Sunday 16 August 2020 //
Acts 25-26 | Paul the Defender //
Andy Lawrie preaching //
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Paul faced malicious, false charges brought against him by the jealous Jewish leaders. He was caught in a spiritual war - a fight against the powers of darkness, seeking to suppress the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. //
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Therefore we must put on the armour of God (Ephesians 6), always on the alert to the schemes and attacks of the devil. The enemy lies in wait, looking for opportunities to oppose God’s purposes. But, compared to God, he has limited power. //
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We must also be on our guard against our own sinful nature. Foolish arguments, pride, envy, poor doctrine - all these and more can lead us into danger. Wisdom is to feed regularly on God’s word, making careful choices about what we take into our minds and hearts. //
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In every case, Paul’s defence when on trial is the gospel of Christ - the salvation for all his hearers and the salvation open to us and to all around us. Acts 26:29: And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am--except for these chains.”
