Acts 22:1

Sunday, 19 November 2023

“Brethren and fathers, hear my defense before you now.” Acts 22:1

The Greek reads – “Men, brothers and fathers, hear now my defense to you” (CG).

In the previous verse, which ended Chapter 21, Paul had been given permission to speak to the mob. Therefore, he motioned with his hand and began speaking to them in their own dialect. His recorded words begin with, “Men, brothers and fathers.”

He begins his discourse with the same words as Stephen in Acts 7:2. Andres, adelphoi kai pateres – “Men, brothers and fathers.” It seems like a triple address, but it is intended as simply “Brothers and fathers.” Calling out “men” first is a way of acknowledging the whole, which is then subdivided into a respectful note to the elders and a brotherly note to the others.

It also may have been a standard formula when addressing an assembly that included the leaders of Israel, such as scribes and elders. Either way, he next says, “hear now my defense to you.”

The word translated as “defense” is the Greek word apologia. It is the same word used in 1 Peter 3:15 when speaking of making a logical defense concerning the faith that we possess. It signifies a reasoned argument put forth in a verbal defense of oneself, one’s beliefs, etc. It was a term used when making a legal defense in ancient courts.

Life application: Paul will set forth to his countrymen a defense of himself and the reason for his faith. He will explain how he came to the position he held. He will acknowledge those who were familiar with his life before coming to Christ, his faithfulness to the customs and cultures of his people, and so forth.

We should all likewise be prepared to explain our faith as well. In our explanation, we should be ready to tell what brought us to Christ, how it is logical and reasonable that we hold to our views, the changes that have come to our lives because of our conversion, etc.

Think about your conversion and consider how you can use it to tell others about your hope. Also, take time to continue to solidify why you believe the Christian faith is reasonable and worthy of consideration for those you talk to.

Heavenly Father, Your word is what reveals Jesus to us. The message is sound and reasonable, and it is a message of love for the people of the world. Help us to properly convey this precious message to all we know and to all we encounter. May we be bold in our proclamation that Jesus is the hope for mankind. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.