In the last few chapters of Acts, we see the perils of the Apostle Paul. Being accused by his own countrymen, who would rather that he was dead, Paul was given many opportunities to preach the Gospel to those that were in authority. In Acts chapter 24, we see Paul being accused before governor Felix. He was simply being accused of being a Christian. But nonetheless, he cheerfully gave his defense. He started out by saying that the accusations brought against him by his own Jewish brethren were not so. The only thing that he could be called in question about, is found in verses 14-16 “But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets: (15) And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. (16) And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.” Paul goes on to say in verse 21 “Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.”

Even in the midst of these very serious charges that were brought against Paul (Vs. 5-6), God’s providence was working in this very situation. We see that Paul had opportunity, even in this distress of his life, to preach the Gospel to governor Felix. In verse 25, it says that Paul reasoned with Felix about righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come. Paul was telling him what Almighty God expected of him, and how he would be able to make himself acceptable to God. Paul was teaching Felix about self control, something he obviously didn’t have much of, being persuaded by bribes of money (verse 26), and by implication, the self control that it takes to be a Christian and keeping ones body under control to not become rejected in that last day (1 Cor. 9:27).

We also see Paul preaching to Felix about the judgment to come, about the day that we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ (Rom. 14:10) to give account of the deeds that we have done in this life (2 Cor 5:10).

Paul said in 2 Cor. 5:11, “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.” This is the reason he was giving His defense here before Felix. A very commanding speech he made, boldly proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. But what was the response he received? The Words of Life that Paul preached to Felix made him tremble (Acts 24:25). He realized that what Paul was saying was true. But did he respond favorably to the Gospel (1 Pet. 1:22)? No, Felix answered and said “Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.” Not now Paul, I cannot obey God now. When the time comes that it is easier for me, I will call back for you. It is very sad to note that we never find in the Scriptures that Felix ever obeyed God.

Are you a “Felix”? Do you understand what it takes to be righteous before God, but yet have not obeyed him? Are you waiting for that “convenient season”? To be righteous before God takes more than just saying that I believe in Jesus, and accept him in my life. You must obey the Gospel; Believe (Rom 10:9), Repent (Acts 17:30), Confess Christ (Acts 8:37), and be baptized for the remission of sins (1 Pet. 3:20-21).

If you find yourself in need of Bible study, or would like to hear more on any given subject, please let us know. If you have any questions or comments, contact us: Clintwood church of Christ, P.O. Box 746, Clintwood, Va. 24228, or Gary Mullins, 265 Stony Br., Clintwood, Va. 24228, or email garycrystal@gmail.com. I would like to encourage you to listen to WDIC 1430 AM at 9:00 Sunday mornings for more from God’s Word. Also, you are invited to worship with us Sun-10 AM Bible Study; 11 AM Worship Service; 6 PM Service; Wed-7 PM Bible Study.