How can Acts 26:27 inspire us to share our faith with others? Setting the Scene in Acts 26:27 “King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” • Paul stands in chains before royalty yet speaks with unshakable confidence. • He treats the Hebrew Scriptures as fully reliable, expecting Agrippa to recognize their truth. • Paul’s single, pointed sentence reveals that sharing faith is not about clever arguments but about calling people to respond to God’s already–revealed Word. Key Observations from Paul’s Question • Confidence in Scripture’s authority—Paul assumes prophetic writings are true and binding. • Personal appeal—Paul speaks directly to Agrippa’s heart (“I know you do”). • Urgency—Paul does not skirt the issue; he presses for a decision. • Respectful boldness—honors Agrippa’s position (“King”) while clearly presenting truth. Lessons for Our Own Witness • Rely on the Bible’s power, not personal eloquence (Hebrews 4:12). • Speak to the conscience—trust that God has already sown awareness of truth (Romans 1:19-20). • Combine courtesy with courage (Colossians 4:5-6). • Invite response; sharing faith is incomplete without calling for decision (2 Corinthians 5:20). Practical Steps to Live It Out 1. Immerse yourself in the prophets and all Scripture so you can speak from overflow (Joshua 1:8). 2. When opportunities arise, graciously reference the Bible as final authority. 3. Look for common ground—Paul knew Agrippa’s familiarity with the prophets; identify what your listener already knows. 4. Ask clear, loving questions that move conversation from abstract to personal belief. 5. Trust the Holy Spirit to convict; results are God’s responsibility (John 16:8). Encouragement from Related Scriptures • Romans 1:16—“I am not ashamed of the gospel…” Boldness grows from knowing the message is God’s power. • 1 Peter 3:15—“Always be ready to give a defense… yet with gentleness and respect.” Paul models this balance. • 2 Timothy 4:2—“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season.” Any setting, even a courtroom, can become a pulpit. Acts 26:27 reminds us that people still know more truth than they admit. Like Paul, we can lovingly press that truth home, trusting God’s Word to do its work and inviting others to believe. |