Devo Acts 24

Chapter 24
10When the governor motioned for him to speak, Paul replied: “I know that for
a number of years you have been a judge over this nation; so I gladly make my
defense.
22Then Felix, who was well acquainted with the Way, adjourned the proceedings.
“When Lysias the commander comes,” he said, “I will decide your case.” 23He
ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard but to give him some freedom
and permit his friends to take care of his needs. 24Several days later Felix came
with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him
as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25As Paul discoursed on righteousness,
self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough
for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 26At
the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for
him frequently and talked with him. 27When two years had passed, Felix was
succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews,
he left Paul in prison.

Meditation:
1. This chapter seems to be a defeat for Paul. He made a compelling defense
before the Roman Governor Felix, and showed how weak the chief priest’s
case against him was. But Felix waffled, and refused to decide the case. Paul
was put under house arrest, and kept there for two years. Felix only talked to
Paul from time to time in the hope of a bribe. It looked like failure.
2. But in fact it was success! For Paul, and the Gospel, had a hearing. We
shouldn’t expect to be popular, or that the majority of folks will experience
instant conversion. But at least we must have a chance to be heard.
3. To follow up on #4 of Ch 22’s meditation; was there an opportunity for me to
share my story with someone? Did I have a hearing? How was it received?
What did I learn from this experience?

Personal Note:
Imagine if we have a chance to witness God to the Parliament (Government Meeting), Stephen Harper allows us to share our testimony and the Gospel to a national broadcast, would you consider this a success?  Even if this were to happen, there would be oppositions from everywhere to attack the Gospel.


In my setting, there were opportunities to share my story with my basketball buddies, my best friends from High School...  I did have a hearing as we do things we enjoy and I had opportunities to share about how God works in my life.  
How was it received?  They hear it but they don't want me to convert them, sometimes they would make fun of me.  I learn that sharing the Gospel can be difficult, but there is joy and peace after I witness for God.  I am convicted that Paul felt great joy after he witness in front of the key governing leaders.