Acts 24:25
“Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.”
Time is an interesting thing. We are always spending it and it cannot be saved. Failing to do something today, does not guarantee we will have the time for it tomorrow. Felix’s encounter with the Gospel message teaches us something important about how we use this moment for eternal things.
Paul had been promised, early on in his walk with the Lord, that he would have opportunity to share Christ with kings, or political rulers. Due to circumstances beyond his control, he finds himself standing before the Roman Ruler of Judea, with an open door to share Christ. In true Pauline fashion, he “swings for the fences”, and declares how Christ was risen from the dead and offers eternal life. He warns of the coming resurrection; that all men will one day stand before God to give account for this life. Those who have received Christ will enter into eternity, and those who have rejected Him, will face eternal judgment.
After hearing the truth of Christ so clearly explained, Felix’s response is striking. He sends Paul away, anticipating that in his future he will have “a convenient time” to decide for Christ. Sadly, as the story unfolds, Felix never finds that time. He is given many more opportunities to receive Christ, only to find further reasons to put it off.
Tragically, Felix is not alone in this. Many, upon hearing the Gospel, recognize it to be true; the Spirit of God is speaking to them, and stirring within them to respond. Yet, like Felix, they put it off. Perhaps they too, think tomorrow will be a more favorable day. Those who put off Christ, do so for many reasons. Some are concerned how their response to Christ will impact them socially. They are concerned about what others will think of them, how their friends will react to the news, or how their co-workers will treat them. Others are hoping for one more experience with sin. Perhaps another night of partying, or a final chance of sleeping with their girlfriend; only to find that they are never able to satisfy the craving for one more.
The truth is, there will NEVER be a more convenient time to get things right with the Lord than this moment. If need be, take time to surrender all to Jesus, and begin a fresh new walk with Him
Pastor Jim
Questions for Acts 24
- What do you think about Tertullus’ comments to the governor? Is there any truth to his comments?
- Paul’s opening comment ends with verse 16 “This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.” Paul is very purposeful in his actions. What can this teach us about what we do and why we do it?
- Paul gets the privilege to witness to Felix. Verse 25 says he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. Felix was afraid and told him to go away for a more convenient time. Felix wasn’t just putting off Paul’s judgment but his own decision to accept Jesus. What has the Lord been speaking to you about that you keep putting off for “a more convenient time?”
Old Testament:
Judges 14- Wasted Potential
Judges 15- Bound
Jim Gallagher 