Paul's Confession

Paul's Confession - Acts 24

Acts 24:1-27

The day of Paul's trial finally arrived. He appeared before Felix, the governor and judge. The high priest and Jewish elders were there to bring their charges against the apostle. To present their case they enlisted the service of a skilled orator, Tertullus.

After words of flattery to "most noble Felix," Tertullus said, "We have found this man a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes...." Other Jews joined in the accusations.

Paul also had many kind words for Felix, and he had a confession to make. He said, "I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets." What? He confessed that he worshiped the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Was that against the law? Of course not. He was a worshiper, because he was a believer. He believed the Old Testament Scriptures.

He continued, "I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust." The apostle had hope, because he also believed in the resurrection. The resurrection of Christ is at the center of the Christian faith. That's why Paul preached "Jesus and the resurrection." Acts 17:18. See also 1 Corinthians 15:12-28.

Paul's confession of faith is the confession of those of the Way. Jesus is the Way. He is the One who died for our sins, and rose again from the dead. Our faith and hope are in Him. We believe the Word of God, which testifies of the Lord Jesus Christ. We worship God according to the Way, because we believe in Him.

Felix was a procrastinator and unscrupulously selfish. He said, "When Lysias the commander comes down, I will make a decision on your case." After some days he sent for Paul, and together with his wife heard the gospel of Christ. "Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, 'Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you."

Paul remained in custody for two years, during that time Felix "sent for him more often and conversed with him," but the governor was not interested in the Christian faith. He was hoping to receive a bribe, but no money was forthcoming. The governor understood Paul's confession of faith, but did nothing. The convenient time to believe is now. "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Corinthians 6:2.

Father, we bow down and worship before You. Help us to use our time wisely. Thank You for showing us the Way of hope and life. We confess that You are our God in whom we trust. In Jesus' name. Amen!

An Appeal to Caesar - Acts 25

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