Definition: And they that stood by said, Revilest thou Godâs high priest?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 23:4. It’s a really important and slightly complex passage about forgiveness and changing your mind. Here's the explanation in plain language: The Core of the Verse: “And they that stood by said, ‘Revilest thou God’s high priest?’” What it Means – In Simple Terms: "They that stood by" : This refers to a group of people who were with Paul at the time. They were likely witnesses to his earlier actions or beliefs. “Revilest thou God’s high priest?” : This is the key part. “High priest” means someone in charge of religious rituals and ceremonies, like priests in churches. “Revilest” means "to curse" or "to vilify." So, they were saying, “Are you cursing God’s high priest?" What it's About: Paul was about to be put on trial for a serious offense – he had been accused of disturbing the peace and violating religious laws. The phrase is essentially a reaction to someone challenging him. The Meaning – It's About Forgiveness & Changing Your Mind: This verse highlights Paul’s transformation. He was initially holding a very controversial belief that, in his opinion, was wrong. He was about to be punished for it. But, in that moment , he realized he had been mistaken. He recognized that he needed to change his perspective and repent (say sorry). The Significance: It’s about repentance: Paul wasn’t just acknowledging a mistake; he was actively seeking forgiveness from God. It’s about humility: Recognizing you're wrong, admitting it, and being willing to turn away from something that seems harmful is crucial. It demonstrates faith: Paul’s willingness to admit his error and seek forgiveness shows his deep trust in God. In short, this verse tells us that even when we make mistakes, we have the opportunity to change our minds and ask for forgiveness. --- Do you want me to explain another Bible verse? Perhaps one with a slightly different focus or meaning? Or would you like me to delve deeper into why this verse is significant? Just let me know!