Acts 24:12

KJV

And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} they neither {G3777} found {G2147} me {G3165} in {G1722} the temple {G2411} disputing {G1256} with {G4314} any man {G5100}, neither {G2228} raising up {G1999}{G4160} the people {G3793}{G1999}, neither {G3777} in {G1722} the synagogues {G4864}, nor {G3777} in {G2596} the city {G4172}:

Complete Jewish Bible

and neither in the Temple nor in the synagogues nor anywhere else in the city did they find me either arguing with anyone or collecting a crowd.

Berean Standard Bible

Yet my accusers did not find me debating with anyone in the temple or riling up a crowd in the synagogues or in the city.

American Standard Version

and neither in the temple did they find me disputing with any man or stirring up a crowd, nor in the synagogues, nor in the city.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 24:12, the Apostle Paul presents a concise and forceful rebuttal to the grave charges of sedition and disruption leveled against him by the Jewish high priest Ananias and the orator Tertullus before the Roman governor Felix in Caesarea. Paul categorically denies that he was found engaging in any disputation or inciting any uprising, whether within the sacred precincts of the temple, in the synagogues, or anywhere else throughout the city of Jerusalem, thereby asserting his blameless conduct and challenging his accusers to provide evidence for their baseless claims.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal part of Paul's defense speech before Governor Felix, recorded in [Acts 24:10-21](/acts/24-10-21 "Paul's Defense Before Felix"). It directly responds to the accusations brought by Tertullus in [Acts 24:5-8](/acts/24-5-8 "Tertullus's Accusations Against Paul"), who charged Paul with being "a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes." Paul's denial is a direct refutation of the specific claims of public disturbance, setting the stage for his broader defense of his faith and actions, which he continues to elaborate upon in the subsequent verses, emphasizing his adherence to the Law and the Prophets.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's trial took place in Caesarea Maritima, the Roman administrative capital of Judea, under Governor Felix. The charges of sedition (κίνησιν στάσεως - "stirring up riots" in [Acts 24:5](/acts/24-5 "Tertullus's Accusations")) were extremely serious under Roman law, as the empire was highly sensitive to any activity that could destabilize its provinces. Jewish leaders, particularly the Sadducees who controlled the Temple, were keen to avoid any perception of unrest that might provoke a harsh Roman crackdown. The "sect of the Nazarenes" (early Christians) was viewed with suspicion by both Jewish authorities and Roman officials, often conflated with other revolutionary groups. Paul's presence in the Temple, a sacred and politically charged space, and his teaching in synagogues, were carefully scrutinized, making his denial of public disturbance crucial for his defense.
* **Key Themes:** [Acts 24:12](/acts/24-12 "Paul's Defense Before Felix") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **False Accusation and Injustice**, demonstrating how devoted followers of Christ, like Paul, often face baseless charges rooted in religious animosity or misunderstanding, echoing the experiences of Jesus himself. Secondly, it underscores the **Integrity and Peaceful Nature of Christian Witness**. Paul's defense emphasizes that his ministry was characterized by reasoned discussion and teaching, not by inciting riots or political rebellion, distinguishing genuine Christian evangelism from worldly activism. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**, as Paul, despite facing severe opposition, is continually preserved and given opportunities to bear witness to Christ before powerful officials, fulfilling the divine commission given to him in [Acts 9:15](/acts/9-15 "Ananias's Commission Regarding Paul").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **disputing (Greek, _dialégomai'_):** This term (G1256) means "to say thoroughly," implying reasoned discussion, debate, or even preaching. Paul's denial here emphasizes that his interactions, even if they involved theological debate, were intellectual and orderly, not violent or seditious. He was engaged in teaching and persuasion, not in inciting conflict.
* **raising up (Greek, _episýstasis'_):** This word (G1999), often combined with a verb meaning "to make" or "do" (G4160, `poiéō`), refers to a "conspiracy" or a "concourse" that could be riotous. Paul's categorical denial of "raising up the people" directly refutes the charge of being a "mover of sedition" ([Acts 24:5](/acts/24-5 "Tertullus's Accusations")). It signifies his non-involvement in any form of public unrest, rebellion, or organized disturbance.
* **found (Greek, _heurískō'_):** This verb (G2147) means "to find (literally or figuratively)," "to get," "obtain," "perceive," or "see." Paul's use of this word implies a challenge to his accusers: they were unable to *discover* or *perceive* any evidence of his alleged seditious activities, because such activities simply did not occur. It places the burden of proof squarely on his accusers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man,"**: Paul begins by addressing the charges related to his conduct in the Jerusalem Temple. He asserts that his accusers, despite their diligent search or accusations, could not find him engaged in any form of contentious argument or public debate that would constitute a disturbance. His activities in the Temple were lawful and peaceful, likely involving worship or teaching, not inciting discord.
* **"neither raising up the people,"**: This clause directly refutes the core accusation of sedition. Paul denies having caused any uprising, riot, or public unrest. He was not a political agitator seeking to gather a crowd for rebellious purposes, but a preacher of the Gospel. This denial is crucial given the Roman sensitivity to any form of popular uprising.
* **"neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:"**: Paul extends his denial to all other public spaces where he might have ministered. He affirms that his peaceful conduct was consistent not only in the Temple but also in the synagogues (where he often taught and debated, as seen throughout Acts) and throughout the entire city of Jerusalem. This comprehensive denial underscores the pervasive nature of his peaceful demeanor and the baselessness of the charges against him.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Negation** through the repeated use of "neither" (οὔτε, G3777, and ἤ, G2228, which functions similarly in this context) and "nor," creating a powerful and emphatic denial. This repetition serves to underscore the absolute lack of evidence for the accusations. Paul's statement is also a strong **Assertion** of his innocence, directly confronting the slander with a declaration of truth. Furthermore, there is an element of **Rhetorical Strategy**, as Paul shifts the burden of proof back to his accusers, challenging them to produce the evidence they claim to possess. This highlights the **Antithesis** between the false accusations of sedition and Paul's actual, peaceful conduct.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's defense in Acts 24:12 stands as a powerful testament to the integrity required of those who proclaim the Gospel. His blameless conduct, even under intense scrutiny and false accusation, reflects a commitment to truth and peace that aligns with the very nature of the Christian message. Theologically, this passage reinforces the principle that genuine faith is demonstrated not through political agitation or social unrest, but through a life of righteousness and a message of peace, even when facing persecution. It reminds believers that suffering for Christ is often a consequence of living righteously, and that our defense lies in the truth of our actions and the power of God to vindicate.

* [Matthew 5:11-12](/matthew/5-11-12 "Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness' sake") - Jesus teaches about the blessedness of those who are falsely accused and persecuted for His sake.
* [1 Peter 3:15-16](/1_peter/3-15-16 "Always be prepared to give an answer") - Believers are exhorted to be ready to give a defense for their hope, doing so with gentleness and respect, maintaining a good conscience so that accusers may be put to shame.
* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Live peaceably with all") - Paul himself encourages believers to live peaceably with all people, as far as it depends on them, a principle he clearly exemplified in his own conduct.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's unwavering integrity and calm demeanor in the face of grave, false accusations provide a profound model for believers today. In a world often characterized by division and quick judgment, Paul's example calls us to live lives of such transparent honesty and peaceful conduct that even our detractors struggle to find legitimate fault. When confronted with slander or misunderstanding, our first response should not be retaliation or despair, but a quiet confidence in the truth and a reliance on God's ultimate vindication. This passage reminds us that our primary mission is to live out and proclaim the Gospel of peace, not to engage in disruptive or seditious activities, even when we feel unjustly treated. Our witness is most powerful when our actions consistently align with the message of Christ, demonstrating that our hope is not in worldly power or human manipulation, but in the transforming power of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's response to false accusations challenge my own reactions when I feel unfairly judged or criticized?**
* **In what ways can I ensure that my actions and words consistently reflect the peaceful and truthful nature of the Gospel, even in contentious situations?**
* **What does it mean to "maintain integrity" in my daily life, and how might this prepare me to withstand scrutiny or false accusations?**
* **How can I rely on God's vindication when facing injustice, rather than seeking to defend myself through ungodly means?**

### FAQ
**Why was Paul accused of sedition, and how did he refute it?**

Answer: Paul was accused of sedition by Tertullus, the orator representing the Jewish high priest Ananias, who claimed Paul was "a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world" ([Acts 24:5](/acts/24-5 "Tertullus's Accusations Against Paul")). This was a serious charge under Roman law, implying he was inciting rebellion against Roman authority. Paul refuted it in [Acts 24:12](/acts/24-12 "Paul's Denial of Sedition") by categorically denying that he was found "disputing with any man" or "raising up the people" in the Temple, synagogues, or anywhere in the city. He challenged his accusers to produce any evidence, asserting that his activities were peaceful and lawful, focused on teaching and worship, not on political agitation.

**What does Paul's defense teach us about dealing with false accusations?**

Answer: Paul's defense offers several key lessons. Firstly, it teaches us the importance of **integrity and a clear conscience**. Paul could confidently deny the charges because his conduct was genuinely blameless in these matters. Secondly, it models a **calm and truthful response** to slander. Instead of reacting emotionally, Paul presented a factual and direct refutation. Thirdly, it highlights the need to **trust in divine vindication**. Paul knew that his ultimate judge was God, and he relied on the legal process to expose the truth, even if it meant enduring prolonged imprisonment. His example encourages believers to live righteously, speak truth, and leave the outcome to God, as demonstrated in passages like [1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "Christ's example in suffering").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's experience in Acts 24:12, facing false accusations and suffering for righteousness' sake, profoundly mirrors the path of Jesus Christ, the ultimate example of one unjustly accused. Christ, too, was charged with sedition and blasphemy, despite His ministry being one of peace, healing, and truth ([Luke 23:2](/luke/23-2 "Accusations against Jesus")). He did not "dispute" in a seditious manner or "raise up the people" in rebellion, but rather taught with authority and sought to gather a spiritual kingdom, not an earthly one ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "My kingdom is not of this world")). Just as Paul stood before Felix, Christ stood silently before Pilate, enduring false witness and unjust condemnation ([Matthew 27:11-14](/matthew/27-11-14 "Jesus before Pilate")). Paul's willingness to suffer for the Gospel, and his peaceful, truthful defense, is a direct emulation of Christ's perfect submission and witness even unto death. Believers are called to follow in these footsteps, enduring persecution with integrity, knowing that their suffering for Christ's name is a participation in His own suffering and a testament to His redemptive work ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings")). Ultimately, Paul's vindication, whether earthly or heavenly, points to the ultimate vindication of Christ through His resurrection, which assures all who follow Him of their own future triumph over injustice and death.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 25:8

While he answered for himself, Neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar, have I offended any thing at all.

Acts 24:18

Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult.

Acts 28:17

¶ And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men [and] brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.

Acts 24:5

For we have found this man [a] pestilent [fellow], and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes: