PAUL’S EYE-OPENING ASSIGNMENT
Paul gave his faith testimony before the Roman governor Festus and the last of the House of Herod, King Agrippa II and his sister Bernice. In his testimony, he quoted the calling that Christ had given him.
First, he was one “sent” (“I now send you”). The Greek word for this is apostolos. Paul was an apostle of Jesus. Second, his ministry was to lead people into the light of the gospel and set them free from Satanic lies, so that they might “receive” the forgiveness that Christ offers.
Festus and Agrippa had different reactions to Paul’s testimony. Festus thought him mad, while Agrippa admitted that he was nearly persuaded. But both decided that Paul was innocent of the Jewish leaders accusations. And both remained unchanged spiritually. Festus continued in spiritual darkness, failing to comprehend the light. And Agrippa continued in bondage to sin, continuing in a incestuous relationship with his sister Bernice and idolizing Rome.
Yet, Paul had fulfilled his calling. He had shared the testimony that Christ had commissioned him to give. Some people choose to remain in ignorance, while others willfully choose to love their sin over submitting to Christ as Lord and Savior. But some have their eyes opened, being set free from Satan’s power, receiving forgiveness of sins and eternal salvation through faith in Jesus.
PRAYER: Dear Father, You have given us the same assignment as the apostle Paul through Your Son, Jesus. We are sent. Strengthen us for the ministry You have given us. Open doors for Your Word to shine forth through us. In Jesus’ name, amen.