Redeem the Time

Scott Beyer
09/15/23 - Bulletin

“But after two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, and wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul imprisoned.” (Acts 24:27)

For two years Paul went without justice.  730 days of his life were stolen from him by an unjust system that would rather let him rot for political convenience than give him a fair trial.  What Felix did to Paul wasn’t fair… yet, Paul served the Lord those two years anyways.

Those two years were not wasted by Paul because the system was unjust.  Paul refused to accept victimhood.  Paul strengthened himself in the Lord and preached the gospel more effectively under house arrest than most of us do unshackled.  No excuses from Paul.

Paul redeemed the time and went on to preach to kings.  What could have been lost time was used by Paul as God’s time.  When your plans change and life doesn’t seem fair – look around; you might just have been given some unexpected opportunities.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: Acts 24:22-27

Questions to ask:

1. How does this show the continuation of Jesus’ work now going on in the church?
2. How is the gospel, Paul’s preaching, and/or Paul’s defense received?
3. What is the Holy Spirit doing in this text?
4. What in our reading shows how Paul handled adversity and difficulty?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul.  If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision

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