That tender moment is forever lost.

Sunday 2-19-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Num 5 – 6, Psalm 22 and Acts 26

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 26:17-20 Yes, I am going to send you to the Gentiles,  to open their eyes so they may turn from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God's people, who are set apart by faith in me.'  "And so, O King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to that vision from heaven. I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must turn from their sins and turn to God… NLT

O. Dr. Luke, the author of the book of Acts, must have been present in this solemn occasion, since he transcribes very clearly Paul’s message that day. It was a sermon directed toward these high-class Gentiles and especially to King Agrippa.  Paul discloses that he knows King Agrippa is, not only well acquainted with the prophecies of the Jewish scriptures, but he even believes they are true.  And now, with great passion, he gives this king a chance to meet the King of Kings… the Messiah that was killed and rose again.  The room is charged with Holy Spirit conviction when Governor Festus suddenly interrupts, yelling, “Paul, you are crazy!” It is so typical of the devil that wants to disturb an urgent “altar call” of a loving God for sinners to run to fall at the feet of the resurrected Savior.  

A. It is similar to many occasions while preaching to the lost. The preacher has poured out his or her heart with a passion. The message is heard. The Holy Spirit of God is touching the hearts of some who are balancing in the tender moment of decision… when suddenly someone sets off a volley of fireworks just outside the open windows or a little baby screams and will not be silenced… and an excuse is given for everyone to escape and leave the room without the miracle that Jesus had for them.

P. Oh Lord, I pray for those that “almost become Christians”. They were so close. They felt the tug of Your Holy Spirit, but the enemy of their souls distracted them and gave them the easy option to flee from the scene. Oh God! Please chase them down. Please let Your Word and Your Holy Spirit conviction follow them and trouble them until they crumble at Your feet in surrender. Then they will find a new life walking with You from now into eternity. Amen.

Ralph