The Placater, the Pomp and the Prisoner

While the Jewish leadership continues to work for Paul’s physical elimination, plotting another ambush and demanding his execution, and while the new governor acts quickly, decisively, and justly, though not understanding Paul’s central beliefs, Paul demonstrates his loyalty to the state by expressing his willingness to be judged by the governor. He fights for his legal rights by appealing to the emperor and explaining the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Jewish king Agrippa II. In his last major speech, Paul describes God as the Almighty who raises people from the dead, controls history, wants to save Jews and Gentiles, and helps people in need; and he describes Jesus as the resurrected Lord, who saves people from the consequences of their sins.