Paul's Defence: Truthfulness Under Scrutiny
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Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 12 2026 | Acts 24:10-16
KEY VERSE: “...I do the more cheerfully answer for myself, because you may ascertain that it is no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship.” (Acts 24:10-11, NKJV)
MESSAGE:
Paul responds to the accusations against him with calm confidence and a clear respect for truth. Standing before Felix, he does not speak with anger or desperation. Instead, Paul gives a simple and verifiable account of his movements, pointing out that it has been only twelve days since he went up to Jerusalem to worship. His defence shows that faithfulness in trials includes honesty, clarity, and the courage to state facts without fear. Paul does not exaggerate. He does not twist the story. He stays close to what can be ascertained.
Paul also makes it clear that he has not caused riots or stirred rebellion. His defence is not built on clever rhetoric, but on a life lived faithfully before God. Even in trial, Paul remains focused on what matters most, his worship of the Lord and his commitment to the gospel. When accusations rise, truthfulness becomes strength. A calm, truthful response often speaks louder than noisy self-defence.
Paul’s example teaches us that integrity shows itself in the details. When your life is consistent, you do not need to panic when questioned. You can speak plainly, live openly, and trust that God will use even scrutiny as part of your witness.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
What is your resolve when you go through trials? How do you respond when your integrity is being questioned? Determine to stay truthful and calm. Speak plainly. Stick to what is right and verifiable. Anchor your heart and your faith in God, and He will help you to be His witness even in times of trials.
PRAYER:
Lord, strengthen me to remain faithful when I face trials and opposition. Help me to speak truth with courage, and to live with integrity before You. May my life, like Paul’s, become a testimony of hope in every season. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: ASCERTAIN Acts 24:11 contains a quiet but important word. Paul says Felix can “ascertain” the facts. His confidence rests not in emotion, but in what can be examined and confirmed.
The word translated “ascertain” comes from the Greek word ἐπιγινώσκω (epiginōskō), which means to know fully, to recognise clearly, or to gain accurate knowledge after examination. It carries the idea of careful understanding, not assumption.
Paul invites investigation. He is not afraid of scrutiny because his conduct can withstand it. Truth welcomes examination. A life lived in integrity does not fear careful review.
Reflect on This:
Live in such a way that your actions can be examined without fear. Let your words and conduct align so that truth stands on its own.
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