Paul Tried by Sanhedrin in Acts 23

Read Acts Chapter 23

Introduction: Acts 23 tells about Paul the Apostle, standing before the Sanhedrin, boldly sharing his faith and causing a serious uproar amongst the religious leaders. This chapter also tells Paul’s vision of Jesus Christ and the plot to kill him by the religious leaders.

I. Acts 23:1-5: Paul’s Address to the Sanhedrin
Paul begins by stating his clear conscience, which agitates the high priest Ananias, leading to Paul being reprimanded. Paul responds with boldness and sternness, quoting from Exodus 22:28, which prohibits speaking evil about rulers. Other cross reference verses include 2 Corinthians 1:12 (Paul’s clear conscience), Matthew 5:22 (warning against unjust anger), and Exodus 22:28 (respect for authority). These verses shed light on Paul’s integrity, his reaction to injustice, and respect for authority, respectively.

II. Acts 23:6-10: Paul Causes a Dissension
Paul wisely uses the Pharisees’ belief in resurrection to cause a division among his accusers. These verses reminds us of Matthew 10:16 (being wise as serpents), 1 Corinthians 1:27 (God using the foolish things to confound the wise), and Mark 3:25 (a house divided against itself will not stand). These verses show Paul’s wisdom as an orator, as well as how God uses unexpected methods, and the consequences of a division in a group of people.

III. Acts 23:11: The Lord’s Assurance to Paul
In this verse, Jesus appears to Paul in a vision and encourages him to keep on keeping on. This verses bring to mind Joshua 1:9 (God’s promise of presence), 2 Timothy 4:17 (God’s strengthening presence during trials), and Matthew 28:20 (Christ’s promise to be with us). These verses emphasize God’s constant presence with the believers, having strength in trials, and Christ’s enduring promise.

IV. Acts 23:12-22: The Jewish Conspiracy against Paul
A group of Jews conspires to kill Paul, but their plan is exposed. These verses are reminiscent of  Psalm 37:32-33 (God’s protection of the righteous), Proverbs 19:21 (God’s purpose prevailing), and Job 5:12 (God thwarting the plans of the crafty). These verses demonstrate God’s protection, the working out of His plans, and His exposing evil schemes against His people.

V. Acts 23:23-35: Paul is Taken to Caesarea
To protect Paul, he is taken to Caesarea under heavy guard. Some other verses that relate to these verses include Psalm 91:11-12 (God’s angelic protection), Proverbs 21:1 (God’s control over authorities), and Romans 13:1 (God’s establishment of authority). These verses teach God’s angelic protection, His control over authorities, and His establishment of governing authorities.

Conclusion: As we can see in Acts 23, Paul’s courage, shrewdness, and reliance on God in the face of adversity serve as inspiration for all Christians. His experience lets us know we can be sure of God’s constant presence, protection, and control over all circumstances. We as believers should therefore, stand firm in our faith, trust in God’s ultimate plan, and courageously speak His truth, just like Paul.