Paul’s assertion (v 1-2)

The commander, in order to investigate why Paul was the cause of the disturbance, summoned the Jewish Council (Sanhedrin) to the Antonia Fortress. (1) “Brothers” was the formal address used by the Jews. Paul was trying to show that he was faithful to Judaism. (2) “I have lived my life with an entirely good conscience before God up to this day.” Furthermore, Paul insisted that his actions were neither against God’s will nor against Jewish tradition. (3) The high priest Ananias ordered those standing beside him to strike Paul on the mouth. The high priest was angered because Paul had mentioned having “entirely good conscience.” He acted based on the presumption that Paul was guilty. Incidentally, Ananias was a Sadducee, whereas Paul was a Pharisee. (4) The Lord Jesus had a similar experience. “… One of the officers, who was standing nearby, struck Jesus, saying, ‘Is that the way You answer the high priest?’” (John 18:20-22)

Whitewashed wall (v 3-5)

(1) According to Jewish law, a person was to be considered innocent until proven guilty. However, Ananias ordered that Paul be struck before any interrogation had taken place. Paul was furious because the enforcer of the law had acted against the law. (2) Paul shouted at Ananias, calling him a “whitewashed wall” (a wall coated with plaster). This meant that although the outside appeared beautiful, the inside was unclean (ref. Ezek. 13:10-16; Matt. 23:27). (3) Furthermore, Paul prophesied, “God is going to strike you.” This meant that just as Ananias had struck Paul, God would strike him. This prophecy was fulfilled in the year 66 AD. (4) The council members were not surprised by the high priest’s command, but they were astonished by Paul’s words. They said, “Are you insulting God’s high priest?” (5) Paul did not know that the one who had ordered him to be struck was the high priest. This may have been Paul’s sarcasm. He responded, “for it is written: ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’” This was a quotation from Exodus 22:28. The Law commanded respect for the office of the high priest, regardless of personal qualities. Those in positions of leadership must be mindful of their hypocrisy. The thought of only yourself is special can lead to corruption. Let us learn to fear the Lord.