How does Acts 28:21 demonstrate the importance of verifying information before judgment? Setting the Scene - Paul has arrived in Rome under guard. - He summons the local Jewish leaders to explain the charges that brought him there. - Before he can defend himself, the leaders respond with surprising words of restraint. Verse Spotlight: Acts 28:21 “They replied, ‘We have not received any letters about you from Judea, nor have any of the brothers who came from there reported or spoken any harm about you.’ ” Principle Observed: Verify Before You Judge - The Roman Jewish leaders refuse to condemn Paul on rumor alone. - They acknowledge a complete lack of firsthand evidence—no letters, no eyewitness testimony. - Their posture mirrors the biblical mandate: suspend judgment until facts are confirmed. Supporting Scripture - Proverbs 18:13 — “He who answers before listening—this is folly and disgrace to him.” - Proverbs 18:17 — “The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.” - Deuteronomy 19:15 — “A single witness shall not suffice… a matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” - John 7:51 — “Does our law convict a man without first hearing from him to determine what he has done?” - 1 Thessalonians 5:21 — “but test all things. Hold fast to what is good.” Why Verification Matters - Protects the innocent from false accusation. - Upholds God’s standard of justice and truth. - Preserves unity by preventing the spread of unfounded rumors. - Reflects love for neighbor (Leviticus 19:18) by refusing to bear false witness (Exodus 20:16). Practical Takeaways - Slow down: gather facts before forming conclusions. - Seek multiple witnesses or reliable sources. - Give the accused a chance to speak for themselves. - Compare reports against Scripture’s call for truthfulness. - When evidence is lacking, withhold condemnation and commit the matter to God’s timing. Living It Out Today - In conversations, social media, or church matters, model the restraint shown in Acts 28:21. - Encourage others to investigate claims rather than repeat them. - Remember that a reputation—like Paul’s—can hinge on whether we honor this biblical principle of verification. |
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