Today’s Reading, Acts 24-26
Focal Scripture: Acts 26:24 “As he was saying these things in his defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You’re out of your mind, Paul! Too much study is driving you mad.”
Being well read and an expert in what you know should be the expectation not the exception to the rule. If a person claims to believe something they should push themselves to know all they can about that topic. Especially, if that topic is to be the focal point of your life. Imagine going to a museum and the person who is leading you around can’t explain one artifact. You ask questions and they tell you “I’m not an expert, go find answers yourself.” That institution and person would lose all credibility.
In today’s reading Paul has appealed to Caesar. However, before he goes to Caesar he is before Festus. Paul is explaining that the Jews have no case against him. He is also explaining his conversion experience. He wants all who are able to hear to understand his life has been changed. Paul is so studied and so aware of his people’s history that Festus believes he has been driven mad. He spends time in the Torah and with the prophets. He does this to show how all scripture points to Jesus as the promised Messiah.
So what about you? Are you studied and know the scriptures? I know this will ruffle some feathers but if you claim to be a believer and don’t know the book their is a major disconnect. How can I say that? Because I watch people who are professing believers talk about secular books and activities with passion. They know every detail and love to speak about them daily. If it is not found in books it is You Tube videos or podcasts. The point is that they have a thirst for knowledge. They can be considered to be obsessed.
As believers nothing should take control of our lives more than knowing Jesus. This means study and this means reading. It requires devotion and planning to see the deep things of God. We need to raise our expectations of believers when it comes to basics of the faith. Just like we wouldn’t believe a person who doesn’t know their profession, it is difficult to believe a person who doesn’t know their faith of the God that gave it to them intimately.
Have people called you mad for your desire to know scripture. Study and be able to have basic conversations. Don’t settle for less and don’t settle for average in your faith.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Acts 27-28
