Acts 24:14

Acts 24:14 - However, I admit that I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that agrees with the Law and that is written in the Prophets.

Paul was on trial before Felix, the governor. Some of the Jewish elders and a lawyer named Tertullus had come with Paul to stand before Felix to present their case against him. Tertullus had just finished accusing Paul of being a ringleader and troublemaker who stirred up riots and even tried to desecrate the temple. Now it is time for Paul to speak.

As he began he first gave honor to Felix, acknowledging his position of authority. Then he continued on to make his defense. He spoke of how the accusations were not true and how he believed in the Law and the Prophets, just like his accusers. Paul knew the Word of God well. He had been born and raised a Pharisee and it had been drilled into him from a very young age.

Now, as he makes his defense he is able to use the Word to support his case. God’s Word is our only constant in an ever changing world. We know that God is “the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8)” and that “heaven and earth will pass away, but My Words will never pass away (Matthew 24:35).” That is why it is so important for us as believers to read the Word daily. David writes, blessed is the man who meditates day and night on the Word (Psalm 1:1-2).

As we get into the Word we get to know God better. That is the most important reason to read it. It describes Him and tells us who He is. It also gives us the ammunition to fight off the attacks of the enemy. When Jesus was being tempted by Satan He used scripture to overcome him. Also, as in Paul’s case here we will be able to use it in witnessing and in our defense. The Holy Spirit will bring it to our remembrance when we need it (John 14:26). Make a commitment to get into His Word and meditate on it.