GO AWAY FOR NOW

Mike Johnson

Luke tells us in Acts 24 of a time when Paul, who had earlier been seized by the Jews, was brought before the governor of the area—a man named Felix.  Charges were brought against Paul, and he presented his defense.  Felix, hoping to receive a bribe, refused to let Paul go, and he kept him as a prisoner for two years.  During this time, Felix and Drusilla, his wife, sent for Paul regularly to hear him preach.

On one occasion, when Paul preached, we are told that he reasoned with Felix about “righteousness,” “self-control,” and the “judgment to come.”  Both Felix and Drusilla needed to hear these lessons for many reasons.   First, Felix and Drusilla were involved in an adulterous relationship. Thus, it was quite evident that instruction concerning self-control was needed.   Further, Felix was not righteous in his relationship with God or with his fellow man.    Also, Felix and Drusilla should have realized that one day, they would have to give an account of themselves to God on Judgment Day.  Paul’s straightforward approach with Felix is remarkable when one recognizes Paul’s dependence upon Felix for his release from prison.  Many people would have said whatever Felix wanted to hear to secure their freedom.   Paul, however, was interested in defending the truth and, if possible, saving the souls of Felix and Drusilla.

Consider a few observations about Paul’s preaching.  First, he did not merely preach what Felix wanted to hear.  Typically, a person who is living in an adulterous relationship does not want to hear about righteousness, self-control, and the “judgment to come.”  Next, he did not preach to please Felix.  Paul did not compromise; he offered no apology, and his sermon was not so general that Felix would be unable to get the point.   Finally, his sermon was persuasive preaching.  It was spoken to prompt action!

Upon hearing Paul’s sermon, Felix was “afraid” (vs. 25). However, he did not ask, “How can I obtain forgiveness?”  Instead, he said, “Go away for now, when I have a convenient time I will call for you.”  (NKJV)

Today we need to preach as Paul did.   He did not preach to please people but to please God (also note II Tim. 4:1-2). When we hear God’s Word, we must obey it (Heb. 5:9) and not delay (II Cor. 6:2)!

Delay is rebellion against God.  Children who tell their parents they will obey later are rebelling against them.  People who say to God, “not now,” in like manner, are rebelling against their heavenly Father.

Delay is also very dangerous.  We could die at any time; the Judgment could happen at any time.  A person delaying obedience could easily be caught unprepared.  There is also the strong possibility that the person who continues to reject God will eventually develop a “hardened heart” (Mt. 13:15; Heb. 3:13).

How do you respond to the preaching of God’s Word?  Are you willing to do everything God tells you to do in His inspired Word, or do you obey when it pleases you?   A person cannot obtain salvation without becoming a Christian.  To become a Christian, one must hear (Rom. 10:17); believe (Jn. 3:16), repent (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), confess Christ (Rom. 10:10), and be baptized (Acts 2:38; Mk. 16:16).  After one becomes a Christian, he must remain faithful (I Cor. 15:58; Rev. 2:10).

The Scriptures do not say that Felix responded to Paul’s lessons.  Most believe he did not.  We must not make the same mistake.   Are you saying to God, “Go away for now”?