How should believers respond to authority figures, as seen in Acts 25:13? The Setting: Paul Before Layers of Power Acts 25:13: “After several days had passed, King Agrippa and Bernice came down to Caesarea to pay their respects to Festus.” Paul is already under Roman custody, Festus is the new governor, and now a king arrives. Three levels of authority—military governor, regional king, and ultimately Caesar—stand between Paul and freedom. How Paul handles each layer guides us today. Key Observations from Paul’s Example • Respectful address – Paul calls Festus “most excellent” (Acts 26:25) and acknowledges Agrippa’s expertise in Jewish matters (Acts 26:2–3). • Clear, truthful testimony – He never flatters, distorts, or downplays the gospel (Acts 26:22–23). • Lawful appeal – Paul uses his Roman right to appeal to Caesar (Acts 25:11), showing that honoring authority can include lawful self-defense. • Gospel priority – Every conversation, even legal defense, becomes a witness opportunity (Acts 26:28–29). • Trust in God’s sovereignty – Jesus had already told Paul, “You must testify in Rome” (Acts 23:11). Paul’s calm before powerful people rests on that promise. Foundational Scriptures That Echo the Pattern • Romans 13:1–2 – God appoints governing authorities; resisting them wrongly is resisting God. • 1 Peter 2:13–17 – Submit “for the Lord’s sake,” yet use freedom to serve God, honoring everyone. • Titus 3:1 – “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work.” • Daniel 1 & 6 – Daniel shows respectful dissent, proving that honoring authority and honoring God are not mutually exclusive. • John 18:33–37 – Jesus answers Pilate with dignity and truth, laying the groundwork for Paul’s approach. Principles for Responding to Authority Today • Honor the office even when the person is flawed. • Speak truth without rancor; clarity is not hostility. • Use lawful avenues—petitions, courts, elections—rather than rebellion. • Keep the gospel central; positions of power are platforms for testimony. • Rest in God’s control; earthly power is temporary, but divine purpose is eternal. Practical Steps for Daily Life 1. Pray regularly for local, national, and workplace leaders (1 Timothy 2:1–2). 2. Address superiors—bosses, teachers, officials—with genuine courtesy. 3. Obey laws unless they directly contradict God’s commands (Acts 5:29). 4. Engage civic processes: vote, serve, advocate, always with Christlike tone. 5. When mistreated, appeal respectfully and entrust final vindication to God (1 Peter 2:23). Encouragement to Finish Strong Paul’s respectful firmness before Festus and Agrippa shows that believers can navigate complex authority structures without fear or compromise. Honor, truth, and gospel witness go hand in hand, and God uses obedient servants to shine light even in the halls of power. |
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