S) "6 But perceiving that one group were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, Paul began crying out in the Council, “Brethren, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees; I am on trial for the hope and resurrection of the dead!”"
Acts 23:6 (NASB)
O) This verse is reminiscent of Jesus answering a question with a question. Paul takes careful note, while on trial, to know his accusers. It is very telling, also, that he knows here, not to try and persuade anyone. He realized that this particular group was not going to tolerate him presenting the gospel again (since that's why he was there in the first place).
A) It is so incredibly important to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, when you are faced with a difficult audience like this. Whether it's an official, legal trial, or it just feels like one, I need to be praying constantly for wisdom and guidance to know what to say and how to say it. God is very clever, and I really believe He wants us to be clever and discerning and wise, when it comes to the persecution we choose to endure, as opposed to finding a way out of it.
P) Father, I want to be fearless when it comes to presenting Your gospel. In every instance, I want to be ready in obedience, before You even call me to act or speak. But, I also want to be wise and effective about it. I want to be led by Your Holy Spirit, to know when and how to speak. Show me when to fight and when to seek an escape, so that I am best used by You, according to Your will. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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