Living Room Study

ACTS 26

“King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets?  I know that you believe.”  And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?”  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 as I am – except for these chains.”   Acts 26: 27-29

Paul had guts.  I love the way he just lays out the gospel, like he’s their rabbi!  Then there is the abrupt, albeit somewhat humorous reminder that Paul is in shackles.

Remember the game show, Truth Or Consequences?  Maybe you’re too young.  Contestants answered questions to win prizes.  If they got the answer wrong, they were subjected to some demeaning stunt.  It seems just when Paul was convincing Agrippa of the truth, the king was reminded of the possible consequences.  Given his pomp and political power, the consequence of dishonor & imprisonment was too much for Agrippa.

I was like Agrippa.  When confronted with the truth, for many years I chose to focus on worldly consequences, and to ignore the eternal one…the certainty of Hell.  I was more concerned with temporary earthly glory, than the promise of the permanent glory of Heaven.

The Lord persistently pursued me.  He watched as time-after-time I made poor choices.  Ultimately, I was convinced the glory of this world is nothing worth having.  Even when you get earthly glory, it quickly fades.  I was empty and tired, and finally the gospel ceased to be annoying.  It became my shelter.

It was because of a person like Paul that I came to believe in Jesus.  I was like one of the onlookers in the Roman Governor’s palace.  I overheard a guy boldly proclaiming Jesus to another guy.  The guy he was sharing with just laughed at him.  I believed.

Why do we hold our bible studies in public coffee houses?  Because they promise the highest probability for people to stumble onto the gospel.

Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become as I am – except for these chains.”

Whatever “chains” we may bear will be only temporary.  The hope we receive from Messiah Jesus, lasts forever.

Blessings.

Steve Wiggins