19. Identity In Christ vs the World Acts 22:22 – 23:11 p. 1028-9
In Jerusalem Observing the purification rites as advised by James He is recognized by Jews from Asia – causes a riot. Rescued by Romans – Tribune Claudius Lysias (Ac 23:26) He has just addressed the crowd at the barracks How Paul interacts with civil authorities Discover an interesting issue of Identity.
1. A Roman Citizen Romans are trying to keep order in the city. Tribune wants to know what is going on. Who is Paul? What is he doing? Orders Paul is “flogged and interrogated” (v 24) Paul let’s on that he is a ROMAN CITIZEN He has rights and must be treated with respect. He was born a citizen (in Tarsus of Cilisia)
1. A Roman Citizen . . . Claudius Lysias – citizenship from Emperor Claudius. Paul only uses his citizenship on one other occasion At Philippi when he was flogged and jailed (Ac 16:16 f) Did not use it to protect himself from abuse
1. A Roman Citizen . . . Brought the Gospel on its OWN terms. He did not want it associated with Rome or any authority His protection and course of life directed by God He was committed to the Gospel (Ac 21:13) How far would we go? Today: much concern for welfare and personal safety Paul uses social conventions & civil authorities cautiously
2. A Pharisee Paul speaks before the Sanhedrin Has an altercation with the High Priest Ananias Refers to a prophecy of Ezekiel 13:9-15 – “whitewashed wall” Powerful condemnation of Jewish leaders who resist the Messiah Presents the Gospel to resonate with the Pharisees He plays the two factions against each other
2. A Pharisee . . . Emphasis on the resurrection Managed to get the Pharisees on his side Pharisees were proud of their traditions and the Law Not so keen to be swamped with Gentiles
Living It - Identity Paul was a Roman Citizen – but rarely used it He was a Pharisee – student of Gamaliel (Ac 22:3) He gave it all up Passionate to make Jesus the centre of everything Had no problem suffering for Jesus (2 Cor 11:21-29; 4:16)
Living It . . . Who are you? Who am I? Paul could withstand it all though intimacy with Jesus and his vision of eternity.