I am appealing to the Emperor’s tribunal - Finau le sa’o i luma o le Pule

Scripture Focus: Galuega 25:1-12

Festus therefore, having come into the province, after three days went up to Jerusalem from Caesarea. Then the high priest and the principal men of the Jews informed him against Paul, and they begged him, asking a favor against him, that he would summon him to Jerusalem; plotting to kill him on the way. However Festus answered that Paul should be kept in custody at Caesarea, and that he himself was about to depart shortly. “Let them therefore”, said he, “that are in power among you go down with me, and if there is anything wrong in the man, let them accuse him.” When he had stayed among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea, and on the next day he sat on the judgment seat, and commanded Paul to be brought. When he had come, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood around him, bringing against him many and grievous charges which they could not prove, while he said in his defense, “Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar, have I sinned at all.” But Festus, desiring to gain favor with the Jews, answered Paul and said, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem, and be judged by me there concerning these things?” But Paul said, “I am standing before Caesar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be tried. I have done no wrong to the Jews, as you also know very well. For if I have done wrong, and have committed anything worthy of death, I don’t refuse to die; but if none of those things is true that they accuse me of, no one can give me up to them. I appeal to Caesar!” Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, “You have appealed to Caesar. To Caesar you shall go.”
- Acts 25:1-12 (WEB)

Study:

This passage recounts the attempts to prosecute Paul before Roman authorities. Festus, the new governor, quickly finds himself in a complicated situation. Jewish leaders want Paul tried in Jerusalem, likely to circumvent Roman law and ensure his conviction. Festus, however, recognizing the potential for foul play, wisely keeps Paul in Caesarea. The accusations against Paul are numerous but ultimately unsubstantiated. Paul’s confident defense is remarkable; he asserts his innocence, not only under Jewish law but also Roman law, showing respect for Caesar’s authority. When Festus seeks to appease the Jewish leaders by offering to try Paul in Jerusalem, Paul exercises his right as a Roman citizen and appeals directly to Caesar. This was a bold move, taking his case to the highest court in the Roman Empire, but a necessary one to ensure a fair trial and ultimately, protection from his enemies.

Application:

Paul’s example reminds us of the importance of standing firm in our convictions, even in the face of opposition. He refused to compromise his beliefs to appease others. He respected governing authorities, but didn’t shy away from utilizing his rights when necessary. We, too, are called to live with integrity, to defend truth, and to seek justice, even when it’s difficult. Like Paul, we can trust that God will protect us when we stand for what is right. This passage highlights the courage and faith it took to live and share the Gospel in a hostile world, a challenge that Christians can still face today.

Reflection Questions:

• How does Paul’s courage inspire you to stand up for your beliefs?
• In what ways can we show respect for governing authorities while also upholding truth?
• What modern-day parallels can you draw to the situation Paul faced?
• How can we cultivate the same confidence in our faith as Paul displayed?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of Paul’s unwavering faith and courage. Help us to stand firm in our beliefs, to speak truth with boldness, and to trust in your protection. Give us wisdom to navigate challenging situations and to honor you in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tags: Acts, Paul, Roman Empire, Early Church, Justice, Courage, Faith, Persecution, Trial, Caesar, Roman Citizenship, Biblical Study, Christian Living