In Acts 26, the Apostle Paul stands before King Agrippa, Governor Festus, and other dignitaries. Though Paul is the prisoner, he uses the opportunity not simply to defend himself, but to share his testimony, proclaim Jesus Christ, and call those listening to personally respond to the Gospel.
Agrippa’s response is one of the most sobering statements in Scripture:
“Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” — Acts 26:28
In this message from The Unstoppable Church series, Pastor John Mix examines how the truth of Christ confronts the human heart and calls each person to a response.
Acts 26 reminds us that:
- We must recognize the reality of sin. Religious knowledge, good works, and personal effort cannot remove our guilt before God.
- We must respond to conviction. The Holy Spirit exposes sin and reveals our need for Christ, but conviction can be resisted.
- We must receive the redemption Christ offers. Forgiveness is not earned through religion or good works. Jesus Christ paid the price for our redemption through His death and resurrection.
- We must live surrendered to Christ. Paul did not simply hear Christ’s call; his encounter with Jesus changed the direction of his life.
- We must faithfully share the Gospel. Paul wanted more than to win an argument. His desire was for everyone who heard him to know Christ.
Agrippa heard the truth. He came close. But almost is not enough.
Conviction is not conversion. Emotion is not conversion. Religion is not conversion. Knowledge is not conversion. Jesus Christ is the Savior.
Acts 26 leaves each of us with an important question: What will you do with what God has shown you?
For those who have never trusted Christ, the call is to respond to Him in repentance and faith. For believers, the challenge is to live surrendered to Christ and faithfully tell others what He has done.
Recognize your sin. Respond to conviction. Receive Christ. Repent and obey. Remain faithful. Repeat the Gospel.
