The Roman tribune brings Paul before the priests and council to investigate the controversy (22:30). His motivation is not primarily for Paul's well-being but for his own. Having narrowly avoided assaulting a Roman citizen, an act punishable by law, he still has a duty to fulfill. Therefore, he seeks answers. Additionally, it is in his best interest to ensure Paul's safety, which he accomplishes when the gathering descends into chaos (23:10). A Gentile protects the apostle to the Gentiles from his countrymen.

Paul's reply to Ananias is harsh, describing him as a "whitewashed wall" (23:3). It could be interpreted as Paul delivering a stern judgment to the Jewish leadership, boldly opposing their hypocrisy and lack of faith. Some argue that Paul may be unaware of Ananias's position as the high priest due to his long absence from Jerusalem. He may not be familiar with the current leadership, and Ananias's attire may not distinguish him from other council members. This interpretation is the simplest and likely the most plausible.

Paul's next move showcases cunning and astuteness, a brilliant display of intellect. Observing the presence of both Sadducees and Pharisees in the room, he skillfully diffuses the tension. The Pharisees, known for their conservative adherence to Torah and their traditions, faced severe criticism in the Bible. Nonetheless, they deeply understood the law and firmly believed in a future resurrection. The Sadducees, being Hellenized and affluent, were essentially secular Jews who held authority over the priesthood and possessed political influence, albeit limited by their superiors in the Roman Empire. In their pursuit of wealth and privilege, the Sadducees abandoned several orthodox beliefs, including faith in the resurrection, angels, and spirits (Acts 23:8; Luke 20:27). Paul addresses the contentious issue of bodily resurrection, which already divides the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Some of the scribes from the Pharisees' faction defend Paul, not necessarily because they agree with him, but because they oppose the Sadducees' denial of the resurrection.
The tribune intervenes to protect Paul from harm when the disagreement between the Pharisees and the Sadducees escalates into violence. Following the chaos, Christ appears to Paul to strengthen his determination, affirming, "Take heart, for just as you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome" (23:11). This solidifies Paul's understanding of his purpose. Despite warnings from well-meaning prophets like Agabus, pleas from friends, plots and schemes of the Jews, the might of the entire Roman Empire, or even the power of the sea, the Lord has a mission for Paul, which will be accomplished.

Paul's teaching about Jesus and the Mosaic law has caused distress among them. However, it is ironic that they are willing to disregard the law and go to extreme measures, even encouraging injustice and seeking to assassinate Paul. This is not the isolated act of a few radical individuals but a coordinated attempt supported and approved by some, if not most, of the Jewish authorities. At this moment, Paul's nephew enters the scene. The interaction between Paul, his nephew, and the tribune is straightforward (vv. 18–22). Although it's unclear how the nephew becomes aware of the plot against Paul, what remains clear is that once again, God providentially offers Paul an escape from danger. By this point, the tribune and other local Roman authorities have likely grown skeptical of the Jewish leaders and their accusations against Paul. They take the threat to Paul's life seriously and are determined to ensure the safety of this Roman citizen.

The tribune takes significant measures to address the danger. Around 9:00 p.m., he dispatches a substantial portion of the military force from Jerusalem to accompany Paul to Antipatris. From there, seventy horsemen guide him the remaining distance to Caesarea. Along with the armed guard, the tribune sends a letter to Felix explaining the situation. The letter explains why the tribune is sending Paul to Felix. The tribune states that he rescued Paul from the Jews after realizing that Paul was a Roman citizen (v. 27). Importantly, he informs Felix that Paul is being brought to him without official charges, except for a dispute among the Jews regarding their law. The tribune's actions serve two purposes: shifting responsibility for Paul to the governor and ensuring Paul's safety from his Jewish countrymen. Additionally, these actions fulfill the Lord's promise to Paul that he will testify in Rome (23:11). In the closing of chapter 23, Paul appears before Felix, who is satisfied that Paul falls under his jurisdiction (vv. 34-35) and agrees to hear him once his Jewish accusers arrive. Caesarea becomes Paul's home for the next two years.