Addressing in Hebrew

Let us examine the characteristics of this speech: (A) In Acts 22:1-26:29, Paul delivers five speeches, and this is the first of them. (B) Up to this point, Paul’s speeches were primarily evangelistic. From now on, they take on a more defensive and apologetic tone. (1) “Brothers and fathers” is a respectful form of address and a common expression (ref. Acts 7:2). The goal of this speech is to provide a defense: (a) Paul is not an enemy of God, the Law, or the temple. (b) His mission to the Gentiles was given to him by God. (2) Paul began speaking not in Greek but in Hebrew (Aramaic). Aramaic was the language used within the temple, understood by Judean residents, Galilean residents, and Diaspora Jews. However, it was likely incomprehensible to the Roman soldiers. (3) At this point, the perception of Paul among those zealous for the Law likely shifted significantly (surprised that a Diaspora Jew could speak Aramaic fluently).

Zealous for the Law

(1) Paul testified that he, too, had been zealous for the Law. (a) He stated that he was a Jew born in Tarsus of Cilicia. Grammatically, a present-tense verb is used, indicating that believing in Jesus does not mean ceasing to be a Jew. (b) He was brought up in Jerusalem from a young age, likely arriving there at the age of 12 or 13. (c) He received Pharisaic education, studying under Gamaliel, who was the most respected teacher of the time. (2) Paul wanted to emphasize that no one surpassed him in zeal for the Law. As an example, he cited his persecution of the church: “I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and putting both men and women into prisons, as also the high priest and all the Council of the elders can testify…” (3) At the time, the term “this Way” was widely recognized among the Jews. Paul acknowledged his own responsibility for the deaths of martyrs. This persecution was carried out with the approval of the Sanhedrin. Anyone doubting this could confirm it with the high priest and the Sanhedrin. Paul sought to build a relationship of trust with his audience. He acknowledged that their intent to kill him stemmed from pure motives, drawing a parallel to his own former zeal. There is much to learn from Paul’s method of communication. A person who can speak the truth while being considerate of the listener’s heart is someone who is spiritually mature.