Paul’s Reasoning

Just for YOUth…

While Paul spoke to Felix (Acts 24:22-27) he “reasoned” with him. Following God is the reasonable thing to do (Romans 12:1, 2). About what did Paul reason with the king?

First, he reasoned about righteousness. Regardless of ones position in life he needs to follow God’s righteousness (Romans 10:3). This simply means that we are to do what is RIGHT (eous) before our Father in heaven. One should begin early in life to know right from wrong. The writer of Hebrews said that we should “discern both good and evil” (5:14).
Second, Paul warned the king about temperance. Temperance is the ability of self control. Both Luke 9:23 and 1 Corinthians 9:27 speak to this great need. Many sins are committed because people say they have no self control. Both young and old excuse themselves by saying they have no temperance. They just could not help themselves. The answer to the question of sin is NO!

Finally, Paul speaks about the judgment to come. God will not and cannot overlook sin. We will all (2 Corinthians 5:10) be judged by our works (Revelation 20:13). Therefore we ought to be serious about making the right decisions. The direction one takes in life will lead to a certain destination (Matthew 7:13-14). Don’t follow a path simply because you think it is right (Proverbs 14:12). We must understand that we are accountable for our actions. We will give an answer to God for what we have done.

Terry Claunch