Integrity in the Presence of Corrupt Authority
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- 17 hours ago
- 2 min read
Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 2 2026 | Acts 23:1-5
KEY VERSE: “Paul replied,“Brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest; for it is written: ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’” (Acts 23:5, NIV)
MESSAGE:
As followers of Jesus Christ, living according to the demands of Scripture often brings us face to face with illegitimate authority, whether in the church or in society. Such authority can press against a clear Christian conscience and stir deep moral concern when pride, greed, and violence are used to misuse power.
In Acts 23, Paul stood before Ananias, a high priest appointed through Roman politics rather than sacred succession. His leadership reflected corruption and compromise, more concerned with power than holiness. Paul, a servant of Christ, faced this situation with strong conviction. His response reminds us that positional authority does not automatically validate corrupt conduct.
Yet when reminded of the law, Paul humbly acknowledged Scripture: “Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.” He modelled courage and humility, addressing wrongdoing while allowing God’s Word to regulate his response.
From Paul, we learn that illegitimate authority must be confronted with clarity, and our words and actions must remain regulated by the authority of God’s Word.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Beware of illegitimate and ungodly means of gaining authority or position. Refuse to court the favour of corrupt power. Let your conscience and actions be regulated by God’s Word at all times. Confront corruption with courage and respond with humility.
PRAYER:
Almighty God, the only true and everlasting One, please help me to be authentic in all my ways. May my self-presentation reflect who I truly am and what Your grace has made me to be. Keep me from being impressed with fabricated fame and greatness. Teach me to honour righteousness, justice, and holiness, and to live according to Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: SPEAK EVIL The phrase “speak evil” comes from the Greek verb kakologeō (κακολογέω). It combines kakos (bad, harmful) and logeō (to speak). It means to speak harmful words about someone, to revile, insult, or slander. In English, "revile" means to speak harshly and insultingly about someone.
Paul does not pretend the situation was fair. Yet he submits his words to Scripture. This shows a key discipline of the Spirit. You can challenge wrongdoing without letting your mouth become a tool of contempt. God cares about the truth you speak and the spirit in which you speak it. Your speech can defend righteousness while still reflecting reverence for God.
Reflect on this:
When you feel provoked today, pause before you speak. Ask, “Will these words honour God and help my witness?” Let Scripture guide your tone, not your emotions. Pray for a steady heart and a clean mouth.
Comments