Introduction:
1. Some say that Christianity is not for them. It is said to be restrictive and binding.
2. Some think they can not change.
3. They can. Look at Paul.
I. Paul as he was.
A. Early years: 1. Name: Saul 2. Hometown: Tarsus 3. Heritage: Tribe of Benjamin-a Jew 4. Education: Gamaliel 5. Sect: Pharisee 6. Occupation: tentmaker.
B. Opening scene of Paul’s life as we have it: Consent to Stephen’s death ( Acts 7:58; 8:1-4). He then goes to Damascus having letters whereby he may persecute Christians.
C. Life changing event (Acts 9:3-22).
II. Paul: what he became.
A. Went to Arabia for 3 years.
B. Went on three missionary journeys.
C. He is viewed in the New Testament.
D. Key thought 1 Tim. 1:12-16__________.
III. The change heard around the world.
Paul changed. He became a work in progress. (Phil 3:13, 14; Rom. 12:2; 2 Cor. 6:17). We can change…
A. Instruction. Paul was religious but wrong (Rom. 10:1-3). Look at some examples in the book of Acts (i.e.Aquilla and Priscilla, Eunuch, Jailer, Cornelius). We need to listen to God’s will (Rev. 2, 3; Ja. 1:21). Note (1 Cor. 2:9, 10; 2 Pet. 1:3; Mt. 19:17).
B. Recognition-where he was, who he was, and where he needed to be. Paul realized he was lost (Eph. 3:8). We need to make a great discovery (Lk. 15:17). Realize who God is (Ps. 24:1; Eph. 4:6). Be willing to turn from where we are (Isa. 59:12; Rom. 6:16, 17; 1 Cor. 6:11).
C. Faithful acceptance of the Lord. (2 Cor. 5:7). We are to trust in God (Prov. 3:5, 6).
D. Continual walk. God has called us to faithfulness (1 Cor. 15:1, 2). We are to behave (Titus 2:6-8; 1 Tim. 5:14). Live for Him.
Conclusion:
Yes, we can change just like Paul did. Are we willing?
Because Of His Grace
Entered on 4/11/2010
| Email Us! | © 2003-2010, Pomona Church of Christ |