The Nature and Causes of Irresolution in Religion
S. Clark, D. D. Acts 26:27-29 King Agrippa, believe you the prophets? I know that you believe.… Let us — I. DESCRIBE THE CASE OF THOSE WHO ARE ALMOST PERSUADED, BUT NOT ALTOGETHER. 1. Some have strong convictions of the truth and reasonableness of religion. 2. Some have also, at particular seasons, very serious and lively impressions made upon their hearts by Divine truths. 3. Some are some. times so far persuaded as to entertain resolutions, and yet cannot bring themselves to a fixed determination to become Christians in earnest. 4. Some are so far persuaded that they actually take some steps towards being Christians. II. WHENCE IT IS THAT THEY ARE NOT ALTOGETHER PERSUADED. 1. Not for want of sufficient reasons, but for want of consideration, and attending to them. 2. On account of the prejudices they have imbibed against religion. 3. Fondness for the world, its pleasures, and other advantages. 4. The power and prevalence of some particular lust. III. REPRESENT THEIR UNHAPPY STATE. 1. To such persons their own consciences will be a terrible witness against them, as soon as they find time and leisure to bethink themselves; and a long time and leisure they will find for it in the other world if they could not before. 2. That they had been so near the kingdom of God, and yet fell short of it, will be another source of most severe reflections and tormenting agonies. (S. Clark, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. WEB: King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe."