In the first century, when Jesus had ascended back to heaven, two angels told the group of disciples that were gathered there, and had seen Him depart, “…this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. (Acts 1:11).” These men committed their lives to telling the story of Jesus, beginning at Jerusalem and branching out into all the world.
In time, they were joined by another Apostle, to whom the resurrected Jesus had appeared as he journeyed from Jerusalem to Damascus. His name was Paul, and he was commissioned by the Lord to take His good news (gospel) to the Gentiles scattered across the Roman empire. In time, Paul was arrested by the Jewish authorities who wanted to squelch all such preaching in Jesus’ name. He was thrown into jail, and later, questioned by the authorities. One of the inquisitors was King Agrippa (great grandson of Herod the Great).
In telling his story, Paul conveyed to Agrippa that he had been sent, by the Lord Himself, to the Gentiles, “…To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, (Acts 26:18) “…Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles. (Acts 26:22-23)” Agrippa, responded, “…Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. (Acts 26:28)” —almost, but lost.
All but one of the apostles died martyr’s deaths for sharing God’s message of hope, …but, because of their sacrifice, many have found life and hope and peace by placing their trust in Jesus Christ as their personal deliverer (Savior). Today, His message of deliverance from the penalty, power and presence of sin has been conveyed to you. Now, “…if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9)”