Picture yourself in this courtroom. Arrested for starting a riot with his words, Paul stood before a powerful religious court. Humanly speaking, his fate was fully in their hands. Still, Paul did not flinch. Instead, he looked straight into the eyes of his accusers (Acts 23:1). When the priest ordered him struck, Paul did not cower. Even when the dispute became so violent “the commander feared that Paul might be torn apart” (v.10), Paul’s knees never buckled.
Trade places with Paul in your mind. Could you look powerful accusers in the eye, knowing they could have you executed with a wave of their hand? Could you stand the heat of their accusations without melting? Personal experience has taught me that my insides would more likely turn to jelly. My hands would shake. Words would fail me. On my own, I don’t have what it takes to endure this kind of pressure. Which makes me wonder: What truth kept Paul’s knees from knocking? What was the rod of steel that ran up his back really made from? More than moxie was required in this moment. His was a response to meeting the Messiah. Paul was doing more than making his mark on the pages of history as he stood before the court; he was showcasing the gospel.
Hebrews 10 describes another courtroom. Let’s imagine ourselves there. It’s not Sadducees and Pharisees who sit behind this bench, but God Himself. Humanly speaking, we can expect the gavel to drop because we are guilty. Each of us has violated the holiness of God. We deserve to be prosecuted to the full extent of the Law. Still, we can enter this courtroom just like Paul entered his, with confidence. Though the high priest in Paul’s case wished him struck, Jesus, our High Priest, took the blows upon Himself.
There are times when I fear that the weight of my own sin might tear me apart, moments when I am suddenly and painfully aware that I don’t deserve to be in the presence of a holy God. You have those moments too: when a sin you thought you were free of suddenly ensnares you again, when you catch the idol factory of your heart churning out something or someone new to worship, when you’ve tried and failed to live like Scripture calls you to live. When those moments come, we share in Paul’s defense. “It is with respect to the hope of the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial” (v.6 ESV). It’s not that the gavel will not fall, but rather it has already fallen on Jesus at Calvary. What the Lord spoke to Paul in his hour of need He speaks to us in ours. “Take courage” (v.11 ESV). Heads high. Palms steady. Pulses slow. Because of our High Priest, Jesus “let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22).
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44 thoughts on "Paul Before the Sanhedrin"
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Wow, this devotional and reading brought me to tears. Thank you so much for writing this. We truly do have an incredible high priest and a compassionate intercessor. These themes are some of my favorite in scripture.
Take Courage!
TAYLOR – happy belated birthday!
AMANDA – praying for your niece and for her friend’s family during this devastating time.
KATHY – praying with you and your friend’s family for John’s healing!
DOROTHY – praying for your aunt and uncle as they transition to assisted living, that it will make their lives safer and that they will be engaged with other residents.
Victoria E I believe God understands a mother’s worrying heart. My daughter is grown and I still become apprehensive about travel, the world we live in as it relates to her family. He gave up His Son, I know he “gets it”.
I need all you prayer warriors to storm heaven on behalf of a dear friend’s 15-month-old grandson. He is currently in the hospital with RSV. He spent the first of this week in PICU but is now in a room. His oxygen levels were not good last night but they are better today. He is still struggling to breathe and is having to be suctioned every two hours. They have upped the albuterol and he is stable.
Please pray for God’s healing hand to be on him. His name is John. His parents are Holly and Drew. Our friends’ names are Sonia and Ronnie. They are all leaning hard on God. My heart hurts that they are having to go through this, but I am so thankful that we get to see our loving and healing Father work.
You are all a sweet blessing in my life. Thank you for being faithful in prayer. Have a blessed weekend.
“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering.”
Dear sisters, I pray that we would ALL have faith like this! When things don’t go our way faith wise.. or, to be honest, in general.. we tend to give up and throw in the towel… but instead of giving up.. we have to pull all of our strength within us.. and ignore that little voice in our head
I also hope that we would all be more like Paul when it comes to having faith. Being willing to go wherever God leads us.. without complaining or living in fear.. despite of the consequences.. its about God.. not us!
I pray that all of you would have a great weekend! I love you ❤️
Changed life, thank you so much for sharing the wisdom you are receiving from your Bible study. I feel like the Lord has been speaking the same truths to my heart; using my gifts and talents to glorify His kingdom rather than trying to follow someone else’s example of how they are living out the gospel.
Victoria, I will continue to pray for the health of your baby and peace.
Thank you Michelle, The legal separation and the restraining order is what helped me finally get on the road of recovery and healing. I got plugged in to a celebrate recovery group and started the healing process. It was a 20+ marriage. I’m so much better now. Healing, growing, moving forward. God is amazing!
Happy Birthday Taylor!
happy birthday Taylor
It looks like my post got cut off some how. I would just like to ask for co to yes prayer from you all for health for our baby and peace of mind. I have been feeling attacked by a spirit of fear over the past few days. ERB so thankful for answered prayers on your behalf! Taylor happy birthday. TheBestisYettoCome I will pray for your court date next week.
Helen S I love that verse it is the lock screen on my phone. How sweet you get to say it to your son ever night. Ladies if I may ask for continued prayer for myself, after the wonderful results we had during our ultrasound on Monday for some inexplicable reason I started to feel some anxiety about the next 20 weeks to go. I trust God in his benevolence and omnipotence but I still need prayer for this spirit of fear to leave me. ERB so thankful for answered prayers on your behalf, I have felt moved this week to pray for you! Happy birthday Taylor! TheBestisYettoCome, bless you for fostering and I will pray for your court date next week.
Oh my!! Erin asked some questions that I, like her, don’t know if I can have the courage and “where with all” Paul and the other disciples and apostles had to stand firm. I might be able to stand firm for myself but if my family were to start to be involved (threatened) I don’t know if I could handle that. Erin’s last paragraph really got me to thinking, also.
I learned something new from Scripture today, Acts 23:8 “for the Sadducees say there is no resurrection or angels or spirits, but the Pharisees believe in all of these.”, the difference between the Pharisees and the Sadducees.
I read a little further in Hebrews (verses 23-25) and I think we can all benefit from hearing/reading this, “23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Those promises are greatly needed in my life right now.
Sisters, remember God, Christ and the Holy Spirit are always there for you. They want to celebrate the good times and help you through the bad. Be blessed and rely on the Lord always and have a great weekend.
Paul’s life is truly a testament to how far we can go to serve Christ. I know that I fall short of serving if I compare myself and my actions to Paul. But God doesn’t ask me to do more than other Christians, he wants me to utilize the gifts given to me to accomplish his work. My women’s study group is currently studying the book of Haggai and a takeaway recently has been to focus on what we can do and are asked to do. It is easy to look at other’s and compare ourselves. May God give me the ability to slow down and listen to him, to pray for his guidance in all matters, and to serve where I am able.
Prayers for you all in your journey this week. ERB, Dorothy, Taylor, Angie, Maura, Tracy — following your posts and praying for you. God bless you all.
Helen S I love that verse it is the lock screen on my phone. How sweet you get to say it to your son ever night. Ladies if I may ask for continued prayer for myself, after the wonderful resultswe
Hi ladies. I have been studying with SRT for awhile now and read all the comments but rarely comment myself. I would like to ask for prayer for my 16 year old niece. I found out yesterday she lost a friend and it sounds like it may have been suicide. Please pray for my niece and all the friends and family of this young girl that are devastated from this loss. Thank you!
Mari, I’m also praying for your healing. I can’t imagine what you’ve gone through. May God continue to show up in your life and mend your heart from this separation.
Mari V– thank you for sharing such a powerful testimony of faith. May God continue to bless your faithfulness to Him. That is Holy Spirit confidence right there :)
Ruth — I’m so thankful to know God is helping you and answering prayers, that’s so wonderful!! I pray you continue to see Him move in your situation. <3
Taylor – Happy 26th birthday!! May your weekend with friends be blessed!!
Paul is so intense. I am amazed today by how many languages he knows. I have trouble with even learning one second language. I don't put it into practice enough, though. It's amazing because he was a missionary, so it makes sense he has learned multiple languages.
Unlike Paul, I stood before the courtroom. facing the judge. So yes, I have a little experience what it feels like inside of a courtroom. NO FUN to say the least. My heart racing, I felt I could not breathe, the advocate that went with me had to tell me to take a deep breath. I too, don’t know if I would have a boldness as Paul. During a 3 year span I had several court appearances during that time with the first appearance was the hardest. The last one I had was last June. I faced the judge. The person I once called husband to my right. I was asked a very hard question and had to make a quick decision. And with a quick prayer and having God’s word in my heart and mind, I spoke. I knew what I wanted to say, but as I took a deep breath and spoke God’s word, there in front of the judge, a few bailiffs, courtrecorder, sheriffs, my friend that went with me,
I spoke. All I remember is that the judge said, something like, I’ll accept that. And since that day I am now legally separated. I knew what I wanted but at least now I am legally separated. It wasn’t until I left the courthouse and my friend and I got into her car, I broke down and cried so hard. Something I had not done in a very long time. And she told me something I had not known what I did. I say this next knowing that it’s all God and not me. My friend told me that she heard me speak with boldness, God’s word in front of all those people. They know what I stand for. And they heard it. All of them. I knew what I wanted, but that’s OK. God‘s gonna take care of it.
Unlike Paul, I stood before the courtroom. facing the judge. So yes, I have a little experience what it feels like inside of a courtroom. NO FUN to say the least. My heart racing, I felt I could not breathe, the advocate that went with me had to tell me to take a deep breath. I too, don’t know if I would have a boldness as Paul. During a 3 year span I had several court appearances during that time with the first appearance was the hardest. The last one I had was last June. I faced the judge. The advocate to my left and the person I once called husband to my right. I was asked a very hard question and had to make a quick decision. And with a quick prayer and having God’s word in my heart and mind, I spoke. I knew what I wanted to say, but as I took a deep breath and spoke God’s word, there in front of the judge, a few bailiffs, courtrecorder, sheriffs, my friend that went with me, 
Happy Birthday Taylor! Prayers for you ERB for continued improvement, praising God for your great day! Thank you to the sister who mentioned “The Lord stood by him!” How did I miss that? I love that and underlined it. Happy weekend friends prayers for all to have a blessed and restful couple of days!
I do believe it is a mistake in the app. In the book we read all of Acts 22 before reading verses one through 11 of Acts 23.
This is just what I needed today! “Have courage!” Jesus said. I love how the Lord works thru SRT and so often the timing is perfect for when I need a word from the Lord.
Would you all Pray for me next Tuesday morning EST? I am a foster mom and we have court and I think I may be asked to speak as a witness to some erratic behavior from the birth mom. I am trying to keep a balanced heart to love her with the Lord’s love but also protect this sweet little baby I have in my charge. I want to represent my foster baby well and protect him, but most of all I want to represent the Lord and showcase His gospel (love that!).
I read the comments frequently but rarely post – thank you all for being such an encouragement to me! Luv u all!
TAYLOR – happy birthday!!!!!!
ERB – ❤
What stuck out to me was that the LORD “stood by” Paul and spoke. Not a vision (Luke recorded other visions or dreams) but emphasized the message by a personal delivery.
Happiest of birthdays Taylor! Yes, we are so blessed to walk with Our Faithful Savior!!
That enter key… argh!!!
SEARCHING… I hit the snooze today, but here I am. I had the rough start you mentioned, but also as you mentioned… I’m glad I showed up!
ERB… Your post made me smile… giving Him thanks for your good day yesterday!
SEARCHING… I hit the snooze today, but here I am. I had the rough start you mentioned, but as you mentioned… I’m glad I showed up!
Sisters, again I would encourage you to read ALL of chapter 22… Acts 22:1-30
It not only talks about Paul’s full testimony (vs 14-15 “The God of our ancestors has appointed you to know His will, to see the Righteous One, and to hear the words from His mouth, 15 since you will be a witness for Him to all people of what you have seen and heard.”) ..but it also shows the importance of obedience (listening with ears to hear & eyes to see) and how God uses truth and facts to protect us.. “But I was born a citizen.” (vs 28) I LOVE this!!! In a way it is saying we are citizens of the Body of Christ. This is our inheritance, and it gives us protection as well as a unique vision; we get to see through the eyes of God!!! Following Him will cost us EVERYTHING but in that cost (which is surrender) we GAIN everything!!!! Anyways… I encourage you to read the whole chapter/s!!! It gives GREAT perspective and insight!!
Also Acts 19:2-6 AWESOME-AWESOME-AWESOME!!! Come out from living under the Spirit of repentance (no more guilt or condemnation) When you give your life to God you are free and delivered!!! Step with into the Holy Spirit (where there is no more curtain) and LIVE in the confidence that He has chosen you and you have chosen Him!!! Fellowship there!!! SO Good!!!!
Hoped this all makes sense and I didn’t babble on too much. Much Love to all of you!!! Xoxo
Lord than You that I can stand faithful even in my own sin because of the Blood of Christ. In Jesus name, Amen
I’m thankful for the example of Paul. He was willing to do anything for the sake of the gospel. May I be so bold when I share my words and life with others.
Loved the verses in Hebrews today especially going one verse further to Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Holding onto this hope as today is my birthday and I begin my 26th year of the Lord writing my story here on earth. I feel excited for the ways I know He will move and work in my life, and I feel encouraged to stay faithful walking in His will for me, even when it seems confusing or is not what I had planned. A daily battle to trust and obey, but it is so worth it <3
Just sitting in awe of the grace we are shown and boldness we can embrace to navigate the challenges of this life because we have the God of the universe on our side! I pray everyone has a blessed weekend! I'm excited to be having a getaway weekend with some of my former college field hockey teammates :) it's been 4 years since I graduated from college so the fact that this reunion is happening is such a blessing!
Is the reading actually supposed to be the whole chapter of Acts 22 and into chapter 23 verse 11? Didn’t make sense to me to just read until Acts 22:11 and then skip to Acts 23. I’m assuming this is a mistake.
To be as bold as Paul…❤️
Wow. Just wow. Paul’s bravery and courage is amazing.
We are studying the Sermon on the Mount in BSF presently. A big take-away for me has been, “It is not my circumstances that I need to be rescued from, but myself.” My attitude, reaction or response in every situation makes all the difference.
Paul stood in chains before the counsel in the courtroom. How did he respond? What was his reaction and attitude? Guided by the Holy Spirit he shared his testimony regarding the gospel of Jesus Christ in ways the people would understand and relate to. His priority and purpose remained the same in every circumstance. As I was thinking this morning, it occurred to me, when Paul thought back to his years as Saul and his persecution of the people of the Way,…I wondered if he made the connection that Jesus whom they once died in faith for (at Saul’s hands), Paul would willingly give his life for now as well. I wonder if the faith he saw in their lives God used to prepare Paul for his own journey. And I wondered two things about my own life…1) What mistakes did I make before I knew Jesus that He can and will currently use in my redeemed life, to make a difference for Him? 2) When the going gets tough, in the moment, the hour, or longer, will I be able to share verbally, and live out my testimony for Jesus, always, only, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Every breath, every moment, every day full of opportunity.
Angie, so excited to see another BSF sister here. I participate in BSF as well. Be blessed❤
DOROTHY, VICTORIA E, NANCY SINGLETON, KELLY, TAYLOR, MELANIE, SEARCHING and all of you wonderful ladies who prayed and are praying for me, Thank you!!! I definitely felt each of your prayers!!! The battle with my seizures is ongoing, but it is looking up for now!! Yesterday I was able to not only get up out of bed and function but I was also able to cook, clean, and go shopping with my Mum!!! I stayed up all day without resting!!!!! I was also able to catch up on SRT and as many of you noticed, I was able to comment!!! Yesterday was an AWESOME day!!!! I praise God for every day I’m given, but yesterday all throughout the day, I praised Him for YOU dear sisters and for the miraculous power of prayer and how the Holy Spirit moves in us, the Body of Christ!!! Truly an AMAZING, INCOMPREHENSIBLE & WONDROUS thing!!! Especially to see it in action!!! Wow!!! SO Thankful!!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Dorothy, I remember you mentioning that you had seizures awhile back and it gave me life and hope!! Thank you for sharing your story & testimony. It is so powerful!! I am learning through this Acts study just HOW powerful testimonies are & how important it is to share them when God leads… so I truly appreciate you taking the time to share yours. ❤️
Such a great connection! Thanks for sharing!!
God always has a plan for our lives, even when we can’t see it, and uses each of us to further His kingdom.
ERB – glad to see you yesterday! Praying the seizures will be controlled.
TAYLOR – thank you for the update, will continue to pray for wisdom and guidance.
MELANIE – praying for continued healing
SUSIE H – praying for others to come to Christ. One of the things that came to mind when the pandemic was evolving daily and the case/death numbers were rising at an astonishing rate – will this be the event that draws people in huge numbers to Christ, a revival across our country (US) and the world?
KATHY – Praise the Lord for this young man doing much better! Congrats to him on being recognized and rewarded at work.
ADRIENNE – mornings are the best for me! Difficult to get going some days but always glad I didn’t hit the snooze.
KELLY – like the comment re: our performance. I’ve always been a hard worker in my jobs, for sure I need to use that same discipline in following Christ
RUTH LONG – praising the Lord with you!
PAMC – praying for your husband, the owners and the other employees!
MAURA – praying for good health and wisdom for you and your girls.
Hi ladies. I’m praying for us all to have Paul’s boldness and I’m reminded of the verse my son makes me say to him each night: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9