February 19, 2016:  SOAP #2269:   

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 26:24 At this point Festus interrupted Paul’s defense. “You are out of your mind, Paul!” he shouted. “Your great learning is driving you insane.” 25 “I am not insane, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and reasonable.

Observation:   Festus had invited King Agrippa to listen to Paul and then give advice on what charges to write out when sending Paul to Rome.  As Paul is passionately speaking to King Agrippa, Festus loudly interrupts.  Two dynamics were at work as Paul was speaking.  First he was speaking truth that could not be denied.  It was reasonable.  Second, the anointing of the Holy Spirit was upon Paul as he spoke.  The Holy Spirit was convicting the hearts of the hearers.  The Spirit’s presence can be seen in Festus’ reaction.  He had to respond.  He interrupted King Agrippa’s hearing.

Application:   If I am speaking to a large gathering, or to a single individual, it is a team ministry.  God depends on me to open my mouth and speak the truth; I depend on the Holy Spirit to do the anointing and convicting.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, may I always speak word that are true and reasonable.  I want to speak words that you can anoint.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!