Acts 24:1-10

What is a hallmark?  A hallmark is a mark placed on an object to certify that it meets a standard of purity.  It is an official stamp of authenticity, and it lets the purchaser or owner of an item know that it has been tested and found to be authentic.

The Bible teaches that God’s people are pure.  When we think of purity, most often we think first of sexual purity.  However, the world and God can judge a Christian pure or impure by many standards.  One standard, which all Christian should meet, is honesty.  Honesty is a hallmark of righteousness.

Christians should not have a problem with honesty, but many do, partly because our culture is a dishonest culture.  Advertisers, politicians, the news media and lawyers all habitually exaggerate and lie to us.  We live in a culture that believes in white lies, and believes in lies that do not have consequences.  God calls Christians to be in the world, but not of the world.  We cannot accept the world standards of truthfulness.

Paul appears before Felix, and Felix was a corrupt ruler. History tells us that during his governorship insurrections and anarchy increased.  He was known for his cruelty and lust, and the common people of Judea hated him.  Two years after Paul’s trial, Rome recalled him for corrupt incompetence.

The Sanhedrin’s lawyer was extremely dishonest.  He gave Felix credit for a long period of peace, and beneficial reforms in the nation.  He expressed on the Jewish people’s behalf their extreme and profound gratitude for Felix’s rule.  In today’s culture, this lawyer would be right at home.

Contrast the lawyer’s speech with what Paul had to say to Felix.  Paul said, “I know that for a number of years you have been a judge over this nation… I gladly make my defense.” There was no flattery, and not a hint of dishonesty.  Paul was honest, even when it risked his life.  For Christians hallmarked honesty is not a convenience it is an expectation.