Magnificent Message -- February 17, 2009

20Or else let those who are here themselves say if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, 21unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’

Acts 24:20-21

Paul admitted to believing in the resurrection. He denied being a bad citizen unless believing in the resurrection was poor citizenship. In that case, he was clear where he stood no matter what the consequences would be. Paul denied any misconduct except for proclaiming his faith.

Can I say the same? Is my life inoffensive except for my belief in Christ? Paul was clear that what upset those he was in conflict with was his faith not any misbehavior. It is my desire to be the same. If anything offends those around me, I want it to be my faith and not my immaturity.

Let’s commit to not fearing to cause a disturbance for Jesus. If those around me don’t like my message then there is not much I can do about it since I believe it affects eternity. However, if I am offending them so they can’t hear the message then I need to grow up so they have a chance to clearly hear the message to accept or reject in on the message’s own merit.

Making the Most of the Message,

Pastor Jason