Paul had been nearly torn to pieces during his trial before the Sanhedrin, but he was saved by a Roman commander. Still, the Jews’ desire for his death was not over. Forty of them made a solemn oath not to eat until they killed Paul (14). Paul’s nephew overheard the plot and was able to get word to Paul (16). As a prisoner, Paul had no choice but to entrust his life to the hands of the Roman commander Lysias.

Paul’s faith was not misplaced. Lysias took the threat seriously, evidenced by mobilizing nearly half his 1,000 soldier cohort to accompany Paul that night to Caesarea. In Governor Felix’s care, he was safe and placed under guard. Instead of a jail, he was kept in Herod’s palace as he awaited his trial.

Along with Paul, Lysias sent a letter explaining his situation. Lysias gives his opinion that Paul had done nothing wrong (29), a sentiment that would follow Paul all his journey to Rome as a prisoner (25:25; 26:31). Since he was innocent, why was he on trial and headed for Rome? It was to fulfill Jesus’ vision that Paul would testify about Jesus in Rome (23:11). The road ahead would be full of danger and stress, but this word of Jesus would give Paul hope and direction through it all.
Application: Father, I like to be in control of my life, but I often am not. Like Paul, help me to trust you, reach out to others, and hold to your word fully.
One Word: Trust Jesus’ plan in dangerous times