Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, "Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day." And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. Then Paul said to him, "God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?" And those who stood by said, "Do you revile God's high priest?" Then Paul said, "I did not know, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, 'YOU SHALL NOT SPEAK EVIL OF A RULER OF YOUR PEOPLE.'"
Acts 23:1-5
Last time we considered Paul’s respectful opening words as he addresses the Jewish council, the fact that he was slapped on the face, and his angry (though prophetic) response (v.1-3). We’ll comment this time on the next phase of those proceedings in (v.4).
“Those who stood by” rebuked Paul for speaking disrespectfully to the high priest (v.4). Though the council was trying Paul unlawfully, their sin did not excuse Paul’s lack of composure. He had a right to be angry, but we could all do with a reminder than anger does not need to be displayed disrespectfully. This is especially true when we are angry with those in authority. Remember Paul’s words in Romans 13:1-7 that all in authority hold their positions by appointment of God—including evil authorities. We are charged to be respectful even when speaking truthfully against their evil deeds.
There is an old military saying, “Salute the rank.” The meaning is that while those who outrank us may be less than deserving people, we need to be properly respectful to the office, even if the officer is not respectable.
This is practical and much needed in our day. Speaking for myself, it is been over 30 years since we had an American president that I did not have serious objections to—whether regarding policy or personality, or both! I can get exercised with my disapproval of these leaders. Obviously I have not spoken inappropriately to their faces, but I have spoken disparagingly about them. This is wrong. To speak truth—or even honest opinion—even when angry, is one thing. To speak disrespectfully is another.
I am reminded of Paul’s words in Ephesians 4:26 (which is a quote from Psalm 4:4): “Be angry and sin not.”
Lord, may we restrain our words with grace. Teach us to honor You, by honoring those You have appointed to positions of authority—even when they are evil.