Loving those who do not love Christ

And it came to pass after three days that Paul called the leaders of the Jews together. So when they had come together, he said to them: "Men and brethren, though I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans, who, when they had examined me, wanted to let me go, because there was no cause for putting me to death. But when the Jews spoke against it, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything of which to accuse my nation. For this reason therefore I have called for you, to see you and speak with you, because for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain." Acts 28:17-20

Shortly after arriving in Rome (three days) Paul contacted the Jewish leaders in there. Paul was likely well known to Jewish leaders in the capital city—if not as a prestigious Pharisee, then as a defector to Christianity. He couldn’t go to them, so apparently they came to him. Paul addressed these men as “Men and brethren.”

Interestingly and graciously, Paul did not mention the names of any of the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem of Caesarea who mistreated him rashly. Though it might have felt good to blast those men, it was unnecessary, so Paul refrained. He simply stated that he was innocent of the crimes of which he was accused and that he appealed his case to Caesar. He didn’t even mention his prized Roman citizenship!

He appealed to the Jewish leaders in Rome to be his allies in the matter—though they were not allies in the Gospel. Paul loved the Jewish people. He did not want them to be placed in a bad light with the Roman authorities because of these legal matters.

May we too, love the non-believing people all around us, not wanting them to expericnce harm, while wanting them to know Christ.

From Malta to Rome

After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island. And landing at Syracuse, we stayed three days. From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew; and the next day we came to Puteoli, where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome. And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage. Now when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard; but Paul was permitted to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him. Acts 28:11-16

Paul and the others were on the island of Malta for three months (probably November through January). It was about sixty-miles from Malta to Syracuse in Sicily, which could be traversed in a day. They boarded an Alexandrian ship and were off to Syracuse where they stayed three days; probably delayed due to adverse weather conditions once again. When they were able, they made the next short voyage to Puteoli. There were Christians in Puteoli who somehow heard that Paul was there, so they went to greet and receive Paul and his traveling companions for seven days.

A passing reminder that Christians are called to hospitality—even to the extent of housing those in need of a place to stay—even with little or no notice. It is rather sad that in our day, when our houses are nearly all larger than the common family dwelling in that day, we may be so private (stingy?) with our homes that this kind of hospitality is rare. Granted, we live in a different culture and in a different time, but let us be encouraged to give this matter of hospitality a little prayerful consideration. (Am I the only one who needs this reminder?)

Paul then departed toward to Rome, enjoying Christian fellowship and hospitality along the way—for which he gave thanks.

Once in Rome, Paul was handed over to other guards, reminding us that he was still imprisoned!

The good news is that Paul was allowed to be under house arrest, rather than in a dungeon! Why this special privilege? Though we cannot say for sure, some speculate that the charges against Paul, written by Festus and handed over by Julius, included the following facts: (1) Paul was innocent of any wrong-doing, (2) as a Roman citizen he had appealed to Caesar, (3) the reason for his imprisonment was not for breaking any Roman laws (it was a religious dispute with the Jews), and (4) Paul was exemplary during the voyage from Caesarea to Rome, to the extent that he helped save the people on board.

When the Lord opens doors

In that region there was an estate of the leading citizen of the island, whose name was Publius, who received us and entertained us courteously for three days. And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed. They also honored us in many ways; and when we departed, they provided such things as were necessary.
Acts 28:7-10

We are not told why the leading person of Malta extended hospitality to these visitors to his island. I won’t speculate regarding that. Neither are we told precisely who Luke was referring to with the word “us” (v.7). It is highly unlikely that the Publius opened his doors to the entire 276 people who were aboard the wrecked sailing vessel. Had that been the case, how large was Publius’ house?! Therefore I can only assume the word “us” refers to Paul and Luke and any others in their immediate circle, though the text does not say. What is important, however, is that the Lord providentially saw that at least Paul and his companions were cared for quite nicely.

The more important point is that the Lord placed Paul in a situation in which the Lord could use Paul to heal Publius’ father from a serious (and likely lethal) bout with illness (v.8). Let us remember that in addition to healings revealing God’s kindness, more importantly, miracles were a means of validating the gospel message that the Apostle was most certainly preaching.

The Lord also used this single healing to bring others needing healing (v.9)—resulting not only in more healings but in more hearings of the gospel message. How many times has God providentially dropped us in situations in which we could share the gospel? How many times are we mindful to seize those opportunities? Conversely, how many times have we remained oblivious to open doors? Granted, we may never find ourselves in situations as dramatic as Paul’s shipwreck, but may we pray to be aware of open doors.

On a practical note, as a result of all of this, the people of Malta were all the more hospitable in caring for their unplanned visitors (v.10).

Hospitality and a snake bite...

Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta. And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold. But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand. So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, "No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live." But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god. Acts 28:1-6

The human cargo aboard the doomed ship made it safely to shore on the island of Malta. Yes, it was the same island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea to this day. The inhabitants were most hospitable. Some historians say that Malta was not on the regular trade routes of that day, so it wasn’t a frequent stop for ships. One had to he headed there to end up there. Maybe having visitors, even from a shipwreck, was exciting for the locals.

The anecdote about the snake bite is interesting. Note first that Luke included it, so it must have spiritual significance.

Second, it reveal that “bad things” can happen to those who are about the Lord’s business. Who even knows how many Christian missionaries have died on the field as a result of accidents and health issues?

Third, It reminds us of how superstitious people can be. Because of a snake bite the people assumed Paul was a murderer! Then when Paul did not die, they assumed he was a god. How pathetic the superstitions and insanity people can believe when they do not know the Lord! This may have been true even for some of us. If the Lord has delivered you from such silliness, be grateful. If any of us still hold on to superstitious beliefs and/or practices, may the Lord set us free!

Whatever threatens, God's ultimate will prevails

So when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship and threw out the wheat into the sea. When it was day, they did not recognize the land; but they observed a bay with a beach, onto which they planned to run the ship if possible. And they let go the anchors and left them in the sea, meanwhile loosing the rudder ropes; and they hoisted the mainsail to the wind and made for shore. But striking a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the prow stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the violence of the waves. And the soldiers' plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away and escape. Acts 27:38-42

The light of day revealed a sandy beach which was much to be preferred over the otherwise rocky shoreline. The plan was to beach the ship on the sand. Though it was a great plan, the waves dictated another outcome. The ship hit and stuck fast on a reef. Now nearer the shore, though the storm seemed to have subsided, the crashing of the surf was breaking the ship to pieces.

The soldiers were afraid that the prisoners would escape. If that happened, the soldiers would be held liable, so they planned to execute the prisoners. What a revelation of how ‘valuable’ human life was in that day and culture!

But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land. Acts 27:43-44

The plan to execute the prisoners was countermanded by the centurion (the officer in charge). This man seems to have taken a liking to Paul, so for Paul’s sake the lives of the prisoners were spared. The secondary cause of this action was the centurion, but the primary cause was God, who providentially intended to get Paul to Rome. Once again we see events being directed by God for the sake of His man, Paul. Whether we are threatened by weather or people or anything else, God will see that His plans come to pass.

There are many plans in a man's heart, Nevertheless the LORD's counsel--that will stand.
Proverbs 19:21

Giving thanks

So they took a sounding and found twenty fathoms. A little farther on they took a sounding again and found fifteen fathoms. And fearing that we might run on the rocks, they let down four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come. And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, and had lowered the ship's boat into the sea under pretense of laying out anchors from the bow, Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved." Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the ship's boat and let it go. Acts 27:28-32

Having been at sea for two weeks (v.27), the ship was nearing land (v.28). The first depth measurement was 120 feet. The second was 90 feet. Fearing they might run the ship aground, the sailors let down four anchors (probably all there were)to avoid crashing into the rocks (v.29). All aboard prayed for day to come!

Since the weather and high seas were not letting up, and since they were likely within a quarter mile from the shore, some, most, or all the sailors, were planning to jump overboard and swim for it. But Paul spoke up again, this time assuring those wanting to flee that their only hope of survival was to remain on board the ship (v.31). Likely because Paul’s counsel had proven to be correct twice before, those in charge opted to heed Paul’s words.

As day was about to dawn, Paul urged them all to take some food, saying, "Today is the fourteenth day that you have continued in suspense and without food, having taken nothing. Therefore I urge you to take some food. For it will give you strength, for not a hair is to perish from the head of any of you." And when he had said these things, he took bread, and giving thanks to God in the presence of all he broke it and began to eat. Then they all were encouraged and ate some food themselves. (We were in all 276 persons in the ship.) Acts 27:33-37

In case you hadn’t wondered about the size of this ship, it was big enough for 276 people, plus cargo. In the morning, when apparently the weather has calmed a bit, Paul presided over a meal—that began with prayer and thanksgiving. Though the message of the gospel begins with doom, it ends with the declaration that survival is only in faith in Christ alone. And though we must declare the “bad news,” the “good news” is so sweet. May we be gracious in declaring it!

Collateral blessings, and trials

…and he said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you.' So take heart, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told. But we must run aground on some island." When the fourteenth night had come, as we were being driven across the Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors suspected that they were nearing land. Acts 27:24-27

Paul’s confidence that God would get the ship and its passengers to Rome was grounded in the fact that God had told Paul that he would testify in Rome. Two observations:

First, God frequently blesses people (including those who are not His people), as a collateral blessing, because His people are present. God told Paul he would testify in Rome, so Paul knew that He would eventually arrive in Rome—and those who were headed to Rome with him would likewise arrive there. As God blessed Potipher’s house and the prison warden in Egypt because of Joseph, Paul was sure that those who were traveling with him would receive God’s blessing with him. This causes me to consider my life. Am I living a manner to enjoy God’s blessings? If so, others around me will likely benefit. If not—maybe I need to consider how I am living.

Second, even though God was going to get Paul to Rome, there was no promise that it would all be smooth sailing to get there. Sometimes God’s promises are easily received. Sometimes not so much. Consider Joseph again. God sent him to Egypt so that he would be in a position to save his family from dying in a famine (Genesis 50:20). The route to that position included being sold as a slave, being falsely accused of committing a rape, and languishing for some years in an Egyptian dungeon. We can be assured that God will keep His promises, but us not forget Paul’s words in Acts 14:22, “…through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” Therefore when trusting God, we cannot assume life will be easy, nor ought we to be surprised and lose heart when life is difficult.

"I told you so!"

Acts 27:20 Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up.

Paul’s journey to Rome aboard a freight and prison transport ship was getting hairy! God had revealed to Paul what was ahead. Paul warned those in charge, but they did not heed the warning. But as previously mentioned, that was no big surprise. After all, who was Paul to be giving sailing instructions?

(v.21) But after long abstinence from food, then Paul stood in the midst of them and said, "Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss.

Though Paul’s words were certainly true, saying, “I told you so!” is seldom the best approach. Usually when we have warned people who have not heeded our advice—especially if things went badly—we don’t need to remind them. They know. What is a more diplomatic and fruitful approach?

(v.22- 25) And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.' 25 Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me.

Encouraging words about what to do next graciously communicates true caring—which is what Paul did. This is still no guarantee that people will follow our counsel, but it may be more likely once they realize that they didn't follow wise counsel, kind words will show them that we still care.

A footnote: Am I contradicting scripture by what I have written about Paul’s “I told you so!” (v.21)? Certainly not. Remember that the Bible accurately records what was said and done, but that does not mean that everything that was said and done was done well or even correctly. When speaking about doctrine, the Apostle was always right. But that doesn’t mean everything he said or did was always best. The characters in the Bible (including Paul) were fallible people. The Bible does not shrink away from or try to whitewash that fact. We can learn from their mistakes. And this is why we do not base doctrine solely on narratives.

Listening to the experts can be risky!

Paul was headed to Rome to make his appeal to Caesar. The Lord revealed to Paul that the ship on which he was sailing was headed into bad weather. Paul in turn warned the centurion in charge of the prisoners on board.

"Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives." Acts 27:10

Understandably, the centurion listened to the expert sailors instead of Paul.

Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul. Acts 27:11

They made their way, hoping to stay in a safe harbor to avoid the rough seas of winter.

And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there. Acts 27:12

They ran into rough weather anyway.

When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their desire, putting out to sea, they sailed close by Crete. But not long after, a tempestuous head wind arose, called Euroclydon. So when the ship was caught, and could not head into the wind, we let her drive. And running under the shelter of an island called Clauda, we secured the skiff with difficulty. When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis Sands, they struck sail and so were driven. And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship. On the third day we threw the ship's tackle overboard with our own hands. Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up. Acts 27:13-20

The experts may know more than the uninformed, but God knows better than all.

Sailing toward danger

And when we had sailed over the sea which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. There the centurion found an Alexandrian ship sailing to Italy, and he put us on board. When we had sailed slowly many days, and arrived with difficulty off Cnidus, the wind not permitting us to proceed, we sailed under the shelter of Crete off Salmone. Passing it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea. Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, saying, "Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives."
Acts 27:5-10

Paul’s journey to Rome for his legal appeal to Caesar continued. The journey included changing ships, since there were no “non-stop” sailings to Rome. Because of weather challenges, the sailing continued close to the shore—just in case!

One of the stops was in a place called Fair Havens, which may have been so-named because it offered shelter from the open waters. We do not know how long they were there, but Luke calls it “much time.” The ship and passengers remained there a long time. (Think of it as an extended lay-over, is an airport.)

They were there long enough—probably waiting for better weather—that the weather got worse. Somehow the Lord informed Paul (a lawyer and a tent-maker, but not a sailor) that proceeding would be dangerous not only for the ship and it’s cargo, but for the persons on board. Paul advised those in charge.

But as the following verses reveal, the sailors naturally discounted this counsel regarding sailing from a non-sailor as “dismissible.” So they proceeded.

Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul. And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there.
Acts 27:11-12

Rather than fault these professional seamen for not listening to Paul, which was quite to be expected, let us nevertheless take note of the fact that the Lord gave warning.

Next time: A storm at sea…

Praise God for both the bitter and the sweet!

And when it was decided that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to one named Julius, a centurion of the Augustan Regiment. So, entering a ship of Adramyttium, we put to sea, meaning to sail along the coasts of Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, was with us. And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him liberty to go to his friends and receive care. When we had put to sea from there, we sailed under the shelter of Cyprus, because the winds were contrary. And when we had sailed over the sea which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. Acts 27:1-5

Paul’s trial before Agrippa, being concluded, Paul was sent to Rome for his appeal before Caesar. He was being transported to Rome along with other prisoners, under the supervision of a Roman Centurion named Julius. The plan was to sail along the coast rather than across the Mediterranean Sea, probably because of weather.

Luke noted that Julius treated Paul kindly, granting him the freedom to visit with people he knew in that port city. We are not told why Julius treated Paul so favorably, so I will not speculate. Instead, I will say what is always true even when unstated: it was according to the providence of God.

When treated kindly, especially by people who might normally not treat us so kindly, let us thank the Lord for His kind mercies. I am convicted to say that I am quick to recognize, and often complain, when mistreated, but forgetful to thank the Lord for His providence when I am treated kindly. Anybody else? And as a footnote, when served well (by cashiers or waiters, etc.), may we be intentional to thank those who serve us for their kindness! Who knows that if more servers were recognized for their kindness, they might be kind more often?

In contrast to that kind providence, Luke also noted that the weather was “contrary.” This reminds me that we cannot expect easy going in this life. Sometimes people are kind. Praise the Lord. But sometimes the weather is contrary. Praise the Lord anyway! If God is sovereign over all, He is sovereign over the bitter as well as the sweet!

Next time: The journey continues…

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.