Analysis of a Testimony

Acts 26:1-23

June 28, 1998

 

I. Demonstration of Respect

 

1. Agrippa's background

 

     a. Great-grandfather - Herod the Great, tried to destroy Jews

    b. Great-uncle - Antipas the tetrarch of Galilee had John the Baptist beheaded

    c. Agrippa himself was disliked by Jews because of alleged incestuous relationship with his sister Bernice

 

2. Paul commends where he can (vv. 1-3)

 

3. Establishes relationship

 

Most people come to Christ through relationships

 

 

II. Explanation of Religious Life (vv. 4-8)

 

1. Prepare for distinction between religious life and relationship to Christ

 

2. Identify roots of Judaism with revelation in Christ

 

 

III. Admission of Rebellion Against God (vv. 9-11)

 

1. Trip from religion to rebellion

No satisfaction in mere religion.

 

2. Enmity with God led to passionate rebellion which he considered justifiable

 

 

IV. Details of Conversion (vv. 12-18)

 

1. Centered on God's pursuit of the sinner.

What barriers did He shatter to bring you to Himself?

 

2. Spiritual condition exposed (v. 14)

 

3. Christ identified (v. 15)

 

4. Changes wrought (vv. 16-18)

 

     a. A new mission in life (v. 16)

    b. Holy to the Lord (v. 16)

    c. Dependence upon the Lord (v. 17)

    d. New theology (v. 18)

 

 

V. Biblical Integrity v. 19-23 (especially vv. 22-23)

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