At this point Festus interrupted Paul's defense. "You are out of your mind, Paul!" he shouted. "Your great learning is driving you insane." "I am not insane, most excellent Festus," Paul replied. "What I am saying is true and reasonable.” –Acts 26:24, 25
I wonder how many people have trusted in Christ as Savior only to be accused by others of losing their minds. Those who have never put their faith in the Lord may have a difficult time comprehending how followers of Christ have reached the conclusions at which we have arrived: that Jesus is the Son of God, He was crucified in our place, died on the cross, and rose on the third day. Furthermore, people will have a hard time understanding our attending church, studying the Scripture and applying it to our lives, and seeking to be like Christ in our attitudes and conduct.
As Paul the Apostle found himself before kings and rulers who wanted to silence him and stop the spread of Christianity, he was accused of being out of his mind. Paul assured the King that what he was saying was perfectly reasonable. We too will often try to assure those around us that our faith in Christ is perfectly reasonable. We have examined the evidence and have reached a verdict: The Bible is the Word of God and Christ came into the world to save sinners. Who are these sinners? That’s me, you, and everyone else. We all stand in need of the salvation Christ offers. Will it all make sense? It will, once a person has his or her eyes opened by the power of the Holy Spirit. When that takes place, the person will see the absolute truth of the gospel.
How frustrating it must have been for Paul to devote so much of his time and energy to reaching people for Christ only to be persecuted and accused of being insane. We also will at times become discouraged by those who oppose our efforts to grow in our faith and share the gospel with others. However, do not be discouraged and never give up; the Lord is with us and is on our side. Christ will comfort, empower, and motivate us to keep on serving Him no matter what. When met with opposition, Paul responded with grace, love, compassion, and the confidence that comes from the Holy Spirit.
Keep serving the Lord and do not be dissuaded. The Lord has marvelous plans for your life. Trust Him today and keep on sharing the gospel and walking forward with the Lord.
In Jesus there is victory.
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