The
readings from Acts 24:1-23 and 2 Samuel 19:1-23 deal with how we can use our
consciences to deal with the consequences of rebellion. In the reading we just
heard from Acts 24:1-23, Paul has been arrested and is appearing before the
governor Felix to answer the charges against him. Tartullus, the prosecutor,
tries to "butter up" Felix by complimenting him on the peace and
prosperity he has brought as the governor. Felix did keep the peace and make
reforms, but his overall performance as governor was disappointing. In fact, he
was later recalled to Rome by the Emperor Nero because he was accused of taking
bribes from robbers. Felix was replaced by Festus.
Paul
was accused of inciting riots and desecrating the temple. In his defence Paul
argued that he worshipped the god of Abraham and Isaac, but he also mentioned
that he believed in the resurrection. Paul presented his testimony truthfully.
He was not afraid to stat his beliefs, which were different from those of his
accusers. In other words, Paul showed the courage of the risen Saviour.
Felix
drew his strength from the proceeds of crime. Paul drew his strength from his
faith. Felix was alarmed by Paul's strength. Paul did not try to bribe his way
out of jail like Felix hoped he would. In fact, Paul used the power of the
Gospel to preach to Felix and his wife Drusilla. Felix's greed was stronger
than the urge to accept Christ. He returned to Rome without power or hope. We
need to follow Paul's example by boldly proclaiming the Good News to anyone and
everyone.
The
events in 2 Samuel 19:1-23 occur just after the rebellion led by David's son
Absalom has been put down. Absalom was killed, but the failure of his rebellion
did not restore David to the throne. David failed to reward his supporters,
court those who were neutral or convince his opponents that he would not seek
revenge. David's general Joab confronted him about these failures. When David
saw that his grief was preventing him from doing what was right, he overcame
his grief and did what he had to do to return to power.
When
David did what was right, God restored him to power. When Paul did what was
right, God sustained him in prison. God wants his people to be united and to
not engage in petty squabbles, arguments or fights over minor issues (like the
Sadducees and Pharisees argued with Paul). Like Paul, David used the moral
compass God gave everyone to protect and guide them. This moral compass
revealed God to David and Paul, and it reveals God to us today.
Paul
wasn't discouraged when Felix left his case in the hands of Agrippa and Festus.
In fact, it increased his passion and
commitment to God. It reinforced his patience when he had to wait for his
accusers to arrive. He allowed God to control his thoughts, emotions and
speech. God gave him the right perspective. He allowed God to empower him to respond
to the charges in a godly manner. He allowed God to use his tongue to diffuse
the situation instead of inflaming it.
God
encourages some of us to be more contagious in communicating love. He
encourages others to be more bold in sharing their faith. He encourages some to
tithe. Others are encouraged by him to
respond to an opportunity to become leaders in the church and leaders in
the faith.
Paul
and David had clear consciences when they did what was right. We can also have
clear consciences when we do what is right. A good conscience will help us make
choices and take actions that are appropriate to God's kingdom. Paul's
conscience allowed his to remain calm and rest his case with God. Once we come to Christ, our conscience will be
our guide as long as we do not sin. We must keep our conscience aligned with
the Scriptures and tender before God.
Bibliography
1.
Ogilvie, L.J.
: The Preacher's Commentary Series, Vol.
28: Acts (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc.; 1983)
2.
Stanley,
C.F.: The Charles F. Stanley Life
Principles Bible, NASV (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc.; 2009)
3.
Chafin, K.L.
& Ogilvie, L.J. : The Preacher's
Commentary Series, Vol. 8: 1,2 Samuel (Nashville,
TN: Thomas Nelson Inc.; 1989)
4.
Lucado, M: The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible (Nashville,
TN: Thomas Nelson Inc.)
5.
Dr. Charles
Stanley, "A Clear Conscience". Retrieved from
Crosswalk@crosswalkmail.com
6.
Dr. Charles
Stanley, "Being a Patient Person". Retrieved from
Crosswalk@crosswalkmail.com
7.
T.M. Moore,
"A Good Conscience". Retrieved from www.colsoncenter.org
8.
Charles R.
Swindoll, "Grace Leads You Home". Retrieved from
Insight.for.Living@insight.org
9.
Dr. Neil
Anderson, "A Blameless Conscience". Retrieved from Retrieved from
Crosswalk@crosswalkmail.com
10.
Dr. David
Jeremiah, "Sandpapering Your Fingers". Retrieved from
turningpoint@davidjeremiah.org
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