“…that the Messiah would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would bring the message of light to his own people and to the Gentiles.” – Acts 26:23
When we say “the crux of the matter”, we mean the most crucial, essential and deciding point of an issue, argument or problem. It signifies the core element that must be addressed or understood to resolve a situation.
A careful study of the Acts of the Apostles will reveal that, no matter what was preached, the apostles always centred their message on the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus. The Bible says, “And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.” (Acts 4:33).
This is what made the difference. This is what makes Christianity distinct and what produces the power and grace that transforms lives. Paul himself admits that if Christ did not rise from the dead, then our preaching is useless and so is our faith (1 Corinthians 15:14).
“And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” (1 Corinthians 15:14)
Is it not amazing that Governor Festus never reacted throughout Paul’s defence until verse 23, when he mentioned the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus? He immediately interrupted in verse 24, “You are out of your mind, Paul! …Your great learning is driving you insane.”
“… that the Messiah would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would bring the message of light to his own people and to the Gentiles.” At this point Festus interrupted Paul’s defense. “You are out of your mind, Paul!” he shouted. “Your great learning is driving you insane.” (Acts 26:23-24)
Friends, the death and resurrection of Christ is the crux of the matter. It is what Satan fears most, and we had better stick to the old rugged cross, no matter how the world changes.
Paul says, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
Receive grace and power today as you trust solely in the finished work of the cross!
– Rev. Simon Ampofo
