FRIDAY January 19, 2024
Ready to Give a Defense
Then Paul, after the governor had nodded to him to speak, answered: “Inasmuch as I know that you have been for many years a judge of this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself, because you may ascertain that it is no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship. And they neither found me in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city. Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me.”
Acts 24:10-13
Paul kept silent against his accusers until Felix the governor nodded to give him the opportunity to give his defense. He became his own lawyer and represented himself in this case. Paul spoke boldly because he knew the truth about what had happened. He was in Jerusalem twelve days ago to worship God. That was his pure intent.
Paul argued that he was not a violent person, and he certainly did not start a riot. In fact, he was not in the Temple or the streets disputing with anyone. Paul was straightforward and said: “Your Honor, these accusers are liars. The Jewish council is trying to condemn me for something I did not do. It is a setup, and they are deliberately lying about everything. Where are their witnesses?” Paul had a point. Where were they to prove their case against him? There were none.
Many Christians have had to face false charges, knowing that they were not guilty. When we know Jesus Christ is with us, and we know the truth about a situation, we can stand and speak the truth boldly in front of any Judge. We have nothing to hide.
Honestly, one of the most beautiful characteristics to have in the life of a Christian is integrity. We stand in God’s righteousness, knowing we have done nothing against our Lord and our King. If falsely accused, and you are called upon to give an account, are you ready to give a defense?
I will not deny but that the best apology against false accusers is silence and sufferance, and honest deeds set against dishonest words.
~John Milton~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
