Acts 24:22-25

 

Antonius Felix was appointed governor of Judea by Claudis Caesar.  He was confronted with the claims of Christ by the Apostle Paul.  Unfortunately, he did not recognize the day of salvation.

 

Felix Was Convicted But Not Convinced:                                                                      vv. 22-25

Then Felix, who was well acquainted with the Way, adjourned the proceedings. When Lysias the commander comes, he said, AI will decide your case.  23He ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard but to give him some freedom and permit his friends to take care of his needs.

24Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus.  25As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self‑control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.

Paul’s Three-Point Sermon:

1.                 Righteousness        .                                                                       Romans 3:23

2.                 Self-control        .                                                                           Galatians 5:23

3.                 Judgment        .                                                                              Hebrews 9:27

 

Judas Kissed Heaven’s Door and Went to Hell:                                                  Mark 10:17-22

Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.

44Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.  45Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, Rabbi! and kissed him.

1.         He was a         disciple         of Christ.

2.         He chose         money         over the Master.

 

The Man Who Was Invited But Not Dressed for the Occasion:                    Matthew 22:11-14

But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes.  12Friend, he asked, how did you get in here without wedding clothes?’ The man was speechless.

13Then the king told the attendants, Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

14For many are invited, but few are chosen.

1.         He received an         invitation        .

2.         He had good         directions        .

3.         He was acquainted with the         wedding party        .

 

Agrippa Was Stirred But Not Shaken:                                                                   Acts 26:24-29

At this point Festus interrupted Paul=s defense. AYou are out of your mind, Paul! he shouted. Your great learning is driving you insane.


25AI am not insane, most excellent Festus, Paul replied. AWhat I am saying is true and reasonable.  26The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner.  27King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.

28Then Agrippa said to Paul, ADo you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?

29Paul replied, AShort time or longCI pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.

1.         The gospel is         true        .                                                                         vv. 24-26

2.         The gospel must be         heeded        .                                                                v. 27

3.         The gospel is much         needed        .                                                          vv. 28-29

 

Almost Persuaded

Almost persuaded now to believe;

Almost persuaded Christ to receive.

Seems now some soul to say, AGo, Spirit, go Thy way.

Some more convenient day On Thee I’ll call.

-Philip P. Bliss