SCRIPTURE: Acts 24:22-27
“As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid…” (Acts 24:25)
Witnessing to others may not lead to conversions, but it will have an impact.
One reason some people react strongly is because the message hits home.
They sense something deep within that is unsettling.
Paul’s message provoked fear in Felix.
“The Spirit will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment.” (John 16:8)
God’s Spirit works through our life testimony; some believe but others are troubled.
Think of how Jesus’ life provoked extreme reactions on both ends.
We shouldn’t be rude or arrogant, giving others a reason to reject our message.
But as we humbly speak of “righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come”, they will feel convicted.
As we demonstrate the grace and integrity of Jesus, others will feel something – fear, self-doubt, unsettled.
And maybe as time passes, God will use that feeling to draw them closer, and one day open their heart.
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” (1 Peter 2:12)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I wish everyone would feel the blessing of grace, and not the burden of fear or guilt. Help me to trust that when someone is closed to Your message, or even reacts strongly, that You’re not done with them yet.
Observations/Application
Being hearers. Hear the Word of the Lord is a phrase repeated often in the Word. So too are the words ears they have but do not hear. All in due time I will hear? Interesting conversations between Paul and Felix but Felix wanted not eternal gain but physical present gain. When one hears the Word, choices must be made at that time for one does not know the hour or the day the Lord will call you/me. Whenever one hears the Word fall upon the heart the time is now to not only hear but also do. The time is now as many preachers call the people to serve the Lord. I need to not only hear the Word but also do the Word in my daily living for Him. I am a Christ follower listening to His voice saying ‘Christian follow me.’
1 Jesus calls us, o’er the tumult
of our life’s wild, restless sea,
day by day his voice is sounding,
saying, “Christian, follow me.”
2 Jesus calls us from the worship
of the vain world’s golden store,
from each idol that would keep us,
saying “Christian, love me more.”
3 Long ago apostles heard it
by the Galilean lake,
turned from home and work and family,
leaving all for his dear sake.
4 In our joys and in our sorrows,
days of work and hours of ease,
still he calls, in cares and pleasures,
“Christian, love me more than these.”
5 Jesus calls us! By your mercy,
Savior, may we hear your call,
give our hearts to your obedience,
serve and love you best of all.