“But I found that he had done nothing deserving death. And as he himself appealed to the emperor, I decided to go ahead and send him. But I have nothing definite to write to my lord about him. Therefore I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that, after we have examined him, I may have something to write.” – Acts 25:25-26
Isn’t it amazing how God can use an obvious miscarriage of justice to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Paul had been attacked by a mob in Jerusalem when he’d done nothing they accused him of. He was arrested by Roman soldiers who had no idea what he did or didn’t do. The threats of the mob forced him to be moved, under military guard, to Caesarea. This gave him the opportunity to share the truth about Jesus Christ with governors, kings, their families, and their staffs. When the unjust persecution of the local leaders continued, this opened the door for Paul to exercise his rights and appeal to Caesar. That appeal let him preach Christ not only to Caesar but to many people of influence in Rome.
Paul never could have planned or arranged a mission trip that would let him share Christ with soldiers, officers, bureaucrats, governors, kings, and the emperor of Rome. However, God could! God’s means of arranging that trip was through the persecution of those most opposed to Christ. May this be a reminder to all of us who follow Jesus! Don’t get discouraged if you’re opposed by those who don’t yet know Jesus. Don’t get discouraged if they’re angry or resort to legal threats. Their opposition may be used by God to introduce many others to Jesus. Don’t get discouraged! Share Jesus and use the new and unexpected opportunities to share Christ boldly like Paul.
Look for the hidden hand of God at work in even the darkest of situations. Be encouraged that He can use trials and tribulations for His glory. Don’t worry about what the world will say or do, simply be faithful to the commands of Christ. Make disciples. Baptize and teach believers. Do this while going, even if you’re going against your will! #FollowJesus