What Old Testament principles align with Paul's response in Acts 23:5? Paul’s Response in Context Acts 23:5 — “I was not aware, brothers, that he was the high priest,” replied Paul. “For it is written: ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’” The Exact Old Testament Mandate Paul Quotes • Exodus 22:28 — “You must not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people.” Core Old Testament Principles Reflected in Paul’s Words • Honor for God-appointed leaders is inseparable from honor for God Himself. • Guarded, respectful speech toward authority is commanded, not optional. • Quick repentance when conviction comes keeps the conscience clear. Additional Passages That Reinforce the Same Principles Guarded Speech toward Authority • Ecclesiastes 10:20 — “Do not curse the king even in your thoughts…” • Proverbs 24:21 — “My son, fear the LORD and the king, and do not associate with the rebellious.” Sanctity of the LORD’s Anointed • 1 Samuel 24:6 — David: “The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed.” • 2 Samuel 1:14-16 — David punishes the Amalekite who struck Saul because he “destroyed the LORD’s anointed.” Consequences of Disrespecting God’s Delegated Authority • Numbers 16:1-35 — Korah’s rebellion ends with the earth swallowing the rebels. • Deuteronomy 17:12 — “The person who acts presumptuously by disregarding the priest… must die.” Why These Principles Matter • Authority originates with God (Daniel 2:21). • Cursing rulers is treated as cursing God’s order (Exodus 22:28 ties both together). • Maintaining reverence, even under unjust leaders, displays trust in God’s sovereignty. Living the Principle Today • Speak truth, but refuse contemptuous words toward any leader. • When conviction comes—like Paul—acknowledge it immediately. • Pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2) while remembering Old Testament warnings against rebellion. |
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