As Paul is in prison in Caesarea, he makes his defense in front of Felix, Festus, then Agrippa. One thing that stands out is out Paul's boldness and clarify in his own defense of his faith. Take for example a number of his statements:
In verses 4-5 Paul proclaims how he was just as Jewish as those who rise up against him.
4 “The Jewish people all
know the way I have lived ever since I was a child, from the beginning
of my life in my own country, and also in Jerusalem. 5
They have known me for a long time and can testify, if they are
willing, that I conformed to the strictest sect of our religion, living
as a Pharisee.
Then Paul states how his hope in Jesus is the same hope that the Jews have for the messiah:
6 And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our ancestors that I am on trial today. 7
This is the promise our twelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilled as
they earnestly serve God day and night. King Agrippa, it is because of
this hope that these Jews are accusing me.
Then Paul asks the question that should be on everyone's minds which is, why is he on trial for proclaiming something that we know God is capable of doing?
Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?
22 But God has helped me to this very day; so I stand here and testify to small and great alike.
Paul's own defense comes to a close with a bold answer to Agrippa's question whether Paul can convince Agrippa to be a Christian:
29 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.”
Besides the boldness of Paul's defense, several questions for me come to mind:
- Am I so clear in my own mind about the power of Jesus in my life that I can articulate my faith and live my faith as boldly as Paul?
- Can I defend my faith to attacks as Paul does ?
- Would I be willing to pray for my enemies as Paul does?
My Prayer: Lord, You use all people and all things for Your glory for You are almighty and Your will is both perfect and great. That You love me and You use me for Your glory is amazing and humbling all at the same time. I say humbling because I am broken in so many ways - in Paul's words in ways "small and great alike". I pray that You will forgive me for being small - despite Your call for me to be bold. Help me overcome my own lack of confidence and instead place my confidence in You that I can be the bold person you desire me to be.
