As we’ve seen in prior chapters, the proclamation that Jesus is the Messiah and that Messiah suffered and rose from the dead was hard for Jewish listeners. But should it be hard to believe? Was Paul’s faith insane? 

Tertullus’ assertion that Paul is the ringleader of the Nazarenes, then, rightly identifies Paul with his Savior. In many ways, even now in his trial, Paul is mirroring Jesus. 

Jesus wasn’t absent before this moment. Paul was not abandoned or forsaken but had the helper, the Holy Spirit, dwelling inside him and Jesus himself ruling and reigning in heaven. Paul’s situation was not out of touch with the sovereignty of God.

Paul extended to the mob the same grace he was given, the truth of Jesus. Every Christian ought to take on this disposition.

The accusation at the beginning of the chapter was a complement to the gospel–it was working. The good news of King Jesus does turn the world upside down because it changes the hearts of men

Pride put Paul and Silas in prison and pride would have demanded they be let out. Instead, humility was their anthem and it brought them peace…

Salvation hinges on the necessity and accuracy of the gospel message. On this message, we do not waver. For our own faith and the faith of others, we ought to proclaim a consistent, unwavering God…

Students of Acts will join the Apostles in the worship of a God who is ever-present, all-knowing, gracious, and steadfast…