christ.