How should Acts 28:21 influence our approach to hearing accusations against others? Acts 28:21 — A Snapshot of Fair Hearing “ We have not received any letters about you from Judea, nor have any of the brothers come from there and reported or spoken anything bad about you.” (Acts 28:21) What stands out? • The Jewish leaders refuse to condemn Paul on hearsay. • They neither assume guilt nor spread unverified stories. • They leave space for Paul to speak for himself. Principles Drawn from the Verse • Withhold judgment until evidence is presented. • Reject gossip as a basis for decision-making. • Offer the accused a clear opportunity to explain. Wider Biblical Witness • Proverbs 18:13 — “Whoever answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.” • Proverbs 18:17 — “The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.” • Deuteronomy 19:15 — “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” • John 7:51 — “Does our law judge a man without first hearing from him?” • 1 Timothy 5:19 — “Do not accept an accusation against an elder except on the testimony of two or three witnesses.” • James 1:19 — “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Ephesians 4:29 — “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths.” Practical Steps for Today • Pause before passing on a damaging report. • Ask, “Have I verified this with reliable witnesses?” • Go directly to the person involved when possible (Matthew 18:15-16). • Weigh every claim against Scripture’s standards of truth and justice. • Encourage an atmosphere where both sides are heard fairly. • Refuse to let social media or casual conversation serve as a court of judgment. Guarding Our Hearts and Lips • Remember that slander offends the God who forbids bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). • Choose words that build up rather than tear down (Ephesians 4:29). • Cultivate a reputation for fairness, so others know rumors find no easy path through us. • Trust the Lord to vindicate truth in His timing, just as He did for Paul. Let Acts 28:21 steady us: before we accept or repeat an accusation, we first require evidence, listen well, and honor the dignity of every person involved. |
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