Paul was carried to the Governor Felix for further determination of whether he was guilty of a crime. Five days later Ananias the high priest with his spokesman came to inform the governor against Paul. So, they all came with their liberal conspiracy lies to accuse him of high treason. Naturally, they begin their oration with flattery all of which were intended to turn the head of Felix. Yet, he knew they did not mean any of it. He knew that as well; but, anyway this is what we learn in Acts chapter 24-how to respond to liberal conspiracy lies.
Speaking of Paul they said, “For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes: who also hath gone about to profane the temple. We took him and would have judged him him according to our law. But the chief captain Lysias came upon us. And with great violence took him away out of our hands, commanding his accusers to come unto thee.” (Acts 24:5-8).
LIBERAL CONSPIRACY LIES
The liberal conspiracy lies flowed forth from these men as much as it did against Jesus when brought before Pilate. “Well, dear Felix, a man who has brought us peace. We didn’t want to bother you, but your man Lysias took this man from us before we could enact our law.” Remember they had planned to stone him right there in the temple court. They created the riot in the temple while Paul was there to present his sacrifice completing the Nazarite vow for cleansing. He had not even so much as opened his mouth to preach in the synagogue during this visit for which they seized him.
Remember Felix had the letter from Lysias and knew what had happened. Now he gives Paul the chance to speak. He boldly, yet gently disputed all their liberal lies. Rather than appealing to flattery, Paul states a fact. “Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself.” (Acts 24:10). Paul appeals to the truth that he is willing to surrender to whatever judgement Felix arrives at because of his experience. Furthermore, Paul knew that God places rulers in their place. He placed Felix as Governor, even if Felix wasn’t aware that God placed him there.
Paul’s Response to the Liberal Conspiracy Lies
Paul proceeded to speak with truth. He recommended that they call forth eyewitnesses to the contrary. There were none, only boisterous liberal conspiracy lies with no proof. The only witnesses had not been present. Furthermore they lied about the facts at hand. Paul said the same to Felix concerning this matter as a difference in theology, not a difference demanding punishment. He presented truth. It was his devotion and love of the Jewish nation that caused him to bring money from all his travels to give to them. Paul knew that the only true followers of God, accepted and worshiped the Messiah. It was their liberal conspiracy lies that condemned Jesus. Although, they actually meant evil, but God meant it for good.
As a result, Felix kept Paul within the Governor’s home with guards to follow him around–but no chains. He told the Jewish leaders he would hold him prisoner there until Lysias came so he could speak with him. But,he never called Lysias. “He commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty (within the confines of the Governor’s estate.) There Paul remained for two years. Perhaps it was a time of quiet rest for Paul who had already endured so much for the sake of Christ. Now, he walked in the gardens, safe. Spending time with God alone, resting from the battle. Meanwhile he was preparing for a larger trial ahead.
Concluding Thoughts
So how does one respond to liberal conspiracy lies? Rest upon the Sovereignty of God. Whatever others mean for evil against God’s people, God turns for good. “For we know, all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28).
God is Sovereignly in control even in our nation today, though we may weep over her. It was God who placed President Trump in office. But it is also God who placed Nancy Pelosi as Speaker and Adam Schiff in his role today. They could have no power apart from his providencial will. Therefore, what we must do is stand on truth, knowing God is in control.
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If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because, He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2019
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