Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems. This lesson examines Paul’s bold stand before the Sanhedrin, where opposing beliefs create conflict and division. Drawing on Acts 22–23 and other key passages, we see how God’s protection and promises guide Paul through persecution and trials. His journey from Jerusalem to Rome demonstrates the power of faith, courage, and perseverance to overcome any spiritual or religious system.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Audio
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Scriptures used in this lesson:
Acts 22:30, Acts 23:1, Acts 23:2, Acts 23:3, Acts 23:4-6, Exodus 22:28, Psalms 82:6, John 10:34, Psalms 105:15, Hebrews 13:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Romans 13:1-2, Acts 5:12-13, Acts 23:11, Acts 23:12-14, Acts 23:15, Acts 23:16, Acts 23:23,
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
My Outline:
Dissension in the Sanhedrin Acts 22:30 – Acts 23:23
Destiny Rome Acts 23:11
Design of death Acts 23:12-22
Direction Caesarea Acts 23:23-35
Dissension in the Sanhedrin Acts 22:30 – Acts 23:23
Paul stands before the Jewish religious council, the Sanhedrin. It was made up of both Sadducees and Pharisees — those with opposing beliefs. Each group thought they were right, yet all were wrong in spirit.
Paul boldly defends his calling. He calls out the high priest as a “whited wall,” showing his courage to confront hypocrisy. Though he respects authority, he boldly declares the truth of the resurrection, which divides the entire council.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
After this uproar, Paul is removed from the court. He has now given witness to both Jews and Gentiles. The Lord comforts him, assuring him that he must also testify in Rome, even if it means suffering or death.
Soon after, a group of Jews plots to kill Paul, vowing not to eat until they succeed. Yet God protects his servant by sending an escort of 472 Roman soldiers to escort Paul to Caesarea safely. God had promised Paul would reach Rome, and His promise will be fulfilled. Just as we look forward to our promised city, that day will come.
Dissension in the Sanhedrin Acts 22:30 – Acts 23:23
Acts 22:30
30 On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.
The next day, the chief captain wanted to understand why the Jews were accusing Paul. He released Paul from his chains and commanded the chief priests and their council to gather. That council was the Sanhedrin — a group made up of both Sadducees and Pharisees.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
The Sanhedrin was a joint assembly of 71 elders from Israel. The Sadducees were the more liberal or modern group. The Pharisees were strict and legalistic, holding firmly to the Law of Moses. Together, they represented two opposing ends of the Jewish religious system.
Paul once belonged to this same system. He had been a Pharisee himself. Now, the very system he once served stood in judgment against him. That is significant because what Paul faced then is often mirrored by those called into New Testament ministry today. Many find themselves judged by the same type of religious spirit they once belonged to.
New Testament ministry opposition
In every generation, New Testament ministry faces opposition from both legalists and liberals. The Pharisee and the Sadducee still sit in judgment over what God is doing through His people. Those who walk in the truth of the New Covenant will always be judged—just as Paul was—and often by the religious systems they once knew.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Acts 23:1
1 And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.
Paul stood before the council, looking at them intently. The phrase “earnestly beholding” means to gaze steadily and confidently. The NIV says he looked straight at the Sanhedrin. He didn’t bow his head or apologize for his calling. Paul stood tall and declared his obedience to God. He was not ashamed of what he was called to do, and that is the kind of courage we need.
It’s easy to draw back when people ask where you go to church or what you believe. But when God has called you, hold your head high. Don’t shrink back because of what others may think. Be proud of your faith. Look people in the eye and stand firm in who you are. Paul showed us how to walk with boldness and conviction, even when judged by the religious system of his day.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Paul also said he lived with a clear conscience before God. He had done his duty faithfully. Many people desire to follow God that way, but few are willing to pay the price. Paul faced fierce opposition, yet he stayed true to what God was doing in his time. Some people missed God’s move, while others embraced it. The same is true today.
New versus old systems in spiritual history
Just as in the days of Eli and Samuel, one system is fading while another is rising. Paul represented the new, what God was bringing forth in the earth. When you take your stand and boldly declare what God is doing, you are also declaring that others are wrong. Yet that is part of walking in truth. You cannot be afraid to speak what God has revealed, even when it challenges tradition.
Acts 23:2
2 And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
When Paul spoke boldly before the council, the high priest ordered that he be struck on the mouth. That word “smite” means more than just to hit. It describes being pounded or thumped repeatedly with a stick or club. It wasn’t a single strike but a series of blows meant to punish and humiliate. The same system that once counted Paul among its own was now attacking him for declaring the truth.
There was a time when Paul had belonged to that very religious system. But God delivered him from it. He brought Paul out of a system of death into new life in Christ. Many of us can say the same — God has rescued us from the old and brought us into something new. By His grace, we’ve been shown the truth we could never have known on our own. When we look back, we realize how easily we could have stayed trapped in what was dying, blind to what God is doing today.
That’s why gratitude is so important. Paul never forgot what God had done for him, and neither should we. Every time we pray, we should thank God for opening our eyes. He’s raising up something fresh in this generation — a New Testament people, alive and growing in His purpose. Jesus said no man comes to Him unless the Father draws him, and that truth becomes clearer the longer we walk with Him. God chose us when He didn’t have to. If He hadn’t called us out, we might still be part of that old system, judging those He’s now using. Thank God for His calling, His grace, and for choosing us to walk in truth.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Knowing and defending the truth
Before moving on, let me clarify something. The high priest commanded that Paul be struck on the mouth, but I don’t see in the text that anyone actually did it. Some commentaries say Paul was hit, but the scripture only says the order was given. What I see instead is a sharp mind in Paul, one who knew God’s law well enough to speak up. He told the high priest, “You can’t do that. You’re a whited wall. God will judge you for breaking His law.”
This is important for us. Do we know the Word well enough to respond when someone tries to condemn or attack us? Paul challenged the command before it could be carried out because he knew it went against the Mosaic law. Many times, religious leaders or traditions lay burdens on us that the Word does not support.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
The importance of knowing scripture
If you don’t know the truth, you might end up silently suffering. But if you’re grounded in the Word, you can stand up and call out what is wrong. This is a lesson for every believer—you need to know what the Bible says so you can respond wisely when you are judged.
In Deuteronomy 25:1-3, you will find the law that Paul referenced. It gave Paul the confidence to protest the high priest’s order. Paul declared, “God will smite you.” And, as a matter of history, eight years later, that same high priest, Ananias, was assassinated. Paul’s words came true.
Jesus also faced unjust punishment and protested when He was struck, as seen in John 18:22. While He taught about turning the other cheek in Matthew 5, in this instance, He spoke up. Sometimes, knowing the Word means knowing when to stand firm and when to respond to injustice. So, study the Word closely and be ready to stand on it when the need arises.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Having a good Bible is very helpful. It provides many resources and notes to guide your study. Sometimes, those notes will offer understanding that you might not find on your own. A well-annotated Bible can make a big difference when you are searching for answers or clarification. It helps you see things more clearly and supports your learning of God’s truth.
In John 18:22, it says that after Jesus spoke, one of the officers struck Him with the palm of his hand. My Bible has a helpful margin note—it says “or with a rod.” Your Bible might have a similar note. This means Jesus may have been hit with a stick, just like Paul was threatened to be.
The treatment Jesus endured relates directly to what Paul faced and connects to the law in Deuteronomy 25:1-3. That law describes the punishment of up to forty stripes. Both situations show how the law was sometimes twisted or misused by those in authority. Margins and notes in a good Bible can help you see these connections and understand the deeper context.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Acts 23:3
3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?
Paul called the high priest a “whited wall.” Jesus used similar words in Matthew 23:27. He called the Pharisees “whited sepulchers”—tombs painted white on the outside but filled with dead bones inside. This was done before Passover so people wouldn’t accidentally touch a grave and become unclean. If someone touched a grave, they’d be separated from the congregation and miss the feast.
Jesus said these religious leaders looked good outwardly, but inside, they were filled with uncleanness and hypocrisy. In the same way, there are many people today who look like Christians on the outside. They attend church, go through the motions, and have all the signs of faith. Yet, inside, their hearts are far from God. They are spiritually rotten.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Warnings to believers and self-examination
We must be careful. Some people, even ministers, may look like God’s servants but are spiritually dead inside. God sometimes reveals who these “whited sepulchers” are—people you should not follow or be influenced by. This warning is for everyone, not just church members. There will be false teachers and prophets.
The important thing is to examine your own heart. Don’t just see the Pharisee in others. Be willing to recognize any uncleanliness in yourself. Let what you project on the outside match what’s inside. That is what God desires—genuine, honest faith, not just outward religious appearance.
What about you? It’s easy to read Matthew 23 and see how Jesus condemned the Pharisees. But unless we get the Pharisee spirit out of our own lives, we are no better.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Did God smite Ananias? Yes, eight years later, because he was unclean—a whited wall. And it’s still true today. God is not a respecter of persons. He will not let anyone get away with hidden hypocrisy or spiritual pride. What happened to Ananias can happen to anyone who covers up uncleanness and pretends to be holy.
God’s justice and personal correction
We sometimes think we are different, that our faults are hidden. But God sees everything. He will deal with every whited wall. The lesson is to judge yourself. If you deal with your own sins honestly, you will not have to face God’s judgment.
Acts 23:4-6
4 And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God’s high priest?
5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.
6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
The council responded to Paul by asking if he was insulting God’s high priest. Paul quickly apologized after realizing he had spoken against someone in authority. Paul knew the importance of respecting authority and had written about it himself. He taught that believers must honor those who rule over them—whether in government or spiritual leadership.
This principle is often difficult for Christians. Many people find it easy to submit to civil authority, such as a policeman or judge, or to obey traffic signs. Yet, they struggle to submit to their pastor or spiritual leaders. This is a foundational issue that the Christian world needs to address.
Paul’s Old Testament example
To better understand this, Paul pointed back to the Old Testament, specifically Exodus 22. He wanted us to see the need for a solid foundation in respecting the ministry and those in positions of authority over us. This principle applies to everyone in the church. It is essential to recognize that God places people in leadership, and we should honor that, even when we sometimes disagree.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Exodus 22:28
28 Thou shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of thy people.
Thou shalt not revile the gods, that’s the Hebrew word Elohim, the creator god. Thou shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of thy people.
Now, I could get awfully deep here, but I don’t want to. I’ll just throw this out. That word gods is the same word that is in Psalms 82:6 where he says that you’re gods.
Psalms 82:6
6 I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.
John 10:34
34 Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Don’t be disturbed by this teaching, because Jesus also referred to it in John 10:34-35. He quoted scripture that says, “You are gods.” In this context, it’s talking about rulers and judges—those who have authority over people.
Submission and respect for leadership
Scripture reminds us not to curse the ruler of our people. That doesn’t mean we make ourselves gods, but we need to understand the importance of respecting those in leadership. These verses show that God considers rulers and judges in a unique role. I’m not claiming to be anything special, but I want you to think about the principle.
Psalms 105:15
15 Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
If this message stirs you up, that’s a good thing. It means you need to think about it. Psalm 105:15 says, “Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.” Many people know this verse. David understood it very well. Even when Saul was corrupt and failed as king, David still submitted to him because Saul was there by God’s appointment.
This principle does not end at the cross. It remains true in the New Testament. We must respect and honor those God has put in authority, even if they are imperfect. Too many Christians constantly criticize pastors, leaders, and fellow believers. They’ll submit to authority elsewhere, but they struggle to submit in the church.
There’s a stubborn, rebellious spirit among Christians—especially in America. Many want things their way and refuse to follow spiritual leadership. On Sunday, many came to the altar and said they were committed. But where are they now? There’s a lack of true dedication and the willingness to submit to both Jesus and those He places in leadership.
Scripture is clear. Hebrews 13:17 tells us to obey those who have the rule over us and submit ourselves. Submission is a key part of spiritual growth and church life. We need to deal with our attitudes and learn to honor God’s leaders, as the Word instructs.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Hebrews 13:17
17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
Is the Christian world living this way today? Not really. Most believers don’t know how to submit. Instead, they rebel and speak poorly about their leaders. If someone cannot support their leadership, they should find a church and leaders they can respect and submit to.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
First Thessalonians 5:12-13 urges us to know and honor those who work and lead among us in the Lord. This is a New Testament standard. Romans 13 talks about submitting to civil laws, but if we submit to government, how much more should we submit to spiritual leadership?
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Jesus teaches authority and respect
Jesus taught about fear and authority. He said not only to fear those who can harm the body, but above all, to fear God, who can judge both body and soul. Accurate submission in the church is rooted in a deep respect for God and for those He places in leadership. It’s crucial to find spiritual leaders you trust so you can grow and honor God’s order in your life.
Romans 13:1-2
1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
Every soul means every Christian—all of us. When you rebel against authority, you are actually rebelling against God Himself.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
The Amplified Version says, “Let every person be loyally subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God by His permission and sanction. Those that exist do so by God’s appointment.” Therefore, whoever resists authority is resisting what God has set up. Those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.
Civil authorities and Christian conduct
Paul makes it clear that civil authorities are not a threat to good behavior, but to bad conduct. If you do what is right, you will receive approval. But if you do wrong, you should fear the consequences. Remember what Paul did in 1 Corinthians 5? He turned someone over for the destruction of the flesh so the spirit could be saved. In one of the Timothy letters, he did the same to two others. You wouldn’t want to get on Paul’s bad side—or on the wrong side of New Testament ministry.
The authority figure is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid. He doesn’t carry the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant to execute God’s wrath and punishment on wrongdoers. That wrath and vengeance come from God, and He uses His servants—those in authority—to carry it out.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
We must be subject to authority not just to avoid punishment, but also because it is the right thing to do. Obedience should come from principle and for the sake of a clear conscience.
The seriousness of apostolic authority
As I read and meditate on this, the Lord gives me reminders. In the early chapters of Acts, it says people didn’t want to connect themselves with the apostles. Do you know why? Think about Acts 5, the time of Ananias and Sapphira. People understood the seriousness of God’s authority and the danger of disobedience. God’s power and order were so strong that many were afraid to join if they didn’t have sincere hearts.
Accurate submission means recognizing that God works through His appointed leaders. It’s not just about escaping punishment—it’s about honoring God’s order and keeping your conscience right before Him.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Acts 5:12-13
12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch.
13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.
The apostles did many signs and wonders, and the people were amazed. But nobody wanted to get too close to the apostles. Why was that? Peter had just spoken a word from the Holy Spirit that caused Ananias and Sapphira to die for their dishonesty. That level of spiritual authority made people cautious. They respected the apostles greatly, but feared getting too close.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Teaching authority and submission
Titus 2:15 and 3:1 tell us to teach and encourage with all authority. We should remind people to be subject to rulers and authorities and to be obedient. The NIV says not to let anyone despise you as a leader. This reflects God’s expectation that His people will honor spiritual authority.
Where is the church today compared to this standard? Sadly, much of modern Christianity—especially in America—falls short. Many want short sermons and quick services so they can move on to other activities. People are happy to see their pastor for special occasions, but they don’t want true spiritual guidance or correction.
The truth is, Christians often submit to government or civil authority out of fear of consequences. But in spiritual matters, many refuse to submit. They want a pastor for weddings, funerals, or hospital visits, but resist real instruction or correction in daily life. This weakness holds the church back from actual growth and maturity. God’s Word calls us to honor and submit to spiritual authority, not just out of fear, but because it is good for our souls.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Paul taught that opposing the authorities God has placed in authority—such as pastors—brings judgment. Pastors should be some of the wisest people you know, but often their counsel is resisted, and that itself brings consequences. Let me share the key principle: the Bible says not to revile rulers. When Jesus ascended, Ephesians 4:8 says He gave gifts to the church.
The five-fold ministry gifts
These gifts are the five-fold ministry: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Jesus is the bread of life, and He broke Himself and gave Himself back to the church in these ministry offices. The church is often called “the woman.” The seed is the Word of God, but the five-fold ministry brings that seed to the church so a spiritual birth can take place.
For actual spiritual growth and new life to come forth, the seed must be planted by the five-fold ministry. Creation keeps longing and groaning until a spiritual birth occurs, but birth only happens when the seed is sown correctly.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
When Jesus ascended, He broke Himself—the bread of life—and gave Himself back to the church through the five-fold ministry, symbolized by five loaves of bread. To receive all God wants for the church, it must come through apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—all working together to feed and grow the body of Christ.
Without the five-fold ministry, no seed is being imparted to the church. The church—the woman—cannot bring forth the “man-child” or fulfill her purpose without receiving this seed. If you reject or speak against these ministry offices, you remove yourself from what God wants to do. That seed, which is the Word, will have nothing to do with you. This is a serious matter.
Paul leverages division in the council
Paul realized there was no hope of getting a fair hearing in the Sanhedrin. So, he spoke up and declared his belief in the resurrection. Let me paint you a picture: imagine a council made up of Baptists on one side and Pentecostals on the other. They bring someone in to examine and judge. If that person stands up and announces, “I believe in eternal security,” the Baptists jump to defend, and the Pentecostals react the opposite way. Their doctrines are different, and so conflict breaks out.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Now, reverse the roles. If that person says, “I believe in the baptism of the Holy Ghost, with the evidence of speaking in tongues,” the Pentecostals rejoice, and the Baptists, again, take issue. Immediate confusion and disagreement. That’s precisely what happened when Paul declared his faith in the resurrection. He knew the people and their beliefs because he had once been part of that system. His statement immediately created division among his accusers.
This shows just how wise and sharp Paul was, with the mind of Christ guiding him. God has long used confusion among His enemies as a strategy—from ancient times to the present. In Scripture, God would send confusion into the enemy’s camp, and they would end up destroying themselves rather than attacking God’s people.
God brings peace for the faithful
There is a lot of confusion in religious circles today, just as there was then. But 1 Corinthians 14:33 says God is not the author of confusion. He brings confusion to His enemies, not to His people. If you feel confused, you may be in the wrong spiritual camp. But for those walking in truth, God brings clarity and peace.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Acts 23:11
Destiny Rome Acts 23:11
11 And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.
The word “Lord” means supreme authority, the one who has complete control. When scripture says the Lord stood by Paul, this was not just a vision or a trance—it was the real presence of the Lord. He told Paul, “You have testified about me in Jerusalem, and you will also witness in Rome.”
The word “testify” means to speak, to attest, or to protest earnestly. It’s mostly about declaring the truth with our words—what we often call witnessing. But the word “witness” here comes from the Greek word “martys,” which is the root for our word “martyr.” To be a faithful witness means not just to speak, but to be willing to lay down your life for Christ.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Paul’s call and destiny in Rome
The Lord called Paul to go to Rome and be his witness—even to the point of martyrdom. Think for a moment: Where did Paul ultimately die? He died in Rome, fulfilling this call as a faithful witness for Jesus.
Now, where does that leave the Christian world today? Do you know anyone really willing to give up everything, including their life, for the sake of the gospel? Some do make enormous sacrifices—leaving homes, land, family, and comfort—to serve in other nations. Early Christians like Paul, Stephen, and thousands of others gave everything so we could have this gospel today.
So, evaluate yourself. Is following Jesus your highest passion, or is it just a moral duty? Every day, those who seriously follow Christ become more like faithful witnesses—willing to give their all for Him. Be warned: if you keep following this Word and remain truly hungry for God, you too will become willing to lay down your life for Him. That is the path of a real witness.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
The price of true commitment
I see a world filled with people who call themselves Christians but do not truly understand what it means to follow Jesus. Many are unaware and even ignorant of the depth of commitment the gospel calls for. Paul said, “I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die for the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.” That is absolute devotion.
Acts 23:12-14
12 And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.
13 And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy.
14 And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Design of death Acts 23:12-22
More than forty Jews made a vow that they would not eat until they had killed Paul. They cursed themselves, pledging to either kill him or starve. The scripture repeats strong phrases: “till they had killed him,” “until we have slain him,” “we are ready to kill him.” It reveals the fierce hatred driving this conspiracy.
John 10:10 says, “The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy.” Notice, it does not mention the word devil or Satan by name, but the spirit of destruction is evident. The verses in James 3:14-15 warn that this kind of thinking is not from God—it is earthly, sensual, and devilish.
These men were under a curse, driven by their evil vow. Saddest of all, the Sanhedrin—the religious leadership—was part of the plot. Even spiritual leaders can become consumed by envy and hatred. We must recognize the same spirit of death and hate in the world around us. The system—called Babylon in scripture—is marked by division and destruction, not by the life and love of Christ.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Acts 23:15
15 Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him.
The leaders were actually involved in the plot to kill Paul. They planned to call him down so the forty Jews could ambush and murder him. It’s a sad reality—often, church leadership is responsible for much of the hurt and damage. When Paul was in Ephesus, he warned the elders that wolves would come out from among their own ranks. He said some elders would speak twisted things and lead people away for their own gain. Leadership is critical; if it’s corrupt, the church will be corrupt. But if the leaders are truly following God, the church will reflect that righteousness.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Paul could take the Scriptures from Genesis to Malachi and reveal Jesus everywhere. Yet, even when he showed people the truth, many refused to accept it. They wanted to remain in their comfortable religious systems, ignoring what God was trying to do in their day.
The risk for God’s people
At the heart of this story, the most striking truth is how far off God’s people can become. God was working through Paul and the apostles to spread His love and message, but many rejected it because it didn’t fit their tradition. They killed Jesus, killed Stephen, and now wanted to kill Paul. The Scriptures were clear, but their minds were closed.
It’s the same today. Many people refuse to see what God is doing, even when it’s clear in the Word, because it doesn’t match the way they’ve been taught. They would rather kill the message —and sometimes the messenger —than change.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Acts 23:16
16 And when Paul’s sister’s son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.
Paul had a sister and a nephew, though not much else is told about them. What stands out most is that Paul himself was once a Pharisee—proof that even those deeply embedded in religious systems can be changed by God’s grace.
Direction Caesarea Acts 23:23-35
Acts 23:23
23 And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night;
Paul’s nephew overheard the plot against Paul and reported it to the chief captain. In response, the captain called for two centurions, 200 soldiers, 70 horsemen, and 200 spearmen to escort Paul to Caesarea. That’s a remarkable escort for one man of God! God truly provides protection when His people are in danger.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
They moved Paul at the third hour of the night. In scripture, the “third hour” carries special meaning. First, it speaks of the third level in God’s presence—the outer court, the holy place, and then the holy of holies. The third represents the deepest place of intimacy with God, where His glory and fire are most intense.
The “third” also points to the third day in biblical history. From Adam to Jesus is about 4,000 years, then 2,000 years more to today, putting us at 6,000 years and on the edge of entering the 7,000th year—the seventh “day.” Scripture teaches that one day with the Lord is as a thousand years. So, as we enter a new era, we are nearing a prophetic “third day” from Christ’s time or “seventh day” from Adam.
Spiritual significance of new eras
Man was created on the sixth day and given dominion over creation on the seventh. Spiritually, a new “perfect man” is being raised up in our time—entering dominion and authority in God’s purpose. Just as God protected Paul, He will protect and raise up His people for what He is about to do in this new day.
Isn’t this something? However you look at it, we’re approaching a new spiritual era—either the third day from Jesus or the seventh day from Adam. Scripture points to a time when a new “man” will rise to rule and reign with God. The millennium itself is a thousand years—showing God’s design for a new beginning.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
As the new day dawns, there are people who are rising up early to respond to God. Remember how Abraham got up early to offer Isaac, giving up what mattered most to him? We, too, must get up early—discipline our minds and our lower nature. Paul said to “gird up the loins of your mind.” On the third day in Genesis 22, Abraham looked up and saw the place God was leading him to. The third day is a time of revelation and purpose.
Psalm 91:11 promises God’s angels will protect His people. When I look at Paul being escorted by so many soldiers, I see God’s hand of protection. Matthew 24 talks about Jesus sending His angels to gather His elect, just as Paul was surrounded by 472 “angels” to keep him safe.
The meaning of “host” and fulfillment of God’s promise
The term “host” in the Old Testament—Jehovah of Hosts—means a regimented army prepared for battle. God assures us that when He says we will go to Rome (fulfill our purpose), nothing can stop us. Not even those who curse or plot against us. The gates of hell will not prevail.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
When people come against God’s purpose with a curse, that curse won’t succeed. Just as those forty men failed to kill Paul and their curse came to nothing, so will every attack fail against those God protects. God’s promises stand, and He will complete His work.
God’s purpose will always be fulfilled, no matter the opposition. In Paul’s case, even though there was a deadly plot and a curse against him, God provided protection through a powerful escort. Not even forty determined enemies could stop the plan God had for Paul.
Spiritually, we are moving into a new day—a time when God is raising up a people who will rule and reign with Him. The Bible’s timeline points to this season: either the third day from Jesus or the seventh from Adam. Just like Abraham rose early, we must discipline ourselves to respond to God’s call, even when it means letting go of what we love most or stepping into a new realm.
Acts Series Chapter 23: How to Overcome Religious Systems
Protected and guided by God’s hosts
God uses His hosts—His army of angels and servants—to protect and guide those He has chosen. When He declares that His people will reach their destination, nothing can prevent it. Every curse and attack intended for harm is powerless against God’s promise.
The key is staying focused on God’s purpose, trusting in His divine order and protection. As Paul’s story shows, no opposition can thwart what God has spoken. His Word will be fulfilled in us, just as it was in Paul.
Acts Series Chapter 23 Audio
Acts Series Chapter 23 Audio
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Matthew 27:11-26 Jesus Before Pilate Audio
Acts Series Chapter 5 Part 2 Audio
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