Series: Action [#151]
SERVING GOD IN A CORRUPT WORLD
Acts 24:1-27
Introduction:
This weekend, we celebrate Memorial Day. In April 1863, in Columbus, Mississippi after decorating graves of her two sons who served during the Civil War as Confederate soldiers, an elderly woman also decorated 2 mounds at the corner of the cemetery. An observer asked, "What are you doing? Those are the graves of 2 Union soldiers." The reply, "I know. I also know that somewhere in the North, a mother or a young wife mourns for them as we do for ours." That little group of ladies set in motion what became Memorial Day. Memorial Day is set aside each year to remember those who gave their lives in the armed forces. We remember those who died on battle fields to bring freedom and democracy to oppressed people. We commemorate their actions by honoring them in ceremonies across the land. It is sometimes called “Decoration Day” because we decorate the graves of fallen heroes with flags and flowers.
Today, we are going to look at a challenge that Paul faced and that we as Christians also face- How do you serve God in a corrupt World? As we look at these challenges, remember that this is spiritual warfare.
Acts 24:1-8
1. How do you deal with a corrupt legal system?
The high priest, some elders, and a lawyer went to testify against Paul. Tertullus the lawyer started his prosecution by “sweet talking” Felix. Once he began his actual accusations, it was full of lies. He accused Paul of starting riots and desecrating the Temple. He said that Paul was the leader of the Christians; but he did not dare use this word- Instead, he called it the Nazarene sect. He then blamed the commander for taking Paul away and being violent towards them.
If you listen to court cases being held in the USA, you hear similar craziness and lies. The legal system is leveraged to fit what the ruling class says is right and wrong. Flattery and lying are their main tactics. They blame everyone except themselves for the problems.
Acts 24:10-21
How did Paul deal with a corrupt legal system? He gave all of the facts. He answered every lie with a fact that showed his innocence. This is an important lesson for us to learn- Don’t fight like your enemy fights; just tell the truth and God will deal with the rest.
Acts 24:9
2. How do you deal with a corrupt society?
While this is just 1 verse, I want you to notice how other Jews started speaking out against Paul also. The way evil spreads the fastest is through people that do not know what is really going on. Many in our Country believe things because they see it on social media or hear about it in the news. They do not know if what is being said is true or not. In fact, they do not care about the truth- They just enjoy running their mouths.
Acts 24:22-27
3. How do you deal with corrupt leaders?
Felix decided to postpone Paul’s case. Several days later, Felix and his wife sent for Paul and listened to him teach about Jesus. Felix was an evil leader- Drusilla was his 3rd wife and they had an affair while she was married to someone else. This is probably why Felix was afraid and sent Paul away.
Paul dealt with these corrupt leaders by teaching them the truth of God’s Word. He preached to them about being righteous, having self-control, and the coming judgment of all people.
Conclusion:
As we live in a time of corruption, be faithful to tell the truth with facts; follow God’s Word, not the world; and share the truth of the Word with everyone that you can.
