Paul preaching the gospel

“But as he was discussing righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and responded, ‘Go away for now, and when I have an opportunity, I will summon you.’” (1) Paul spoke to Felix about three key matters: “righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come.” (a) Righteousness refers to God’s standard of justice and holiness. The first step toward faith is having a correct understanding of God. (b) Self-control highlights the depth of human sin. When it comes to a life of indulgence, Felix and Drusilla were prime examples. Felix’s political career and marriage were filled with unrighteousness. (c) The coming judgment refers to the judgment after death. Without receiving the forgiveness of sins through the blood of Christ, one will suffer in the lake of fire. These three points are fundamental elements that must be conveyed when preaching the gospel. (2) Felix felt afraid after hearing Paul’s message. (a) He had expected a theological discussion, but instead, the conversation focused on moral living. (b) Paul’s words were powerful, and Felix became greatly afraid. He was well aware of his own sin. (c) However, it is not recorded that his wife, Drusilla, felt any fear. She was likely unfazed. After all, she carried the bloodline of the Herodian family. (3) Felix was afraid, but he postponed making a decision of faith. (a) He said, “Go away for now, and when I have an opportunity, I will summon you. (b) We must not overlook the tragedy unfolding here. A hand of salvation was extended to the wicked Felix. The same hand of salvation was also offered to Drusilla, whose entire lineage was steeped in corruption. They were given the greatest preacher in history. The room they sat in became a sacred space. Yet, there is no record that they ever confessed faith. (c) In the end, Drusilla perished in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, along with the child she had with Felix. Her death seemed almost symbolic of the judgment in the lake of fire. The more a person delays making a decision, the more hardened their heart becomes. You must not assume that you can decide at any time. Let us engrave 2 Corinthians 6:2 in our hearts: “For He says, ‘At a favorable time I listened to you, And on a day of salvation I helped you.’ Behold, now is ‘a favorable time,’ behold, now is ‘a day of salvation.’” Now is the time of grace.