How should Acts 25:19 influence our approach to discussing faith with non-believers? Setting the Scene Acts 25 finds Paul on trial before the Roman governor Festus. The Jewish leaders press charges, but Festus admits, “Instead, they had some points of contention with him about their own religion and a certain Jesus who had died, but whom Paul asserted to be alive.” (Acts 25:19) Key Insight from Acts 25:19 • From a Roman perspective, the whole debate looked like an internal Jewish squabble. • For Paul, everything hinged on one reality-claim: Jesus, once dead, now lives. • The resurrection is the sharp dividing line between mere “religion” and saving faith. Practical Takeaways for Conversations • Recognize differing foundations – Many will frame Christianity as just one more religious opinion. – Gently show that we are talking about a historical event—the bodily resurrection. • Keep the focus on Jesus – Like Paul, steer discussions back to who Jesus is and what He has done. • Clarify what’s at stake – If Christ is alive, every person must respond (Acts 17:31). – If He is still dead, our faith is worthless (1 Corinthians 15:17). • Explain, don’t merely dispute – Festus heard “points of contention.” We aim for understanding, not winning arguments. • Share evidence and testimony – Paul repeatedly recounted his encounter with the risen Lord (Acts 26:12-18). • Speak with respect and clarity – “But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense…with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15) • Trust the Spirit – Only God opens blind eyes (2 Corinthians 4:6). Our task is faithful witness. Supporting Scriptures • Acts 17:2-3 — Paul “reasoned…explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead.” • 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 — The gospel summarized and attested by eyewitnesses. • Romans 1:4 — Jesus “was declared to be the Son of God with power by His resurrection.” • John 20:31 — These things are written “that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ…and that by believing you may have life in His name.” Putting It into Practice 1. Start with common ground, then pivot to the resurrection. 2. Share personal experience of the living Christ, backed by Scripture. 3. Present historical evidence: empty tomb, eyewitnesses, transformed disciples. 4. Invite listeners to examine Jesus themselves through the Gospels. 5. Leave the results to the Lord, confident that the same Jesus Paul proclaimed is still alive and still saving. |
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