Acts 25:11
For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Caesar.
Acts 25:11 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the apostle Paul asserts his innocence and willingness to face any charges brought against him. The verse reflects Paul's confidence in his own integrity and his willingness to accept the consequences if he has truly committed an offense deserving of death. By stating that he is willing to die if he is guilty, Paul demonstrates his commitment to righteousness and justice. At the same time, Paul makes it clear that if he is not guilty of the crimes he is being accused of, then no one has the right to hand him over to his accusers. By proclaiming his appeal to Caesar, Paul asserts his legal right as a Roman citizen to have his case heard by the highest court in the empire. This verse showcases Paul's unwavering faith in the system of justice and his determination to seek a fair trial before the proper authorities.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the Apostle Paul is asserting his innocence in the face of false accusations brought against him. He declares that if he truly is guilty of any crime deserving of death, he is willing to face the consequences. However, he confidently proclaims that he is not guilty of the charges his accusers are making. This statement reflects Paul's unwavering faith in God's deliverance and justice. By appealing to Caesar, Paul is exercising his Roman citizenship rights to ensure a fair trial and to ultimately fulfill God's plan for him to testify about Jesus in Rome. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights Paul's trust in God's sovereignty even in the midst of persecution and legal challenges. It serves as a reminder for believers to stand firm in their faith and to place their trust in God's ultimate provision and protection.
Acts 25:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
If then I am a wrong-doer, and have committed anything worthy of death, I refuse not to die; but if none of those things is [true] whereof these accuse me, no man can give me up unto them. I appeal unto Caesar.
World English Bible
For if I have done wrong, and have committed anything worthy of death, I don’t refuse to die; but if none of those things is true that they accuse me of, no one can give me up to them. I appeal to Caesar!”
Douay-Rheims
For if I have injured them or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die. But if there be none of these things whereof they accuse me, no man may deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For if I haue done wrong, or committed any thing worthie of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof they accuse me, no man, to pleasure them, can deliuer me to them: I appeale vnto Caesar.