Paul's trial before Agrippa II, the aftermath (Pt. 2)

When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them; and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, "This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains." Then Agrippa said to Festus, "This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar." Acts 26:30-32

The second thing I notice about the aftermath of Paul’s trial before King Agrippa II is that Agrippa would have happily released Paul since the charges against him were bogus. Never mind that Paul had been under arrest for over two years!

When things like this happen, it is easy to kick ourselves saying, “If only I’da!” Paul may have thought, “If only I’da not appealed to Caesar, I would be free to go now!” I say Paul might have thought this, but we do not know. One thing we do know about Paul, he was a firm believer in the sovereignty of God over all things.

Knowing that about Paul, I rather think that he was not moaning “If only I’da!” Rather, I can more easily imagine Paul thinking, “Maybe I could have been released, but since I am not, I wonder what God has in store as I go to Rome.” And for those of us who are familiar with the rest of Acts, God had plenty in store for Paul as he went to Rome.

We cannot know the future. We can only make the wisest decisions we can, trusting God that if things change, He is still very much in control. Let us not out beat ourselves up when decisions we made earlier turn out differently from what we knew and imagined. Let us ask God for wisdom (James 1:5-6), make the wisest decisions we know to make, and then live with the future that unfolds, knowing that God is in control. Let us not waste time bemoaning over the “If only I’da’s!”

Paul's trial before Agrippa II, the aftermath (Pt. 1)

When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them; and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, "This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains." Then Agrippa said to Festus, "This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar." Acts 26:30-32

The first things I notice about the aftermath of Paul’s trial before King Agrippa II are disinterest and diversion. The king and his wife, Bernice, were spiritually unmoved by Paul’s defense of himself and declaration of the gospel. I say this because they inquired no further. History reveals that neither Agrippa nor Bernice died saved. They were disinterested.

Agrippa then employed the, “That’s great for you, but not for me,” diversion. He did not utter those exact words, but their words, "This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains,” were a diversion away from themselves. They defended Paul’s right to follow Jesus, and even to promote the religion of following Jesus. But they were not interested, so they diverted any conviction they may have felt, and further discussion of the matter by talking about Paul instead.

While we want to talk about Christ to people in hopes that they will believe, we know from scripture and experience that not all will respond to the gospel in faith. In fact, fewer generally do than don’t. Let this not discourage us. Our responsibility is to talk about Jesus and pray for people’s conversions, but their response is between them and the Lord—who alone can change their hearts.

When people employ the, “That’s good for you, but not for me” diversion, while we may be disappointed in their lack of faith, let us be encouraged that, “Yes!, Christ and the gospel are good for we who believe!” And let us thank the Lord that the Holy Spirit regenerated us, giving us new hearts and the gifts of faith and repentance!

Next time: What about Agrippa’s words to Festus in verse 32?

Urgency in talking about Christ

King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe." Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian." And Paul said, "I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains."
Acts 26:27-29

Paul testified before King Agrippa II, resulting in Agrippa admitting that Paul’s personal testimony and declaration of the gospel “almost persuaded” him to “become a Christian.” But not quite. Paul’s response reveals that Paul knew that only God could make Agrippa a Christian. That is why Paul prayed. The words, “I would to God,” mean that Paul prayed that God would change Agrippa’s heart.

When we have said what we can say (hopefully, prayerfully), let us pray that God will do the work of regeneration and conversion that only He can do. Our responsibility is to talk to people about Christ and the gospel—including our testimonies as is appropriate. It is the Holy Spirit’s work to save people. So let us pray, pray, pray!

I am convinced that one of the greatest motivations for evangelism is a sincere desire to see people saved—saved from sin and rescued from God’s wrath forever in Hell. Maybe the reason we are less than urgent about evangelism is that, though in our heads we believe people need to be saved, we are not gripped in our hearts that it matters that much. Let us be reminded and motivated by the fact that when people are saved, they are SAVED! And that, conversely, when they are not saved they are not only not saved, they are doomed to eternal destruction!

Because Paul was gripped by this reality, he spoke up and he prayed. And notice that he longed not only for Agrippa to be saved, but also for all who were present and heard the gospel as Paul spoke to Agrippa.

Lord, please save our loved ones. Use our pleas to them, and hear our prayers for them!

Goals when talking to people about the Lord (Pt. 4)

Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian."
Acts 26:28

Paul almost persuaded King Agrippa to become a Christian. We want our family and friends to become Christians too, don’t we? We began a few of posts ago considering some goals when talking about the Lord. The first goal was to be accurate with the gospel. The second was to be loving. Last time it was to be persuasive. If you have missed any of these blogs, may I suggest that you read the previous ones you may have missed? This time let’s think about the goal of being prayerful.

The first reason to be prayerful is to beseech the Lord to give us opportunities to speak to people about the Him—that we would not miss the opportunities He gives us, and that we would be obedient to seize them.

The second reason to be prayerful is to plead with God to open people’s ears, and give them hearts to hear and respond to the gospel message we share. Remember, no matter what we do, or how well or poorly we may do it, people only hear and receive Christ because of the work of the Holy Spirit. Only He can change their hearts.

The third reason to be prayerful is to ask God to give us sensitive ears and hearts to the people with whom we are speaking. Let us listen to them and speak to their hearts, rather than just reciting a script. Let us also be sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit so that we will share what He wants us to say and not get distracted into unimportant side issues.

The fourth reason to be prayerful is to ask the Lord to remind us to follow up with the person if possible, and to follow up with more prayer.

Lord may we be Your witnesses used by You to point people to Jesus, and may You be pleased to save the people with whom we speak!

Goals when talking to people about the Lord (Pt. 3)

Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian."
Acts 26:28

Paul almost persuaded King Agrippa to become a Christian. We want our family and friends to become Christians, do we not? We began a couple of posts ago, considering some goals when talking about the Lord. Yesterday the first goal was to be accurate with the gospel. The second was to be loving. If you did not read the previous two blogs, may I encourage you to do so now? This time let’s think about the goal of being persuasive.

By persuasive, I do not mean “pushy!” What I do mean is that we want those to whom we speak about the Lord to understand the importance of making a decision for or against Jesus. Again, this does not mean using any high pressure tactics. It can be as simple as asking the person, “Does what I am saying make sense?” Don’t ask, “Do you understand?” as that can put them on the defense, as though their cognitive abilities are suspect. By asking “Does what I am saying make sense?” you are asking them to rate your communication skills, not their intelligence.

Another question you can ask is, “What do you think about what I’m saying about Jesus?” This invites the person to say what they think—no pressure! And be sure to listen without being critical of what they might say. Remember, this may be new to the person. Depending on what they say, affirm them for sharing their thoughts. Kindly answer any questions they may ask.

If the person does not flat out reject what you’ve said about Jesus, ask, “Would you like to receive Christ?” This invites the person to give an “up or down vote” on Christ and the gospel. If the person says no, tell him or her that you understand. Invite the person to give it some thought and invite further conversation then, or at another time.

If the person says yes, simply invite him or her to pray a simple prayer in his or her own words, asking God for forgiveness of sin and for help getting started in a new life of following Jesus. Then offer to talk more, as well as inviting the person to join you at church the following Sunday.

One more goal next time: aim to be prayerful.

Goals when talking to people about the Lord (Pt. 2)

Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian."
Acts 26:28

Paul almost persuaded King Agrippa to become a Christian. We want our family and friends to become Christians, do we not? We began yesterday considering some goals when talking about the Lord. Yesterday the first goal was to be accurate with the gospel. If they “believe,” but in an incorrect gospel, it will not result in salvation. If you did not read yesterday’s blog, may I encourage you to do so now?

The second goal is to be loving. This should be obvious, but let’s be reminded of a few components of being loving when talking to people about the Lord.

Why do we need to be loving? Because as God’s motive in sending His only Begotten Son into the word to save us was love (John 3:16), we too must be motivated by love when telling others about Christ. What motives are not loving (and therefore incorrect)? The desire to simply win another soul to the Lord (as if we are keeping score). The desire to win an argument (sounds like pride to me). You maybe able to think of other incorrect motives, but I believe you get the point.

Just don’t miss that as God is loving, we are to be loving—especially when talking to people about the Lord.

Why do we need to be loving? Because people tend to be more open and to respond favorably when we are loving. It is important that folks know you are telling them about the Lord because you genuinely care about them. I have learned much about talking to people about the Lord from my friend, Dave. He is great at this. One thing I frequently hear Dave say to people is, “I’m telling you this because I care about you.” Saying this encourages folks to listen because you care. And it reminds us to be loving. (Thanks, Dave!)

I know it is a somewhat corny saying, but it is true: “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care!”

One last point about being loving: it is not loving to withhold the bad news of our sin when speaking to people about the Lord. A good doctor has to tell a patient the bad news of his or her malady before the doctor can tell the patient the good news of the cure. Likewise, we must not shy away from speaking about sin or else there is no point in speaking about the one and only cure for sinners, which is Christ and the gospel. We can be kind with our words while “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15).

So when we talk to people about the Lord, let us strive to be accurate and loving.
Next time: Striving to be persuasive.

Goals when talking to people about the Lord (Pt. 1)

Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian."
Acts 26:28

Upon hearing Paul’s testimony and proclamation of the gospel, King Agrippa was “almost persuaded to become a Christian.” But not quite! How should we understand this? When we share the gospel we need to have a few goals in mind.

First, we must strive to be accurate. This does not mean that we must know everything, or know even what we do know perfectly. It does mean we want to get the basics of the gospel right. And what are the essential basics of the gospel?

1. God is holy and demands that we be holy as He is holy. (1 Peter 1:15-16)

2. None of us are anywhere near as holy as God is holy (Romans 3:23), and that matters (Romans 3:26)!

3. But because God is loving, He provided one way to be forgiven and that way is Jesus. (John 3:16, John 14:6).

4. Jesus died to pay for our sins so we could be forgiven and reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:18).

5. To receive the benefit of what Jesus has done for our forgiveness, we each must “receive” Christ by faith, trusting in Him instead of in ourselves or in anything else (John 1:12, John 3:16).

We need to get this right, not that we must memorize a particular script, and/or include all the verses (non-believers do not know what the references mean anyway)—though it is good to say, “The Bible says…”

So first we must strive to be accurate. Next time we must strive to be loving.

"You know this is true!"

While Paul was saying this in his defense, Festus said in a loud voice, "Paul, you are out of your mind! Your great learning is driving you mad." But Paul *said, "I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. For the king knows about these matters, and I speak to him also with confidence, since I am persuaded that none of these things escape his notice; for this has not been done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the Prophets? I know that you do."
Acts 26:24-27

Paul was giving his testimony and proclaiming the gospel, including that the crucified Christ rose from the dead. He was addressing King Agrippa II. It was at this point (v.24) that Festus, who had called on Agrippa for help in sorting out Paul’s case, interrupted him, accusing the Apostle of being “out of his mind.”

Paul addressed Festus’s accusation, adding that Agrippa understood what Paul was saying. Paul then appealed to Agrippa saying, “Do you you believe?” And then added, “I know you do.”

First, understanding and not thinking that believers are crazy is not the same as being “a believer” in Christ. We can be grateful when non-believers are not antagonistic regarding the gospel. We can rejoice if they listen, and even have a cursory understanding of the gospel. But we must not think that means they are actually believing Christians. Remember this when thinking about and/or talking to non-believers whom you know and wish were saved, but are not. This is not a matter of judging or condemning. But remembering this will keep us praying for their salvation.

Second, Paul’s words to Agrippa encourage us to be confident that even non-believers know that there is a God to whom all will one day answer (Romans 1:18-32). How do they know this even if they do not believe in Christ for salvation? Romans 1 makes it clear that God has placed this most basic knowledge in the conscience of every person. Though many (most?) non-believers “suppress this truth in unrighteousness” (Romans 1:18), they know in their heart of hearts that it is true. When people reject the gospel, we can appeal to their consciences like Paul did with Agrippa, to wrestle with the truth they know, but insist on denying.

Reason and/or Revelation?

While Paul was saying this in his defense, Festus said in a loud voice, "Paul, you are out of your mind! Your great learning is driving you mad." But Paul said, "I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. For the king knows about these matters, and I speak to him also with confidence, since I am persuaded that none of these things escape his notice; for this has not been done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the Prophets? I know that you do."
Acts 26:24-27

By way of reminder, back in chapter 21, a little more than two years earlier, Paul was in Jerusalem. He was doing what he did everywhere he went: proclaiming Christ and the gospel. The religious Jews opposed him violently. The Roman authorities stepped in to preserve peace and in so doing, arrested Paul. His case was heard by the Roman governor, Felix, then two years later by Felix’s successor Festus. Festus was all too happy to have another Roman King, Agrippa II, listen to Paul.

Agrippa listened carefully to Paul’s testimony and his proclamation of the gospel. Then in Acts 26:24, Festus interrupted and accused Paul of being out of his mind. Why did Festus do this? Because he did not understand what Paul was talking about. Unlike Agrippa—who though a non-believer was at least familiar with the Jewish religion and also somewhat with Christianity—Festus thought Jesus rising from the dead, and subsequently speaking to Paul, was preposterous.

Note that Festus didn’t think Paul was ignorant, only crazy! He even cited Paul’s vast education as a contributing factor to Paul’s lack of sound judgment! Though it is true that in our day some of the people who are the most spiritually and morally unhinged are also the most educated, but this was not the case with Paul.

Paul answered, affirming that what he was saying to Festus was not only true but reasonable. The Christian faith is not understood and received by reason alone. It must be revealed by the Holy Spirit, but it is most reasonable. It only seems unreasonable to those who are bent on rejecting Christ because without the revelation that comes from the Holy Spirit, the unregenerate cannot understand what is most reasonable.

We must not look down on those who do not believe and therefore cannot understand. Apart from the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, we wouldn’t understand either. This is why we must not only reason with nonbelievers, but also pray that the Holy Spirit will change their hearts and open their eyes to the revelation of the reasonable truth of the gospel.

What did Paul do next? More on that next time.

Three suggestions for the New Year. OK, 4

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14 (emphasis added)

We began Tuesday considering how these verses provide a “nudge” regarding plans for a new year. I gave suggestions for planning for the New Year in three areas: spiritual, physical, and relational. I thought of a fourth—so here is a Bonus Suggestion. Ecclesiastical. That is a technical term for church related. I know that church is spiritual, but the first suggestion was spiritual on a personal level. This fourth suggestion is spiritual on a congregational level. More specifically, how you can get the most from your church?

1. Go to church every Sunday (unless you are sick or out of town). Simple, but some of us seem to have trouble doing this absolute, most basic church activity. And may I add these details: Come on time. Sit where you will be most engaged and least distracted. Participate by singing and praying (rather than just listening to others sing and pray).

2. Participate in prayer meetings. If you attend GBC, come to the monthly lunch prayer meeting (fourth Sunday right after church)—it is only once each month! Come to the preservice prayer meeting (9:45-10:15)—at least one Sunday per month.

3. If you are not a member, become a member. It is not enough to “date the church!” Make a commitment. What is required of GBC members in our church? Attend a minimum of 3/4 of the Sundays, serve in some way, and support the church by worshiping through giving (we never ask how much anyone gives!). To learn more about membership, ask me and let’s make this a reality in 2023.

4. Home Fellowships are a backbone of our church. Are you in one? Do you attend?—It is only one Sunday afternoon each month.

5. I believe Sunday mornings are basic—but not enough. Let me encourage you to attend Thursday evening worship service. No one is ever sorry they came.

6. And lastly, if you want to grow deeper, get into a Discipleship group. Not sure what that is? Ask. I’d love to answer your questions.

Maybe you can’t do everything, but you can do some things. Pray about it for your spiritual health and for the health of our church.

Three suggestions for the New Year, #3

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14 (emphasis added)

We began Tuesday considering how these verses provide a “nudge” regarding plans for a new year. Though there is nothing spiritual about New Year’s Day, each new year affords us an opportunity to do some things of spiritual value. We considered doing something of spiritual value, and something of physical value. Today let’s think of somethings of relational value.

God created us to be social creatures as evidenced by His words in Genesis 2:18: "It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him."

The first God-ordained relationship was between husband and wife. No matter how this sinful world insists on redefining this, God’s one and only design for this relationship is marriage between one man and one woman, who become one flesh, for life. I will not suggest specifics, but I would challenge you who are married to read Ephesians 5:21-33. You might even want to read it aloud together and ask the Lord how He might want you to renew your commitments to holy matrimony this year.

The second most important relationship springs from the first. I speak of the relationship between parents and children. Reread the following verses and ask the Lord how you are doing with your parents and with your children. Are there things the Lord would have you do to be faithful to His Word with regard to these relationships?

Exodus 20:12 "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.

Ephesians 6:1-4 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 "Honor your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3 "that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land." 4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Lastly, we read about the Lord’s plan for relationships beyond family.

Mark 12:31 The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."

Neighbors include both friends and enemies. Among other things the Lord might want you to do, begin by asking yourself if there is animosity, unforgiveness, or bitterness with anyone (whether you are to blame or not), and if you can do anything to make this verse a reality:

Romans 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.

There are some relational matters that we might all need to give prayerful thought to in the coming New Year.

Three suggestions for the New Year, #2

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14 (emphasis added)

We began yesterday considering how these verses provide a “nudge” regarding plans for a new year. Though there is nothing spiritual about New Year’s Day, but each new year affords us an opportunity to do some things of spiritual value. Here are three. Yesterday was about doing something of spiritual value. Today let’s think of something of physical value.

It is common for many of us to reassess the stewardship of our physical health. Let me share a punch list of physical/health matters to consider.

Have you needed to see a doctor about anything but have been putting it off? Why not commit to making appointments whether there is something wrong in particular, or even if it is a routine check up that you’ve been stalling. Prevention that catches small matters before they become big matters is wisdom.

Then of course, there’s diet and exercise, especially if the holidays and brought with them a relaxed attitude regarding these things. I am not advocating making crazy commitments that we are liable to break inside of two weeks. Just make some reasonable commitments to eat more wisely and to do at least some exercise for a reasonable amount of time at least three days each week. More might be better, but what can be sustained is way better than what will be quickly scuttled! And if you know anyone who might be an accountability partner in the diet and exercise department, enlist help.

Paul counseled his young protégé, Timothy, to eat and drink wisely for his health:

No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your frequent infirmities. 1 Timothy 5:23

and that there is value in bodily exercise:

For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 1 Timothy 4:8

Maybe the New Year is a good time to take Paul’s advice.

Next time: relational new beginnings.

Three suggestions for the New Year, #1

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14 (emphasis added)

These verses are a great “nudge” when as we conclude a year and enter another. There may not be anything spiritual about New Year’s Day, but the coming of a new year affords us a great opportunity to do somethings of spiritual value. Here are three—one spiritual, one physical, and one relational.

So, something spiritual in the coming new year. I can think of few things as spiritually impacting as following a Bible reading plan. Which of us would dare argue that reading the Bible is “unimportant”?!

That said, follow a plan because “if you aim at nothing you will hit it every time!” There are many plans. Let me suggest some options.

The “Four Year Plan.” This is a simple, not very demanding plan that will take you through the whole Bible in four years—at a less than strenuous pace. You’ll read some portions only once, while reading other portions numerous times. I love this plan! Read about it by Clicking Here.

Many other options. Ligonier Ministries has a page on their website with numerous suggestions. Unless one just doesn’t want to follow a reading plan, I’m confident that at least one of these plans will be doable for you. Click Here for more.

Devotional readings are never a replacement for reading the Bible itself. That said, devotional readings in addition to Bible reading can provide a great supplement. May I suggest reading this blog? It comes out nearly daily on the weekdays. These blog post are short enough that they take little time to read. With exceptions, the blog is almost always a verse by verse meditation through books of the Bible (currently in Acts). You can subscribe on the GBC Homepage.

One additional thought: If for any reason you get behind in whatever reading plan you choose to follow, do not quit! Either do what you can to catch up, or just skip ahead to where you would be had you not fallen behind! Do not allow reading God’s Word to become a guilt-inducing burden or a source of discouragement that causes you to give up!

Next time, a few thoughts on physical plans for the New Year.

Christmas Questions 2022, Pt. 3

One day last week Al Mohler answered some listeners’ questions about Christmas. That inspired me to do the same in these last three weekdays leading up to Christmas, this coming Sunday. I’ll include some of Dr. Mohler’s answers, as well as offer some of my own thoughts.

Question Number Four: Seeing that Christmas Day is on Sunday this year, should churches hold worship services on Christmas Day, or cancel them so people can celebrate Christmas with family?

The first place to begin to answer this question is to draw our attention to Jesus’ words in Matthew 15:6 & Mark 7:13:

Matthew 15:6 …Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition.

Mark 7:13 [You are] making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down. And many such things you do.

Celebrating Christmas is nowhere to be found in the Bible. I do not think it is wrong, but it is a tradition, though not biblical. In contrast, Christians gathering at least weekly, on the “Lord’s Day” (recognized by many believers as the Christian Sabbath) is biblical. I will not take the time here to argue that the Lord’s Day is a Christian Sabbath, except to say that I believe strongly that it is. As for believers gathering for corporate worship each Lord’s day, 1 Corinthians 16:1, refers to this practice as “a given” as well as a command.

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: On the first day of the week [the Lord’s Day] let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 (emphasis added)

So how on earth can we justify not gathering for corporate worship on the Lord’s Day (which is biblical) so that we can remain faithful to Christmas (which is only traditional)? My answer is obvious: We cannot.

We do not want to be self-righteous and “judgy” about Christians and churches who make this error. But let us humbly gather for corporate worship whenever Christmas falls on a Sunday—not because it is Christmas, but because it is the Lord’s Day.

Christmas Questions 2022, Pt. 2

One day last week Al Mohler answered some listeners’ questions about Christmas. That inspired me to do the same in these last three weekdays leading up to Christmas, this coming Sunday. I’ll include some of Dr. Mohler’s answers, as well as offer some of my own thoughts.

Question Number Three: How was Jesus conceived?

The first and easiest answer is we do not know, nor do we need to know the details. What the scripture says is all God intends for us to know, or else He would have said more. So what is said in Scripture? Two things.

Mary was told by the angel Gabriel in Luke 1:35 "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.” Note the phrases, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you,” and “the power of the Highest will overshadow you.” These tell us that Jesus was conceived by a miraculous work of the Holy Spirit of God. Yet they do not tell us how the Holy Spirit did this supernatural work. That is all the Lord revealed to Mary and it is enough for us to know as well.

Joseph was told in a dream by the angel in Matthew 1:20, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.” Again note the phrase, “that which is conceived in her [Mary] is of the Holy Spirit.” And again, if this was all Joseph needed to know, we need not know more.

That said, we know that contrary to the false teachings of some, there was no physical union between the Holy Spirit and Mary. Not only is the Holy Spirit a spirit, having no physical body, the very notion of such a physical union between God and Mary is nothing short of perverse.

I prefer to think that in a similar way, in which God created the universe by saying it was to be so (Genesis 1:3-ff), God said the Son was to be conceived in Mary and it was so. And note also in Genesis 1:2 that the initial chaos of creation was ordered as the Holy Spirit “hovered over the waters,” giving order. Similarly, the Holy Spirit “came upon” or “hovered over” Mary, and the eternal Son of God was conceived as a real human being inside the young virgin’s womb.

How God did this remains a mystery. And that is by God’s design. Had He wanted us to know how He created the universe or how Jesus was conceived, He could have told us. Since He did not tell us, we walk by faith in God based on what He has told us. We must not fret over what He has not told us.

Christmas Questions 2022, Pt. 1

One day last week Al Mohler answered some listeners’ questions about Christmas. That inspired me to do the same in these last three weekdays leading up to Christmas, this coming Sunday. I’ll include some of Dr. Mohler’s answers, as well as offer some of my own thoughts.

Question Number One: Where was Jesus before He became a human?

There are a few answers I’d like to give for this questions:

First, Jesus is God which means He is eternal. There was never a time when He did not exist. He has always been the eternally begotten Son of the Father. When Jesus became a human, He laid aside some of His glory, but He did not cease being God even for an instant. He took on humanity in addition to His eternal deity. He is the only Person ever to be both God and man.

So where was Jesus before He took on humanity? In John 17:5 Jesus prayed to His Father “glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.” This informs us that Jesus was with the Father (and with the Holy Spirit) in Heaven, in glory, before creation from eternity past.

As a wonderful footnote: Jesus is still, and ever will be, the one and only God-man who is now in Heaven where He ever lives to intercede for His people. And Jesus will continue to be the one and only God-man in Heaven for ever and ever.

Question Number Two: Did (and does) Jesus have Mary’s DNA?

While the Bible does not speak about the scientific details of Jesus’s DNA, It is safe to say that Jesus does have Mary’s DNA since she is His human mother. Remember, Jesus is not only truly God, He is also truly man. Therefore, He therefore has human DNA, and having only one human parent, His DNA must be like Mary’s DNA.

As a footnote to this answer, let us be reminded that having God as His Father, Jesus had no biologically human father. (Joseph was Jesus’ father by adoption.) This is an important detail of the doctrine of the virgin birth. Why? Because the sin nature is passed through fathers to their children (Romans 5:12-21), Jesus couldn’t have a human father. Why? Because if Jesus had a human father, He would be a sinner. Jesus not only was not and is not a sinner, He could not have been a sinner, or else He could not be our sinless Savior. Had Jesus been a sinner, His sinful blood could not atone for His people’s sins.

May we not proclaim an incomplete gospel!

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: 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

Note the following about Paul’s closing words:

Paul claimed no power or authority in and of himself, but gave all glory to God for having done what he had done.

That Paul claimed to have spoken of nothing but Christ and the gospel means that even in giving his testimony in court, Christ and the gospel were the main point.

Paul was careful to include not only Jesus’ death, but also His resurrection from the dead. This is essential, and sadly, often neglected. Giving our testimonies and even inviting people to church is not evangelism without Christ and the gospel. And Christ and the gospel must include the death and resurrection to be complete.

Lord, please fill our hearts and loosen our tongues to tell others about Christ and the gospel. And help us, Lord, not to leave out the most important aspects of the gospel: Jesus’ death and resurrection. Please save Your people as we proclaim Christ.

Religious zealots are often the most hostile to Christ and the gospel

"Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. For these reasons the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me. Acts 26:19-21

Why would the Jewish religious leaders want to kill Paul for preaching the gospel? Here are two reasons:

The first is political. They had a power base they did not want to lose. As long as they were the ones everyone looked up to, respected, and even feared, they were happy. Christ and the gospel threatened that power base because it would mean that people had direct access to God through Christ, rendering those in power, powerless.

The second is spiritual/religious. If access to God is by faith in Christ and not by keeping the law and religious rituals, the guardians of the law and the administers of the rituals would not only be irrelevant, but wrong! This is why I believe the self-righteously religions will hate God on judgement day. They will be infuriated when they learn that their religion not only failed to help them, it actually hurt them. Why did it hurt them? Because they were trusting their works instead of in Christ!

This is why the religious zealots are often the most hostile to Christ and the gospel—and to Christ’s people who proclaim Him and His gospel.

Saving faith, repentance, and subsequent good works are a package deal

"Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. For these reasons the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me. Acts 26:19-21

Another point of interest from these three verses is the fact that the call to believe is also a call to repentance and good works. This is not: faith + (repentance + good works) = salvation. Rather, from this we learn that saving faith includes and is validated by repentance and good works. The reason is that just as faith is a gift of God (Ephesians 2:8-9), repentance and the heart to do good works are also God’s gifts (Acts 5:31, 11:18, 2 Timothy 2:25). God’s gift of saving faith, repentance, and subsequent good works are a package deal, given by God to all who are born again.

This is what James argued for in James 2:14-26. He was not saying that salvation is the result of faith + repentance and good works, but that true saving faith will always be demonstrated and validated by repentance and good works, not for salvation but because of salvation. Or as James puts it, saving “faith without [accompanying] good works is dead [useless and not saving faith at all]” (James 2:20 & 26).

Though Jesus said we would know who is saved “by their fruits” Matthew 7:15-20), we should not busy ourselves looking for good works in other people’s lives. Instead, let us be ever mindful about the presence of fruit (good works) in our own lives.

Responding when God speaks

"Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. For these reasons the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me. Acts 26:19-21

As Paul continued to give his testimony to King Agrippa II while explaining the charges against him, he relayed his response to meeting Christ on the road to Damascus. Note two things:

He was not disobedient to this encounter with Jesus. We do well to listen to how God is calling us to respond to what He communicates to us. He speaks through His Word, whether we are reading it or hearing it preached. And every time God speaks, a response is required. In some cases there are direct commands to be obeyed. At other times, even if His communication is encouragement and comfort, either way a response should follow. If a command has been issued, obedience is the only right response. When what His says to us is encouragement and comfort, let us respond by refusing to worry—and with thanksgiving and praise for His lovingkindness. When God speaks to us about our sin, let us respond quickly with confession and repentance—as God is eager to forgive!

He told others what God told him. While we are not commissioned to be Apostles as Paul was, a basic response to whatever God speaks to us is to share God’s Word with others. With those who have not trusted Christ, we need to declare the gospel, inviting people to trust in the Lord. With those who do trust in Christ, let us encourage fellow believers with the encouragement we have received from Christ.

Hearing from the Lord is good and comforting for us, but let us also encourage others as we have been encouraged.