Learning from Paul’s Example in Doctrine and Conduct
Our emotions are powerful. They can surge within us, demanding action—whether through frustration, impatience, or even resentment. Yet, as believers, we are called to submit to something far greater than our fleeting feelings: the Word of God. The apostle Paul provides us with a striking example of this very principle when, after being unjustly struck in the face before the Jewish council, he humbled himself to the authority of the high priest, prioritizing God’s Word over his emotions.
Paul’s Trial Before the Jewish Leaders
In Acts 23, Paul stood before the Jewish leaders after being seized and falsely accused. As he began to speak, Ananias, the high priest, commanded that Paul be struck. Imagine the moment—a fervent servant of God, unjustly slapped across the face in a setting meant for justice. What was Paul’s initial reaction? His emotions surged, and he immediately rebuked Ananias, saying, “God shall smite thee, thou whited wall” (Acts 23:3, KJV).
Yet, in that very moment, someone informed Paul that he had spoken against the high priest. Paul, being deeply committed to God’s truth, instantly corrected himself:
"I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people" (Acts 23:5, KJV).
Here lies an incredible lesson. Though Paul had a justifiable emotional reaction, he chose to submit to God’s Word. He immediately acknowledged his misstep and brought himself into alignment with scripture.
