This past Sunday we continued our series in Acts on the Multiplying Church. Pastor Andy did an amazing job working through the text and challenging us about our words and how we use them for the gospel.
As we went through Acts 26, two verses stood out.
Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead? Acts 26:8
Paul was on trial for proclaiming that Jesus rose from the dead and is alive! As he faced his accusers, he asked them why any of them thought it was incredible that God raises the dead. He is the Creator of the universe; why would it be hard for Him to raise the dead? This verse stood out because it reinforces how easily we doubt God. How often do we shy away from boldly proclaiming the simple truth of the gospel? Jesus is the Son of God; He died for our sins and rose again so that we may have eternal life with God. Our God accomplishes what is seemingly impossible.
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 26:29
We have seen the power and danger of words in our culture this past week. As political rhetoric has ramped up, we have seen desperate and hateful acts. This was highlighted by the attempt on the life of former President Trump. Everywhere we turn we seem to be inundated with reasons to dislike and be at odds with the people we disagree with.
It is good and right to stand for truth; however, standing for truth should not result in us acting in hateful ways. I was reminded of this as we looked at Paul’s interactions with Festus and Agrippa. Paul boldly proclaimed the gospel to these sinful men. Both Festus and Agrippa were corrupt leaders. While Paul proclaimed the truth and called on them to repent, he did not focus only on sin, he also shared the hope of the gospel. He was not hateful towards them. Paul’s desire was for them to be saved. He had a soft heart towards his ungodly leaders.
As believers, we need to keep proper perspective. Those who are around us are eternal souls. When we come face to face with those with whom we disagree, how do we react? Do we share the truth with a heart to see them repent and come to salvation? Or do we shout truth in anger with no compassion for their souls? It can be difficult to have the proper balance, but Paul is a great example. He suffered greatly at the hands of ungodly rulers; however, this did not stop him from compassionately sharing the gospel. He did not berate Festus or Agrippa. He called for them to come to Christ.
As we move forward and we are tempted to give in to anger, frustration, or retaliation, we need to remember the love of Christ. We need to remember that He died for us while we were His enemies. Therefore, we need to share the love of Christ with people who are still His enemies, and our desire should be for their salvation and their good.
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