16 “Now the son of Paul’s sister heard of their ambush, so he went and entered the barracks and told Paul. 17 Paul called one of the centurions and said, “Take this young man to the tribune, for he has something to tell him.” 18 So he took him and brought him to the tribune and said, “Paul the prisoner called me and asked me to bring this young man to you, as he has something to say to you.” 19 The tribune took him by the hand, and going aside asked him privately, “What is it that you have to tell me?” 20 And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though they were going to inquire somewhat more closely about him. 21 But do not be persuaded by them, for more than forty of their men are lying in ambush for him, who have bound themselves by an oath neither to eat nor drink till they have killed him. And now they are ready, waiting for your consent.” 22 So the tribune dismissed the young man, charging him, “Tell no one that you have informed me of these things.” (Acts 23:16–22 (ESV)
While the LORD is providentially acting and leading us throughout our lives, He does not, however, promise a pleasant journey. The road unto eternal righteousness in the presence of Christ can be difficult and dangerous.
Jesus Himself said, “11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:11–12 (ESV). He also told his disciples, “33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 (ESV).
The LORD providentially foiled the plot of the Jews who desired to kill Paul. God used Paul’s nephew, who was able to warn his uncle about the impending plot against his life. Upon hearing this, Paul sent his sister’s son to the tribune.
Upon hearing of the conspiracy, Claudius (Acts 23:26) dismissed Paul’s nephew and charged him not to tell anyone else what he knew about the assassination plot. He then put into play a plan that would begin the apostle’s long journey to the imperial city, Rome. The Jews’ plot actually served God’s sovereign purpose.
For further study, I encourage you to read Genesis 11:1-8, Psalm 37:1-13, John 4:28-30 and acts 4:27-28. Have a blessed day as you reflect upon the providence of God.
Soli deo Gloria!
His Word Today 