Acts 24:13

KJV

Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.

KJV (with Strong's)

Neither {G3777} can {G1410} they prove {G3936}{G3165} the things {G4012} whereof {G3739} they {G2723} now {G3568} accuse {G2723} me {G3450}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Nor can they give any proof of the things of which they are accusing me.

Berean Standard Bible

Nor can they prove to you any of their charges against me.

American Standard Version

Neither can they prove to thee the things whereof they now accuse me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Paul, standing trial before Governor Felix, emphatically declares his accusers' inability to substantiate their charges against him. This verse encapsulates his confident assertion of innocence, highlighting the baseless nature of the accusations brought by the Jewish leaders and their orator Tertullus, and underscoring the fundamental legal principle that the burden of proof rests squarely on the accuser.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 24:13 is a pivotal moment within Paul's defense speech before Governor Felix in Caesarea. It immediately follows Tertullus's elaborate, yet unsubstantiated, accusations against Paul in [Acts 24:5-8](/acts/24-5-8 "Tertullus's Accusations Against Paul"). Paul's response, beginning in [Acts 24:10](/acts/24-10 "Paul's Defense Begins"), systematically dismantles each charge. This particular verse serves as a direct challenge to the prosecution, asserting their complete lack of evidence, and sets the stage for Paul to present his own account of events and his true motivations, which he does in the subsequent verses, such as his pilgrimage to Jerusalem for worship and alms in [Acts 24:11-12](/acts/24-11-12 "Paul's Account of His Visit to Jerusalem").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's trial took place in Caesarea Maritima, the Roman provincial capital of Judea, under Governor Antonius Felix. This was a Roman legal setting, where principles of due process, including the need for evidence and witnesses, were theoretically upheld. The Jewish leaders, particularly the High Priest Ananias, had a vested interest in silencing Paul, whom they viewed as a dangerous heretic and disturber of the peace, especially given his preaching about Jesus Christ and the inclusion of Gentiles. The accusations of sedition and defiling the temple were serious charges under Roman law, potentially punishable by death, thus making Paul's demand for proof all the more critical in this high-stakes environment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Acts. It underscores the theme of **Paul's innocence and vindication**, as he consistently faces false accusations but is repeatedly found innocent by Roman authorities, echoing the pattern seen in [Acts 18:12-17](/acts/18-12-17 "Gallio Dismisses Charges Against Paul") and [Acts 23:29](/acts/23-29 "Claudius Lysias's Assessment of Paul's Innocence"). It highlights the **conflict between the Gospel and religious legalism**, as Paul's accusers are driven by their rejection of Christ and his inclusive message, rather than by genuine legal grievances. Furthermore, it exemplifies the **sovereignty of God in protecting His servants**, as Paul's legal predicaments, though challenging, ultimately serve God's purpose in spreading the Gospel, even to the highest echelons of Roman power, as foretold in [Acts 9:15](/acts/9-15 "Paul's Mission to Kings and Gentiles").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **prove (Greek, _parístēmi'_):** This word, often translated as "present" or "stand by," carries the meaning of "to exhibit, proffer, or substantiate." In a legal context, it signifies the act of presenting evidence or arguments to establish the truth of a claim or to prove guilt. Paul's use of _parístēmi_ here implies that his accusers are utterly incapable of bringing forward any factual basis or credible witness to support their allegations, thereby demonstrating their charges are baseless and unproven.
* **can (Greek, _dýnamai'_):** Meaning "to be able or possible," this verb emphasizes the capacity or lack thereof. Coupled with the negative particle "neither" (G3777, _oúte_), it forms a strong denial of ability. Paul is not merely saying they *haven't* proven it, but that they *cannot* prove it, highlighting an inherent impossibility due to the absence of truth in their accusations.
* **accuse (Greek, _katēgoréō'_):** This term means "to be a plaintiff" or "to charge with some offense." It describes the formal act of bringing charges against someone in a legal setting. Paul's statement directly addresses the *content* of their accusations, asserting that the very things they are charging him with are not only false but also impossible for them to substantiate, legally or factually.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Neither can they prove":** This opening phrase, with the strong negative "neither" (οὔτε) and the verb "can" (δύνανται), asserts an absolute inability on the part of Paul's accusers. It's not just that they *haven't* proven their case, but that they *lack the capacity* to do so because their claims are false. This immediately shifts the burden of proof back to the prosecution, highlighting their failure.
* **"the things whereof":** This refers directly to the specific charges laid against Paul by Tertullus and the Jewish leaders. These included being a "pestilent fellow," a "mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world," and a "ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes" ([Acts 24:5](/acts/24-5 "Tertullus's Accusations")). Paul is challenging the very substance of these accusations.
* **"they now accuse me":** This specifies the present moment of the trial and the active role of his accusers. Paul is confronting their current, ongoing efforts to incriminate him, emphasizing that despite their zealous presentation, they possess no factual basis or credible evidence to support their claims against his character or actions.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 24:13 employs **Litotes** through its strong double negative ("Neither can they prove"), which emphasizes the absolute impossibility of the accusers' task. Instead of simply stating "they cannot prove," the phrasing "Neither can they prove" intensifies the declaration of their utter failure to substantiate their claims. This creates a powerful rhetorical effect, underscoring the baselessness of the accusations. Additionally, the verse functions as a form of **Rebuttal**, directly countering the preceding elaborate accusations of Tertullus. Paul's concise and direct statement serves as a sharp, unadorned contrast to the orator's flowery but empty rhetoric, highlighting the difference between unsubstantiated claims and factual truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's confident assertion of innocence in Acts 24:13 resonates deeply with the biblical theme of **vindication of the righteous**. Throughout Scripture, those who walk in integrity, though often slandered or persecuted, are ultimately upheld by God. Paul's defense is not merely a legal strategy but a demonstration of his clear conscience before God and man, reflecting a life lived in accordance with divine truth. This aligns with the broader New Testament emphasis on truth prevailing over falsehood, and the ultimate triumph of God's justice. The inability of Paul's accusers to "prove" their charges highlights the spiritual reality that lies and false witness, though they may temporarily gain traction, ultimately lack the substance to stand before truth.

* [Proverbs 10:9](/proverbs/10-9 "Proverbs 10:9 - Integrity and Security")
* [1 Peter 3:16](/1_peter/3-16 "1 Peter 3:16 - Conscience and Good Conduct")
* [Isaiah 54:17](/isaiah/54-17 "Isaiah 54:17 - No Weapon Formed Against You Shall Prosper")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 24:13 offers profound lessons for believers navigating a world where truth is often distorted and integrity challenged. Paul's unwavering stance in the face of groundless accusations encourages us to cultivate a clear conscience before God and others, living in such a way that even when slandered, the lack of evidence against us speaks volumes. It reminds us that our ultimate vindication comes not from human courts or public opinion, but from God, who sees and knows all things. When faced with unfair criticism or false charges, we are called to respond with truth and grace, trusting that God will expose falsehood in His time. This verse also underscores the importance of seeking and upholding truth in all our interactions, recognizing that baseless accusations not only harm individuals but also undermine justice and community.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's confidence in his innocence challenge me to examine my own integrity before God and others?**
* **In what situations might I be tempted to accuse others without sufficient proof, and how can I cultivate a greater commitment to truth?**
* **How can I maintain a peaceful and trusting demeanor when facing false accusations, knowing that God is my ultimate vindicator?**

### FAQ
**What were the specific accusations against Paul that his accusers could not prove?**

Answer: The orator Tertullus, on behalf of the Jewish leaders, leveled three main charges against Paul before Governor Felix, as recorded in [Acts 24:5-6](/acts/24-5-6 "Tertullus's Accusations Against Paul"). First, he accused Paul of being a "pestilent fellow" (a plague or public nuisance) and a "mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world," implying he was a revolutionary stirring up unrest against Roman authority. Second, he charged Paul with being a "ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes," identifying him with a despised and supposedly dangerous religious movement. Third, Tertullus claimed Paul "had gone about to profane the temple," a grave offense in Jewish law. Paul's statement in [Acts 24:13](/acts/24-13 "Acts 24:13 - Paul's Defense") directly refutes their ability to provide any concrete evidence or witnesses to substantiate *any* of these serious allegations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Acts 24:13 speaks to Paul's personal vindication, it profoundly foreshadows the ultimate vindication of Christ and His followers. Just as Paul faced baseless accusations and the inability of his accusers to "prove" their charges, Jesus Himself endured false witness and unjust condemnation, yet no true accusation could stand against His perfect life and mission. The world "accused" Him of blasphemy and sedition, but Pilate repeatedly declared, "I find no fault in him" ([John 19:4](/john/19-4 "Pilate Declares Jesus Innocent")). Christ's resurrection is the ultimate "proof" that the accusations against Him were baseless, and that He truly is the Son of God, the righteous one. Furthermore, through Christ, believers are declared righteous, and Satan, "the accuser of our brethren" ([Revelation 12:10](/revelation/12-10 "Satan, the Accuser")), can bring no lasting charge against those whom God has justified ([Romans 8:33-34](/romans/8-33-34 "Who Shall Bring a Charge Against God's Elect?")). Thus, Paul's confident declaration in [Acts 24:13](/acts/24-13 "Acts 24:13 - Paul's Defense") is a microcosm of the greater truth: in Christ, the accusations of the world and the devil ultimately fall flat, for He has secured our eternal acquittal.

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 25:7

And when he was come, the Jews which came down from Jerusalem stood round about, and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, which they could not prove.

1 Peter 3:16

¶ Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.