Acts 23:1

Earnestly beholding. Gr. atenizō, “to fix one’s eyes upon,” “to look steadfastly at,” “to behold earnestly” (see Acts 1:10; 7:55; Luke 4:20; 22:56; see on Acts 13:9). Luke often uses the word to describe the expression on the face of one about to speak earnestly. It is used appropriately of Paul’s expression as the apostle gazes intently upon the highest Jewish assembly for the first time in a quarter of a century. There had no doubt been many changes in personnel during the years, but some faces Paul may have recognized (see ch. 23:5; see on ch. 23:5).

Men and brethren. See on ch. 1:16.

In all good conscience. This would be a very inclusive claim for any man to make. For Paul to make such a claim after years of disputing with Judaizers and their victims makes evident his own convictions with respect to his course of action. His conduct had been altogether in keeping with the will of God and with the law and the prophets (see chs. 24:14; 28:17). If Paul was right, his accusers were obviously wrong. Paul often refers to the conscience (Acts 24:16; Rom. 2:15; 13:5; 1 Cor. 10:25; 1 Tim. 1:5; 2 Tim. 1:3).