Acts chapter 22 presents Paul's defense before the Jews of Jerusalem. How does the apostle testify to his faith? This powerful text recounts Paul's speech, relating his conversion and divine calling. The chapter covers essential topics such as personal transformation, identity in Christ, and the universal call of the gospel.
Acts 22 also reveals the hostile reaction to Paul's message and his claim to Roman citizenship. Consider with us five biblical passages that correlate with the fundamental themes of this revelatory chapter.
"Circumcised on the eighth day, of the children of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to the righteousness that is in the law, it is blameless." This passage reflects the context described by Paul in his speech in Acts 22.
"You have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I violently persecuted the church of God and sought to destroy it. I have progressed in Judaism more than many Jews my age, being exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my ancestors." Paul recalls his life before his conversion, just as he does in Acts 22.
"Then he appeared to me as to one born out of time. For I am the least of the apostles, and not even worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God." Paul mentions his conversion experience, which he describes in detail in Acts 22.
"I am speaking to you, Gentiles. Since I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I exalt my ministry, hoping that by some means I may arouse jealousy among my own people and save some of them." This passage reflects Paul's mission to the Gentiles, which he mentions in Acts 22:21.
"Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I." Paul affirms his Jewish identity, just as he does in his speech in Acts 22.