What role does seeking wise counsel play in resolving dilemmas like Festus's? Festus’s Predicament and First Move “ ‘But since I was perplexed about the dispute over these matters, I asked if he would be willing to go to Jerusalem to be tried there regarding them.’ ” (Acts 25:20) • Festus inherits a volatile case he does not understand. • He openly admits being “perplexed,” a confession of limited insight. • His instinctive response is to look for outside input—initially by shifting the venue, and soon after by inviting King Agrippa to hear Paul (vv. 22–26). • Scripture treats this historical moment as a real, literal example of how leaders navigate complex decisions. What Seeking Counsel Achieved for Festus 1. Clarified Facts – Agrippa’s hearing exposed the religious nature of the charges and Paul’s innocence under Roman law (26:31–32). 2. Checked Political Pressure – Jewish leaders pushed for a quick verdict; bringing in Agrippa slowed the rush and tempered bias. 3. Preserved Justice – Wise counsel kept Festus from unjustly surrendering Paul to his enemies, aligning with God’s providential plan to send Paul to Rome (23:11; 25:12). 4. Protected Festus’s Integrity – With advice on record, he could report to Caesar “nothing definite” against Paul (25:26), shielding himself from accusations of mishandling the case. Counsel in the Broader Scriptural Tapestry • Proverbs 11:14 — “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” • Proverbs 15:22 — “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • James 1:5 — God invites all who lack wisdom to ask Him. Human advisers are valuable, but divine counsel is ultimate. • Acts 15 — The Jerusalem council models collective discernment that settles doctrinal conflict. • 1 Kings 12 — Rehoboam’s downfall shows that rejecting seasoned counsel brings disaster. Marks of Sound Counsel • Believes and aligns with God’s revealed truth. • Free from vested interests and coercion. • Willing to speak inconvenient truths. • Confirmed by multiple trustworthy voices. Lessons to Carry Forward • Admit perplexity quickly; humility opens the door to wisdom. • Seek advisers who fear God and respect His Word. • Test every recommendation against Scripture’s clear teaching. • Remember that counsel is a means God employs to accomplish His purposes, often protecting both His servants and even unbelieving leaders from grievous error. |
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