Almost

Then Agrippa said to Paul, You almost persuade me to become a Christian. 

Acts 26:28 

The gospel has its’ effect on those who hear it. Our text derives from the narrative of Paul’s preaching to King Agrippa. Festus, who was also there, had challenged Paul saying, ‘Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad.’ Paul’s response was to declare he was not mad and referred to King Agrippa as knowing of all the events he described saying, ‘this thing was not done in a corner.’ Paul challenged Agrippa saying, ‘King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.’ Our text is Agrippa’s response. The language he uses, as we read it, makes it sound as if Agrippa was almost convinced to become a Christian. The tenor of the language, however, may indicate that Agrippa would not be convinced without more elaborate proof. The point is, he was not ready to become a believer. History does not indicate he ever did. Having said that, it was important that he hear the gospel. Paul certainly wanted him to believe. He did not consider it to be a waste of time to preach Christ to Agrippa. He could not foresee whether Agrippa would believe it or not. It is the same for us as we preach Christ. Some will hear and others will refuse to believe. God has His Own timetable. He does not work according to our schedule. He will not fail to draw to Christ a great multitude which no one can number. We have no idea who they are. Therefore, we preach Christ to anyone who will give us an audience. He is worthy.  

Our God of Grace and Glory, 
we rejoice that you have sent forth the gospel over the whole earth. 
We praise You that wherever it goes, 
it will succeed according to Your will.  

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning