Acts, 25
8. Paul offered this defense: “Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar, have I offended in any matter.”
8. Paul offered this defense: “Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar, have I offended in any matter.”
Chapter 25 of Acts of the Apostles reports the continuation of Paul's trial before the Roman authorities, now in the figure of Governor Félix and, later, his successor, Festus. In the midst of this situation, there are political and religious intrigues involving the Jews who accuse Paul, as well as the possibility of freeing him, as he did not commit any crime that justified his arrest. Below are five verses related to the themes of the chapter:
Proverbs 18:17: "The first to present his cause always seems fair until another comes and question him." This verse well illustrates Paul's situation before the Roman authorities, for the Jews accused him bluntly, but he also had valid arguments in his favor.
Isaiah 41:10: "Do not fear, for I am with you, do not haunt yourself, for I am your God; I strengthen you, and help you, and I support you with my faithful right hand." This verse can be applied to Paul's situation, which faced adversities and persecution, but had confidence in God that he would be sustained and helped.
Philippians 4:6-7: "You are not restless for anything; before, your petitions are all known before God, prayer and supplications, with thanksgiving. And the peace of God, which exceeds all understanding,, will keep your hearts and your feelings in Christ Jesus. " These verses can be applied to Paul, who probably prayed and pleaded to God for his situation, and found peace amid adversity.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10: "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient to you, because my power is perfect in weakness. Of goodwill, for I will glory in weaknesses, that the power of Christ rest . From what I feel pleasure in weaknesses, injuries, needs, persecution, anguish, for Christ's sake. Because when I am weak, then I am strong. " This passage talks about how human weakness is a means by which God's power manifests itself. Paul faced persecution and adversities, but found strength in God.
Romans 8:31: "What do we say, therefore, to these things? If God is for us who will be against us?" This verse shows that when we have God on our side, there is nothing that can stop us or prevent His will from being fulfilled. Paul was convinced that God was with him amid the accusations and persecution, which gave him the certainty of victory.
“O homem sem Deus é um ser mutilado”. São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
