SOAP Entry 4: Acts 26

Acts 26: Paul tells his life story to a king

Scripture: (verse 4-6)
"The Jews all know the way I have lived ever since I was a child, from the beginning of my life in my own country, and also in Jerusalem. They have known me for a long time and can testify, if they are willing, that according to the strictest sect of our religion, I lived as a Pharisee. And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our fathers that I am on trial today."

Observation: 
Do you realize how crazy all this is? In this passage, Paul was taken as prisoner and had to defend his case before a King. Not just a judge and jury, but THE KING. If I was in his position, I know that I would be terrified. Kings had so much power, they could kill you if they wanted to, they had the final say. But Paul boldly told his life story to this King. He spoke of who he used to be, and who he was now. He wasn't even afraid! He honestly believed the truth he spoke and that event the King would believe that Jesus was the Messiah. Nothing he spoke could be argued against, because it is the truth. 


I think that it is so awesome that Paul could tell his testimony before someone who had so much influence. Can you imagine? If the King came to Christ, he could even decree in his lands that no one could be persecuted for being a Christian! He could tear down all idols! He could order true worship in the synagogues (churches)! Paul was in such a great position to share his story.


Application:




I am trying to think of the last time I really shared my testimony with someone. When was the last time that I really shared what Christ has done in my life? I know it has probably been awhile for many reasons: because I have been extremely disobedient to God and didn't want to be seen as a hypocrite, because I didn't think my story had value. But, it does have value. Any testimony of what God has done has value and could influence someones life towards Christ. But I have been hiding that, hiding JESUS, from people because I don't want to "look bad." Because I have been ashamed. 


The only way to apply what I have read is to actually share my testimony with someone. To be honest and truthful about what my life has been like: my mistakes, what I have overcome, what I still struggle with. Because at the end of the day, God's truth will be shown to them, even if I am a messed up person. (Don't get me wrong, that does not mean that I should not change areas of my life that do not line up with God's Word. I definitely need to live a life that lines up! I am just saying that I should not let fear and pride keep me from sharing the Gospel, and how it has impacted me.)


Prayer:
Father, I just pray for boldness. Not only in sharing the Gospel and my testimony, but in making a radical life change so that my life lines up with who you desire me to be. Your word says (in 2 Timothy 1:7, amplified version) "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control." I know that means that through your spirit Lord, I have the power to have self-control over my actions. That I don't have to do what pleases myself, but I can choose to please you.  That I can share my story with love and be calm (instead of afraid) of sharing it. I pray for these things in Jesus name. Amen.