Festus appears to be fair to Paul throughout, however, it does seem he is playing to the crowd (cf Acts 24:27, 25:9). The promise of God in Acts 9:15-16 of him being used to take Jesus' name before Kings and to suffer is coming to fruition. He is being used to speak for Christ, but also having to suffer for Him also.
Paul's life before his conversion was religious - known to others and sincere. His conversion was abrupt and dramatic. His commission was clear. The question at stake was really "Has Jesus risen from the dead?" and "Is He now calling Paul to the Gentiles?"
Jesus describes the condition of the lost as darkness, the power of Satan. He talks of the content of salvation as forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in Him and the method being that faith and turning.
Paul demonstrates his obedience to God in doing what He wants and speaking what He calls him to. Despite him speaking in the temple courts meaning they attempted to kill him, he kept on. God gave him the help he needed, even before King Festus.
Paul's ultimate motive in everything was to preach so that others would come to know Jesus. cf 26:29, 1 Cor 9:16-22, 2 Cor 5:14
No comments:
Post a Comment