INSANITY TO SOME REVELATION TO OTHERS

Acts 26:23-25

"...that the Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles." At this point Festus interrupted Paul's defense. "You are out of your mind, Paul!" he shouted. "Your great learning is driving you insane." "I am not insane, most excellent Festus," Paul replied. "What I am saying is true and reasonable."


It never ceases to amaze me at the different responses I receive from people when I share the Gospel with them. Some people look at me as if I'm a madman; while others melt emotionally in relief with tears running down their face as they recognize the truth: God loves us so much He died for us. Call me insane, but the idea that I need a Savior is true and reasonable to me.
One indication of the truth of God's plan for salvation is in the way Festus responded to Paul's words -- he interrupted, and then shouted "You are out of your mind, Paul!" I guess Festus didn't much like the idea that Paul might be right about God, therefore his only choice was to close his ears and turn Paul off.
I have a friend who has gone down to Dana Point Harbor virtually every Saturday for the last four years to pass out Gospel tracts and witness about Jesus. Guess how many people he has led to Christ over the years? Eleven. Praise God for the eleven souls who have been saved, but just think about how many have rejected the offer of eternal life. My friend has been physically threatened, cursed, cussed and shouted at, yet he has remained steadfast is his devotion toward saving lives for eternity. His courage reminds me of Paul.


Does it take courage to share the Gospel with others? I guess it depends on the strength of your conviction and faith. In my opinion if we are convinced of the consequences of sin we will overcome our inhibitions and "proclaim the light" of Jesus Christ; even if people consider us insane. The gift of eternal life is insanity to some yet revelation to others. I once asked my friend how he dealt with all the rejection he received from sharing the Gospel. He answered, "By the response of the few who saw the light." Are you denying those you meet the opportunity to receive Jesus Christ? Will you allow Christ to work in you to overcome your fear or inhibition?

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