A Plot to Kill Paul

High on the fortressed city wall were lines of archers with their dreaded weapons. Marching toward the wall ... More

Protection

More than forty Jews banded together under an oath agreeing that they would not eat anything until they had killed Paul (vv. 12-14). This band of zealots were roughly equivalent to the terrorists who threaten us today. They made this plan known to the Sanhedrin and somehow Paul’s nephew (Paul’s sister’s son) got word of it, went to Paul in prison and told him what he had heard (15). It would be helpful to know what position he held and how he heard of the plotted ambush (v. 16), but there is nothing that reveals this to us. Paul, in turn, sent him to the chief captain; upon hearing of the plot and he immediately made plans to get Paul out of town (v. 17). 

It is interesting to note that no protest was made by the religious authorities when the conspirators took them into their confidence. Instead, they were quite willing to give their blessing to this plot (vv. 18-22). However, it is not too surprising, since religion is spawned by the father of lies. This same wicked one is very much at work today in such religious groups as Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus etc. Because of religion believers in many countries are being put to death.

This band of zealots was determined to kill Paul, but they did not know that the Lord had just promised Paul a safe journey to Rome (v. 11). They were very loyal to Judaism, and no doubt thought they were doing the God of Israel a favor. Knowing the Roman soldiers would certainly be guarding Paul they were even willing to risk the loss of life to gain their objective. However, it is a simple matter for God to destroy the schemes of wicked men.

Application

The Lord delights in working behind the scenes. An example would be a delay in traffic that may cause me to avoid some danger. Thank you Lord for Your protection!!

Acts 23:12-22 (English Standard Version)


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