In Acts 24 where Paul is making his defense before Felix against charges brought by the Jews, Paul makes a statement in verses 15 and 16 that seems to imply that his behavior may have some bearing upon which group he will be resurrected with, the righteous or the wicked. Can you help me to understand this passage?
In Acts 24:15-16 Paul said,
“I have the same hope in God as these men themselves have, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.”
Paul had just denied the charges against him and assured Felix his claim of innocence could easily be verified. (Acts 24:10-14). Verses 15-16 were not directed at Felix but at Paul’s accusers. It was a subtle hint as to their likely destiny, since they knew the charges they had brought against Paul were false. Therefore, their consciences were not clear before God or man. This was a condition that would condemn them under their law, putting them in danger of being resurrected with the wicked. Paul, being saved by grace (Ephes. 2:8-9) could never find himself in such jeopardy.