Reading
SAA Notes
Paul remained in prison rather than pay a bribe. Many missionary organisations today maintain a similar policy with kidnapping or unlawful arrest. Paul no doubt often wondered if the Lord knew what he was doing as the years went by – and He did! Paul got to Rome!
SJA Notes
* Loving God, thank You for teaching us from Your word today. Please write Your word on our hearts.
“But this I confess to you, …”
Paul does not play games here. He does not try and slip quietly through the conversation with the governor.
Yes. He points out the foolishness of the arguments against him.
But better than that (not all of us are quick on our feet in arguments) Paul is an example to all believers.
“But this I confess to you, …”
Paul is clever, for sure.
But the root of his return argument is a confession of his believe in his God. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The God of Israel. The God whose word is written down in the Law and the Prophets. Hoping in God. And trusting His word that there will be a resurrection of the dead.
These are not small things.
We may not be able to remember all of this, or bring it to mind when we get into discussions.
But we can confess our Lord Jesus, our God.
We can own Him before man, even if we are laughed at or mocked or worse.
May we confess Jesus today in our thought, word and deed.
* God Above,
Thank You for saving us from our sin.
Thank You for rescuing us from darkness, bringing us into light.
Thank You Lord!
Please help us confess You today and onwards.
Amen.