to this day i have had the help that comes from God, and so i stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and moses said would come to pass: that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the gentiles.” [acts 26:22-23]
the peace of saying what’s already been said
this is paul’s continued defense, saying that christianity is not a new religion, but the fulfillment of the jew’s law and prophets. paul isn’t saying anything new that’s he’s had to make up, but only what the word has already said! how would that change how you think about sharing the gospel with the lost, and how would that change how you discuss scripture with your fellow believers, if you realized it wasn’t up to you to conjure up the perfect explanation? what would it look like for you to start believing that everyone’s answer is already in the scriptures? for me, it’s a weight off the shoulders!
Lord, as we apply the gospel with fellow believers and share it with the lost, help us to see the scriptures that will address their fears and doubts, and live in trust that it’s not our job to think up perfect responses, but that you are capable of saving and sanctifying hearts no matter how well we speak!
~ stephen hall