Acts 23:1-6

THE HIGH PRIEST

1-6. Paul hears the order to smite him on the mouth, but did not know who spake. When it turned out to be the high priest, he apologized. In the gospel dispensation (1 Peter 2), we see the priesthood is transferred to the membership, justification making you a priest, and sanctification a high priest, corresponding to the two courts of the temple in the sanctum and the sanctum sanctorum. The high priest first offered the sacrifice in the sight of the people; then he went into the Holy of Holies and interceded for them, after coming out and blessing them. So our great High Priest first offered His sacrifice on Calvary, in presence of the people; then He went up to heaven to intercede. Finally, He will come back to bless the people in the glorious millennial theocracy.

PAUL APPEALS TO THE PHARISEES

The Sadducees were rationalistic infidels, i. e., high critics. While the Pharisees were orthodox, they were spiritually dead. Pursuant to the Pauline policy, “All things to all men,” he here very shrewdly avails himself of the sympathy and co-operation of the Pharisees, beautifully illustrating to us that amiable and invaluable gift of the Spirit denominated wisdom (1 Corinthians 12:8). God expects us to use the intelligence He has given us.