WEDNESDAY January 24, 2024

Faith in Christ

And after some days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.”
Acts 24:24-25

After some days passed, intrigued by Paul’s defense and his faith in Christ, Felix decided he would talk with him once again. This time his wife Drusilla joined him. Remember, she was also the daughter of Herod. She was actually living with Felix in an adulterous relationship. He had persuaded her to leave her husband and live with him. So I am sure he was feeling guilty, and, at the same time, he was searching for the truth.

Paul taught Felix and Drusilla about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. He taught them about a holy life. You would think that Paul’s message would cause them to fear God and repent of their sin! When it came time to make a commitment to Christ, although afraid of God’s judgment, Felix sent Paul away for a more convenient time. Yet there was no guarantee a more convenient time would come. Why was it not convenient for him to accept Christ at the present time? Perhaps the Gospel made Felix uncomfortable and indecisive about his sin.

It was complicated––he was living with the daughter of a king. For a man in his position, things might not go so well. Perhaps he stood to lose power and prestige in an earthly kingdom. Did he fear Herod, an earthly king, more than a heavenly King? What would be the personal cost to him?

Many people search for the truth. They hear the Gospel, but they delay in accepting Christ for a more convenient time. What are the reasons for their excuses and delays? Life is complicated. Listen, whatever your situation is, why not deal with your guilt and sin by repenting and placing your faith in Christ alone? Count the cost in following Jesus. If you wait, it may be too late.

When we come to Christ, we’re no longer the most important person in the world to us; Christ is. Instead of living only for ourselves, we have a higher goal; to live for Jesus.
~Billy Graham~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!