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There are two ways to profane the temple: either to rob it or argue inside of it. Paul states he
has not done either one.

Act 24:13 Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me.

Paul lays the burden of proof back on the Jews. They had put the burden on Paul in the
beginning, now Paul gives it back according to the law. Those who begin the entire process
were the Jews from Ephesus (21:27-28) who would have been arrested had they shown their
faces before the Romans for their lack of legal cause. The witnesses the Jews need have not yet
shown up. Paul gives a perfect defense, but will still be detained for two years. He mentions
“money” (17), and Felix will keep Paul in an attempt to get a ransom from him (26).

Act 24:14 But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I
worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the
Prophets.

But this I confess (homologeo: promise) unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy
(hairesis: discord, sect), so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are
written in the law and in the prophets:

In the early days, Christianity was called “the Way,” according to the title Jesus used of Himself
(John 14:6). Paul will now show that the Jews are the heretics and are guilty of their own
accusations against Paul.
Act 24:15 I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a
resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.

These Jews also accept the scriptures as final authority.

Act 24:16 This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward
God and men.

Paul says he is innocent and will now prove it. God’s Word will vindicate him.

Act 24:17 "Now after many years I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation,

Paul is not stealing money in Jerusalem as he has been accused of doing; he is bringing money,
the Macedonian offering (Romans 15:24-28). Paul states his mission in Jerusalem is to bring
money sent from the Macedonian believers to the saints.

When Paul reveals his innocence to Felix, he puts himself in a tough situation. He becomes a
“hot potato.” If Felix frees him, he will be in trouble with the Jews. If Felix condemns him, he
will be in trouble with Rome. There is no evidence to convict Paul. Felix will decide to send
Paul through a series of trials simply so someone else will accept the responsibility for Paul.
This reveals the weakness of Felix’s leadership.