DECEMBER 29, Acts 25:13-15

When God called Paul to be His apostle, Paul was to preach the Gospel to all, even to kings (Read Acts 9:15). In Acts chapter 25, Paul was already in Caesarea. It was here that he had the opportunities to reach out to high-ranking officials, such as Felix and Festus, and even to royalty. Visiting Caesarea were King Agrippa and his wife Bernice.

The king and his wife, the governor, chief captains and many great men of the city of Caesarea gathered to hear Paul. What a huge and powerful audience that must have been! Paul was not just any ordinary prisoner. He was a prisoner bound to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was going to take this chance to preach Christ. The Gospel is for all – rich or poor, weak or powerful.

Paul spoke of his testimony and urged the audience to repent and turn to God, to live a godly life (Read Paul’s sermon in Acts 26:1-23). After Paul finished preaching, Festus called him mad but the king whose response was entirely different, said, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” The king was almost saved. Sadly, he did not take that final step of faith to accept Jesus. Why did King Agrippa not accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour? We do not know but one reason why many smart or powerful or wealthy people in the world do not accept Jesus is they feel there is no need for help in their lives.

They have everything they like. They are able to go where they want. They can eat whatever they desire. So why the need to believe in Jesus? Of course, such thinking is wrong. The riches and wisdom in the world cannot give the eternal salvation that only Christ can offer.

No matter how clever or wise kings may be, they will all die. What will not pass away? God’s Word will not pass away. God’s Word is true and will stand forever. Riches and wisdom are found in the Gospel. You are now a child of God. As a child of God you have God’s spiritual blessings and also wisdom from His Word.

Thought: Riches and knowledge are found in Jesus.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your precious Word that is able to make me wise. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.