Almost Persuaded Acts

26:1-32

By: Pastor Cecil Lovelace

Introduction:

Paul had gone before Festus, and then appealed to Ceasar, so Agrippa had been ask his opinion. This is the fifth time Paul has defended himself since chapter 21. On each occasion, he turned it into a preaching situation. Always more interested in preaching than freedom.     

I. THE COMMENCEMENT OF HIS TESTIMONY. V-1-8

He went back to the beginning, but note:

A. His courtesy. V-1-3 He got on his good side. "Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself: 2 I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews: 3 Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently."

Agrippa would not have ordinarily listened in a situation like this. Many would fail in their attitude right here.

B. His conduct. V-4-5 He referred to his "manner of life."

He was well known. They all knew he had been a dedicated Pharisee.

C. His challenge. V-6-8 He challenged him to believe.

(1) He reminded him of the scriptures. "And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:"

(2) He questioned their faith in the scriptures. "king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews. 8 Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?"

II. THE CENTER OF HIS TESTIMONY. V-9-18 He began to relate the personal crimes and sins he was guilty of.

A. Note his confession. V-9-11 9 "I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.

(1) He had been the enemy of Christ. All lost are...

(2) Yet before his conversion, he felt he was ok.

(3) Most don’t see themselves as they are.

B. Notice his conversion. V-12-15 (on the road to Damascus)

(1) He saw a light.

(2) Fell to the ground. Heard a voice

(3) Lost his sight. Until God opened his eyes. Had a different view, then.

C. Notice his commission. V-16-18 He knew he had been saved for a purpose.

(1) His mission: To minister.

(2) His message: things he had seen.

(3) His motive: To open the eyes of the Gentiles and turn them from a path of darkness.

III. THE CULMINATION OF HIS TESTIMONY. V-19-23

Notice three things as Paul brings his testimony to a close.

A. His consecration. V-19 His life had been faithful. No regrets...this is a mark of maturity, grace, and love.

B. His capture. V-21 As a result of his commitment."..For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me."

C. His continuance. V-22-23 Never lost his zeal. "Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great...," So many people lose their zeal.

IV. THE CONSEQUENCE OF HIS TESTIMONY. V24-32

A. He was criticized. V-24 "Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad." Question: Have you been called a fanatic lately?

B. He was calm. V-25-26 Paul didn’t get mad. He just turned to Agrippa and brought him to a decision. "But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. 26 For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest."

C. He was convincing. V-28 "Almost, thou persuadest me to be a Christian."

As far as I know, the King never got saved. Almost......... almost a ball game.... almost a rescue...almost a plane trip....none good enough. Almost persuaded.

CONCLUSION:

Some of you may be almost persuaded today. You need to go all the way.