LifeJourney

From Persecutor to Proclaimer

The conversion and transformation of a Pharisee, Saul of Tarsus, from a lead persecutor of the disciples of Christ to the lead proclaimer of the gospel of Christ. This event is so significant for Luke that it is told three times. First, here in Acts 9, then from Paul himself, recorded by Luke in chapters 22 and 26 of Acts

A New Community Under New Authority

The community of believers was functioning as God intended to the point that the Jewish officials (the Sanhedrin) were losing the respect of the people for their position as religious authority. The Holy Spirit was working signs and wonders through the apostles that drew crowds to hear the gospel and establish the apostle’s authority in the rapidly growing church.

Undeniable Restoration and Refreshment

The work of God, through the Spirit in the name of Jesus, moves to the gate leading to the temple where a no-name beggar, lame from birth, is healed to the wonder and amazement of the crowd. Peter healed him in the name of Jesus, which drew a crowd to hear Peter preach his second recorded gospel sermon, and many believed. The church now numbered 5,000 men.

Jesus’ Kingship and Command

At his ascension to heaven, Jesus revealed His immediate plan for continuing His work and eternal vision for His church. Beginning with about 120 men and women disciples in Jerusalem, this led to the explosive growth by the power of the Holy Spirit to include all people on earth.

Luke records in detail the places, people and time of Paul's trip to Rome, the capital of the Gentile world at the time. A powerful chapter that illustrates the inability of people to save themselves, and God's ability to keep His promises for His purpose, His way, and in His time.

Paul gives us an example to follow considering it fortunate to give his testimony in defense of his faith, revealing the gospel message of faith in his conversion and transformation, and his desire for everyone who hears him to be a follower of Jesus. Join Rob Pine to consider Paul's example in Acts chapter 26.  

Paul's trust in God that He is always at work for His good purpose, and confidence that Jesus is always with him is on display in two trials, before two different Roman governors, two years apart. An example for each of us under all circumstances. 

Luke reveals a powerful illustration of God’s providential care for His people to accomplish His purpose. Join Rob in exploring the practical lessons for Christ’s disciples today as Jesus orchestrates events using Paul’s family, enemies, and the government to get him from Jerusalem and on his way to Rome.

Join the study today and discover what we can apply in our life from Paul’s testimony, to his own Israelite people in Jerusalem, of his conversion to a disciple of Christ and his transformation to apostle to the Gentiles.

Paul leaves Ephesus on his way to Jerusalem with a company of disciples from the provinces of Asia, Macedonia, and Greece. His departing message to specifically the church leaders in Ephesus is a master class on effective spiritual leadership of God’s people. Explore with Rob some practical lessons from Acts 20 to learn God’s word and boldly live it.

Ephesus is the major commercial, religious, and cultural center in the province of Asia in the first century. Acts chapter 19 reveals the power of the Holy Spirit working in the disciples of Jesus Christ then and now in the twenty first century living boldly in the name of Jesus.