Paul told the council that he lived his life in good conscience up to that day. Ananias ordered those to strike Paul on the mouth. Paul said, “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! You are sitting to judge me according to the law, and yet contrary to the law you order me to be struck?” Those close by said, “Would you revile God’s high priest?” Paul didn’t know Ananias was the high priest. Paul said he is a Pharisee and it is because he believes the resurrection that he’s on trial. This sparked a dissension between the Pharisees and Sadducees. It became violent and the tribune removed Paul so he wouldn’t be torn to pieces by them. The Lord said to Paul that night, “Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.” The Jews plotted to kill Paul. Paul’s niece heard about it and told Paul, and Paul sent him to tell it to the tribune, and he did. They sent Paul off with 200 soldiers, 70 horsemen, and 200 spearmen. The tribune wrote a letter explaining what happened with Paul. The soldiers took Paul to Antipatris, then Caesarea. They delivered the letter to the governor and presented Paul. He said he’d give Paul a hearing, and commanded Paul be guarded in Herod’s praetorium.
Even in the midst of Paul’s confidence of his message he exhibits a humble repentant heart. When he spoke back to the high priest he quickly changed his posture from defense to humble respect. Also, God says that Paul will make it to Rome. Paul’s perseverance in the face of suffering is an amazing thing to read about. God help us to trust in your Word enough to give up everything for the sake of the gospel.