30 Now on the next day, wanting to know for certain why Paul had been accused by the Jews, he released him and ordered the chief priests and all the [o]Council to assemble, and he brought Paul down and placed him before them.

23:1 Now looking intently at the [a]Council, Paul said, “[b]Brothers, I have [c]lived my life with an entirely good conscience before God up to this day.” 2 But the high priest Ananias commanded those standing beside him to strike him on the mouth.

3 Then Paul said to him, “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you sit to try me according to the Law, and in violation of the Law, order me to be struck?” 4 But those present said, “Are you insulting God’s high priest?” 5 And Paul said, “I was not aware, brothers, that he is high priest; for it is written: ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’”

Acts 22:29-23:5 (NASB) 中文

Trial by the mob

Paul is back from the 3rd missionary journey. He’s shared what God has done among the Gentiles. He’s been warned prophetically that he will be persecuted in Jerusalem. It’s now being fulfilled. He’s been accused of religious crimes and arrested. This presented an opportunity to share his testimony and call to the gentiles – which enraged the crowd.

Another trial

Paul is now brought before the Jewish leaders for yet another trial. The Roman commander insisted on this meeting so he could understand what it was about Paul that could create such a violent reaction from his own people. Ananias had Paul stuck on the face. Why? “Paul’s claim of a good conscience offended the high priest. He thought that someone accused of such serious crimes should never claim a clear conscience.” (enduringword.com)

Speaking his mind

Not knowing that Ananias was high priest, Paul spoke his mind to him. This reminds us of Jesus calling the religious leaders white-washed tombs (Matthew 23:27-28). Paul was not one to violate the law. He understood it was God’s law for His people and was for a purpose. He sought to uphold it – appropriately. “The command to have Paul struck was in fact contrary to both the spirit and the letter of the law. (Deuteronomy 25:1-2)” (enduringword.com)

RЯeflection

• “Being subject to governmental authorities is as much of a requirement under the New Covenant as it was under the Old (cf. Rom. 13:1-7; et al.)”. (planobiblechapel.org)