And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?
Acts 16:30 (KJV)
The prison governor in Philippi who asked this question had come to the brim of despair when he recognized his lost state. In his job, this man dealt with people who had come into conflict with the law. He had seen a lot of trouble and misery and probably had to take severe measures with some; so he could not be shaken so easily.
That day, however, two very unusual prisoners had been brought in: Paul and Silas, two undaunted witnesses of Jesus Christ. They had been brutally beaten and although the governor had fastened their feet in the stocks, they started singing hymns of praise to God at midnight.
Then came the earthquake! When the keeper noticed that the prison doors were open, he imagined that the prisoners had fled. For that, he would have to pay with his life! So he was at the end of his tether. However, Paul and Sillas assured him that no-one was missing. In his relief, he fell down before Paul and Silas and trembling, asked them the above question. He felt sure that they could tell him what he needed to know. Thier faith strengthened them in all their suffering, and their God was clearly their comfort.
What was the answer to this question? "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved." Faith in the Lord Jesus is the answer for all who are aware of their guilt before God and willing to admit it. A sudden shock may remind us of our life's guilt; but a longer process may also be necessary. In either case, God's answer remains the same: "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved."
Reading: Acts 2: 37-38
