In what ways can we respond to skepticism like Agrippa's in Acts 26:28? Agrippa’s Moment of Skepticism Acts 26:28 “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?’” • Agrippa hears a clear, logical, personal testimony, yet hesitates. • His words reveal doubt, self-preservation, and perhaps fear of public opinion. • Paul’s calm but urgent reply (v. 29) models how we can engage similar resistance. Paul’s Model: Four Guiding Anchors • Personal Testimony: Paul shares how Christ literally met him (vv. 12-18). • Scriptural Foundation: He ties his story to Moses and the Prophets (vv. 22-23). • Respectful Boldness: “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus” (v. 25). • Loving Desire: “I pray to God that … all who hear me this day may become as I am” (v. 29). Scripture-Based Responses to Skepticism Today 1. Clarify the Gospel – Romans 1:16: the gospel “is the power of God for salvation.” – Keep Christ’s death and resurrection central, just as Paul did. 2. Appeal to Prophecy and Evidence – Isaiah 53; Psalm 22 fulfilled literally in Jesus. – 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 lists eyewitnesses—historical anchors. 3. Combine Gentleness with Conviction – 1 Peter 3:15: answer “with gentleness and respect.” – 2 Timothy 4:2: “be ready in season and out of season.” 4. Invite Personal Investigation – John 1:46: “Come and see.” – Encourage reading a Gospel, attending a study, asking questions. 5. Pray and Trust God’s Timing – Acts 16:14: “The Lord opened her heart.” – Salvation is God’s work; our role is faithful witness. Additional Biblical Encouragement • Jesus to Thomas: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29) • Paul in Athens: reasoned daily with any who happened by (Acts 17:17). • Jude 22-23: “Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire.” Daily Life Application • Share your conversion story plainly and confidently. • Keep a few key prophecies and resurrection facts ready. • Listen first; answer real objections, not imagined ones. • Maintain respect even when mocked—truth never needs harshness. • Persist in prayer; today’s skeptic may be tomorrow’s servant of Christ. |
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