Transcript Today's Bible Translation Bible translation used in today's episode: Ch. 23 NIV; Ch. 24 NLT Executive Producer Jason Paschall, Anonymous Associate Producer Michael Haner Podcast Introduction It’s Gospels Saturday. We’ll read Acts 23-24. I’m calling this episode “The Conspiracy to Kill Paul.“ Design: Scott Snider | Photo: Thanti Riess on Unsplash Summary In Acts 23 there’s a plot to kill the Apostle Paul orchestrated by a group of Jews who were vehemently opposed to his teachings. These people went to extreme lengths, even taking an oath to abstain from eating and drinking until they had successfully ended Paul's life. This raises a troubling question: How could people who were part of a religious tradition, one that explicitly forbids murder, justify such a violent act? The text highlights a broader issue that transcends this specific incident – the danger of extreme and rigid adherence to a particular ideology or agenda. In this case, these Jews were so dogmatic in their interpretation of the Mosaic Law that they couldn't see beyond its literal words. They were unable to grasp the deeper intentions of the Law, which Jesus sought to fulfill with his teachings. This situation draws parallels to contemporary events where individuals or groups become so fixated on their beliefs that they resort to insults, violence, or even harm towards those who hold opposing views. It's a reminder that when people cannot engage in respectful dialogue and accept differing perspectives, there's a problem in society. Disagreement does not equate to hatred, and it certainly doesn't justify name-calling, physical violence, or property destruction. This principle applies not only to matters of religion but also to culture and politics. A civilized society should foster open, respectful discussion and peaceful coexistence. Sadly, it appears that civility is in short supply in some quarters today. Listen to the episode for more! Support This a value for value podcast. There are no advertisers because advertising equals censorship. If you enjoy the Lifespring Family Audio Bible, decide how much value it brings to you. Only you can make that determination. Then put a number on the value and donate here: SUPPORT. The Team Lifespring Family Berean, Sister Denise: Transcript CorrectionMichael Haner: Podcasting 2.0 ChaptersLifespring Family Berean, Brother Scott Snider: Show ArtJason Paschall: Show ArtLifespring Family Berean, Sister Brittaney: Newsletter Publisher Transcript Download .txt file. Transcript not yet corrected. Steve Webb 0:00These people felt that they had the moral authority to commit murder. Steve Webb 0:05This is the Lifespring! One Year Bible coming to you from Riverside, California and podcasting since 2004. I'm you're hopefully on the mend OG Godcaster Steve Webb, it's gospel Saturday, and we'll read Acts 23 and 24. The website is Lifespringmedia.com. and I'll have contact information at the end of the show. Before we read, let's pray. Our gracious heavenly Father, how we love you, and thank you so much for your work. Thank you for revealing yourself to us through it. I pray that as we read today, you would teach us I pray that you would touch our hearts by pray this in Jesus name. Amen. Okay, are you ready? Let's get started. Steve Webb 0:46Acts chapter 23. Paul looks straight at the Sanhedrin and said, my brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day. At this, the high priest and a NYAS ordered those standing near Paul to strike him on the mouth. Then Paul said to him, God will strike you you whitewashed wall. You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck. Those who are standing near Paul said, How dare you insult God's High Priest? Paul replied, brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest for it is written do not speak evil about the ruler ...