Acts 24:10 – The governor then motioned for Paul to speak. Paul said, “I know, sir, that you have been a judge of Jewish affairs for many years, so I gladly present my defense before you. 11 You can quickly discover that I arrived in Jerusalem no more than twelve days ago to worship at the Temple. 12 My accusers never found me arguing with anyone in the Temple, nor stirring up a riot in any synagogue or on the streets of the city. 13 These men cannot prove the things they accuse me of doing. 

14 “But I admit that I follow the Way, which they call a cult. I worship the God of our ancestors, and I firmly believe the Jewish law and everything written in the prophets. 15 I have the same hope in God that these men have, that he will raise both the righteous and the unrighteous. 16 Because of this, I always try to maintain a clear conscience before God and all people.

17 “After several years away, I returned to Jerusalem with money to aid my people and to offer sacrifices to God. 18 My accusers saw me in the Temple as I was completing a purification ceremony. There was no crowd around me and no rioting. 19 But some Jews from the province of Asia were there—and they ought to be here to bring charges if they have anything against me! 20 Ask these men here what crime the Jewish high council found me guilty of, 21 except for the one time I shouted out, ‘I am on trial before you today because I believe in the resurrection of the dead!’” (NLT)

Historically speaking, this passage is rather straight forward.  Paul had arrived in Jerusalem and was quickly arrested (Acts 21).  Paul reveals that he is a Roman citizen, and his case is moved to a Roman official. He is taken from Jerusalem to Caesarea, where the local Roman Governor will officiate over his trial.  In today’s passage, Paul is given his opportunity to speak.

There is one line in Paul’s defense that I find striking: “I am on trial before you today because I believe in the resurrection of the dead!”  What if we were on trial for what we believe?  Would we be able to defend ourselves?  When I consider Paul’s testimony, I am reminded of what the Apostle Peter wrote:  “If someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way.” (1 Peter 3:15-16).

There are many programs, books, and seminars that would teach us how to share our faith.  I have had personal experience with a number of these.  Some are great, some are rather harsh.  Yet, the truth remains: As Christians we should always be prepared to explain why we put our hope and trust in Jesus, and we must do this in a way that is respectful to those who are listening.

If you cannot plainly explain the hope that you have in Jesus, I encourage you to learn how.  Your pastor will probably know some great resources for you, or perhaps your pastor will teach you. 

Today, prepare yourself to share with others the hope that you have! 

Posted by Ramón Torres