Paul didn’t even bother to share the gospel with the Sanhedrin. Perhaps he realized their hypocrisy showed that they would not listen. The high priest by God’s Law was to be a direct descendant of Aaron and the oldest in the family. Ananias was not. He was appointed by Herod. Also, as Paul pointed out the law did not allow someone to be struck during the examination. Finally, the Roman commander was there during the trial.
Paul probably realized that all the warnings the Spirit gave him were to help him chose the best response to this trial. Jesus taught ““Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces. (Mat. 7:6)” So Paul did not share the gospel just as Jesus had done during his trial before the Sanhedrin.
God gave wisdom to Paul to have the Sadducees and Pharisees argue amongst themselves. This revealed to the commander the real reason Paul had been attacked in the temple. Jesus appeared to Paul and revealed his future. This gave him courage.
Sometimes it is good to share the truth. Other times it is better to stay quiet.
