Acts 24:15
"I have a hope in God—a hope
that they themselves also accept—that there will be a resurrection
of both the righteous and the unrighteous." NRSV
Paul had been
arrested in Jerusalem. He was accused of being a ringleader, causing
unrest among the people and bringing another religion into the Jewish
temple. Acts 24 is a recap of Paul's trial, the testimony of angry
Jews who objected to his ministry to the Jews and Gentiles and Paul's
rebuttal.
Acts 24:15 is part
of Paul's defense. His statement is a matter of theology. The topic
of the resurrection of the dead is Paul's legal-defense strategy to
appeal to his accusers. In verse 15, he says that he hopes
(believes/has faith) in the resurrection of the dead, that everyone
will be judged, good and bad. This belief is the same religion, the
same theology, and the same hope, held by his accusers. It is the
fulfillment of the Old Testament. In other words, their accusation
must be false.
Now for the rest of
the story... Paul's introduction of the resurrection issue, our final
examination before God and the eternal destiny that will result,
acknowledged that he believed that everyone would face judgment.
However, it is what Paul "left out" in an effort to save
himself that is our everlasting hope. The resurrection of Jesus is
our proof of coming judgment but it brings with it the amazing
promise of eternal salvation that is our resurrection hope. What
great news! It is up to us to live this "Good News" and
share it with people we meet.
Prayer; Dear God, We rejoice in the
hope of eternal salvation given to us through the resurrection of
Jesus. Give us hope and faith to share the Good News with our
accusers. Amen.
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