Monday, January 26, 2009

Almost Thou Persuadest Me to Be a Christian

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.
(Act 26:28-29)

Can someone be persuaded to be a Christian? If anyone could successfully persuade someone to "accept Christ" surely the Apostle Paul could have done it. Yet, it seems as though even through the testimony of Paul and the "almost persuaded" heart of Agrippa Paul does not see success in the conversion of the king.

This passage is an example of God's election. We know that if Christ had chosen Agrippa as He had done Paul, then certainly Agrippa would not just be "almost persuaded," but he would have indeed repented of his sins and trusted in Christ for his salvation.

Notice that Paul has a great attitude. Paul's desire was that all who heard him would be saved. Yet, God in His providence elects whom He wills.

Friends, do not use election as an excuse for not coming to Christ. Rather know that if and when you come, you come only because of the Lord's drawing and not through any effort of your own.

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