From Acts 9-10
Its not surprising when people first come to believe that they go on an evangelistic rampage with their non-christian friends and family.
This post is part of my bible in a year series.
Passage and Comments
Paul has always been a man of deep spiritual passion. However when he met Jesus he started channeling this passion in new directions. The change was noticed by believers and unbelievers alike.
20b For some days he (Saul) was with the disciples at Damascus. 20 And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” 21 And all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?” 22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ. (Acts 9.20-22)
A few comments.
- Paul and Saul are the same person. The Greek names are transliterated, Saulos and Paulos. The name Saul is used around Hebrews, Paul around Greeks. The change from Saul to Paul signifies the change in people he is ministering to.
- We can’t always expect people will respond like this when they first come to faith. But if someone does begin telling all their unbelieving friends and family of what they now believe it a very good sign. Saul believes.
- The basic intention of the proclaiming the gospel to Jews is to prove Jesus is the Christ. Among Gentiles Jesus is referred to as the coming Judge (Acts 10.42; 17.31). The judge is typically the King or ruler. In both cases then the chief goal of the gospel message is to get people to believe the core events of Jesus life, death and resurrection and show how they point to him as Lord and saviour.
About Mission
When people come to believe in Jesus, expect them to respond.
Copyright © Joshua Washington and thescripturesays, 2014. All Rights
