Christ Church Daily Devotion May 17 2024

In this Daily Devotion, Paul testifies about his faith in Jesus Christ before King Agrippa. He explains that Jesus is the Messiah who suffered and rose from the dead, bringing the message of light to all people. Festus interrupts and calls Paul insane, but Paul defends himself, saying that his words are true and reasonable. He asks Agrippa if he believes the prophets, and Agrippa questions if Paul can persuade him to become a Christian. Paul responds that his goal is for everyone to become followers of Christ, even risking his own life. He encourages believers to share their faith and trust in God's response. The personal worship option is to find opportunities to share one's journey with Christ. Welcome to Christ Church's Daily Devotion for May 17th, 2024. Today we will be reading from Acts chapter 26, verses 22 through 29. But God has helped me to this very day, so I stand here and testify to small and great alike. I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen, that the Messiah would suffer, and as the first to rise from the dead, would bring the message of light to his own people and to the Gentiles. At this point, Festus interrupted Paul's defense. You are out of your mind, Paul, he shouted. Your great learning is driving you insane. I am not insane, most excellent Festus, Paul replied. What I am saying is true and reasonable. The king is familiar with these things, and I speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do. Then Agrippa said to Paul, Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian? Paul replied, Short time or long, I pray to God that not only you, but all who are listening to me today, may become what I am, except for these chains. In his defense before King Agrippa, Paul seeks to convince everyone listening to be followers of Jesus Christ. That is to be the goal of all his followers, to help others hear his message and serve his mission. Paul took every opportunity to share the transforming power of Christ with anyone who would listen. Of course, he was risking his life for a message that was offensive to the Jews and unbelievable to the Gentiles. Jesus also had the same response. Paul was more concerned for the salvation of strangers than for the removal of his own chains. Paul wasn't deterred by the brush off of King Agrippa. Paul's response is a good example for us as we tell others about God's plan of salvation. A sincere personal appeal or personal story can show the depth of our concern, and how God can use that to soften hard parts. Our job is to share the message. The response is totally in God's hands. Your personal worship option today? To look for ways to share your journey with Christ with someone today.