How can Acts 26:28 inspire us to pray for non-believers' hearts to open? A pivotal courtroom moment Paul stands before King Agrippa and Governor Festus. With chains rattling, he testifies to Christ’s death and resurrection. The monarch’s response arrests attention: “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?’” (Acts 26:28) Why Agrippa’s reply ignites prayer • A sincere gospel presentation still left the king undecided. • The words reveal a heart aware of truth yet not surrendered. • Paul’s loving concern (v. 29) models a burden that moves believers to pray for others’ spiritual eyes to open. Scriptural foundations for praying for open hearts • Acts 16:14 — “The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.” God alone accomplishes the inner work. • 2 Corinthians 4:4 — unbelievers’ minds are veiled by “the god of this age.” Prayer asks God to lift that veil. • Ezekiel 36:26 — God promises, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.” • John 16:8 — the Spirit “will convict the world.” Petition invites that conviction. • 1 Timothy 2:1-4 — intercession for “all people” aligns with God’s desire that they “come to the knowledge of the truth.” • Luke 24:45 — Jesus “opened their minds to understand the Scriptures,” showing His ongoing role today. Practical ways to pray drawn from Paul’s example 1. Name the person before God, just as Paul spoke Agrippa’s name (Acts 26:27). 2. Ask for clarity of the gospel message they have heard or will hear. 3. Pray for conviction that leads to repentance, not mere curiosity. 4. Request courage for yourself and other believers to speak plainly (Ephesians 6:19). 5. Thank God that He desires none to perish (2 Peter 3:9), building confidence as you intercede. Encouragement in God’s sovereign work • 1 Corinthians 3:6 — “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow.” • Isaiah 55:11 — His word “will not return to Me empty.” • Acts 18:9-10 — the Lord assured Paul He had “many people in this city” yet to believe. The same assurance steadies prayer today. Takeaway Agrippa’s hesitant reply reminds believers that even the most persuasive testimony needs the Spirit’s inward touch. Scripture invites confident, persistent intercession for that miracle of opened hearts—trusting the God who turns the almost-persuaded into wholehearted followers of Christ. |
    |