Acts of the Apostles The Jews Bring Accusations Against Paul

In an effort to understand the accusations against Paul, the Roman commander convened the Jewish council, where Paul affirmed his good conscience before God, prompting the high priest Ananias to have him struck. Paul rebuked the act, then retracted upon realizing Ananias' position, citing Scripture. Perceiving a division between the Pharisees and Sadducees, Paul declared his hope in the resurrection, inciting dissension. The Pharisees defended him, and the commander removed Paul to protect him. That night, the Lord encouraged Paul, assuring him he would also testify in Rome. Meanwhile, over forty Jews conspired with the chief priests to kill Paul, but the plot was exposed by Paul’s nephew and reported to the commander. In response, Paul was sent under heavy guard to Governor Felix in Caesarea, accompanied by a letter from Claudius Lysias. Once there, the high priest and elders arrived with Tertullus, a Roman advocate, who accused Paul of being a disruptive leader of the Nazarenes and profaning the Temple. The Jews supported the charges, seeking Felix’s judgment.