Would You Live Out Being a Christ-Follower Knowing You Would Be Persecuted?
Acts 24 tells the story of Paul’s trial before the Roman governor Felix. The high priest Ananias and a group of Jewish elders present their case against Paul, accusing him of stirring up riots and being a troublemaker. Paul is given the opportunity to defend himself, and he eloquently refutes the accusations, asserting that he has not caused any disturbances and that his beliefs align with the teachings of the Law and the Prophets.
Felix, the governor, postpones the trial and keeps Paul in custody, hoping to receive a bribe from him. Over the course of several days, Felix and his wife Drusilla listen to Paul talk about faith in Christ, righteousness, and the coming judgment. However, Felix becomes afraid and ends the conversation without making a decision, and he keeps Paul in custody.
The chapter highlights Paul’s commitment to proclaiming the message of Christ, even in the midst of his trial and imprisonment.
There are some places in this world where there is persecution for faith in Jesus. In spite of this, Christianity tends to grow at a quicker pace because of the sincerity of the Christ-followers as demonstrated in their willingness to suffer. So for us, are we willing to live out our faith even if others may judge us or look down us? Are we willing to risk embarrassment? Our goal isn’t to convert people who aren’t interested but to help those who are spiritually searching, and they are all around us!
When reading this passage what stood out to you?
How do you sense God may want you to apply what you discovered?
