As we cheerfully and confidently speak of Christ, there will be a whole range of different responses and outcomes. Some will dismiss us, some will listen to us, some will mock us, some will commend us, some will do all of the above! We must not think that if we just have enough grace and truth then we will never face conflict and will avoid all discomfort. Jesus was full of grace and truth and that got him crucified!

Have you heard the vibe has shifted? Whether you call it a quiet revival, the surprising rebirth in belief in God, or something more modest, it appears there is a new sense of openness towards Christianity. Christians may have felt increasingly sidelined in the recent past, but now, at least in some circles, we are being given a hearing where we weren’t before. Something of this phenomenon has been reflected in my own local experience. There has been a steady trickle of young people who are seeking answers to big questions and are willing to listen to what their Christian friends have to say. Perhaps you have seen the same in your own context. That raises the question, how should we conduct ourselves when we feel we are finally given a hearing?

In Acts 24, Paul is given the floor before the Roman governor Felix. He had been falsely accused, shouted down on multiple occasions and there was a plan afoot to have him killed. But then he is sent under guard to Governor Felix and is given a proper hearing. There are five characteristics of Paul’s response to this opportunity that are worthy of our imitation as we too are invited to have our say.

 Cheerfully and Courteously

It would be understandable if Paul’s words were filled with bitterness given all the injustice he has experienced. But Paul begins instead with cheerfulness: “Knowing that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I cheerfully make my defence” (Acts 24:10, ESV). Paul’s approach is formal, and he appears to follow an established rhetorical pattern (c.f. Tertullus’ accusation in 24:2). Nevertheless, it is still noteworthy that has choose to speak with appropriate respect and courtesy.

Paul is glad to have the opportunity to defend himself without being interrupted by a mob, despite it being a long time coming. The tone of his whole speech is unflustered, possibly even cheerful. In our own conversations we can aim for this same kind of calmness and gladness.

To be sure, Paul never shrinks back from speaking hard or challenging words. He never shies away from proclaiming the truth even if it is controversial or unpopular.

But even in this highly charged situation, he is not at all boastful or scornful. We too can resist the temptation to be hostile towards those we find hurtful or intimidating. We don’t need to hit back, or stick the boot in, or gleefully ‘own’ our enemies, or give in to petty point-scoring. Instead, we can choose to be confident and courteous and cheerful. Because like Paul we know that Jesus is Lord. And he is sovereign over all.

 A Clear Conscience

Paul’s cheerfulness also stems from his confidence that he really is innocent. If Felix wants to he could verify what actually occurred (verse 11). Paul knows his accusers cannot prove what they claim (verse 13). “I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man,” he says in verse 16.

In the same way, our witness today will either be strengthened or undermined by the observable evidence of our lives and the conduct of our churches.

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