When COVID first came on the scene, there were a lot of unknowns. As time progressed, the societal debates gained momentum. Should you have to wear a mask? Should you get the vaccine? There were debates within your own ranks. Families, political parties, and even the medical community disagreed on the answers. The church was no exception! Both sides of these issues stood their ground and would not budge and many left churches.
The Jewish leaders and Paul are standing their ground in Acts 25. Festus isn’t sure what to do. The difference between the debate of the Jewish leaders and Paul really boiled down to TRUTH. It is so important to be convinced of the truth even when so many strongly disagree.
Seeking Counsel
25:13-21 – Festus tells King Agrippa Paul’s story
Jewish leaders came to Festus wanting judgment.
Festus was surprised to hear the lack of judgable accusations.
Paul appealed to Caesar.
25:22-27 – Festus Seeks Agrippa’s Help
Festus acknowledges many Jews have wanted Paul dead.
Festus acknowledges he heard no accusation worthy of death.
Festus acknowledges he has no charges to write to Caesar…and asks for Agrippa’s help.
Speaking Truth
26:1-3 – Paul Testifies to Agrippa
Paul points out Agrippa’s expertise regarding the Jewish ways (26:3).
Paul asks for patience, signifying his testimony will be longer (26:3).
Paul states his background (a Pharisees) (26:4-5)
This reminds the court of his vast knowledge…he doesn’t speak ignorantly.
This shows the court his deep connection to those who accuse him; in fact, he was one of them!
26:6-20 – Paul preaches
His accusation – the resurrection of Jesus (v. 6-8)
His past (v. 9-11)
His conversion (v. 12-15)
His calling (v. 16-18)
His response to God (v. 19-20)
His response to the Jews accusation (v. 21-23)
Solving Conflict
26:24-28 – Romans Leaders Respond
Festus calls Paul insane.
Paul insists he tells the truth…and that the King knows it is truth.
King Agrippa confesses to almost be persuaded.
Whether it was Joseph in prison for something he didn’t do, or it was Ruth’s husband dying, or it was Job losing his whole family…we often struggle with understanding what good will come of such things. What good can come from this trial in my life?
This passage reveals 4 encouraging outcomes of Paul’s trials.
1. WITNESSING. Paul has multiple gospel opportunities. The gospel is preached to Felix, Festus, and Agrippa – not to mention others who were in the court at the time. (Matt. 28:19-20)
2. IMPACT. The gospel makes an impact and God is glorified. Agrippa almost gets saved. (Matt. 5:16)
3. REALITY. The Jewish leaders are exposed. The Roman leaders could not find judgable accusations (Prov. 6:16-19; 12:19, 22).
4. DEEPER & HIGHER. Paul will get to witness to more Roman leadership, including Ceasar himself!
While there are more encouraging outcomes to our trials to be seen throughout the Bible, the end of it all is to stand with truth no matter the circumstances and trust God. Paul sticks with the truth amid opposition even though the hole in which he is standing seems to be getting deeper. We know the end of the story of Paul…and we know the end of God’s story of creation as well – we win! May we trust God and stand with truth.