Slices
Prepare
Finally, today, a sense of progress is made. Give thanks to God for instances where you have seen him overcome obstacles in your own life.
Bible passage
19 ‘So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven. 20 First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and then to the Gentiles, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and demonstrate their repentance by their deeds. 21 That is why some Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me. 22 But God has helped me to this very day; so I stand here and testify to small and great alike. I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen – 23 that the Messiah would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would bring the message of light to his own people and to the Gentiles.’
24 At this point Festus interrupted Paul’s defence. ‘You are out of your mind, Paul!’ he shouted. ‘Your great learning is driving you insane.’
25 ‘I am not insane, most excellent Festus,’ Paul replied. ‘What I am saying is true and reasonable. 26 The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.’
28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?’
29 Paul replied, ‘Short time or long – I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.’
30 The king rose, and with him the governor and Bernice and those sitting with them. 31 After they left the room, they began saying to one another, ‘This man is not doing anything that deserves death or imprisonment.’
32 Agrippa said to Festus, ‘This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.’
Explore
Paul wraps up his speech – more gospel presentation than legal defence, leaning heavily on the prophets and Jewish forefathers (vs 19–23). It’s not long before Festus implodes, alleging Paul is mad (v 24).
Paul capitalises even on this, responding with grace that we may consider goes beyond what the governor deserves in light of the ongoing farce. It’s a high‑risk strategy, drawing the king himself right into the fray – challenging Agrippa bluntly: ‘do you believe the prophets?’ (v 27). There comes a point in our conversations when it’s not about us. It’s time for a personal response from the person we are talking to.
The king, possibly feeling as though he’d received a whole Alpha Course of teaching, evades answering and denies being sufficiently moved to become a Christian (tantalisingly hinting that God may have been nudging). Despite Agrippa potentially being just a gesture away from issuing a death warrant, Paul audaciously prays for him and ‘all who are listening’ (v 29). Again, Paul has done all he can. Likewise, we’re not responsible for the actions and (in) decisions of others. Conversion is a work of the Holy Spirit.
Luke notes the agreement of those present that Paul has committed no offence (v 31). While not yet free, Rome now beckons, God’s revelation (23:11) affirmed.
Respond
God’s promise to Paul is finally being realised, no ‘ye of little faith’ rebuke here. Pray that God will unlock his promises made to, or prophesied over, you. Have courage!
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: 2 Chronicles 31,32; Luke 1:1–38
Pray for Scripture Union
Pray for Lead Researcher Sarah Holmes heading up the Taking the Pulse research project, aiming to hear from as many voices as possible about their experiences of ministry among children and young people. Ask God to show us how to use these insights to shape mission to younger generations who do not yet know Jesus.
Because a strong start begins with smart preparation
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