Paul stands trial before Sanhedrin

Paul stood trial before the Sanhedrin as described in Acts chapter 23, where he maintained that he had always lived with a clear conscience. During the proceedings, the high priest ordered an individual to strike Paul on the mouth. Paul responded by stating that God would strike the high priest, though he did not realize at the time that the man held that office.

The trial caused a division within the assembly when Paul identified himself as a Pharisee and stated he was on trial because of his hope in the resurrection of the dead. The Sadducees, who deny the existence of angels, spirits, and the resurrection, clashed with the Pharisees, who affirm these beliefs. Following this exchange, scribes noted they could find no fault in Paul, suggesting that a spirit or an angel might have spoken to him.