What does the Bible say about appeal?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that believers may lawfully appeal to civil authorities for justice, while trusting God’s sovereign rule and submitting to rightful government. Paul appealed to Caesar when he faced unjust accusations and danger from his opponents, insisting that he had done no wrong deserving death (Acts 25:10-11). His appeal was not unbelief or political manipulation, but a prudent use of the legal rights God’s providence had provided. Acts 25:21-27 shows officials carefully forwarding his case, and Acts 26:32 recognizes that Paul might have been released had he not appealed to Caesar. Yet Acts 28:19 makes clear that Paul’s ultimate aim was not personal vindication, but the faithful defense and advance of the gospel.