Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Paul, an apostle of Christ, reminds believers who we are. Yes, even today, his words stand.
Paul never personally met Christ for it is said that Paul was born between 5 B. C. or 5 A.D. Paul’s religion was Jewish; he was also a Roman citizen from the city of Tarsus. His earlier commitment – to eradicate followers of Jesus Christ. As a Roman official, he was given the authority to do so.
Persecution
The Jews were the first Christians (followers of Christ). Paul, like many Jewish leaders of his day, were infuriated by the teachings of Christ Jesus as the Messiah. Moreover, he was among those who sanctioned the stoning of Apostle Stephen (Acts 7:57-59; 8:1). At that time, Paul was called Saul.
This Saul was determined to persecute all believers of Christ. The early scriptures tell how he went from house to house, church to church, region to region, in his quest to eradicate those who taught the teaching of Christ as Good News to all. However, even among the threats and intimidation, the disciples i.e., Philip, Peter, John, continued their work, performing miracles and preaching as the Holy Spirit led them.
On Straight Street
The conversion of Saul, as the story goes, occurred on the way to Damascus (Acts 9). Many believers found this to be unbelievable. For how such a despicable person could come to understand the love of Christ and embrace the Way – the Good News. Yet, the teaching of the Lord is, “God shows no favoritism.” His mercy is new every day.
Paul’s Message of Redemption
Led by the Holy Spirit, after his transformation, Paul (formerly Saul) began to preach the gospel of Jesus in Damascus. Because of this teaching, there were Jewish and Gentile leaders who sought to kill him. It was at Antioch of Syria that the believers were first called Christians (Acts 11:25) at the preaching of Barnabas and Paul. How could people believe this good news from such a person? Yet, it was the hearing of this person that changed lives. His transformation meant something to those who were without hope. Many souls were touched by his words and transformation.
Today, Paul’s words remain relevant. The world is still plagued by the spiritual and evil blindness of people who still kill in words and deeds. Who will you hear? According to his teaching, there is no tradition that will save people. Second, God looks at the heart. From every nation, God accepts those who fear him and choose what is right. Third, his teaching as other disciples, that the gift of the Holy Spirit is to all who will believe (Acts 10:44-47).
Paul’s Message of Former Things
Fourth, don’t expect all people to accept your transformation. Paul reiterates his imperfections. However, it is vital to press toward the mark. His declaration – “Forgetting those things behind me and pressing forward to what lies ahead (Philippians 3:12-14). After all, everyone has a past. Furthermore, consider this: Each day is a fresh start. To leave evil things, i.e., deceitfulness, divisiveness, and fraud, and move forward to encourage with hope is your divine assignment.
All is not Loss
Fifth, what we hear from Paul is that this is a personal decision. To believe is hope. On the other hand, to live without hope is a tragedy. It is a reminder of healing. The wounds of healing are spiritual, more than physical, as one who is clean and filled with the Spirit. Paul, I hear you. For more blog posts like this one we suggest:
