Acts 23:12-35 Conspiracy against Paul
23:12-22 Men designed to avenge Paul
22:23-35 Safe Passage of Paul
Acts 23:12-22 Men designed to avenge Paul
Verses 11 and 12 reveal the plan of God and the plan of evil men. God has purposed to take Paul to Rome, but bad people had gone for fasting prayer to kill Paul. What contradictory statements. Paul was a follower of Christ and committed to the mission, had visions of God on many occasions never bothered about threats of men. There was a plot to stop the mission of God through Paul. They had the friendship of the upper hand of the authorities and the people in power. Sons of Paul’s sister brought this news to Paul, and in turn, Paul informed the centurion, and the centurion directed the boy to meet the commander of the army.
Two lessons we can learn. Believe the word of God, the promises of God against the threat of men and the circumstances. God would honour his servants. He will remove the swords which may hang around our necks. God is so powerful and marvellous in his deeds. Paul not only kept the matters in prayer, but he also took all efforts to use the available sources of help from relatives, friends and government authorities to advance the gospel work. His life on earth is required for the benefit of the Kingdom of God.
Acts 22:23-35 Safe Passage of Paul
So, the commander made use of the intelligence report. He immediately swings into action. Commander ordered his two centurions to take Paul safely to the Governor. It was a night mission. The human plan was sleeping on that night, whereas the plan of God began to work. God prompted the commander to work for Paul. If God loves a person and approves the mission, then nothing could hamper or stop the project. Commander took extra caution and steps to save Paul. He became more vigilant of the situations and used his power to make sure the safe passage of Paul.
The narration of the incident by the commander is noteworthy and a point of excellence. He expressed that Jews seized Paul and wanted to kill him. But he rushed and rescued with two of his battalions. Also, he attested that Paul could not deserve the death penalty. He said that Paul was a religious person, and he had a dispute over faith in their God and doctrine.
Soldiers took Paul to Antipatris where they moved to Caesarea. There they delivered Paul to Governor with the letter of Commander. The governor ordered soldiers to bring Paul to Herod’s palace after knowing the province of Paul. Paul had to wait for the delayed justice. However, God created these opportunities for him to present the Gospel to the soldiers, authorities and governors.
Discussion:
1. Cite few occasions how God had miraculously made way for you to escape from the plots of people?
2. Discuss the Chains and opportunities of Paul for Gospel preaching.
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