24:16a
In this hope: The phrase connects back to what Paul said in 24:14–15. It indicates there is a relationship between hope in God and a person’s conduct on earth. For example:
In these things (New Jerusalem Bible)
The phrase can also be interpreted as introducing a result. So some English versions translate this phrase in that way. For example:
And so (Good News Translation)
I: The Greek phrase here also has the word that probably means “also” here. The Jewish leaders tried to carefully follow God according to their religion. Paul said here that he too tried to carefully follow God. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
I also (New American Standard Bible)
-or-
I, as much as they, (New Jerusalem Bible)
strive: The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as strive refers to working hard at something. It can refer to physical training, but here refers to trying hard to follow a decision or principle. It also indicates that the person was doing his best to accomplish the deed. Other ways to translate this word are:
train myself (Revised English Bible)
-or-
make every effort
-or-
do my best (Good News Translation)
-or-
endeavor
-or-
try very much
The tense on the Greek verb indicates an ongoing action.
24:16b
always to maintain a clear conscience before God and man: The word conscience refers to the part of a person that helps him know what is right and what is wrong to think or do. A person’s conscience causes him to feel ashamed or guilty when he does something wrong. It also makes him feel good when he does what is right.
Paul always tried to do the right thing, so his conscience was clear, that is, without guilt, regarding past deeds. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
to do what I believe is right before God and people (New Century Version)
-or-
in order that my conscience will be clean, having no sin against God and likewise against people
-or-
to be assured in my own mind that I have done no wrong towards God or people
See how you translated conscience in 23:1.
before God and man: Paul worked hard to live in a way that pleased God and did not insult people.
man: This word refers generally to people here.
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