The Truth about Paul

‘Who are you, Lord?’ Saul asked.

‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ He replied. Acts 9:5 (NIV)

Let’s have a chat about the Apostle Paul! What would you ask Paul if you had a chance to go back in time and have a conversation with him? You may probably want to know what contributed to his outstanding success in his Christian life and ministry among others. In this article, we unravel four pointers that undergirded his life as a believer.

Discipleship

Paul studied under Rabbi Gamaliel, a well-respected and knowledgeable Rabbi. This made him knowledgeable in the Torah as seen in the books he authored in the Bible. One thing Paul emphasised in his writing was that faith established the law and the Grace of God was not a license to sin (Romans 3.31, Romans 6:1-2).

Discipleship in our Christian walk is of utmost importance. Most churches offer discipleship classes.  Perhaps your local church would or you could ask a mature Christian Brother or Sister to disciple you.

An Encounter

Before becoming one of the brethren, Paul persecuted the Christians in his day. He was even present at the stoning of Stephen and approved of it (Acts 7:54-60). What led to Paul’s conversion was the encounter he had on the way to Damascus (Acts 9: 3-13). We all encountered God when we first came to Christ, through the leading of the Holy Spirit to take that first step of faith. That is why salvation is the greatest miracle ever. We also encounter God at church, in fellowship with other believers; but more importantly in our personal communion with Him and through the in- filling of the Holy Spirit.

Set aside some time each day that you would honour as your time with God and He would honour you.

Passion for spreading the Gospel

Paul took every opportunity to share the gospel with those he encountered. Even in Malta where he was almost bitten by a poisonous snake, he shook that off and took that as an opportunity to spread the good news (Acts 28). He shared the gospel with gentiles and shared his personal testimony of what Christ had done in his life with them. (Acts 26.19-23).

You can also share your testimony with Christ. People need solutions to their problems, and that solution is Jesus Christ. Tell others about Him!

Formation of Partnerships in order to Fulfil his Purpose

Paul partnered with a number of apostles including Barnabas and Silas for the spreading of the Gospel (Acts 15:22).

We all have a part to play in the vineyard of God in working with others in the spread of the Gospel either as prayer warriors, in the choir, ushers, etc. There is a collaborative role for each of us.

In short, because of his encounter with the Holy Spirit, his submission to the discipleship of Gamaliel, his passion for the gospel and his partnership with others, Paul was practically a genius for Christ.

So now you know the truth about the Apostle Paul!

Go ye therefore and be a Spirit-filled genius for Christ!

Prayer; Father, give us the grace to be filled with Your Spirit. Lead us to people who would disciple us in your truth and help us to recognise every opportunity to share your truth in Jesus’ mighty name Amen.