How does Acts 23:5 teach us to respect authority figures today? Setting the Scene Acts 23 finds Paul before the Sanhedrin. After he calls the high priest a “whitewashed wall,” someone points out that he has just insulted the high priest. Paul immediately answers: “Paul replied, ‘Brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest. For it is written: ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’ ” (Acts 23:5) What Paul Models for Us • Quick correction. The moment Paul learns he has dishonored an authority, he retracts the insult. • Submission to Scripture. He quotes Exodus 22:28 as the final word: “You shall not curse God, nor curse a ruler of your people”. • Respect despite injustice. Ananias was harsh and hypocritical, yet Paul still honors the office. Why Respect Matters • Authority is God-ordained (Romans 13:1). Dismissing earthly leaders ultimately dismisses God’s order. • A respectful spirit keeps our witness clear (1 Peter 2:12-17). • Honor limits sin. When we restrain our tongues, we avoid bitterness and slander (James 3:9-10). When Leaders Are Wrong Paul’s example answers the common objection, “What if the authority is corrupt?” • Disagree without dishonor. Paul eventually appeals to Caesar (Acts 25:11) but never resorts to name-calling again. • Use lawful means. He invokes his Roman citizenship (Acts 22:25-29) rather than personal attacks. • Leave vengeance to God (Romans 12:19). Practical Ways to Show Respect Today 1. Guard our speech – Refrain from insults, memes, or sarcasm that demean leaders. – Speak truth, but with “gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). 2. Pray for authorities (1 Timothy 2:1-2). 3. Obey laws unless they contradict God’s commands (Acts 5:29). 4. Engage politically, but honorably—write letters, vote, serve, without vilifying opponents. 5. Teach children to speak courteously about teachers, police, pastors, and parents. Reinforcing Verses • Proverbs 24:21 — “Fear the LORD and the king.” • Titus 3:1-2 — “Remind them to be subject to rulers… to slander no one, to be peaceable.” • Matthew 22:21 — “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s.” Summing Up Acts 23:5 shows respect is not optional. Even when leaders fail, believers honor the position because God’s Word commands it. Paul’s swift apology, grounded in Scripture, calls us to bridle our tongues, submit to lawful authority, and trust God to judge righteously in His time. |
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