March’s memory verse:

"The following night the Lord stood by him and said, 'Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.'” — Acts 23:11

Acts Chapter 26:

Chapter 26 opens up with Paul given permission to speak before Agrippa, a king familiar with Jewish law and tradition. Happy to have this chance, Paul begs to be listened to with patience and then proceeds to tell the whole story of why he is on trial—including his conversion story. I love that he approaches this opportunity before King Agrippa with the purpose of sharing the Gospel of Jesus through the telling of his own story. How can anyone argue with your own experience? Again, we see Paul focused on the purpose he's been called to: the Gospel going forth, rather that on a personal defense leading to his own release and comfort. Paul's focus is consistently on Jesus and the hope of the resurrection.

So, with Paul's moving testimony, is King Agrippa persuaded to become a Christ follower? Please take time to read the end—don't walk out at intermission—you gotta read the finale! And when you are done, pack your bags for the Mediterranean cruise we are getting ready to embark on (hint: it's not exactly a luxury cruise).

Here are a few application questions from this chapter to ponder this week:

Why did Paul not want to return to Jerusalem for another trial, choosing to go to Rome instead?
Consider how Paul makes the most of his imprisonment and trials. Instead of complaining about your present situation, are you able to look for every opportunity to serve God and share Him with others?
Referencing verse 16 and the legal rights Paul had as a Roman citizen, what was the benefit of being able to give his defense in a formal court proceeding?

If you need a quick synopsis of the events in the previous chapter, keep scrolling.

Summary of Chapter 25:

Festus arrived on the scene as the Governor and ordered Paul to be brought.
The Chief priests and important men of the Jews go to Caesarea to bring the charges against Paul.
The Jews surround Paul and bring serious charges against him.
In his defense, Paul responds that he has committed no offense against the laws, the temple, or Caesar.
Paul appeals to Caesar and also has a chance to speak to King Agrippa.
Festus agrees that Paul had done nothing to deserve death, but the Jews thought otherwise.
Festus asks King Agrippa to hear Paul and help him decide what to write to the Emperor in regard to the charges against Paul.

This Year’s Memory Verse

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. “

Acts 1:8