Paul’s Three Foundations

Acts 24:14-16

Who we are as people matters far more than what we do. What we believe, why we believe it, and how we live each day are the important foundations of our lives. After his arrest in Jerusalem, Paul appeared before the Roman governor, Antonius Felix. He was known for his authority, political power, and morally compromised rule. Yet rather than defending himself, Paul described the three key foundations of his life. In just a few short verses, we learn what governed his heart and controlled how he conducted himself.

As Paul begins, we quickly discover that he believed in the Scriptures fully and without reservation. May we, like Paul, rest fully in all of God’s Word. In Acts 24:14, Paul states that although he was a follower of “the Way,” he was not a cult leader. The phrase “the Way” was the term used before followers of Jesus were called Christians. Instead, his faith was fully rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures. Next, he affirms that he has the same hope of resurrection as many other Jews. The resurrection is not only found in the New Testament, but it was held as a conservative position within Judaism (e.g., Psalm 16:10–11; Daniel 12:2). Paul’s hope was found not in human opinion, but in the eternal truths of God’s Word. A stable life finds its confidence in God’s Word.

“How firm a foundation,

ye saints of the Lord,

Is laid for your faith

in His excellent Word!”[1] 

Because Paul's beliefs were rooted in Scripture, they produced a third foundation, which was a clear conscience. In other words, because of what he believed, he disciplined himself to live a life of integrity. He uses the word “conscience” (syneidēsis) which means “co-knowledge” or “knowing with oneself.” In the New Testament, this word is used to refer to the God-given inward ability to judge one’s thoughts and actions. In this case, Paul states that this is done before God and man. A blameless conscience does not mean perfection. Instead, it means we are quick to confess sin and walk in obedience as instructed in God’s Word. This may not always produce peace around us, but it will produce peace within us.

“Conscience is like a sundial. When the truth of God shines on it, it points the right way”[2]

What Paul believed impacted not only his head but also the way he lived. May the same be said of us. Although knowledge of Scripture is important, it should shape the way we live. Our lives should be such that we have inner peace as it relates to God and man. Is there anything in your life that hinders your inner peace? If so, why not stop and resolve it now in prayer?

Lord, thank You for Your Word and the eternal truths within it. May I, like Paul, use it to shape my life so I can have a clear conscience before You and others. Amen.

[1] R. Leen. How Firm a Foundation.

[2] Roy B. Zuck. The Speaker’s Quote Book.