(Reposted from 8/22/10)
Today’s Bible Reading:
Numbers 1-2, Acts 24
Topic: Human Nature
SCRIPTURE: Acts 24
A full reading of Acts 24 reveals the
following cast of characters in a real life courtroom drama:
Ananias
– High Priest (Corrupt Politician)
Felix
– Governor/Judge (Corrupt Politician)
Tertullus
– Orator (Slick Lawyer)
Lysias
– Military Commander (Conscientious Soldier)
Paul –
The Accused (Courageous Preacher)
OBSERVATION:
In reading Acts 24, it strikes me that the character of
people—of societies—has not changed much over the centuries. In Paul’s day, as in ours, they had corrupt
politicians and slick lawyers. Aside
from Paul, the noblest character in this chapter seems to be Lysias—a soldier
trying to do his duty rightly. Ananias
was a hardened religious ruler who would not have his authority or his theology
challenged. Felix was in it for the
money; he wanted Paul to pay him bribe money (v. 26). Tertullus was a slick lawyer who would
probably argue for whoever paid him the most.
APPLICATION:
The other thing that strikes me in reading Acts 24, is that
every character mentioned is loved by God.
Even those who argue and resist the hardest against the Way need to be
reached for Jesus.
PRAYER:
Lord, may even those who resist You somehow be changed.
Through Christ.
Amen. –AP
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