Scripture Reading: Acts 9:10-19

Part 2

Journeys of the Apostle Paul

(Damascus to Antioch: Former Persecutor Preaches the Faith)

Intro.

1. Saul began a mission to Damascus he never completed (persecute Christians). From Damascus, he began a journey he would make for the rest of his life! (Phil. 3:12-14)

2. Continue our study of Paul’s journeys: From Damascus to Antioch.

I. HIS APPOINTMENT AS AN APOSTLE (Acts 9, 22, 26).

A. Appointed by Christ –Acts 26:16.

1. According to the purpose & grace of God – Gal. 1:15 (cf. Acts 1:24-25); 1 Cor. 15:8-10.

2. Chosen vessel – Acts 9:15 (2 Cor. 4:7).

a. Witness – Acts 22:14-16; 26:16 (1:8).

b. Minister (servant) – Acts 26:16.

3. By God’s purpose & grace, we are what we are:

a. Chosen in Christ – Eph. 1:4-6.

b. Saved from sins – 2 Tim. 1:8-10.

c. Blessed with gifts, talents & tasks – Rom. 12:4-8.

B. Purpose of His Appointment – Gal. 1:16; Acts 26:16-18.

1. To reveal Christ in Paul – Gal. 1:16; 2 Cor. 4:5-7.

a. By preaching to all (Jews & Gentiles) – Acts 9:15; Eph. 3:8.

b. To perfect us in Christ – Col. 1:28.

2. Exercise apostolic authority (1 Ths. 2:6):

a. Came by revelation, Gal. 1:16 (11-12); Eph. 3:3-4.

b. Signs of an apostle (impart spiritual gifts), 2 Cor. 12:11-12 (Acts 8:18).

c. Not inferior, 2 Cor. 11:5.

3. Apostolic authority exists:

a. For our edification, 2 Cor. 13:10 (Eph. 4:11-16).

b. We must receive the apostles to receive Christ! – Jno. 13:20

C. Paul would Suffer for Christ – Acts 9:16.

1. Had to defend his apostleship (1 Cor. 9:1-2; 2 Cor. 13:3).

2. Physical hardships – 1 Cor. 4:11-13.

3. Persecuted – 2 Cor. 11:23-25.

4. You will suffer if you (Matt. 5:10-12):

a. Are a faithful Christian – 1 Pet. 4:14-16.

b. Follow what is good – 1 Pet. 3:14-17.

c. Live godly – 2 Tim. 3:12.

II. HIS OBEDIENCE TO THE HEAVENLY VISION: PAUL BEGINS PREACHING CHRIST – Acts 26:19-20.

A. To the Jews: Jesus is the Christ.

1. In Damascus – Gal. 1:16-18.

a. In Arabia (cf. Rom. 15:20-21)

b. Back to Damascus – Acts 9:19-25 (2 Cor. 11:31-32) – Death threat…delivered.

• He preached what his audience needed.
• The power of truth prevailed.
• He would not be deterred…neither must we!

2. In Jerusalem – Gal. 1:18-20; Acts 9:26-30; 22:17-21.

a. Accepted by the disciples with Barnabas’ help.

b. Hellenist Jews tried to kill him (Acts 9:29).

c. Wanted to stay…delivered by the Lord, Acts 22:17-21 (9:30).

• Important to identify ourselves with a local church (9:26).
• An example of forgiveness & unity in Christ (9:27-28).

Conclusion

1. Christ gave Paul a lifelong mission & he was faithful to fulfill it (2 Tim. 4:7).

2. We must fulfill the mission of faithful living He has given us – Heb. 10:36-39; Gal. 6:9-10.