In this class we continue to study Luke’s narrative of Paul brought before Roman authorities at the instigation of Jewish authorities in Jerusalem. They had accused Paul of stirring up trouble by speaking against Moses and the temple. These were false charges.

Festus was a new governor over Judea and took up this case quickly. The Jews wanted Paul brought to Jerusalem but Festus would not grant that. The case was heard in Caesarea which was the capital of Judea in the Roman way of governing.

We talk about theological issues and how Luke lays out the issues in Luke/Acts. Paul would be the one Jesus chose to bring the gospel to Rome. This was revealed earlier in Acts 23:11.

We make a distinction between special revelation and providence, explaining the difference. Jesus “stood at Paul’s side” and spoke to Paul (Acts 23:11). This section of Acts is about the process in history which leads to Paul being brought to Rome. He appealed to Caesar.

We also showed a Power Point about the “still small voice” incident in 1 Kings 19:1-14. We show that the actual words from God that came to Elijah were spoken words, not part of the “sound of gentle blowing” (NASB) which many equate with a non-audible inner impression.

This is not what happened. We compare this with Sinai where God spoke to Moses. Paul’s words from Jesus were audible words with meaning as were those to Moses and Elijah.