When they tied Paul down to lash him, Paul said to the officer standing there, “Is it legal for you to whip a Roman citizen who hasn’t even been tried?”
(Acts 22:25 NLT)
While not everyone could obtain Roman citizenship in the ancient world, the apostle Paul did, and he took advantage of it. The book of Acts reports two instances in which Paul effectively exercised his rights as a Roman citizen (Acts 16:35-39; 22:22-29). While it’s much easier to gain citizenship in today’s world, it amazes me how many people don’t know their rights or don’t use their rights well. There are people who aren’t aware of their rights in the workplace, or who aren’t willing to vote during elections. Know your rights. Paul did and it served him well.
Knowing your rights will serve you well.
