I don’t bake very often, but I understand a little something about biscuits. Flour and butter serve as the main components. You have specific ratios; quite a lot of flour and not so much butter. Without the butter the flour is all purpose yet not fulfillment. Without the flour the butter wouldn’t taste very good.
Jumping right into Acts 24, we discover an argument Paul makes about Scripture. As he makes his case before Felix, he explains how he is not a follower of a mere sect but one who follows the Triune God. The Jews and the Romans throw barbs at him, yet he understands something we might take for granted today: the gospel fulfills the Law and Prophets (Acts 24:14). We see the grand scheme of the Old Testament through the layers now baked in through the New Testament (with biscuits we call that lamination).
Paul has preached to his own people, and they continue to cast aside the One, Significant Key to saving knowledge: Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah. But Paul keeps a good conscience by resolving to communicate the resurrection—the day of judgment is coming (Acts 24:25). As made clear throughout the Old Testament, God will pour out judgment on the wicked for all eternity under His sovereign wrath. The grand purpose of Jesus as the very Son of God proves that all the judgment ever recorded for those who trust in the Lord alone for salvation…this hope is fulfilled in the saving atonement of Jesus.
Paul knew and refused to remain silent. He spoke boldly to the Jews and the Romans, all who refuse Jesus refuse the only, divine, eternal solution to satisfy the wrath of God. But all who simply repent and believe will be raised to eternal life. That is the sweet butter that turns seemingly unfulfilled powder into a satisfying meal. An imperfect illustration… but a wholly perfect Savior!
Pastor Chris
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