ALMOST

Acts 26:24-29 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. 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.

The various attitudes people hold concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. For instance, in this passage, three different men are mentioned: Festus, Paul, and King Agrippa II. Each of these men represents a different attitude toward Jesus.

Festus represents those who HATE the Lord. He was antagonistic toward the Gospel message. He accused Paul of being “mad”. They said the same thing about Jesus when He was here, Mark 3:21; John 10:20. No one says that about people who go all out for money, pleasure or power. But, they do about those who go all out for the Lord!

Paul represents those who HONOR the Lord. He was sold out and living every minute of his life for Jesus, Phil. 1:21. I want to be like Paul!

Then there is Agrippa. He represents those who are HOLDING OUT on the Lord. People like Agrippa are right on the verge of coming to Jesus, but for some reason, they are holding out. He was close, but as they say, “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades”. An “almost Christian” is still not saved!