Meet the Apostle Paul / Acts 8:1-9

Introduction to Paul His Pedigree: Jewish (his religion) Pharisee (his station) Greek (his education) Christian (his conversion)

Introduction to Paul His Pedigree: Jewish (his religion) Pharisee (his station) Greek (his education) Christian (his conversion) His Calling: An apostle A pastor A missionary A preacher/teacher and theologian

Introduction to Paul Phl 3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: 5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, [of] the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; 6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. 7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

Saul’s Passion, Purpose & Plan Act 7:57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, 58 And cast [him] out of the city, and stoned [him]: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. Act 8:1 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.

Saul’s Passion, Purpose & Plan Act 9:1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, 2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

Saul’s Salvation 3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: 4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

Key Point #1 When God speaks, his words demand a posture of humility.

Saul’s Salvation 5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? - - what a wonderful question!

Key Point #2 Whenever you are at a loss, don’t hesitate to ask God to reveal himself.

Saul’s Salvation 4b And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: [it is] hard for thee to kick against the pricks. - - what a faithful response!

Saul’s Salvation 6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord [said] unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. 7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.

Key Point #3 When God reveals himself, we must be ready to alter our direction.

Saul’s Salvation 8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought [him] into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

Key Point #4 When God reveals his will, we must be ready to obey.

Saul’s Response to God’s Voice Falls to his knees Cries out Lord Asks for God to reveal himself In faith, asks what he should do next Then does it

2Ti 3:16 All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

2Sa 23:2 The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word [was] in my tongue.

Mar 12:24 And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?

Psa 19:7 The law of the LORD [is] perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD [is] sure, making wise the simple. 8 The statutes of the LORD [are] right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD [is] pure, enlightening the eyes. 9 The fear of the LORD [is] clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD [are] true [and] righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired [are they] than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. 11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: [and] in keeping of them [there is] great reward