Acts: Go & Be Chapters 19-28Sample

What is this passage saying?

Paul remains on trial for the accusations of the Jewish leaders and priests. Paul appeals his case with Festus. King Agrippa and his sister, Bernice, have heard about Paul’s case and want to listen in as well. King Agrippa just so happened to be in town while Festus explained to him what was going on with Paul’s trial. Festus is having a hard time. He wants to please the Jews but does not know how to charge Paul because he does not see that Paul did anything wrong. Paul is adamant about his hope in Jesus. Festus mentions to Agrippa that the disputes from the Jews are that Paul keeps preaching about this “dead man” named Jesus, but

Paul keeps claiming that he is alive. Festus is appealing to King Agrippa and his sister, Bernice, because he is unsure how to charge Paul before appealing to Caesar.

What is this passage teaching?

Paul continues to stand firm on the good news of the Gospel. Trial after trial comes his way, but he remains confident in the hope and assurance of his salvation in Jesus Christ. Paul is proclaiming that Jesus is not dead. He is surely alive. This should encourage the believer to stand firm on the foundation of Jesus Christ. There will always be people who doubt the hope that is found in Jesus. Ultimately, those doubts have placed Paul in front of now King Agrippa. Paul is being used to spread the purposes of God as he continues through the appeal process on his way to proclaim the truth to Caesar in Rome.

How do I respond?

As you read through the Book of Acts, the one thing that remains constant is that there is power in the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is always working all things together for the good of those that love Him and are called to His purposes (Romans 8:28). Therefore, even when life gets difficult, and trial after trial comes your way, rest in the hope that God is doing a good work within you. There is power in the Holy Spirit that brings comfort to Paul in the midst of his trial. He knows that he serves a risen Savior. He proclaims the truth that Jesus is ALIVE! Paul is able to do this through the power of the Holy Spirit! How has the Holy Spirit comforted you in the midst of your trials? How have you witnessed this Holy Spirit power in your life?