What steps can we take to defend our faith as Paul did? The Scene—Acts 25:25 in Context “ But I found nothing deserving death in him, and since he has appealed to the Emperor, I decided to send him. ” Festus could find no crime in Paul, yet Paul still faced hostile scrutiny. His calm, reasoned defense offers a model for us. Anchor Your Life in a Clear Conscience • Live so blamelessly that even opponents must admit no charge can stick (Acts 25:25; 1 Peter 3:16). • Daily submit thoughts and actions to God’s Word, trusting its complete accuracy. • Confession and repentance keep the slate clean (1 John 1:9), leaving critics with no legitimate foothold. Know and Use God-Given Rights and Platforms • Paul appealed to Caesar (Acts 25:11) because Roman law allowed it; he used the system without compromising truth. • Today: – Exercise legal freedoms to speak, publish, and assemble (Acts 22:25; Philippians 1:7). – Engage respectfully in civic processes—letters, courts, school boards—while clinging to biblical convictions. – View every platform as a pulpit God can employ (Acts 26:1). Speak with Respectful Boldness • Paul addressed governors and kings courteously (Acts 26:2–3) yet spoke plainly about sin and resurrection. • Combine gentleness and firmness (2 Timothy 2:24–26). • Avoid harsh tone; let truth carry the weight (Colossians 4:6). Keep the Focus on the Gospel • Paul’s defense always circled back to Jesus’ death and resurrection (Acts 26:22–23). • When challenged, steer conversation from peripheral debates to the central message of Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2). • Personal testimony plus Scripture is a powerful duo (Revelation 12:11). Lean on the Word and the Spirit • Paul’s confidence rested on promises like Matthew 10:18–20—God would give the words. • Memorize and meditate on Scripture so the Spirit can retrieve it when needed (Psalm 119:11; John 14:26). • Pray for open doors and clarity (Ephesians 6:19–20), then trust the Spirit to work. Stand Ready, Always • “Always be prepared to give a defense” (1 Peter 3:15). Preparation includes: – Regular study of doctrine (2 Timothy 2:15). – Awareness of common objections and biblical answers (Titus 1:9). – Cultivating calm confidence, not combative anxiety (Philippians 4:6–7). Living It Out This Week 1. Review your conduct—does it match your confession? 2. Identify one legal or social avenue where you can speak for Christ. 3. Memorize Acts 25:25 as a reminder to live blamelessly. 4. Pray for an opportunity to share the gospel and rely on the Spirit for words. |
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