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Acts 23 · a question people ask

Paul said, "I didn’t know, brothers, that he was high priest" (23:5). Does Acts say more about it?

In the text

The chapter gives only Paul's words. Those who stood by asked, "Do you malign God’s high priest?" (23:4), and Paul answered, "I didn’t know, brothers, that he was high priest." (23:5). Acts says no more about it and doesn't say what Paul meant beyond his words, and these notes don't say either.

The verses

“Those who stood by said, “Do you malign God’s high priest?” Paul said, “I didn’t know, brothers, that he was high priest. For it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’””
Acts 23:4-5 · World English Bible

From Favor's study of Acts 23

Acts 23: Cheer up, Paul

Paul tells the council he is judged "Concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead" (23:6). The following night, "the Lord stood by him": "Cheer up, Paul" (23:11). When more than forty people plot against him, Paul's sister's son, whom Acts never names, tells Paul (23:13, 23:16).

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Last reviewed October 7, 2026. Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible, which is in the public domain. Every answer cites the verses it rests on. What we believe · All Bible questions