THE SEND: Luke & ActsSample

The Gospel frees us from fear.

Reading about how Festus, Agrippa, and the Jews talk about Paul’s fate is honestly surprising. They’re so casual about it. But Paul? He’s even more at peace than they are.

In Acts 25:11, he boldly declares, “If I have done something worthy of death, I don’t refuse to die.”

In his most detailed defense so far, Paul tells Agrippa that the Gospel is about turning people “from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God.” (Acts 26:18). The Gospel means people “will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith” in Jesus (Acts 26:18).

Paul is not afraid to tell them that his ministry is nothing unless he teaches exactly what the Scriptures promised—that the Messiah would suffer, rise from the dead, and bring God’s light to everyone (Acts 26:22-23).

There was a reason Paul didn’t fear death. He knew the God who had conquered it. Whether people thought he was insane or not (Acts 26:24), he didn’t care. All he wanted was for everyone to become as free as he was (Acts 26:29). The Gospel had brought Paul from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. He was free—even when he was in chains.

What fears are holding you back from living boldly for Jesus?

Ask God today to let the truth of the Gospel—his light, his power, and his victory—set you free.