November 20, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 24
1 And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul.
2 And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence,
3 We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.
4 Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.
5 For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:
6 Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.
7 But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands,
8 Commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.
9 And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so.
10 Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:
11 Because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship.
12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:
13 Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.
14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:
15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.
16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void to offence toward God, and toward men.
17 Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.
18 Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult.
19 Who ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought against me.
20 Or else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council,
21 Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.
22 And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.
23 And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.
24 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.
25 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.
26 He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him.
27 But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix’ room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
Acts Chapter 24 describes the trial of the Apostle Paul before Governor Felix in Caesarea. This section highlights the tensions between the Jewish leaders who accuse Paul and the Roman legal system. It also shows how Paul courageously and with integrity defends himself and testifies to his hope in the resurrection of the dead.
Commentary
In this chapter, we encounter the injustice and power politics of the time. The Jewish accusers, led by Tertullus, portray Paul as a troublemaker and temple violator. However, their accusations are unfounded and based on false claims. Paul defends himself confidently and remains true to his faith. His argumentation demonstrates that he respects Jewish law and the prophets and shares a common hope in the resurrection.
Felix, the governor, is caught between the political expectations of the Jewish leaders and the desire for justice. Although he shows some interest in Paul’s teachings, his actions are influenced by personal greed and the desire to please the Jews. His repeated delays of the trial and the two-year imprisonment of Paul reveal Felix’s corruption and moral weakness.
Paul takes this opportunity to proclaim his faith in Christ, even if it unsettles Felix. His message of righteousness, chastity, and the future judgment calls into question Felix’s life and motives, leading him to avoid confrontation.
Summary
Acts Chapter 24 describes how Paul proves his innocence before Governor Felix and boldly proclaims his faith. While the Jewish leaders falsely accuse him, Paul demonstrates that he lives according to the law and proclaims the resurrection of the dead. Felix, driven by greed and political calculation, postpones the trial and holds Paul in custody for two years, even though no guilt has been proven. During this time, Paul remains a witness for Christ and even speaks to Felix and his wife Drusilla about righteousness and God’s judgment. The chapter highlights the tensions between faith, politics, and personal integrity.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 76—Judas
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 76 on Judas depicts the tragic story of a man who, despite his closeness to Jesus Christ and his privileged position among the Twelve, experienced the deepest fall. The text shows Judas’ initial enthusiasm for the Lord, his gradual surrender to greed, and his betrayal, which became the epitome of doom. His story is not only a tale of betrayal but also a serious warning about the danger of misusing divine gifts and opportunities.
Commentary
The story of Judas is a shocking example of how clinging to sin can render proximity to Jesus fruitless. Judas was called by Jesus and equated with the other disciples, even entrusted with the responsibility of treasurer. Despite all the miracles he saw and the words he heard, he did not allow himself to be completely changed by Christ. His love for money and his pride prevailed.
Especially striking is Judas’ apparent dedication, while he internally harbored doubts and resentment. His betrayal did not begin with handing over Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, but with small decisions that fueled his greed. The story illustrates how an unresolved weakness can become a destructive force.
Judas’ final desperate attempt to undo the consequences of his betrayal shows no true remorse but rather fear of the consequences. His tragic realization that it was “too late” underscores the seriousness of decisions that shape our hearts and determine our lives.
Summary
Chapter 76 traces the life and fall of Judas, from his calling by Jesus to his betrayal and tragic death. Judas began as a committed disciple who followed Jesus and heard his message. However, his love for money and his pride prevented him from fully surrendering to Christ. These weaknesses ultimately led him to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.
Although Judas had numerous opportunities to repent, he remained trapped in his pride and greed. Even when Jesus revealed his betrayal at the Last Supper, he did not change his course. His attempt to return the money showed no genuine remorse, only fear of damnation. His life ended in despair and suicide.
The story of Judas is a serious admonition to keep the heart with God and not to be led by unresolved sins. It shows how a seemingly small weakness, if left unchecked, can lead to catastrophic consequences.
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