The Plot Against Paul

The Plot against Paul

Q: Who learned of the plot to kill Paul and warned him?

• a. Barnabas
• b. the high priest
• c. Paul’s nephew

Some people wanted Paul dead. They didn’t like his message about Jesus. Forty men actually promised that they would not eat or drink anything until they had killed this zealous new missionary. They planned to ask to have Paul brought before the high council. Then they would hide along the way and kill him.

Paul’s nephew, his sister’s son, overheard the plot. He went to where Paul was being held in prison and asked to talk to him. The nephew told Paul what he’d heard. Then Paul had a soldier take his nephew to the commander, who listened to the plot to kill the missionary.

The commander moved Paul to another city during the night, where his case would be heard by Governor Felix. Thanks to Paul’s nephew, the Jews who wanted to kill Paul were outsmarted, and Paul went on to share the gospel with others, even those who held him prisoner.

We don’t really know much about Paul’s nephew other than he must have felt loyal to Paul in order to risk visiting him and telling him about the plan against him. Perhaps Paul’s nephew shared some of Paul’s boldness and his desire to spread the gospel no matter the cost.

For You

Paul shared the gospel wherever he went, even though it meant being imprisoned at times. During those times he also shared the story of salvation with those holding him captive. God gave Paul the courage to live out his faith no matter the consequences, and God will do the same for you.

Answer: c

Paul’s nephew—his sister’s son—heard of their plan and went to the fortress and told Paul.   Acts 23:16

(The Whole Story: Acts 23:12-35)