Transformative Faith: Saul's Journey and Our Call
Summary
### Summary
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Today, we gathered to worship and reflect on the transformative power of Jesus Christ in our lives, as illustrated through the story of Saul's conversion and subsequent ministry. We began by acknowledging the grandeur and power of God, seeking His presence and strength, especially for those suffering in silence and isolation. We prayed for various members of our community, asking for God's continued grace and blessings.
We then turned to Acts 9:19b-31, examining Saul's journey from persecutor to proclaimer of Jesus. Saul's immediate proclamation of Jesus as the Son of God in the synagogues of Damascus amazed many, but it also incited anger among the Jews, leading to attempts on his life. Despite these challenges, Saul's faith and understanding grew, illustrating that spiritual growth is a process, not an overnight transformation.
Barnabas played a crucial role in Saul's acceptance by the apostles in Jerusalem, demonstrating the importance of encouragement and community in the Christian faith. Barnabas' actions remind us that we, too, must step out of our comfort zones to welcome and support new believers, fostering a spirit of unity and love within the church.
The passage concludes with a summary of the church's growth and peace, emphasizing that God uses ordinary means and people to build His church. The church's growth in size and maturity is attributed to the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit, highlighting the importance of living in obedience and reliance on God's Spirit.
As we reflect on this passage, we are challenged to consider our own roles in building up the body of Christ. Are we willing to be used by God, to step out of our comfort zones, and to be inconvenienced for the sake of the gospel? Let us pray for the conviction and empowerment to serve God's church faithfully.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Transformative Power of Jesus: Saul's conversion from a persecutor to a proclaimer of Jesus illustrates the profound transformation that faith in Christ can bring. This transformation is not instantaneous but a process of growing in understanding and faith. We, too, are called to continually grow in our faith and proclaim Jesus boldly. [49:29]
2. The Role of Encouragement in the Church: Barnabas' support of Saul highlights the importance of encouragement and community in the Christian faith. By stepping out of his comfort zone to vouch for Saul, Barnabas exemplifies how we should welcome and support new believers, fostering unity and love within the church. [55:39]
3. God Uses Ordinary Means to Build His Church: The growth and peace of the early church, as described in Acts, show that God uses ordinary people and means to accomplish His purposes. This includes our acts of love, kindness, and service, which contribute to the building up of the church. [01:05:30]
4. Living in the Fear of the Lord: The fear of the Lord is a healthy reverence that leads to obedience and holy living. It restrains us from evil and motivates us to live in a way that honors God. This fear is the beginning of wisdom and is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. [01:10:52]
5. The Empowering Work of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit animates and directs the church, bringing conviction, empowerment, and assurance. He gives us a hunger for righteousness and intercedes for us before God. Our growth in faith and effectiveness in ministry depend on our reliance on the Holy Spirit. [01:11:52]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[36:41] - Opening Prayer
[37:17] - Assurance of God's Presence
[37:52] - Prayers for the Community
[38:25] - Blessings and Transitions
[38:58] - Hunger for Righteousness
[39:38] - Call to Serve the Church
[42:50] - Reading from Acts 9
[45:58] - The Greatest Showman Analogy
[47:36] - Jesus Builds His Church
[49:29] - Saul's Immediate Proclamation
[51:42] - Saul's Growth in Faith
[53:38] - Our Call to Proclaim Jesus
[55:39] - Barnabas' Role in Saul's Acceptance
[57:33] - The Importance of Community
[59:34] - Saul's Ministry in Jerusalem
[01:01:16] - Welcoming New Believers
[01:02:54] - Summary Statements in Acts
[01:04:30] - Growth and Peace in the Church
[01:05:30] - God Uses Ordinary Means
[01:06:23] - The Church's Geographical Spread
[01:07:42] - Strengthening the Church
[01:08:54] - Building Up in Love
[01:09:58] - Living in Peace and Fear of the Lord
[01:10:52] - The Fear of the Lord
[01:11:52] - The Work of the Holy Spirit
[01:12:56] - Reasons for Church Growth
[01:13:36] - Honoring God
[01:14:28] - Personal Reflection
[01:15:13] - Jesus Uses People to Build His Church
[01:16:00] - Willingness to Be Used by God
[01:16:50] - Closing Prayer
[01:21:46] - Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Acts 9:19b-31
#### Observation Questions
1. What was Saul's immediate response after his conversion in Damascus? ([49:29])
2. How did the Jews in Damascus react to Saul's proclamation of Jesus? ([51:42])
3. What role did Barnabas play in Saul's acceptance by the apostles in Jerusalem? ([55:39])
4. How is the growth and peace of the early church described in Acts 9:31? ([01:04:30])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Saul's transformation from a persecutor to a proclaimer of Jesus teach us about the process of spiritual growth? ([49:29])
2. How does Barnabas' encouragement and support of Saul illustrate the importance of community in the Christian faith? ([55:39])
3. In what ways does the passage in Acts 9:31 show that God uses ordinary means and people to build His church? ([01:05:30])
4. How does living in the fear of the Lord contribute to the spiritual growth and maturity of believers? ([01:10:52])
#### Application Questions
1. Saul's conversion was a profound transformation. Reflect on your own spiritual journey. How have you seen God transform your life since you became a believer? ([49:29])
2. Barnabas stepped out of his comfort zone to support Saul. Is there someone in your church or community who needs encouragement and support? How can you step out of your comfort zone to help them this week? ([55:39])
3. The early church grew through ordinary acts of love, kindness, and service. Identify one specific act of kindness you can do this week to contribute to the growth and unity of your church. ([01:05:30])
4. Living in the fear of the Lord means having a healthy reverence for God. What are some practical ways you can cultivate a deeper reverence for God in your daily life? ([01:10:52])
5. The Holy Spirit empowers believers for ministry. Reflect on a time when you felt the Holy Spirit guiding or empowering you. How can you be more open to the Holy Spirit's leading in your life and ministry? ([01:11:52])
6. The early church experienced peace and growth. How can you contribute to the peace and growth of your church community? Are there specific areas where you can serve or get involved? ([01:04:30])
7. Saul's story shows that spiritual growth is a process. What steps can you take to continue growing in your faith and understanding of Jesus? How can you help others in their spiritual growth journey? ([51:42])
Devotional
Day 1: The Transformative Power of Jesus
Saul's conversion from a persecutor to a proclaimer of Jesus illustrates the profound transformation that faith in Christ can bring. This transformation is not instantaneous but a process of growing in understanding and faith. Saul's immediate proclamation of Jesus as the Son of God in the synagogues of Damascus amazed many, but it also incited anger among the Jews, leading to attempts on his life. Despite these challenges, Saul's faith and understanding grew, illustrating that spiritual growth is a process, not an overnight transformation. We, too, are called to continually grow in our faith and proclaim Jesus boldly. [49:29]
Acts 26:16-18 (ESV): "But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles—to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me."
Reflection: Think about a specific area in your life where you need transformation. How can you invite Jesus into that area today and begin the process of change?
Day 2: The Role of Encouragement in the Church
Barnabas' support of Saul highlights the importance of encouragement and community in the Christian faith. By stepping out of his comfort zone to vouch for Saul, Barnabas exemplifies how we should welcome and support new believers, fostering unity and love within the church. Barnabas played a crucial role in Saul's acceptance by the apostles in Jerusalem, demonstrating the importance of encouragement and community in the Christian faith. Barnabas' actions remind us that we, too, must step out of our comfort zones to welcome and support new believers, fostering a spirit of unity and love within the church. [55:39]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Who in your church or community needs encouragement today? How can you step out of your comfort zone to support and uplift them?
Day 3: God Uses Ordinary Means to Build His Church
The growth and peace of the early church, as described in Acts, show that God uses ordinary people and means to accomplish His purposes. This includes our acts of love, kindness, and service, which contribute to the building up of the church. The passage concludes with a summary of the church's growth and peace, emphasizing that God uses ordinary means and people to build His church. The church's growth in size and maturity is attributed to the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit, highlighting the importance of living in obedience and reliance on God's Spirit. [01:05:30]
1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (ESV): "But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent act of kindness or service you performed. How did it contribute to the growth and peace of your community? How can you continue to serve in ordinary ways?
Day 4: Living in the Fear of the Lord
The fear of the Lord is a healthy reverence that leads to obedience and holy living. It restrains us from evil and motivates us to live in a way that honors God. This fear is the beginning of wisdom and is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. The church's growth in size and maturity is attributed to the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit, highlighting the importance of living in obedience and reliance on God's Spirit. [01:10:52]
Proverbs 9:10 (ESV): "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to cultivate a deeper fear of the Lord? How can this reverence lead you to greater obedience and holy living today?
Day 5: The Empowering Work of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit animates and directs the church, bringing conviction, empowerment, and assurance. He gives us a hunger for righteousness and intercedes for us before God. Our growth in faith and effectiveness in ministry depend on our reliance on the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit animates and directs the church, bringing conviction, empowerment, and assurance. He gives us a hunger for righteousness and intercedes for us before God. Our growth in faith and effectiveness in ministry depend on our reliance on the Holy Spirit. [01:11:52]
Romans 8:26-27 (ESV): "Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God."
Reflection: How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit in your daily life? What specific steps can you take to be more attuned to His guidance and empowerment?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Jesus builds his church by bringing more and more people to himself, and we see his call to us to give ourselves to him in his service. As Jesus adds people to the church, they too proclaim Jesus as the savior of men. They bring their God-given gifts to the church, and the church continues to be built up, and Jesus continues to pour out his grace on the church." [47:36] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We have been called for this purpose. Yet, we often shrink back from proclaiming Jesus. Because we don't feel confident in our ability to explain who he is or to field questions somebody might ask us. Saul didn't know how to answer questions or explain who Jesus was very well from the start. He grew in his ability. We also grow in our ability to do this. But we only grow in our ability if we actually start proclaiming Jesus." [53:38] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Each one of us needs to go out of our comfort zone and welcome new people. We need to seek to get to know them and to tell others about them. We need to introduce ourselves to them and to others. This serves to unfold them into the church. It's an act of love. It's an act of grace. It's an act of kindness. And those are all fruit of the Spirit. It is being Christ-like in our behavior. Jesus calls us to love our neighbor." [01:01:16] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The fear of the Lord means that we acknowledge that God is reigning in heaven. That he has all power. He has all knowledge. He sees us. And he cares about what we do. And because we know he is also holy. And that he calls us to be holy. We seek to obey him first out of love for him. But secondarily out of a healthy fear of him. Proverbs tells us the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. As we fear him, we obey him. And we love him." [01:10:52] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "As you see the work of God in our midst. Ask yourself. Am I pursuing God? Am I personally seeking to know and obey him? Am I building up. The body of Christ. Using my gifts. To teach and encourage. To serve the church. Am I allowing the Holy Spirit to use me. Or am I quenching him? Acts is an exciting book. We see Jesus building his church throughout it. We see him call people to himself. Gift them for ministry. And empower them by his spirit." [01:15:13] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Paul was a changed man. He couldn't keep himself from proclaiming his newfound faith. He proclaims Jesus, the very one he had been persecuting. And he proclaimed that Jesus is the Son of God. That is the whole issue he was dealing with. Saul had dealt with the question, who is Jesus? Jesus had revealed himself to Saul, and now Saul believed that Jesus was the Son, or is the Son of God. This amazed the people listening to him." [49:29] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Barnabas, the encourager, is expressing the fruit of the spirit. He is showing love. He is showing kindness. He is showing gentleness. He goes to Saul and brings him to the apostles. Barnabas is going outside his comfort zone. He is taking a risk to be faithful to Jesus. He is befriending Saul. He is acting for Saul's good. He's bringing him to the apostles. Barnabas is using his reputation to make Saul more acceptable to the church in Jerusalem." [57:33] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "David Peterson makes the observation, even believers who have seen the power of God at work in their own lives can doubt God's ability to change others. Isn't that true? We doubt God's ability to change other people. John Stott points out, true conversion always issues in church membership. It is not only that converts must join the Christian community, but that the Christian community, community must welcome converts, especially those from a different religious, ethnic, or social background." [55:39] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God in his ordinary providence makes use of means. We have seen God using means. He used Saul. He used Ananias. He used Barnabas. He used all of them to grow his church. He used them to minister in his name. We see ordinary means in this verse as well. We're told about the church, singular. One church there, which is unusual for Luke to use it that way. It's united as a whole. The church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria." [01:05:30] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Holy Spirit animated the church. He gave spiritual life to the church. He directed the church. He brought conviction to the church when it went astray. He empowered the church for ministry in using her gifts. He gave the church a hunger and a thirst for righteousness. The Holy Spirit interceded for the church before the throne of God. He made known God's good pleasure with his people. And he assured them that they belonged to God." [01:11:52] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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