What can we learn from Tertullus's approach in Acts 24:2 for sharing faith? Setting the Scene • Acts 24 places Paul before Governor Felix in Caesarea. • Verse 2 introduces Tertullus, hired by the Sanhedrin to prosecute Paul. • text: “When Paul was called in, Tertullus began to accuse him and said: ‘We enjoy great peace because of you, and your foresight has brought about this nation’s reforms.’” Who Was Tertullus? • A professional orator—paid to persuade. • Tasked with framing Paul as a public menace. • Represents a worldly communication model: polished, strategic, results-driven. What He Did Right • Clear focus: He states his case quickly instead of rambling (v. 2). • Respect for authority: He addresses Felix’s position before making requests (cf. 1 Peter 2:13-17). • Organized argument: Verses 2-9 flow logically—introduction, charges, witnesses. Red Flags in His Method • Flattery over truth: “We enjoy great peace because of you” (v. 2) ignores Felix’s notorious cruelty (cf. Proverbs 29:5). • Exaggeration for impact: “Everywhere, in every way” (v. 3) paints an unrealistic picture. • Missing heart integrity: Motivated by politics, not genuine concern for souls (cf. Matthew 15:8). Lessons for Sharing Our Faith What to Imitate • Speak plainly and stay on point—people value clarity (Colossians 4:6). • Show proper respect to leaders and listeners alike (Romans 13:7). • Structure your testimony or gospel presentation; order aids understanding (1 Corinthians 14:40). What to Avoid • Empty compliments to gain favor—truth stands without flattery (2 Corinthians 4:2). • Bending facts to fit our agenda—God’s message needs no embellishment (Proverbs 30:5-6). • Performing for applause—seek to please Christ, not the crowd (Galatians 1:10). Practical Takeaways 1. Prepare, but rely on the Spirit. Good outlines serve the gospel; they don’t replace dependence on God (Luke 12:11-12). 2. Lead with honesty. Skip the sales pitch and share the Savior. 3. Highlight God’s character, not people’s egos. Lift up Christ, and He will draw hearts (John 12:32). 4. Keep motives pure. Love for the listener must drive every word (1 Thessalonians 2:3-8). Supporting Scriptures • Proverb on flattery: “A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.” (Proverbs 29:5) • Call to truthful speech: “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself.” (Ephesians 4:15) • Mission focus: “We speak as those approved by God, not to please men but God, who examines our hearts.” (1 Thessalonians 2:4) By weighing Tertullus’s tactics against the clear counsel of Scripture, we learn to pair respectful, organized communication with sincere, uncompromised truth as we share the hope of Christ. |
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