I am Persuaded

Acts 26

“Almost persuaded to be a Christian is like the man who was almost pardoned, but he was hanged; like the man who was almost rescued, but he was burned in the house. A man that is almost saved is damned.” Charles Spurgeon

Festus tried to discredit the message by accusing Paul of being too studied and mad, and King Agrippa tried to minimize his own conviction by his nonchalant reply.

“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 26:28–29 (ESV)

King Agrippa turned his back on the light; he was “almost” when he might have been “altogether.”

Paul was willing to share Jesus, regardless of their social status: government officials, the lame, women, a jailer, and intellectuals.

Warren Wiersbe shares that “Paul saw the light. Instead of defending himself, Paul used the opportunity to present the gospel to King Agrippa and others with him.”

“Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.” 1 Peter 3:13–17 (ESV)

When Paul met Jesus on the road to Damascus, he made some important and life-changing discoveries: his religion was out-of-date; his zeal for God was only hurting God; Jesus was alive; and Jesus had a job for Paul to do. Talk about a rude awakening!

The Gentiles needed the light. Paul’s great learning and zeal would be devoted to the spread of the gospel among the Gentiles. Lost sinners are in spiritual darkness and only Christ can give them light.

In these proceedings, Paul went right to the heart of the matter: The Jews were opposing him because of his belief in Christ. And indeed he himself had violently opposed Christ, persecuting the followers of The Way, until Christ appeared to him, calling him to faith and commissioning him to preach the gospel.

Paul then summarized his ministry among Jews and Gentiles, saying it was for this ministry, not for the many false charges, that he was on trial.

“ Rather they had certain points of dispute with him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive. 20 Being at a loss how to investigate these questions, I asked whether he wanted to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding them. 21 But when Paul had appealed to be kept in custody for the decision of the emperor, I ordered him to be held until I could send him to Caesar.” Acts 26:19–21 (ESV)

Again he proclaimed that Christ, in fulfillment of the OT, had brought hope of eternal life to both Jews and Gentiles.

“To this day I have had the help that comes from God, and so I stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass: 23 that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.” Acts 26:22–23 (ESV)

Paul knew that Agrippa was well versed in Jewish customs and Scriptures.

“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.” Acts 26:24–27 (ESV)

Today, are you willing to step outside of your comfort zone to share the good news with those whom others might avoid? Are you open to share hope only available through Jesus Christ alone?
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Today, stand firm on the foundation of your salvation and live with an open faith for all to see and prayerfully receive.

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