Agrippa replied to Paul, "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian."
I don't know if King Agrippa ever became a Christian, but Paul certainly gave it his best shot. Some have said that Paul was not a great speaker. How many of us can relate to that?
But even though he lacked ability in that area, he had the only two things someone needs to persuade someone to become a Christian--a heart like Christ and the truth.
The desire of Jesus' heart is to see none perish, but all to come to repentance, and that was Paul's heart too.
The second thing Paul had was the truth.
In Acts 26, Paul's conversation with King Agrippa was simple. The resurrection is true. Life after death is real. And Jesus is the one that proves it.
Paul didn't use big theological arguments. He just shared his testimony.
So often I forget that this is the best way to share the gospel. I try so hard to persuade people with nice illustrations or some great insight instead of just keeping with the plain and simple truth. Paul knew how to keep it simple.
In verse 20, Paul tells King Agrippa that his message from the beginning was that men "should repent and turn to God, performing deeds appropriate to repentance."
Sounds simple enough.
If you've ever found yourself doubting whether you have what it takes to persuade someone to become a Christian, just remember that all you need is a heart for the lost and the plain & simple truth.
I pray today that you will get a chance to share the simple truth of Christ with someone.
Oh that all of us at WVBC would hear the words from our family members, friends and co-workers' "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian."! For it means we have done our part---been obidient to the Great Commission. The rest is up to the Lord as to whether or not they give their lives to Christ.
ReplyDeleteMay it be so today! Thanks Pastor Robbie!
John Petersen