Acts 24:20 (KJV)

What does Acts 24:20 mean?

Acts 24:20 shows Paul challenging his accusers to state openly if they found any wrongdoing in him when he stood before the Jewish council. Paul is pointing out that his opponents have no real evidence of evil conduct against him during his previous trial.

Paul is speaking in his own defense before the Roman governor Felix. He refers to his earlier appearance before the Jewish council (the Sanhedrin) and invites those present to testify if they witnessed any actual misdeed. This highlights Paul's confidence in his innocence and exposes the weakness of the accusations brought against him.

The Greek behind Acts 24:20

• "council" (συνέδριον, synedrion): This word refers specifically to the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Mentioning the συνέδριον emphasizes that Paul is talking about a formal, authoritative setting where evidence would have been required.
• "evil doing" (ἀδικία, adikia): This term means wrongdoing or injustice. Paul is not just denying minor faults but any serious moral or legal violation.
• "stood" (ἑστώς, hestōs): The Greek word used here means to stand, often in the sense of standing trial or appearing before a court. Paul is recalling his official examination, not just a casual meeting.

Why Acts 24:20 matters

• This verse clarifies that Paul is not simply making a general claim of innocence; he is inviting public scrutiny of his actions during a legal proceeding.
• Acts 24:20 highlights the lack of concrete evidence against Paul, which is a key theme in his trials throughout Acts.
• The verse helps readers see the fairness and openness of Paul's defense, contrasting with the secrecy and weakness of his accusers' case.