The Pulpit Commentary on Acts 24:16

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

Practical religion.

"And herein do I exercise myself," etc. Circumstances of the case justify the self-assertion. We must not be afraid to give our own example as a testimony to the truth.

I. Practical religion is founded on THE HEARTFELT ACCEPTANCE OF THE WORD OF GOD. "Herein," i.e. in the faith just described, distinguished from:

1. The irreligion of Felix; indifference and direct opposition to God.

2. The blind bigotry of Pharisaism; mere worship of the letter of Scripture and tradition; an excuse for conscientious life.

3. The speculative unbelief of Sadducees. Rationalism. Intellectual pride. Faith made living in Christ. The facts of the gospel opened the secrets of the Scriptures to Paul. Jesus became to him the Word of Life.

II. Practical religion demands CONSTANT EFFORT. "I exercise myself."

1. Not asceticism, but zealous endeavor to do good. in proclamation of the gospel.

2. Faithful and heroic patience under the trials of life.

3. The showing forth of Christian character before the world for a testimony, both by the blameless conduct, and by the calm and bold defense of the truth when necessary. The secret of strength and courage is a conscience void of offence. Those who do not exercise themselves both give offence and find offence. "If God be for us, who can be against us? "—R.

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