Except for These Chains

IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

Except for These Chains

Date: Sep. 7, 2019

Passage

Acts 26:24-32 (ESV)

24 And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” 25 But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. 26 For the king knows about these things, and to him I speak boldly. For I am persuaded that none of these things has escaped his notice, for this has not been done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” 28 And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” 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.”

30 Then the king rose, and the governor and Bernice and those who were sitting with them. 31 And when they had withdrawn, they said to one another, “This man is doing nothing to deserve death or imprisonment.” 32 And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

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Daily Bread

Key Verse: 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.”

1. Paul and Festus (24-26)

Paul's life testimony culminated in his testifying to Jesus, who suffered and rose from the dead, and who brought the message of light to all people. Governor Festus interrupted Paul and accused him of being out of his mind. He thought his great learning had made him insane. This is a common reaction when we talk about how Jesus has changed us. Paul reacted calmly, saying he was not insane. Paul spoke only what was true and reasonable.

2. Paul and Agrippa (27-32)

Then Paul asked King Agrippa directly, "Do you believe the prophets? I know you do." Paul had also offended Agrippa. He thought Paul was trying to make him into a Christian (as if that were a horrible thing!) Paul's response was actually his prayer for Agrippa. It should be our prayer for all unbelievers: "Short time or long, I pray that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains." Paul could easily have been set free. But he chose to follow God's leading to Rome.

Prayer: Prayer: Lord, I pray that all people may listen to you and become like Paul.

One Word: "...except for these chains"

The Consequences of Deception

Genesis 27:30-46

Key Verse: 27:33

Then Isaac trembled very violently and said, “Who was it then that hunted game and brought it to me, and I ate it all before you came, and I have blessed him? Yes, and he shall be blessed.”

Today's Question

What does the eighth commandment forbid?

See answer and references