This page gives you questions and answer notes for studying Acts 23, the chapter where Paul stands before the Jewish council, is struck and then rescued by Roman soldiers, and learns that a plot has been made against his life. It is written for a small group, a Sunday class, or personal study, and each set of questions can be used on its own or in order.
Acts 23 at a Glance
Paul opens his defense before the council by saying he has lived with a clear conscience before God. The high priest Ananias orders him struck, and Paul answers sharply before backing down when he is reminded whom he has insulted. Paul then divides the council by naming his Pharisee background and his hope in the resurrection, and the meeting breaks into argument. The Roman commander pulls Paul out for his safety.
That night the Lord stands beside Paul and tells him he will testify in Rome. The next morning more than forty men swear an oath to kill him, but Paul’s nephew hears of it and warns the commander. Paul is sent by night to Caesarea under heavy guard, with a letter from Claudius Lysias to the governor Felix, who agrees to hear the case once the accusers arrive.
Observation Questions
Use these questions first, before anyone offers an opinion about what the chapter means. Ask the group to point to the words on the page, and have someone read each passage aloud before answering.
Acts 23:1
Paul, looking steadfastly at the council, said, “Brothers, I have lived before God in all good conscience until today.”
(WEB)
This verse opens Paul’s defense with his claim to a clear conscience before God. Reading it at the start of the session sets the tone for the whole chapter and gives the group a reference point for later discussion of his character.
Acts 23:6
But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Men and brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees. Concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!”
(WEB)
Here Paul names his Pharisee background and his hope in the resurrection, which becomes the hinge of the council’s dispute. Reading it aloud helps the group see how one sentence can change the direction of an entire meeting.
Acts 23:11
The following night, the Lord stood by him, and said, “Cheer up, Paul, for as you have testified about me at Jerusalem, so you must testify also at Rome.”
(WEB)
The Lord’s words to Paul about testifying in Rome come at a moment of fear and confusion. Reading this verse slowly gives the group a chance to reflect on how God speaks encouragement into hard days.
Acts 23:16-17
16 But Paul’s sister’s son heard they were lying in wait, and he came and entered into the barracks and told Paul. 17 Paul summoned one of the centurions, and said, “Bring this young man to the commanding officer, for he has something to tell him.”
(WEB)
These verses introduce the young man who hears of the plot and brings the warning to Paul. Reading them aloud draws attention to the ordinary people God uses to protect and guide his servants.
Acts 23:35
“I will hear you fully when your accusers also arrive.” He commanded that he be kept in Herod’s palace.
(WEB)
The governor promises to hear Paul fully once his accusers arrive, closing the chapter with a note of delay and waiting. Reading this verse helps the group think about seasons when justice or resolution must simply be waited for.
Memory Verse for Acts 23
A Closing Prayer for the Group
Father, we thank you for showing us Paul in this chapter, standing before hostile judges with a clear conscience and a steady hope. Help us to speak truthfully and gently when we are pressed, and to own our mistakes when they are pointed out to us. When our own future looks uncertain, remind us that you have promises for us as you did for Paul, and that you are with us in the night. Bring to mind the quiet people in our lives who protect and guide us, and make us ready to serve others in the same way. Give each of us courage for the week ahead and trust in your timing for what we cannot see. Amen.
