ACTS 22

THE JEWISH PEOPLE OUTRAGED BY THE INCLUSION OF GENTILES

The Jewish people in the crowd hear that Paul is speaking Hebrew and begin to listen closely. Paul shares his testimony with them, explaining that he was a Jewish man who previously persecuted Christians. Paul recalls his personal experience with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9) and tells of his temporary blindness. After this encounter with Christ, Paul became a believer and dedicated his life to spreading the news of Jesus. He shares the wisdom he received from the Lord, telling him that his testimony will not be received well in Jerusalem.

After Paul shares the gospel with the non-Jewish people, the people of Jerusalem are outraged. They see the message of Paul as blasphemous and want to kill him. As they are about to beat him, Paul expresses that it is unlawful for him to be flogged without a trial as a Roman citizen. God uses Paul’s unique circumstance of being both of Jewish descent and a Roman citizen to his advantage. Instead of flogging Paul, they bring him before the chief priest and council.