What can we learn from Acts 24:4 about addressing authority figures? Setting the Scene Acts 24 opens with Paul on trial before Governor Felix. The Jewish council hires Tertullus to present their charges. Verse 4 records the lawyer’s opening courtesy: “ But in order not to burden you any further, I beg your indulgence to hear us briefly.” (Acts 24:4) What We Observe in the Verse • Respectful Address – “I beg your indulgence” • Awareness of the Leader’s Time – “not to burden you… briefly” • Permission Seeking – “to hear us” Principles for Addressing Authority Figures 1. Approach with Respect • Titles, manners, and tone matter. • Compare Paul before Agrippa: “King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate…” (Acts 26:2). 2. Value Their Time • Offer concise statements; avoid needless rambling. • Proverbs 10:19 reminds, “When words are many, transgression is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” 3. Seek Permission Before Presenting Your Case • Shows humility and order. • Nehemiah first asked King Artaxerxes, “If it pleases the king…” (Nehemiah 2:5–6). 4. Maintain Truth While Being Courteous • Tertullus was polite, yet later Paul, equally respectful, told the unvarnished truth (Acts 24:10–21). • Ephesians 4:15: “speaking the truth in love.” 5. Recognize God’s Ordained Authority • Romans 13:1–2 calls governing officials “God’s servants.” • Respect is ultimately given to God by honoring those He places over us. Other Scriptural Echoes • Esther models respectful boldness before King Xerxes (Esther 5:1–8). • Daniel addressed Nebuchadnezzar: “O king, live forever!” (Daniel 2:37). • Peter urges, “Honor the king” (1 Peter 2:17). Living This Out Today • Address bosses, teachers, officials with courteous greetings and concise requests. • Before difficult conversations, pray for the right tone and words (cf. Colossians 4:6). • Balance honesty with honor; never sacrifice truth, yet always season it with grace. By following the pattern glimpsed in Acts 24:4, believers demonstrate both reverence for God’s providential order and a winsome spirit that opens doors for the gospel. |
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