Paul’s Standard Testimony

Text: Acts 26:1-23

Reflection and Question: Herod Agrippa, the puppet of the Romans, invites Paul to give his testimony and Paul proceeds to tell his story. He describes his fierce persecution of those devoted to Jesus and his conversion on the Damascus road when Jesus spoke directly to him. Paul explains his mission to the Gentiles and concludes with the Gospel message: “that the Messiah must suffer, and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light.” Agrippa finds nothing deserving punishment in Paul’s words, but he is silent about whether he believes. Does Paul persuade you?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to hear Paul with fresh ears. Help us to wonder at what Paul tells us, to go beyond Agrippa to see the light You proclaim even now. And help us to share our testimony of faith just as Paul has here. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).