Acts 26 | Telling God's Story and Your Storyნიმუში

Offering an Invitation

“I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains” (Acts 26:29, NIV).

It seems Paul shared his story willingly. Yes, he was on trial, and in a sense, forced to testify. But you get the sense that he was eager, even happy, for this opportunity.

The willingness seems rooted in a couple of things. First, obedience to the commission Jesus gave him. After all, Jesus told him, “I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me” (Acts 26:16, NIV). If Jesus tells you to do something, it’s best that you do it.

But second, it seems to flow from a desire that God’s story would enter into the lives of other people’s stories, too. Even his captors. Even his judge.

Because when you experience the wonder of God and what Jesus has done for you, you’ll want the same for everyone.

After testifying to the death and resurrection of Jesus and Festus’s interruption that Paul’s great learning was driving him insane, listen to what Paul says next:

“I am not insane, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and reasonable. The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do” (Acts 26:25-27, NIV).

Look at the invitation! Look at the challenge! “Do you believe the prophets? I know you do.”

And Agrippa is not unaware: “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?”

To which Paul replies: “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains”(Acts 26:28-29, NIV).

The challenge becomes an invitation. At first, directed. Then open-ended. Urgency without pressure. Putting the call to response squarely in their court.

There’s something to learn in telling God’s story from Paul. Don’t waste the opportunity as merely the conveyance of information. Use it to invite others to share in the story God is weaving in your life, and their life, too.

Tips for Telling the Story

When you get the opportunity to tell God’s story and your story, how can you invite someone to make it part of their story, too?

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