Acts 25:3

to grant them a concession against Paul by summoning him to Jerusalem, because they were preparing an ambush to kill him along the way.

Study Bible

to grant them a concession
The phrase "to grant them a concession" indicates a request for a favor or special permission. In the Greek, the word for "concession" (χάριν, charin) can also mean grace or favor. This highlights the manipulative nature of the request, as the Jewish leaders were seeking to exploit the Roman governor's authority for their own ends. Historically, this reflects the political maneuvering common in Roman provinces, where local leaders often sought to influence Roman officials to achieve their objectives.

against Paul
The phrase "against Paul" underscores the adversarial stance of the Jewish leaders. Paul, a former Pharisee and now a prominent Christian apostle, was seen as a significant threat to the Jewish religious establishment. This opposition is a recurring theme in Acts, illustrating the tension between the early Christian movement and traditional Jewish authorities. Theologically, it reflects the broader spiritual conflict between the nascent Church and those resistant to the Gospel.

by summoning him to Jerusalem
"By summoning him to Jerusalem" reveals the strategic plan of the Jewish leaders. Jerusalem, the center of Jewish religious life, was where they held significant influence and could more easily orchestrate their plot. The historical context here is crucial; Jerusalem was not only a religious hub but also a place of political intrigue, where various factions vied for power and influence under Roman oversight.

because they were preparing an ambush
The phrase "because they were preparing an ambush" exposes the malicious intent behind the request. The Greek word for "ambush" (ἐνέδραν, enedran) suggests a premeditated and deceitful plan. This reflects the lengths to which Paul's opponents were willing to go to silence him. It also serves as a reminder of the physical dangers faced by early Christians, who often encountered hostility and violence.

to kill him along the way
"To kill him along the way" starkly reveals the ultimate goal of the Jewish leaders' plot. The phrase indicates a planned assassination, highlighting the severity of the threat against Paul. This echoes earlier attempts on Paul's life and underscores the perilous nature of his mission. From a scriptural perspective, it demonstrates the fulfillment of Jesus' words about the persecution His followers would face (John 15:20). It also serves as a testament to Paul's unwavering commitment to his calling, despite the constant danger.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who is the central figure in this passage. He is under Roman custody and facing accusations from Jewish leaders.

2. Jewish Leaders
These are the accusers of Paul, seeking to have him brought to Jerusalem with the intent of ambushing and killing him.

3. Festus
The Roman governor who succeeded Felix. He is approached by the Jewish leaders to bring Paul to Jerusalem.

4. Jerusalem
The city where the Jewish leaders want Paul to be brought, under the pretense of a trial, but with the hidden agenda of ambushing him.

5. Ambush
The plot by the Jewish leaders to kill Paul during his transfer to Jerusalem.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Protection
Despite human schemes, God's plans prevail. Paul’s life is preserved through divine intervention, reminding us of God's control over our circumstances.

The Persistence of Opposition
Believers should expect opposition, as seen in Paul's life. This should encourage us to remain steadfast in our faith despite challenges.

The Importance of Discernment
Festus's role highlights the need for discernment in leadership. We should seek wisdom to discern truth from deception in our own lives.

Trust in God's Timing
Paul’s situation teaches us to trust in God’s timing and provision, even when facing dire circumstances.

The Power of Prayer
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of Paul’s life shows the importance of prayer in seeking God’s protection and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plot against Paul in Acts 25:3 reflect the challenges Christians may face today in standing for their faith?

2. In what ways can we see God’s protection over Paul, and how can this encourage us in our own lives?

3. How does the persistence of the Jewish leaders' opposition to Paul challenge us to remain faithful in the face of adversity?

4. What can we learn from Festus’s role in this passage about the importance of discernment and wisdom in leadership?

5. How can we apply the lessons of God’s sovereignty and timing from Paul’s experience to our current life situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 23:12-15
This earlier plot to kill Paul by the Jewish leaders mirrors the current conspiracy, showing a persistent threat against him.

2 Corinthians 11:26
Paul recounts the dangers he faced, including threats from his own people, which aligns with the ambush plot in Acts 25:3.

Psalm 37:12-13
This passage speaks of the wicked plotting against the righteous, which can be seen in the Jewish leaders' conspiracy against Paul.