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Paul's Strategy
Richard WaialealeActs 23:6 (NLT)
6 Paul realized that some members of the high council were Sadducees and some were Pharisees, so he shouted, “Brothers, I am a Pharisee, as were my ancestors! And I am on trial because my hope is in the resurrection of the dead!”
Let’s profile this situation: Paul is standing before a group of powerful people, facing false accusations - High Priest and council members. He is facing death sentence and/or severe persecution.
Recognizing his predicament, Paul changed his tactics completely and stated his hope in the resurrection of the dead along with the Pharisees. This immediately disrupted the proceedings because it started an argument between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. By using this clever tactic, Paul divided his enemy. Amazingly the Pharisees defended Paul, a fellow Pharisee.
I see how important it is to profile and know the audience I’m communicating with. Don’t try to be someone that I’m not (people will smell my phony attempt). Refuse to just wing it. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill me and give me the words to say. If I’m going to communicate anything, talk about Jesus.
Jesus Your Word is in me and I need to bring it to the surface to show people Your incredible love. Fill me and use me I pray. Amen
