Definition: And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 22:25. It's a really important and surprisingly complex story about a dramatic confrontation. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Paul is being held captive. The centurion, a Roman officer, had captured Paul who was preaching to a crowd of people. He wasn’t trying to harm him; he was simply trying to silence him. He’s bound with thongs. Paul was severely beaten and restrained with thick chains. This shows the severity of the situation. The Question & Paul's Response: “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman?” – This is the core of the verse. The centurion is asking if it’s legal to beat someone who is under the control of Rome. Paul’s Answer - A Powerful Statement. Paul replies, “No!” He essentially says, “It is not lawful for you to scour me.” What Does This Mean? This isn't just a simple refusal to obey a command. It’s a fundamental statement of his belief and a declaration of his principles: Respect for Authority: Paul is asserting that he doesn't need permission from the Roman authorities to preach the Gospel (the good news about Jesus). He believes in standing by his truth, even when it means defying orders. Moral Grounding: He’s arguing that his actions are righteous because they are based on his own conscience and belief – not on the laws of a foreign power. The Power of Faith: Paul is highlighting the importance of faith and obedience to God's will, rather than to human rulers. Context & Significance: This passage is a pivotal moment in Paul’s journey. It shows: His growing boldness: He was initially hesitant about preaching, but this encounter strengthened his conviction. His understanding of the gospel: He understood that his message wasn't just about religious beliefs; it was about God's love and justice. A shift in focus: It demonstrates a move away from being simply a follower of Jewish law to advocating for the salvation of all people, regardless of their background or location. In short, this verse is a powerful statement about personal integrity, religious freedom, and the importance of standing by one's beliefs. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Give you more context on Paul’s life?