What is the meaning of Acts 23:20? He answered • Luke records that Paul’s young nephew “went to the barracks and told Paul” of the plot (Acts 23:16), then was granted an audience with the Roman commander. • God providentially positions ordinary people for extraordinary moments, echoing Esther 4:14 and Proverbs 21:1—earthly power bends to God’s purpose. • The simple phrase “He answered” shows immediate obedience; compare Samuel’s “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). Readiness to speak truth protects life (Proverbs 12:6). “The Jews have agreed • More than forty conspirators had “formed a plot and bound themselves with an oath” (Acts 23:12–15). • Psalm 2:1–4 reminds us that human councils rage, yet the Lord sits enthroned. • Jesus forewarned, “They will deliver you to synagogues and prisons” (Luke 21:12). Opposition verifies, rather than nullifies, God’s plan (John 15:18–20). to ask you to bring Paul • The conspirators manipulate legal channels, seeking Rome’s cooperation while hiding murderous intent—similar to the Sanhedrin’s tactics with Pilate in John 18:28–30. • Paul’s life had always been in God’s hands: at conversion the Lord said, “He is My chosen instrument to carry My name…before kings” (Acts 9:15). • Human schemes cannot override that calling (Isaiah 14:27). to the Sanhedrin tomorrow • “Tomorrow” underscores urgency; yet God had already spoken the night before: “Take courage…you must testify in Rome” (Acts 23:11). • The Sanhedrin had clashed with Paul earlier that week (Acts 23:1–10). Re-summoning him would seem routine—perfect cover for the ambush. • Jesus predicted His followers would give testimony before “councils” (Matthew 10:17–18); each appearance, voluntary or coerced, advances the gospel. on the pretext of acquiring more information about him • The stated aim—“acquiring more information”—masks murderous intent. Psalm 5:9 describes such duplicity: “No truth is in their mouth; their heart is destruction.” • Proverbs 26:24–26 warns that enemies “speak graciously” while concealing violence. • God exposes this lie through the nephew, foiling the ambush and steering Paul toward Caesarea and, ultimately, Rome (Acts 23:23–35; 27:24). summary Acts 23:20 pulls back the curtain on a covert plot, revealing how God uses a vigilant nephew, a responsive commander, and even the conspirators’ timetable to safeguard Paul. Though foes conspire, the Lord orchestrates events so His servant will reach the next platform for witness. The verse affirms that human deception never outmaneuvers divine sovereignty, encouraging believers to trust God’s unfailing oversight in every threat and trial. |
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