“Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.” (Acts 26:28,29)
Paul almost had Agrippa. He believed somewhat, but not enough to bring about the change needed in his life. Isn’t this why we remain “on the fence?” We don’t let ourselves come to firm, definitive conclusions on a matter because we know that such resolve would require action on our part. If we were truly convicted that something was wrong, we would be compelled to stop doing it – or face a guilty conscience. If we were truly convinced that something was right, we would have no excuse not to do it, because: “to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin” (James 4:17)
We will one day give an account for the deeds done in our body. It will not matter to God that we had some loosely held beliefs. Our faith must translate into action. Faith without works is dead. Wishy-washy “faith” is worthless. Being “almost persuaded” got Agrippa nowhere.
God would settle any matter for us if we would diligently seek Him concerning it. The issue is never whether God is willing to speak; it is always whether we are willing to hear. Those who hear are those who are willing to do. Those who don’t hear are those who are afraid of what they might hear. They don’t necessarily want to get off the fence. King Agrippa was not ready for the leap of faith. Too much change would be required.
Paul was the man of action he was because of the faith he held. He was sold out, and running hard after the Lord, to apprehend all Christ apprehended him for. Agrippa confessed his problem. “I’m almost there, but not quite.” Paul could only lament: “Oh, if you were only altogether persuaded, and as I am! Yes, instead of being on the throne, you might end up in chains like me. But it will be so worth it in the day when you stand before God’s throne.”
There is a cost involved in being fully persuaded by God in any matter. Blessed are those who count the cost and pay it!