March 13, 2023 -- Acts 26:24-29 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Boldly witnessing about Jesus

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

 And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” 25 But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. 26 For the king knows about these things, and to him I speak boldly. For I am persuaded that none of these things has escaped his notice, for this has not been done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” 28 And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” 29 And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.”
Acts 26:24-29 ESV

It is important to remember Paul has been falsely accused. He has been in prison now for more than two years on trumped up charges that have not been proved. He could be bitter. He could be angry. He could be railing against his opponents who have kept him in such a condition. What is he doing? He is in court and he testifying to Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. He is making the most of every opportunity for the days are evil (Ephesians 5:16). He is doing exactly what he always urges other Christians to do.

Nor is Paul using trickery or the tools of his age to make himself acceptable to his audience. So often the techniques for evangelism promote using the music of the world, or the stage lighting and culturally normative words or attire in order to draw people in. Paul does not use such means. He is chained. He is direct. He is speaking up for Jesus making the most of every chance he gets aware that it is the Spirit of God Who will cause the seed of the Gospel to germinate at the appropriate moment.

Fellow believer, speak of the glory of God wherever you are. Know that the unbeliever who hears you will howl, push back, and question you at every step. Of course he will. He is a non-Christian in the grip of satanic forces. There are no neutral people. One is either alive in Christ or one is fighting His kingdom tooth and nail. Wherever and whenever one speaks he is fighting the darkness and doing so to the glory of God. Our lives belong to Jesus and we are appointed as His servants and witnesses.

Our Father in heaven hallowed be Your Name. Thank You for the faithful saints You raised up in our lives who testified to us of the grace of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the preserving work of Your Holy Spirit Who guided our steps and directed us ever deeper into Your love O Father, source of every blessing. Mighty God, help us to be bold ambassadors and faithful witnesses in all circumstances and in every place where Your mercy and providence leads us. Amen.

https://youtu.be/xV-fNmt6ZAo
Lovingkindness -- Matt Redman

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