Supernatural

 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all.
Acts 23:8 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/act.23.8.ESV

I love how Paul illustrates to be as shrewd as snakes but as innocent as doves. He was innocent, but the powers that be tried to condemn him for following Jesus. The Holy Spirit gave him what to say.

Paul identified himself as a Pharisee, dividing the Jewish ruling council who were judging him. Some were 'progressive' Sadducees, others were 'conservative' Pharisees. The liberals didn't hardly believe in the supernatural. The traditionalists, like Paul, did.

It's interesting that Paul identified himself as a Pharisee, because Jesus reserved some of His harshest words for them. I think the reason was that those who have received much from God will have much expected of them by Him. There's not necessarily anything wrong with religion, as long as it's divine and not manmade.

The Jewish leaders were baying for Paul's blood. Thankfully, he was able to appeal to the Roman authorities to send him to Caesar, which they did. In all likelihood, Caesar martyred him, but not before he wrote much of the new testament and ministered to many more people.

'Lord, please help us to be shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves. May we trust Your providence to look after us til You call us home. In Jesus's name, amen'

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