Scripture (KJV) – Acts 26:28
“Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.”
Reflection
There may be no more dangerous place spiritually than being almost persuaded.
King Agrippa had just listened as Paul testified about Jesus Christ. Paul spoke about his own conversion, the resurrection of Christ, and the message God had called him to preach. Agrippa heard enough truth to understand what Paul was saying.
Then came those heartbreaking words:
“Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.”
Almost.
A person can almost believe the Gospel. Almost repent. Almost surrender to Christ. Almost decide that today will be the day they are saved.
But almost saved is still lost.
Knowing about Jesus is not the same as knowing Him as Savior. Growing up in church does not save us. Having Christian parents does not save us. Owning a Bible, believing that God exists, or trying to live a good life cannot remove our sin.
Every person must personally respond to Jesus Christ.
One of Satan’s most effective lies may simply be, “You can do it later.”
He does not have to convince someone that Jesus never existed. He does not even have to convince them that the Gospel is false. If he can persuade someone to continually postpone salvation, another day passes without Christ.
But none of us is promised another day.
There comes a moment when “almost” becomes too late.
This should also challenge those of us who already know Christ. There may be people around us who are closer to receiving Christ than we realize. A family member, friend, coworker, or neighbor may have questions they have never spoken aloud.
Do not assume somebody else will tell them.
Pray for them. Love them. Share the Gospel clearly. Tell them what Jesus Christ has done for you. We cannot make anyone believe, but we can make certain they hear the truth.
If you have never trusted Jesus Christ, do not settle for being almost persuaded. Christ died for your sins, was buried, and rose again. Salvation is available today.
Almost is one of the saddest words that could ever be connected with eternity. Do not be almost persuaded. Come to Christ while there is still time.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to die for our sins and for making salvation available through Him. I pray for every person who has heard the Gospel but continues to put off receiving Christ. Bring conviction through the Holy Spirit and help them understand the seriousness of eternity. Give me a greater burden for the lost and courage to speak about Jesus when You give me the opportunity. Keep me from assuming there will always be another day or another chance. Help me faithfully point others toward Christ while the invitation of salvation is still being offered. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
