However, I admit that I worship the God of our ancestors as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that is in accordance with the Law and that is written in the Prophets, and I have the same hope in God as these men themselves have, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man. (Acts 24:14-16)
There is something liberating and reassuring about the truth.
Faced with a skilled lawyer and significant backing of the Jews, Paul was able to state his case confidently. In doing so he was skilfully able to combine the truth of his Jewish heritage with the truth expressed in the Way.
Being able to do so confidently in the setting before Felix the governor, is also apt because Paul knew how to address his audience. Some might connect that with Paul’s intellectual background and cosmopolitan experience. It is just as much, however, to do with the assurance that comes from relying on the Holy Spirit and the joy of knowing that Jesus has already set the path for Paul to continue his mission into the heartland of the empire.
As we practice relying on the Spirit and being confident in sharing the gospel, so we will be able to engage in various settings and trust God to give us the right words for the occasion.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 