1. A Christian Named Paul Acts 9:20-30

2. Introduction Identifying with Paul the apostle –He could work miracles –I can’t do that See him as a Christian –Can relate to this –Can be like him

3. Proclaim The Gospel (v. 20) Responsibility to apostles first –Great commission (Matthew 28:18-20) –Some died (Acts 12:2) –Big responsibility (1 Corinthians 9:16) Not just the apostles –Early Christians (Acts 8:4) –Faithful to teach others (2 Timothy 2:2)

4. Proclaim The Gospel (v. 20) Immediately, proclaimed Jesus –“–“I don’t know enough” –“–“One of these days” –S–Say, “I can proclaim the Gospel.”

5. Change His Life (v. 21) Must deny self –Jesus said so (Luke 9:23) –No longer walk after the flesh (Ephesians 5:3-12) Others will notice –Don’t run with them (1 Peter 4:1-4) –Changed lives (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)

6. Change His Life (v. 21) Changed lives –Immediately in some areas –Don’t feed the “old man of sin” –Say, “I can change my life.”

7. Prove Christ Is God’s Son (v. 29) By reasoning from the Scriptures –Not by miracles –“Argued” about religion Paul’s proof –His miracles (John 20:30, 31) –Fulfilled prophecy (Luke 24:44-49)

8. Prove Christ Is God’s Son (v. 29) We have the confirmed Word –No more confirmation (Hebrews 2:4) –Say, “I can prove Christ is God’s Son.”

9. Suffer Persecution (vv. 23-25) At the hands of former associates –Satan’s loss –Now had zeal for God (Romans 10:2) Suffering unavoidable –Foretold for Paul (Acts 9:16) –Godly suffer (2 Timothy 2:8-10; 3:12)

10. Suffer Persecution (vv. 23-25) Count the cost –Necessary (Luke 14:25-35) –Faithful to death (Revelation 2:10) –Heaven worth it (Hebrews 10:32-39) –Say, “I am willing to suffer.”

11. Work With Local Church (vv. 26-28) Too many “suitcase Christians” –Done to avoid work and discipline –A part of the Jerusalem church (1 Corinthians 12:12-31) Local membership not automatic –Barnabas’ intercession (v. 27) –Investigation is in order

12. Work With Local Church (vv. 26-28) Spoke out boldly –Risked his life (2 Timothy 1:16) –Say, “I want to work with the church.”

13. Conclusion Are you a Christian? Have you changed your life? Are you an active member?