Reading for today: Acts 25:1-12
Even after 2 years of Paul living in relative obscurity, the Jews in Jerusalem still considered Paul their archenemy and wanted his death. The appointment of a new governor (Festus) was their opportunity to bring their charges against Paul once more.
Immediately upon Festus' arrival in Jerusalem, the chief priests and elders meet with him. They inform him of their charges against Paul, and then they ask a favor, requesting the Paul be sent back to Jerusalem for trial. Their plan was to ambush Paul, and finally kill him.
Probably aware of the previous ambush plot 2 years prior, Festus denies their request. But he does invite them to accompany him to Caesarea to deal with the matter there. Luke does not go into detail concerning either the charges or the defense. Most likely, the charges were the same ones brought 2 years earlier before Felix.
Apparently Festus was unsure of how to handle the situatioin, not understanding the finer points of Jewish custom in regard to the accusations brought against Paul. Because of that, Festus decides to grant the Jews a favor, but only if Paul is willing to go to Jerusalem.
Paul, knowing that the Jews intended t okill him, appeals to Caesar (Nero). As a Roman citizen, this was Paul's right. Besides, at the moment, it was the only recourse available to Paul in order to stay out of the hands of the Jewish leaders.
Festus talked this over with his council, but there was really nothing he could do. Paul had appealed to Caesar; to Caesar he must go. Festus was probably relieved that the case was now out of his hands.
Do you think Paul was right in avoiding Jerusalem and the Jewish leaders at this point? Or should he have just trusted God to protect him in this hazardous position?
Tomorrow: Another interruption to Paul's plan
Monday, August 25, 2008
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