Monday 8 June, 2020

13 A few days later King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea to pay their respects to Festus. 14 Since they were spending many days there, Festus discussed Paul’s case with the king. He said: “There is a man here whom Felix left as a prisoner. 15 When I went to Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews brought charges against him and asked that he be condemned. 16 “I told them that it is not the Roman custom to hand over anyone before they have faced their accusers and have had an opportunity to defend themselves against the charges. 17 When they came here with me, I did not delay the case, but convened the court the next day and ordered the man to be brought in. 18 When his accusers got up to speak, they did not charge him with any of the crimes I had expected. 19 Instead, they had some points of dispute with him about their own religion and about a dead man named Jesus who Paul claimed was alive. 20 I was at a loss how to investigate such matters; so I asked if he would be willing to go to Jerusalem and stand trial there on these charges. 21 But when Paul made his appeal to be held over for the Emperor’s decision, I ordered him held until I could send him to Caesar.” 22 Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I would like to hear this man myself.” He replied, “Tomorrow you will hear him.”

Here we have the description of the newly appointed governor Festus being visited by King Agrippa & Bernice … with the words of Jesus echoing in Matt 10:18 “You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about me.” NTL

Festus is following roman protocols in sending Paul to Rome while at the same time building favourable relationship with Agrippa. The scene is set by the Holy Spirit once more with the opportunity for Paul to testify of Jesus. What these officials then do with the gospel message is up to the choice of their own hearts.

Paul takes every opportunity presented to him to share the gospel, coming before these two powerful men will be no exception & not only them but all the officials & security people that sound them.

How often do I take the opportunities presented to me to share the good news of Jesus? In truth, not nearly as often or as boldly as Paul.

Holy Spirit fill us all afresh with more courage, wisdom and grace to share our testimony of your work in our lives to those you put around us.

Written by Suzie Hodgson