December 23, 2011

Acts 26:19 "So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven."  In this scene, Paul is defending himself before the Romans.  (Interesting note:  King Agrippa was the last of the Herrodian kings whose lineage could be traced back to King Herod.  We know that it was King Herod that tired to kill baby Jesus by ordering the death of many babies.  Matthew 2:16   Now Paul, who is spreading the faith, is testifying before a relative of Herod.  Herod- dead.  Agrippa- dead.  Christ- still living!)

Paul is being accused of many serious things by the Jews.  He knows his life is at stake.  (Acts 25:10-11)  


Paul addresses the charges against him brought by the Jews in Acts 26.  He takes the Festus and Agrippa on a journey through his life as persecuter turned preacher, but the foundation of his defense is "I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven."

Oh that we all could say that with such confidence.  "I was not disobedient."

It's time for the "but monkeys". . .  

"But I did not have a vision."  Bull pucky!  The Bible illustrates and the Holy Spirit convicts.  We know when we are disobedient.

"But in today's society it is much harder to live an obedient life."  REALLY!  Paul turned his back on his entire lifestyle in just three days and became obedient to the point of persecution and death.  (Acts 9)

"But you don't know how hateful and unfriendly the people at work are toward me."  Boo-hoo.  Any of them turned you over to the authorities in hopes you would be killed?  (Acts 22)

If we (and I most certainly include "me" in that "we") are gut-level honest, our disobedience is a result of our laziness, pride, arrogance and selfishness.  No reasons for disobedience.  Excuses, yes.  Reasons, no.

However, there is hope.  Bible study, meditation and unceasing prayer will greatly decrease those instances of disobedience in our lives.

Please pray that my disobedience will decrease as my obedience increases.