John Calvin Commentary Acts 23:29

"whom I found to be accused about questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds." — Acts 23:29 (ASV)

Whom I perceived: In this statement, he acquits Paul, as far as his judgment could determine. But let us note that a profane man is speaking. For among God's people, corrupting the doctrine of godliness with wicked and false opinions is an offense deserving no less punishment than injuring or committing wickedness against others.

The Romans would not have permitted such freedom regarding their own superstitions or the established worship of their gods. But since they had no regard for the law of God—indeed, desiring to have it completely extinguished—it was not considered a fault among them to no longer believe Moses and the prophets, or to trouble the Church with false opinions.

Therefore, a law existed stipulating that governors should not interfere in such matters. Instead, those living in the provinces were to manage their own religious affairs, so that if anything was done contrary to their religion, Roman magistrates would not involve themselves in its punishment.

This is why the chief captain thinks it no offense that questions were raised concerning the Law. And under this pretext, unlearned men will feel entitled, and encourage others, to wrongly cause trouble.

The Lord, however, says far otherwise, for He punishes the violation of His worship more sharply than any injuries committed against men. Indeed, nothing is more absurd than to let those who rob God of His honor escape unpunished, especially when theft itself is punished.

However, while the chief captain does not care about the Jewish religion, his indifference also serves to refute the false accusations and slanders with which the Jews eagerly sought to burden Paul.