What Shall I Write?

Acts 25
But what shall I write the emperor? For there is no clear charge
against him.So I brought him before all of you, and especially you,
King Agrippa, so that after we examine him, I might have something
to  write.  Acts 25:26  NLT


LET IT GLOW

After two years in prison, Paul appeared before the new governor, Festus,
who replace Felix. The Jews wanted Paul tried in Jerusalem, but Festus
insisted that Paul stay in Caesarea. If Paul had been transfered to Jerusalem,
he would have been ambushed and killed on the way, which was the plan.
(from verse 3 NLT)

As a Roman citizen, Paul appeals to Caesar, who is the notorious Nero.

By the act of appeal, Paul takes himself out of the jurisdiction both of the
Jewish court (the Sanhedrin) and the jurisdiction of Festus as well.
(Nelson's Illustrated Bible Handbook)

The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible states:

The picture is that of men trying to silence and do away with God's true
messenger. And note: they were religionists within the body of religion. How
often men fear and fight against the truth of Christ and His messengers and
fear the loss of their own influence, position, and esteem.

Paul's influence continues on how many centuries? He was determined to go
to Rome and be a witness for Christ there, according to God's will. He had
to watch out for wolves in sheep's clothing, so to speak.


LET IT GROW

Did you ever write a letter in which you were not sure what to say or how to
say it? You knew the purpose, but wanted to say it in an easy way. It is a
difficut task. Festus had the task ahead of him, but wanted Agrippa to help
him. Here's what happened.

Festus had visitors, King Agrippa and his sister Bernice. They came to
congratulate Festus on his new position. Festus filled in Agrippa on Paul's
situation:
Jewish elders pressed charges against him and asked Festus to condemn
Paul. He pointed out that the Roman law did not convict people without a
trial. (from NLT-verses 15-16)
The accusations were something about their religion and a dead man named
Jesus, who Paul insisted was alive. (NLT verse 19)
Paul refused to stand trial in Jerusalem, and appealed the emperor.
Then Festus says the key verse 26: What shall I write the emperor? It makes
no sense to send a prisoner to the emperor without specifying the charges
against him.
My words need to be chosen carefully.

LET IT GO

Always be on the alert for wolves. Don't be one myself.

Seek the Lord's will in a difficult situation.

Pray before writing a difficutl letter. Do all for the glory of God.