September 12, 2023 | Be On Mission
Paul Shares His Faith with Felix
Scripture: Acts 24:24-27(NIV)
24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.
27 When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison.
Devotional
It was a paradise paradox. Paul spent two years in the modern, seaside city of Caesarea living in the governor’s palace. His friends were allowed to come and go, bringing him anything he needed. From there he had a view of the Mediterranean coastline, the harbor for ships carrying people and goods, and the recently constructed aqueduct, amphitheater, and hippodrome. The sounds of merchants selling their wares, travelers enjoying the city, and crowds gathering for entertainment, games, and races permeated the atmosphere. Caesarea was a destination city.
But for two years, this paradise was a prison for Paul. During that time, Paul shared the gospel with Felix to no avail. The governor’s desire for granting favors to the Jews was only superseded by his hope that Paul would try to secure his freedom by giving him a cash bribe. Paul’s visiting friends certainly had the means to do so. But Paul’s integrity would not allow it. The gospel cannot be bought and sold.
So there Paul remained for two long years. But Paul would not have wasted a day of that captivity. He would continue to share the gospel with Felix and Drusilla. He would encourage and instruct the believing friends who frequented his palace prison. He no doubt witnessed to the soldiers who were assigned the task of guarding him. He certainly spent hours in worship, prayer, study, and writing.
Too often people become victims of their circumstances. Life can be hard. But Christians are called to overcome the circumstances of life and fully live for Jesus despite them. What are some of the things from your past, present or future that weigh on you? How is God calling you to face them head on as you live for Jesus?
Poem
Let's Go Fishing!
When in a pinch
When all seems lost
When stuck in places
A trial’s cost
It’s time to grab
Your fishing pole
And cast a net
Or baited line
Of gospel faith
And see if you can get
A nibble
