Paul's accusers bring numerous serious accusations against him, but they cannot prove any of them. Paul calmly answers: “Neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Cæsar, have I offended any thing at all.” He recounts his former life as a persecutor of Christians, his journey to Damascus, and his encounter with the risen Christ. Jesus had not merely rescued Paul from his past. He had given Paul a purpose.
Christ told him that he was being sent to open people's eyes, turn them from darkness to light, and bring them from the power of Satan unto God. That became Paul's mission.
And Paul summarizes his response beautifully: “I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision.” What a powerful statement. Paul received a calling from God, and he obeyed.
His obedience did not mean his life became easy. It led him through persecution, imprisonment, rejection, beatings, and danger. But Paul never lost sight of the purpose God had given him.
He tells Agrippa that he has continued witnessing “both to small and great.” Paul understood that the gospel was for everyone.
- Kings needed Christ.
- Ordinary people needed Christ.
- Religious people needed Christ.
- Gentiles needed Christ.
- Those who were respected needed Christ.
- Those who were despised needed Christ.
- Everyone needed the Savior.
Then comes one of the most memorable statements in Paul's ministry. Agrippa says: “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.”
Agrippa was close. He had heard the testimony. He had heard the gospel. He had heard about Christ's death and resurrection. He had heard the truth. But almost is not the same as altogether.
Paul's response reveals his heart. He wasn't trying merely to win an argument or escape his imprisonment. He wanted Agrippa, and everyone listening, to know Christ. “I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am.”
Paul's desire was that others would experience the same salvation and transformation that he had experienced.
There is a solemn lesson here. We can:
- be interested in Christianity
- be moved emotionally
- admire Jesus
- know a great deal about the Bible
And yet we must personally respond to Christ. Almost persuaded is still not saved.
Paul's testimony reminds us that the gospel calls for a decision.
Life Application
- Be willing to tell others how Christ has changed your life
- Remain obedient to the calling God has given you
- Remember that the gospel is for everyone
- Don't mistake being interested in Christ for actually following Him
- Pray that those who hear the gospel will move from “almost” to genuine faith
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Help me, like Paul, to remain obedient to the calling You have given me. Give me courage to speak about Christ to people from every walk of life. And for those who have heard the gospel but have never fully surrendered to You, open their hearts and lead them from being almost persuaded to becoming true followers of Jesus. Amen.
