Definition: And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 6:13. It’s a really disturbing and important section of Scripture that points to a serious problem within the early church. Here's a simple explanation: What’s Happening? The verse describes a situation where some believers started falsely accusing someone – a witness – of speaking blasphemous words against a holy place (likely a temple or sacred area). They were essentially creating a false accusation to try and discredit the person. Let's unpack it: “And set up false witnesses…” This is the key part. These people weren’t genuinely investigating the truth. They were deliberately crafting lies to manipulate others. “…which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:” This is where it gets really unsettling. They were saying things like: “This man isn't speaking blasphemous words against this holy place.” And crucially, they were also claiming that this person was breaking the law! What does this mean? This is a major problem because it demonstrates: Disorder and Division: It shows a lack of unity and trust within the church. People are starting to argue and accuse each other falsely. Manipulation and Deception: These individuals were actively trying to deceive others. They weren't seeking truth, but rather twisting things to their advantage. A Lack of Faith: The core issue is a lack of faith in God’s word and the possibility of true understanding. They were prioritizing their own agendas over the truth. Why is this important? This passage highlights a critical moment in early Christian history. It shows that even within a community dedicated to God, people could fall into divisive behavior and deceit. It's a warning about the importance of speaking truthfully and upholding truth – both for ourselves and for others. In short: These individuals were intentionally creating false accusations to try and discredit someone, breaking the law and undermining trust within the church. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Expand on a particular aspect of this passage (e.g., its context in early Christianity)?