How can Acts 26:26 inspire us to share our faith with confidence? Setting the Scene in Acts 26 Paul is on trial before King Agrippa. Instead of shrinking back, he recounts his Damascus-road encounter and proclaims Christ’s resurrection. Verse 26 captures the climax of his defense: “For the king knows about these matters, and I speak to him boldly, since I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner.” Key Truths in Acts 26:26 • Historical visibility – the gospel facts “were not done in a corner.” • Public accountability – Paul reminds Agrippa that the evidence is right in front of him. • Bold speech – Paul says, “I speak to him boldly,” modeling fearless testimony. Reasons We Can Share with Confidence 1. The gospel events are verifiable history • Luke 1:1-4 – carefully investigated facts • 1 Corinthians 15:6 – over five hundred eyewitnesses 2. God’s truth stands in the open • Isaiah 45:19 – God does not speak “in secret, in a dark place of the earth.” • John 18:20 – Jesus taught “openly to the world.” 3. Boldness comes from the Spirit, not personality • Acts 4:31 – believers “were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” 4. Christ’s resurrection answers every fear • Revelation 1:18 – the Living One holds the keys of death and Hades. 5. We speak under divine commission • Matthew 28:18-20 – the risen Lord sends us with all authority. Practical Steps for Confident Witness • Remember the public nature of the gospel: it’s objective truth, not private opinion. • Rehearse your testimony like Paul did—conversion story + resurrection hope. • Anticipate questions, but trust the Holy Spirit for words (Luke 12:11-12). • Keep the focus on Jesus’ death and resurrection—historical anchors steady wavering hearts. • Lean on fellowship; boldness grows in community (Hebrews 10:24-25). Encouraging Scriptural Snapshots • 2 Corinthians 4:2 – “We have renounced secret and shameful ways… setting forth the truth plainly.” • 1 Peter 3:15 – “Always be prepared to give a defense… yet with gentleness and respect.” • Matthew 10:27 – “What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight.” Closing Reflection Paul looked a king in the eye and said, in effect, “You know this is true.” Because the gospel is public, proven, and powerful, we too can speak up—whether in a courtroom, a coffee shop, or a classroom—confident that God’s truth still shines in full daylight. |
    |